About Nebraska Thespians
Who We Are
Nebraska Thespians is the official state chapter of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), the international organization dedicated to enriching the lives of students through theatre. We serve middle school and high school theatre programs across Nebraska by providing educational opportunities, leadership development, artistic experiences, and statewide advocacy for theatre education.
Through festivals, conferences, scholarships, leadership programs, and community partnerships, Nebraska Thespians connects thousands of students and educators each year in celebration of the transformative power of theatre.
About Nebraska Thespians
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Nebraska Thespians exists to inspire, educate, and empower students and educators through meaningful theatrical experiences. We are committed to fostering creativity, collaboration, leadership, and excellence while ensuring every student has the opportunity to discover their voice and their place within our theatre community.
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We envision a Nebraska where every student has access to high-quality theatre education and where the performing arts are recognized as an essential part of a well-rounded education. By cultivating inclusive communities, encouraging artistic exploration, and supporting dedicated educators, we strive to ensure theatre continues to thrive in schools across our state.
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Throughout the year, Nebraska Thespians provides opportunities for students and educators to learn, create, and connect through a variety of statewide programs, including:
The Nebraska State Thespian Festival
Individual Events (Thespys)
Educational workshops and masterclasses
College audition opportunities
Student leadership development
Technical theatre competitions
Advocacy initiatives through Theatre in Our Schools
Scholarships and awards
Networking opportunities for theatre educators
These experiences encourage artistic growth while helping students develop confidence, communication skills, creativity, empathy, and lifelong friendships.
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Nebraska Thespians proudly serves students, educators, administrators, alumni, parents, volunteers, college partners, and theatre professionals from communities across Nebraska. Together, we believe theatre creates spaces where every student can belong, discover their potential, and grow as both artists and people.
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Nebraska Thespians is proud to be an official chapter of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), an international nonprofit organization that has supported educational theatre for nearly a century. Through our partnership with EdTA, Nebraska students and educators gain access to national recognition, leadership opportunities, educational resources, advocacy initiatives, and the International Thespian Festival.
Learn more about the Educational Theatre Association by visiting the official EdTA website.
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Whether you're a student discovering theatre for the first time, an experienced educator, a parent supporting your child's passion, or an organization looking to partner with Nebraska Thespians, we invite you to become part of our community.
Together, we are building the future of theatre education in Nebraska—one story, one stage, and one student at a time.
By the Numbers20+ Active Thespian Chapters
1000+ Festival Attendees Each Year (adjust to current numbers)
50+ Workshops and Learning Opportunities
Thousands of dollars of Scholarships and Awards Presented Annually
One Statewide Community Dedicated to Educational Theatre
Ready to Take Center Stage?
Drop us a line, and let’s choreograph something unforgettable together.