International Thespian
Society Troup #1279 / Theatre Club

Moderator: Mr. Arndt

The International Thespian Society is the honorary theatre organization for high school students. Operated by the Educational Theatre Association, ITS offers everything from varied performance venues to college audition opportunities to formal awards and scholarships. Since 1929, more than two million students, schools and educators have benefited from ITS membership.

Thespians receive the highest recognition due those who have demonstrated commitment and excellence in their school’s theatre program—membership in the world’s largest theatre honor society. Thespians enjoy the sense of belonging and recognition inherent in being inducted into an honor society.

All Thespians receive a national publication, Dramatics, and become eligible for state and national theatre scholarships.

Thespian membership encourages students to practice their craft and to grow as a person. The skills that they learn from a quality theatre arts education—creativity, self-confidence, leadership, communication, interpersonal skills as well as specific theatre skills—will benefit them in their school days and beyond.

Members of the International Thespian Society attend the Illinois High School Theatre Festival each year. The troupe/club is also responsible for producing two shows each year – a contemporary play in the fall and a Broadway musical in the spring. Members also enjoy Theatre Night Out – where we, as a club and troupe, see a production downtown Chicago.

The theatre club is free. Those who participate in theatre club are working towards membership into the International Thespian Society.

Membership in the International Thespian Society guarantees you access to many benefits. As a member, you will be recognized with a personalized membership card and a one-year (9 issues) subscription to Dramatics magazine. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in Thespian sponsored festivals and events, state conferences, attend the Illinois High School Theatre Festival, as well as several scholarship opportunities for future study at the university level. These benefits give our members the academic, scholarship and employment tools that will help them attain their goals for the future. A one-time membership fee of $30.00 enrolls you in the organization on the local, regional and international level.

All thespians must attend regular meetings, participate in our two productions each year, and support all troupe activities.

Anyone may participate in our Theatre Club. To join the International Thespian Society, you have to follow the steps above. There is an application process. We induct new members each spring.