Are you interested in theater and want to pursue it outside of musicals and classes? South lakes offers a variety of clubs and societies centered around the performing arts, including the “International Thespian Society”. The International Thespian Society (ITS) is an honor society for high school theater students who want extended opportunities within the performing arts community. ITS is holding a meeting to recruit new members on March 21st from 3:00-3:45 pm in the black-box theater. They will also discuss upcoming events and theater updates. 

To join a student must have a minimum 3.5 gpa at minimum, 12 thespian points—half must have been acquired at South Lakes—and currently be in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade. Most of this is manageable with little to no instruction, but what about “thespian points”? Thespian points are awarded to students based on their performance in theater. They are weighted by the quality and quantity of a student’s work—for example, a student may be awarded 4 points for being the lead in a show. Any points awarded outside of one’s school troupe are cut in half when all points are totaled. 

If someone were to meet all of this criteria, they are welcome to apply. Joining ITS gives students many opportunities within their schools theater community, such as helping to plan/attend theater related events, participation in the “Thespies” conference and competition—an educational theater field-trip of sorts, and recognition from post-secondary institutions. Other perks include an ITS cord at graduation, and having a community with similar interests from all national thespian groups.

Applications are available in South Lakes theater’s Instagram bio (@slakestheater) or—for those who participate in theater as a class/after school activity—in Schoology. Any additional information, including contact information, can be found in the embedded link of the application form. South Lakes theater teacher Mr. Viola and ITS president Maddie Bobko are excited to meet potential new members and work with returning students this year and next.