Welcome Students!

Did you know that EdTA actually began with YOU?

The formation of the International Thespian Society in 1929 marked the first time K-12 theatre students were honored and supported for the work they do in school theatre, and it continues to this day. Find out more about becoming a student member (or Thespian) here!

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Students are welcome at the Educational Theatre Association

Theatre Students & Thespians

International Thespian Society

Welcome Thespians! International Thespian Society Logo

The International Thespian Society is the only theatre honor society for middle and high school students just like you! Whether you love design, technical theatre, playwriting, or performing, ITS has something for you.

What does it mean to be part of a Thespian Troupe?

Play Video about ITF 2019 Playworks Stage with Kids standing on it

Student Honor Society Induction

Becoming a Thespian is a symbol of pride and recognition as you join the ranks of millions of theatre students who came before you.

As a Thespian, you’ll get access to exclusive benefits and events with theatre lovers from around the world, have access to workshops and leadership opportunities to grow your skills and your resume, and cultivate a lifelong love of theatre — whether on stage, behind the curtain, or in the audience!

Learn more about the benefits of being part of a thespian troupe below.

Induction of a Troupe standing on a stage holding certificates

Dramatics.org

Thespians everywhere have access to Dramatics.org, the online home of #ThespianNation. As the official student publication of the International Thespian Society, Dramatics.org is your guide to embracing your passion, honing your craft, and enjoying all things theatre.

You’ll discover stories of Thespians and Thespian Alumni (there are over 2.4 million!) doing amazing things inside and outside the entertainment industry; tips for acting, directing, designing, writing, and other on- and offstage skills; college and career advice for following your dreams in theatre and beyond; and fun quizzes, videos, polls, and other ways to celebrate your love of theatre (yes, we know you want bragging rights on your Hamilton IQ).

There’s a lot to explore, so get clicking and follow us on social!

Regional & International Events

As a Thespian, what’s better than meeting other passionate theatre students?

The International Thespian Society hosts events large and small, with one bound to be near you! Regional festivals bring together the best theatre in your region, with the culminating event — the International Thespian Festival — capping off the school year in June on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. You’ll get to participate in workshops, audition for colleges, and see the best school theatre from around the world, all while spending a week on campus making new lifelong friends!

Explore all the exciting things going on at #ITF today!

The International Thespian Excellence Awards

Broadway has the Tonys, Hollywood has the Oscars®, and Thespians have the Thespys®! The International Thespian Excellence Awards (or Thespys for short) recognize the highest level of achievement in school theatre performance, technical theatre, writing, and filmmaking. Students prepare performances, presentations, plays, and films showcasing their talents and skills and bring their prepared works to local and regional Thespys qualifying events. The top scorers advance to the International Thespian Festival where they are eligible to win Thespy Awards and scholarships funded by generous sponsors. Start preparing your Thespy audition today!

Students Speak Out!

I joined the Educational Theatre Association as a State Thespian officer. I’m now one of six and International Thespian Officers for the 2021-22 year. I got involved so that I could tap into the theatre network and impact schools around the world. I’ve reached out to New York Senators to share the reasons why we want Theatre in Our Schools (TIOS) month given an official recognition. It is the first step necessary in our fight for funding for New York Art Programs.
Rosanna Gao Headshot
Rosanna Gao
International Thespian Officer

What's New for Students

Upcoming Events

March 2023
Mar 30
30 March March 30 - April 1
Upland High School, Upland, California
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Mar 30
30 March March 30 - April 1
West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia
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April 2023
Apr 13
13 April April 13 - April 15
Salem Convention Center, Salem, Oregon
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