2026 State Thespian Conference
Thespians State Conference was originally set for January 23–25… and then the snow had other plans. What could have been a setback became a masterclass in adaptability when the Indiana Thespian Board pulled off a full reschedule for State 2.0, January 30–February 1. It wasn’t the weekend anyone planned, but it became one we’ll never forget.
Despite shifting schedules and a whirlwind of changes, nearly our entire company attended (minus one student out sick). With Rai and Amanda tag-teaming leadership, and incredible parent chaperones stepping in when prior commitments pulled one of us away, our students were supported every step of the way.
Both of our competition shows advanced to State and, through every calendar conflict and logistical puzzle, we made it happen so both productions performed in person:
As It Was by Lucy Atkinson- Middle School Show
Late Night Confessions of a Bipolar Teen by Sean Abley- High School Show
As It Was won 1st Place in the Middle School Play Competition.
That win represents grit. These students adjusted, refocused, and delivered.
Thespys: 13 Competitors, Big Results
Best of Show
Group Acting — Ade Shreve, Timmy, Audrey & Zach Kolterman
Superior Ribbons
MS Duet Musical — Orion Cortez & Asher Ortman
Duet Acting — Audrey Kolterman & Avah Loftis
Duet Acting — Julia Jackson & Emery Frazier
MS Duet Acting — Gray Frazier & Asher Ortman
MS Group Acting — Zoe Shreve, Addison White, Ximena Rivera, Elena Roseboom
MS Solo Acting— Lora Smith
Prop Construction — Ade Shreve
Excellent Ribbons
MS Solo Musical — Zoe Shreve
MS Solo Musical — Scarlett Chavez
Duet Musical — Zach Kolterman & Avah Loftis
Duet Acting — Delaney McWilliams & Norah Skaggs
Tech Challenge: Team Gerald Shows Up
We brought two Tech Challenge teams this year. Both proudly represent Team Gerald.
High School Team
Norah Skaggs (Captain)
Julia Jackson
Delaney McWilliams — 2nd Place in Knot Tying
Isabella Ayala
Middle School Team
Norah Rhoad (Captain)
Orion Cortez
Gray Frazier
Ivy Fredericks
The speed, precision, and teamwork on display were impressive. Technical theatre is problem-solving under pressure, and these students proved they can handle it.
Leadership & Mainstage Highlights
Asher Ortman was accepted as a JSTO (Junior Thespian Officer) for the 2026–2027 school year. Leadership at the state level is a huge accomplishment, and we’re proud to see Indiana Drama Club represented.
Willa Cortez performed in the All-State production of Suffs, playing Ruza Wenclawska. Even more exciting, this production will serve as a Mainstage performance at the International Thespian Festival in June.
The Bigger Picture
Yes, there were awards. Yes, there were trophies. Yes, there was a 1st Place title.
But what stood out most was resilience.
Schedules shifted. Plans changed. The weather intervened. And our students didn’t flinch. They adjusted, supported one another, leaned on their training, and made it work.
That’s theatre.
That’s leadership.
That’s Indiana Drama Club.
On to the next stage.
