Westridge Junior Thespians Frequently Asked Questions What are Thespians? The International Thespian Society is an honor organization that recognizes student excellence in all aspects of theatre. High schools (including SMW) charter Thespian troupes that students are inducted into once they have achieved this honor. Junior highs and middle schools charter Junior Thespian troupes that feed into high school troupes. Am I required to be a Thespian to be in the theatre program? Absolutely not! Anybody can audition for shows, apply for tech crew, or join Drama Club regardless of whether they are interested in Thespians. How do I become a Thespian? Every activity you do in the theatre department is worth a certain number of Thespian points. The more demanding or challenging the activity, the more points it is worth. You need to earn 10 points to become a Thespian. For every 10 points after that, you earn a Thespian Star and are referred to as an “Honor Thespian.” How can I earn Thespian points? The number of points varies by activity. For example, singing in the chorus of the musical is worth 3 points, and playing a lead role in the fall play is worth 6 points. You can earn points for tech, participating in fundraising, being in Performance 1 or 2, or for some off-campus activities. You must have 10 points for at least two categories (for example, acting and tech) to become a thespian. See the link called “Thespian Point Sheet” for details on how many points different activities are worth. Is there money involved? The International Thespian Society does charge annual dues of $6.00 per member. We would never let this be a block to somebody becoming a Thespian however. If this is a concern, just talk to Mr. Coats and we will find a way to address this. What do Thespians do? Thespians offer extra opportunities for involvement in the theatre program. They assist with fundraising, publicity, and running the house and box office of shows. There may also be some special intramural field trips to see local theatre productions off-campus available to members of the Thespian troupe! There is also a Thespian Executive Board, similar to Student Council, who are the leaders of the troupe. Do I need to have earned the title of “Thespian” in order to participate in these activities? No! If you are actively working towards earning your 10 points, you are called an “Apprentice Thespian” and are still able to participate in any Thespian activity.

Can being a Junior Thespian help me when I get to West? Yes! Up to five of your points can roll over to SMW’s Thespian Troupe, putting you halfway towards being a Thespian your freshman year! If you attend a school other than West that has a Thespian Troupe, it is up to that troupe director. How do I get started? See Mr. Coats to fill out a point sheet. You will then officially be an Apprentice Thespian. The secretary of the Thespian Executive Board will keep track of all your points, and you’ll be invited to an induction ceremony when you have earned the full honor!