The Junior Thespians program is dedicated to serving theatre students in grades 5 - 8 and their teachers, helping young performers and technicians discover the joy of theatre at an early age! Each year, we host two exciting regional events created especially for middle-grade students, offering workshops, performances, and opportunities to build friendships across the state. Junior Thespians are also invited to join us at our annual State Conference, where they can celebrate their work alongside high school Thespians. Leadership opportunities are available through our Junior State Thespian Officers, who represent and inspire their peers statewide.

Questions about the Junior Thespians program should be directed to our Jr. Thespians co-chairs, Rachel Coy ([email protected]) and Amanda Gwin ([email protected])

Junior Thespian Regionals

Join us for a day of workshops, theatre activities, and a one-act play competition designed just for Junior Thespians! At these regional events, schools can compete in a state-qualifying one-act competition, with the highest-scoring school earning the chance to perform at the State Conference!

This year’s Junior Thespian Regional locations:
November 15, 2025 – Munster High School (Northwest)
December 6, 2025 – Avon Middle School North (Central)

Junior Thespians at State Conference
The Indiana Thespians State Conference welcomes all Junior Thespian troupes across Indiana!
Our conference programming is designed to include the Junior Thespians alongside our high school Thespians. Students can attend workshops, watch plays, and connect with fellow Junior Thespians from around the state. Participants may also participate our signature programs: the Tech Challenge and the International Thespian Excellence Awards (Thespys). Junior Thespians can choose to be adjudicated in a middle school–only room for professional feedback, or enter the main Thespy pool for a chance to qualify for the final round at the International Thespian Festival. Plus, Junior Thespians can take part in the One-Act Festival, where the top play from each qualifying regional performs at the State Conference.

Learn more about these exciting opportunities using the links below!

Resources for Junior Thespian Troupes
Indiana Thespians is the State Chapter of the Educational Theatre Association. We exist to shape lives through theatre education in the state of Indiana. Find out more at schooltheatre.org