We’re mid-way through ITF, and things just keep getting better. Today we had the qualifying rounds of the BACKstage Challenge, presented by Disney Live Entertainment, powerful discussions with the creative team behind Between the Lines, college dance auditions, stunning Main Stage performances, and so much more!
So as always, whether you’re joining us in Bloomington or following along from home, let’s get into it.
A Call to Action on Book Bans
If you had a keen eye, you may have noticed many of the books in the set for Bradford High School’s Main Stage performance of Between the Lines are banned books—it’s a point Jodi Picoult doesn’t want you to forget. Before starting a panel discussion with the creative team behind the show, Picoult took a moment to raise awareness and encourage support for the challenge.
“Since 2020 book banning has increased by 1,100% and 11 people are responsible for 60%,” she said. “There are so many of us, but the minority is really, really loud.” Picoult reinforced that much of the material deemed problematic in hers and many other banned books, often teach life skills and start critical conversations for our students.
It was a call for involvement and recognition of the power of theatre as an educational medium and a home for those marginalized by the shifting culture. “They want to child-proof the world, but you can’t world-proof a child,” she said.
Between The Lines Panel Discussion
Joining Picoult on stage were fellow book writer Timothy Allen McDonald (Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach, The Big One-Oh!) and composers Elyssa Samsel & Kate Anderson (The Book Thief, Apple TV’s Central Park), as they discussed their journey in the world of professional theatre, answered student questions, and performed some of their work with the help of Bradford High School Thespians.
Some key takeaways:
- “People love to underestimate us [women]…the only thing you can do is come in and blow them away with a song and let the work speak for itself.” – Kate Anderson on breaking in.
- “Kate played piano, and I played violin, it’s helpful to have that base [when writing] …but anyone can work to add other instruments.” – Elyssa Samsel on the process of composing.
- “Talent is default in New York. They don’t ask “Are they Good? They ask, “what are they like to work with?” – Jodi Picoult on succeeding in auditions.
- “If you’re determined and stick with it you can learn everything you need at a community college, or I’ll be controversial, not going to college at all…it’s about finding your passion and putting in 10,000 hours to make it happen.” Timothy Allen McDonald on the path to success.
BACKstage Challenge Kicks Off
The BACKstage Challenge presented by Disney Live Entertainment kicked off its qualifying rounds on Wednesday. With six events inspired by familiar ITF challenges of the past, the BACKstage Challenge gives four-person teams an opportunity to demonstrate their backstage skills. Be sure to check back as top teams compete on stage this Friday in an action-laced final round the close out the week.
ITO Takeaways
“Today I attended ITO Jane’s advocacy workshop and had a great time learning,” said Meghan Crohe. “I taught my two workshop sessions “How to Stage Change: Empowering Theatre Advocates” and they both went well! The participants were very engaged and shared lots of great ideas during the collaborative discussions.”
“Today I attended ITO Jane’s workshop and ITO Meg’s workshop. Both workshops were so educational, and I am incredibly proud of my fellow leaders,” said Nat Wilkes. “They are incredibly inspiring people and I’m so glad they were able to share their voices and advocate for themselves and the entire thespian student body. I’m looking forward to teaching my workshop, Compassion Through Student Leadership, tomorrow!”
From the Main Stage
Rounding out the day’s programming were the Main Stage productions of Indecent by Episcopal School of Baton Rouge and Silent Sky by Arroyo Grande High School.
And that’s a wrap! Be sure to follow us on Instagram for more live coverage from ITF, tag us in your posts, and enjoy #ThesFest!
