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Loyola Thespians Attend Illinois High School Theatre Festival’s 50th Anniversary
Loyola Academy's Thespian Troupe #4729 attended the Illinois High School Theatre Festival from January 8 to January 10 at Illinois State University, joining thousands of students and educators from across the state for the world’s largest and oldest non-competitive high school theatre festival. This year’s gathering marked a milestone, celebrating the festival’s 50th anniversary.
Twenty-eight Loyola Thespians participated in workshops led by theatre professionals, attended performances from high schools throughout Illinois, and experienced the All-State production of Newsies. The weekend offered students a meaningful opportunity to deepen their skills while engaging in a broader artistic community.
"This is a great opportunity for Loyola students to meet other theatre kids from around the state," said Geoffrey Arndt, theater teacher at Loyola. "It is challenging and exciting, and students always come back with great stories."
A particularly meaningful moment for Loyola students came during the festival's opening ceremony, when alumnus Tommy Grant '25 returned to the stage to perform with fellow company members from previous All-State productions. For current Loyola Thespians, seeing a recent graduate participate in the festival's milestone celebration helped them envision how their own passion for theatre can continue to grow beyond high school.
For students, the experience offered both inspiration and reflection. "I felt so connected to all of the shows I saw; it gave me a new perspective on theatre," shared Mary Anne Gleason '28.
Rooted in collaboration, reflection, and creative expression, the Illinois High School Theatre Festival continues to be a space where Loyola students can explore their gifts, build community, and grow as artists and people for others.
More information about the festival can be found at https://www.illinoistheatre.org/ihstf.
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"This is a great opportunity for Loyola students to meet other theatre kids from around the state," said Geoffrey Arndt, theater teacher at Loyola. "It is challenging and exciting, and students always come back with great stories."
A particularly meaningful moment for Loyola students came during the festival's opening ceremony, when alumnus Tommy Grant '25 returned to the stage to perform with fellow company members from previous All-State productions. For current Loyola Thespians, seeing a recent graduate participate in the festival's milestone celebration helped them envision how their own passion for theatre can continue to grow beyond high school.
For students, the experience offered both inspiration and reflection. "I felt so connected to all of the shows I saw; it gave me a new perspective on theatre," shared Mary Anne Gleason '28.
Rooted in collaboration, reflection, and creative expression, the Illinois High School Theatre Festival continues to be a space where Loyola students can explore their gifts, build community, and grow as artists and people for others.
More information about the festival can be found at https://www.illinoistheatre.org/ihstf.
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