Hello!
I wanted to reach out when I saw your post, because I am a troupe director in PA also! I am one of the board members for PA Thespians - and we have our planning meeting this weekend to prepare for our upcoming Thespian conference... so while I am a Spanish teacher by day (long story) - I did get my cert for Communications (PA's "Theatre" requirement)... I teach at Penn Manor HS in Millersville, Lancaster County. I had always been a theatre staff member for tickets/costumes when I began here, but eventually became the troupe director after retirements. We do two shows each year, typically - a fall play and a spring musical. Sometimes a third show for a children's theatre in late spring. Anyone is eligible to participate by auditioning or working on a crew.
I can totally relate to your question about the "What's in it for me?" mentality of your students. We haven't been able to run a Theatre Arts class in several years, but we do meet weekly during an in-school homeroom/club time. But being an inducted Thespian is a bit different than a club member at my school. They can do shows, be in our club (and earn theatre points by doing so) - but some of the students who are eligible to be inducted choose not to do so.
I'd recommend that you think about what motivates your students? I'm sure that I'll miss something on this list, but I'll rely on the others in this wonderful community to add their thoughts also!
-Being inducted into ITS is the equivalent of what NHS recognizes for academics, Tri-M for music, etc. It is an honor society... adds to their resume and is noticed by college admissions folks and employers. Even if they aren't pursuing a career in the arts, it shows their dedication, work ethic, and achievement.
-They are eligible to apply for scholarships and opportunities through EDTA.
-Students wear a while stole with their graduation gown - so it sets them apart from the crowd, and our principal individually calls out each student's name - and also recognizes their induction level (Honor, National, International Thespian)
-They get a lower rate when they register for the state conference, as well as for the Thespian Festival. (If you've never attended our state conference, we should talk!)
-Maybe you only want to travel to the state conference/Thespian Festival with students who have been inducted? Particularly if it is the first time. That way, they have already demonstrated their commitment to your program, are likely more trustworthy & mature, etc. Rather than someone who has only done a little work on one show who might just want to miss some school time.
-They could be a candidate to run for a position as State Thespian Officer for PA.
-They could be named for your "Hall of Fame" award at the state conference - each troupe can honor one performer, and one technician. (I only consider inducted students.)
-Within the EDTA thespian point system, there are additional levels beyond induction at 10 points. I have students who are reaching towards Honor Thespian (60 pts), and more.
-There are also Thespian Scholar recognitions - this is a nice way to honor those who are also earning solid GPA's in their academic work.
If a production would be more motivating, perhaps have a Thespian Cabaret performance? Only inducted students may perform... Our music dept does a recital for students in Honors Chorus each spring already - but if your students would like this, it could be a fundraiser for your program, or for Broadway Cares, etc.
Hope this helps a bit! Let's keep in touch!
Missy
------------------------------
Melissa Mintzer
Willow Street PA
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 10-11-2017 08:02
From: Amber Hugus
Subject: Troupe Member Privileges
Good morning,
I am a fairly new troupe director at a rather large school in western PA. Our school produces four shows a year - a middle school musical (grades 7-8 only), a rather sad Intermediate production (reserved for grades 9-10, but somehow open to 9-12), an all-school musical (our only large scale production, open to grades 9-12), and a spring play (open to 9-12, usually a cast of 20-25). Our school has around 550 students per grade level. Our musical usually has a cast and crew count in the 100s.
My question is this. How do I increase Troupe membership? I am currently at 20, with 8 new inductees this fall. I would really like to increase membership to around 50. What privileges do you offer to Thespian members over other students? At my school, the students like to do things that benefit them. They won't join Thespians just for the status. There has to be a reward or a reason to join besides just being a part of a club. I have started doing more activities with the troupe (the old sponsor did nothing; the club met once a month and played theatre games after school in her classroom) such as field trips and going to shows and a combat workshop, but I need more!!
Any suggestions for privileges for troupe members?
Thanks!
------------------------------
Amber Hugus
Harmony PA
------------------------------