EdTA brought the mission to thousands of members through virtual events in 2021.
Virtual Events
As the pandemic continued to affect schools and the event industry, EdTA focused on delivering the mission through virtual events for students and teachers throughout 2021.
In January, the first-ever Thespian Nation Live served as the official student event for 14 EdTA chapters and students who aren’t part of a chapter. More than 1,000 students took part in the educational and performance opportunities, including a Thespian troupe from Japan.
EdTA’s signature student event, the International Thespian Festival (ITF), celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2021. Through a 3-D virtual theatre and event venue, roughly 1,800 students and teachers enjoyed dozens of workshops, virtual performances, and the second annual Thespy Awards.
As one attendee put it, “It was an amazing, transformative festival — the best virtual experience possible!”
As teachers entered a second school year impacted by COVID, EdTA’s virtual National Conference in September provided inspiration to “Renew. Rebuild. Reimagine.” their theatre programs. Workshops emphasized access, culturally responsive teaching, and social emotional learning.
The 249 attendees walked away feeling empowered and energized. “The EdTA National Conference is the highlight of my fall, and helps energize me right when the glow of a new year is starting to fade,” noted one attendee. “The workshops are relevant and motivating, and the keynotes are always fun and inspiring.”
Virtual Reinvention
Virtual ITF Attendees
Virtual Conference Registrants