Carrying the Thespian Legacy
Our History
The International Thespian Society (ITS), the honor society for theatre students, was founded in 1929 by a group of high school drama teachers in Fairmont, West Virginia. Their goal was simple but powerful: to recognize student achievement in theatre, raise the standards of high school dramatics, and build a supportive community of young artists and educators.
Montana Thespians proudly continues that tradition as the state chapter of ITS, celebrating the talent and dedication of theatre students and teachers across our state. Through our annual festival, Thespys, workshops, and leadership opportunities, we provide students with experiences that connect them to a national and international network of peers and professionals.
Traditions of Thespians
Since its founding, ITS has carried with it traditions and symbols that reflect the spirit of theatre:
Colors: Blue and Gold are the official colors of Thespians, representing inspiration, integrity, and excellence.
Flowers: The blue delphinium and yellow rose are the society's traditional flowers, often used in induction ceremonies as a visual reminder of our shared values.
Induction Ceremonies: New members are formally welcomed into the Society through induction ceremonies featuring official pins, certificates, and the symbols of blue and gold. These ceremonies honor both individual achievement and the collective strength of theatre programs.
Mission: Thespians strive to reward excellence in theatre and encourage schools to stage meaningful productions, explore new works, and build strong, creative communities.
From its roots in 1929 to the present day, the Thespian tradition reminds us that theatre is more than performance — it is a way of inspiring, connecting, and transforming lives.
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that the Montana Thespian Festival takes place on the aboriginal territories of the Séliš (Salish) and Ql̓ispé (Kalispel) peoples. We honor their history, culture, and ongoing contributions to our community, and we are committed to fostering inclusive spaces that respect and uplift all voices in theatre.
Montana Theatre Educator of the Year Award — Past Recipients
1998–1999 — Margaret Johnson, Sentinel High School (Missoula)
1999–2000 — Robert Holter, Helena High School (Helena)
2000–2001 — Stacy Bergquist, Charles M. Russell High School (Great Falls)
2001–2002 — Larry Brazil, Whitehall High School (Whitehall)
2002–2003 — Tom Spencer, Charles M. Russell High School (Great Falls)
2003–2004 — Nancy Rokusek, Darby High School (Darby)
2004–2005 — Sarah DeGrandpre, Big Sky High School (Missoula)
2005–2006 — Steve Wing, University of Montana (Missoula)
2006–2007 — Mark Dean, University of Montana (Missoula)
2007–2008 — Bolthon Rothwell, Hellgate High School (Missoula)
2008–2009 — Bonnie Banks, Billings Senior High School (Billings)
2009–2010 — Janice Morissette and Kerry Calvert
2010–2011 — Melinda Middleton, Billings West High School (Billings)
2011–2012 — Krystina Thiel, Great Falls High School (Great Falls)
2012–2013 — Linda Piccolo, Jefferson High School (Boulder)
2013–2014 — Katie Cassidy, Sentinel High School (Missoula)
2014–2015 — Mike Monsos, University of Montana (Missoula)
2015–2016 — Laramie Dean, Hellgate High School (Missoula)
2016–2017 — Chris Evans, CMR High School (Great Falls)
2017–2018 — Greg Johnson, University of Montana
2018–2019 — Sarah Piper, Stevensville High School (Stevensville)
2019–2020 — Myra Nurre, Billings West High School (Billings)
2020–2021 — Laura Brayko, Capital High School (Helena)
2022–2023 — Lynn and Jeff West, Belgrade High School (Belgrade)
2023–2024 — Sarah DeGrandpre, Big Sky High School (Missoula)
2024–2025 — Lesli Evans, CMR High School (Great Falls)
Outstanding Troupe of the Year — Past Recipients
2024-2025 — Big Sky High School
2024-2025 — Great Falls High School
Montana Thespians Lifetime Achievement Award — Past Recipients
Margaret Johnson
Stacy Bergquist
Greg Johnson
Robert Holter
Outstanding Service Award
For Loyalty, Ingenuity, Integrity & Innovative Program Development
Past Recipients:
2016-2019 — Loni M Neilson-Kattell