Montana Thespian Festival 2026

February 13–14, 2026 | University of Montana, Missoula

What Is the Montana Thespian Festival?

Every year, over 400 students and educators from across Montana gather in Missoula for two unforgettable days of theatre, connection, and celebration. Some schools fondly call it “Thes Fest” and others say “Thes Con”—the friendly debate continues, but either way, you don’t want to miss it!

The Festival is Montana's largest annual gathering of theatre students and teachers. It’s a chance for troupes to come together beyond their own schools, step into the spotlight, and be part of something bigger.

Over two days, attendees:

  • Perform and watch shows that highlight the best of Montana high school theatre.

  • Take workshops led by theatre professionals and educators in acting, directing, design, tech, and more.

  • Celebrate achievements with awards, trophies, and recognition for students and troupes.

  • Compete in Thespys, with the possibility of qualifying for the International Thespian Festival (ITF).

  • Connect as a statewide theatre community, building friendships, networks, and memories that last well beyond the weekend.

For many, Thespian Festival is a highlight of the year—a place where the stage becomes both classroom and celebration, and where the impact of theatre education shines.

Two Days Packed With Theatre & Connection

Day One (Friday): A full day of performances, workshops, and scholarship auditions, capped off with a semi-formal banquet, awards ceremony, and an evening show.

Day Two (Saturday): More shows, workshops, and special events, concluding with the closing ceremony by late afternoon.

Throughout both days, students can:

• Perform or watch mainstage shows in the Montana Theatre.

• Apply and interview for scholarships.

• Choose from a wide variety of workshops led by theatre professionals and educators.

• Connect with peers and mentors from across the state.

Festival Fees & Deadlines – 2026

  • Student & Teacher Registration (Both Days): $68

  • Day One Only (Friday): $58 | Day Two Only (Saturday): $45

  • Other fees: STO, Thespys, Chapter Select, and late edits/payments as outlined in registration details.

Deadlines:

  • Pre-Registration Due: November 3, 2025

  • Final Registration & Materials Due: January 12, 2026

  • All Payments Due: January 30, 2026

  • Festival Dates: February 13–14, 2026

Full registration info available on the Registration Page

This annual statewide celebration of theatre is more than just a weekend—it’s an experience that builds skills, confidence, creativity, and community.

 FAQs

  • Festival gives your program statewide visibility and recognition. Schools and students can:

    • Earn awards, trophies, and recognition that celebrate their work.

    • Qualify for the International Thespian Festival (ITF) through Thespys or Chapter Select.

    • Showcase their productions and students in front of peers, educators, and professionals.

    • Strengthen their case for program support and funding — recognition at the state level can help demonstrate the value of theatre education to administrators, school boards, and communities.

    In short, Festival isn’t just a celebration — it’s also a way to advocate for your program and show its impact.

  • No. Festival is open to all Montana high schools and theatre programs, whether or not you have an active Thespian troupe. If you unsure or have specific questions, contact Sarah DeGrandpre at chapterdirector@mthespians.com

    If you need assistance in becoming a member of EdTA or starting a thespian troupe, visit: Become a Member

    Need help with Troupe Renewal? Contact: ChapterRelations@schooltheatre.org

  • The festival is for high school theatre students, directors, and chaperones across Montana. Some activities are geared toward inducted Thespians, but there is something for anyone involved in theatre.

  • Over two days, you’ll experience:

    • Mainstage performances from Montana schools

    • A variety of theatre workshops

    • The semi-formal Friday night banquet and entertainment

    • Scholarship opportunities and interviews (separate process)

    • Awards, trophies, and recognition for students and troupes

  • Not at all. Many students come to watch shows, take workshops, and connect with other theatre students even if they are not performing.

  • Students and troupes can qualify for ITF through Thespys or Chapter Select. These events happen during Festival but require separate registration.

  • Yes — schools are responsible for arranging their own lodging. Montana Thespians provides hotel block information in registration materials, but space is limited and schools must book directly.