About Us
Ohio Thespians
Ohio Thespians is a chapter of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) — a national nonprofit organization with over 100,000 student and professional members.
Our Story
We were founded in 1975, and enjoy over 5,000 active members in 365 high schools and junior high schools across the state.
What We Offer
We empower thespians through educational enrichment opportunities, access to scholarships and college auditions, awards, competitions, and a passionate network of peers. We support teachers by providing professional development, networking opportunities, resources, and recognition.
Our Mission
Our mission is to shape lives through theatre education, honoring student achievement in theatre and enriching their theatre education experience.
International Thespian Society
The EdTA operates the International Thespian Society (ITS), an honorary organization that has inducted more than 2.2 million theatre students since its founding in 1929. Each year, more than 40,000 students from around the country join our number. Today, over 4,000 secondary schools are home to a thespian troupe.
Get Involved
Thespian Areas
Ohio Thespians divides the state into five separate areas, making it easy for you to get involved close to home. Click on your county to learn more about opportunities in your area.
Thespian News
Ohio Thespians Curtain Call: January 2021
Get your orders in for Ohio Thespian t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, masks, and more today! All proceeds go toward the Jimmy Humphries Scholarship. Support the next generation of technical theatre professionals by helping us reach our goal of $1,000. The store closes on February 1, so don’t delay!
Register Today for Ohio Unified Theatre Audition and Interview Day
Students looking for a fall 2021 start for a college program as either a theatre major or minor are invited to audition/interview at the Ohio Unified event. Over 20 colleges will be present to review and evaluate your work as a technician, designer, writer, actor, manager, and director for admittance to their program, with more signing up every day!
Ohio Thespian Curtain Call: December 2020
The Virtual International Thespian Festival ― the ultimate annual celebration of school theatre ― will return June 22-25, 2021. For one week every summer, members of the International Thespian Society and other theatre fans from around the globe gather for performances, interactive workshops led by top teaching artists, and auditions with premier colleges and universities in a community-centered experience like no other.