The theater program is more than just a stage—it's a sanctuary. For Amelia Lewis, the vice president of the Thespian Troupe, and many of her peers, the theater community is where they find true belonging and a sense of family.
“Thespian Troupe is a club for students passionate about theater arts. That can include anything from acting on stage to designing sets to choreographing to building sets, it encompasses the whole theater process,” Lewis said.
Joining the prestigious Thespian Troupe, founded in 1929, requires induction, which demands active involvement in the theater community. Aspiring members can earn points through various activities such as acting in plays, attending performances, or writing detailed analyses of productions.
“A lot of the people who are in the plays are members of Thespian Troupe. It happens naturally because as you do plays, you earn enough points to be inducted,” Lewis said. “But participating in the production of a play is not necessary to become a Thespian Troupe member.”
The Thespian Troupe brings a great sense of connection and belonging for most members.“It’s a great group to be around. I have found that it's one of the most accepting communities in our school. I think a lot of newcomers will feel that too,” Lewis said.
Fostering a community of up to 50 members, Lewis and other troupe leadership look for ways to keep students engaged.
“We have monthly meetings where we play games related to theater and shows that are happening, which I think a lot of people look forward to and enjoy going to,” Lewis said.
Looking further into community engagement, the theater company has had an average of four productions per year, including a student-run musical conducted at the end of the school year.
“The excitement that leads up to the student-run musical helps [with engagement]. Students are excited about the leadership opportunity to guide their fellow members through a whole musical; it’s a whole feat but something people look forward to,” Lewis said.
Members of the Thespian Troupe participate in various traditions that strengthen their sense of community.
“We have something called the senior showcase, where the seniors put in their last songs and monologues as their last [exit]. After that, the four shows are revealed for the next year,” Lewis said. “The anticipation of getting to know the next shows and seeing the seniors do their last piece is fun and anticipatory, especially with the stress of school. It’s like a bright spot.”
Looking into the future, Lewis intends to try to increase community interest in the plays as well as increase funding.
“For our early spring main stage musical, we could definitely use more people to come out and support it. It’s an incredible show,” Lewis said. “We also want to increase the people who are auditioning and interested in being in the shows and helping out on tech. We always need more people.”
Lewis holds multiple leadership positions but finds this role different and refreshing.
“Thespian Troupe has helped me become creative as a leader. We have so many traditions, so it’s about finding new ways to get people excited and coming up with new event ideas,” Lewis said.
For students who are looking to get involved with Thespian Troupe and, by extension, the theater community, Lewis shares a piece of advice.
“A great way to start is through tech, especially if you don’t like the audition aspect of theater but want to be a part of the community. Tech is a tight knit community, and I’ve seen so many people go from tech to audition. If you are in tech first you already have the connections in the theater community to help support you through the audition process,” Lewis said. “Don’t be nervous to get involved. Everyone is ready and willing to help you out and wants you to succeed.”
Story by Sritha Rathikindi
