Troupe & Director Resources

  • Montana Thespians is committed to supporting schools and theatre programs across the state. Troupe directors may apply for financial assistance to help with costs such as EdTA membership fees, Festival registration, theatre program supplies, or other approved projects. Please note that funds are not issued directly to individuals or schools—payments are made to EdTA, vendors, or suppliers on your behalf.

    Recipients are required to send Montana Thespians a thank-you note, which may be shared as a testimonial for future marketing and fundraising efforts.

    👉 Apply for Troupe Support

  • Awarding Thespian Points

    Thespians Point Values

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    *See Thespian Point Values Here

  • EdTA Thespian Troupe Handbook

  • Whether your troupe is already an active member or you’re looking to join, all membership questions are handled directly by the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

    For help with troupe membership (starting, renewing, status, rosters):
    📧 chapterrelations@schooltheatre.org
    🌐 Thespian Troupe Membership – EdTA

    For general member login or account support:
    📧 membersupport@schooltheatre.org

    Why it matters:
    Active EdTA membership connects your school to a national network of theatre education support, resources, and recognition opportunities. Only active troupes are eligible to participate in certain Montana Thespians events and awards.

  • The Thespian Growth & Excellence Fund is committed to supporting the ongoing development of theatre programs and the pursuit of excellence for educators, students, schools, and communities by offering a number of grants that assist in EdTA membership, teacher support, and programmatic resources for theatre in schools. Learn More

  • Find everything you need to prepare for the Montana Thespian Festival—registration, guidelines, schedules, and updates. Visit our Festival Resources page.

  • The International Thespian Festival (ITF) is hosted each summer by the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA). ITF is a separate event from the Montana Thespian Festival, with its own registration, fees, and requirements.

    At ITF, students can participate in workshops, performances, college auditions, and leadership opportunities with Thespians from across the country. It’s an unforgettable national experience for students and directors.

    • Cost: Attendance typically averages around $1,000 per person, which includes registration, housing, and meals (not including travel). Actual costs vary depending on school arrangements.

    • Registration: Handled directly through EdTA and the ITF website, not through Montana Thespians.

    • More Info: Learn more about ITF here.

  • Chapter Select is an opportunity for shows recognized at state festivals to perform on the national stage. Productions selected for Montana’s Chapter Select at Festival may qualify to advance to the ITF Chapter Select Showcase.

    This showcase features one-acts and cuttings from full-length productions, highlighting student storytelling and performance from across the country.

    • Eligibility: Only schools chosen for Montana’s Chapter Select at Festival may apply to perform at ITF.

    • Requirements: Chapter Select productions must follow specific staging and time guidelines set by EdTA.

    • More Info: Learn more about ITF Chapter Select here.

  • A national organization that supports arts education through research, advocacy tools, policy guidance, and practical resources for teachers and school theatre programs. Great for finding facts & figures, advocating for arts support, and strengthening your local arts education efforts.

    Learn More