Becoming a Thespian

To be eligible for lifetime Thespian membership, students in grades nine through twelve must attend a school with an active Thespian troupe and complete a sufficient quantity and quality of work in theatre arts. A one-time induction fee is required, and troupes may assess additional participation fees at their discretion. Thespians may earn additional honors for work done after induction. Most Thespian benefits last through grade twelve. Graduated members become Thespian alumni. 

The International Thespian Society is an honor society for theatre arts students; it is not a secret society or club. Thespians may not be inducted based on election or review by other students. Hazing is prohibited. The troupe constitution and all membership requirements must be readily available to any interested parties, and all troupe activities are subject to the oversight of the school administration. 

ITS keeps a permanent record of each student’s induction. Thespian point records are kept at the troupe level. Correspondence with the National Office should be directed through the troupe director whenever possible. 

Below are links to some of the most important and useful Thespian membership information from the Thespian Troupe Handbook.

Induction criteria

Benefits of induction 

Membership cards and certificates

Thespian and graduation honor items 

Transferring Thespian membership 

Addressing student and parent concerns about the troupe 

Revoking Thespian membership

Hazing policy