Layla Rose Schillert, an 18-year-old performer, singer/songwriter, and screen actress, has quickly established herself as a rising talent in the performing arts. A graduate of The Hunter School of the Performing Arts in Newcastle, Layla’s training includes a year at Screenwise Film and TV School, as well as participation in the Artists Lab Workshop with Simone Sault and Paul Tabone in 2023 and 2024. Her journey took a significant turn with her appearance in the Top 50 of Australian Idol in 2023.

Layla has been actively involved in both Acting and Musical Theatre through Hunter Drama for the past eight years, where she has also completed nine years of vocal training in classical and musical theatre, culminating in her AMEB Certificate.

Her theatrical credits are diverse and impressive. She has performed as a featured singer in Superstars – A Musical Celebration Live in Concert, sharing the stage with renowned artists like Marina Prior, Silvie Paladino, Chloé Zuel, and Joshua Robson. In PUFFS, she took on the roles of Susie Bones, Harry Potter, and Myrtle with The Very Popular Theatre Company. Her role as Francine Valli in Jersey Boys further showcased her talent with the same company. She was also featured in the original cast recording of Dot & The Kangaroo Jr as Mrs. Kangaroo.

Layla’s performance as Mayzie La Bird in Seussical the Musical earned her the CONDA Award for Excellence by a performer 18 & under in a Supporting Role. Her contributions as a featured vocalist in Starstruck and her roles as Jenna Roland in Be More Chill (Chookas Newcastle), Twin in Take Me to Neverland (Bearfoot), and Grandma in The Witches (Hunter Drama) highlight her versatility. Additional notable performances include roles in Peter Pan and Aladdin Jr with Hunter Drama, and as Brigitta Vontrapp in The Sound of Music with Opera Hunter.

With a blend of rigorous training and a broad range of performance experiences, Layla continues to captivate audiences and is poised for a promising career in the arts.

Kirstin’s extensive performance experience includes backing vocals for notable artists such as Suzi Quatro, PJ Proby, and Twinkle, performing at iconic venues and in front of large audiences. A highlight of her career was opening a show with her rendition of “River Deep Mountain High” alongside Twinkle. Her versatility extends to cabaret, where she has performed both as a solo artist and in a duo, showcasing a wide range of music genres and even choreographing for the duo’s acts.

Her acting career began at a young age, with appearances on television and in film, including work for BBC and ITV, as well as feature films, providing her with a broad perspective on the film industry.

As a playwright, Kirstin has written three plays for her theatre company, Hulahoop Theatre, which have been showcased at fringe festivals. Notably, their play Bubblegum & Pop has evolved into a full-length production.

Kirstin is also passionate about tap dancing, which is her favorite dance discipline. Known for her hard work, punctuality, and dedication, Kirstin continues to make significant contributions to the arts.