2025 SF ALL STATE COMPANY: Closing Ceremony
Performance Application
Be Part of the Show Everyone Will Be Talking About!
Texas Thespians 2025 All-State Company
Ready to dance, sing, act, or tech your way into a show created just for YOU?
This year’s All-State Closing Ceremony is a brand-new, original musical written exclusively for Texas Thespians 2025 and featuring your favorite Broadway shows, pop songs, and high energy dance numbers!
Directed and choreographed by Broadway’s Barry Busby & Leslie Flesner, and music directed by Houston Grand Opera’s Lindsay Russell Bowden, you’ll rehearse and then perform on the main stage at your Texas Thespian State Festival (Corpus Christi or Grapevine).
For more info about how to join the fun, please scroll down!
AUDITION MATERIALS
PERFORMER & TECHNICAL CREW Submission details:
PERFORMER SUBMISSIONS:
NOTES: To be considered for the All-State Company, applicants must submit a Vocal, Dance, and Acting video.
Vocal Performance (Required)
1. Pick your voice part: Soprano/Alto or Tenor/Bass
2. Practice: Learn the part using the provided ‘Tutorial Tracks’
3. Record: When you’re ready, video your audition singing with the ‘Music Track’
4. Upload: Submit your video to the system.
Evaluation Criteria:
● Musicality: Pitch, timing, and vocal health
● Diction: Clarity and communication of lyrics
● Artistry: Musical and physical storytelling
ALL VOICE PARTS: If some of the higher notes are too difficult, you can sing lower notes or explore options that fit with the song and are more comfortable for you. Also, if you have higher notes and want to show us more, feel free to make it your own. Have fun!
Dance Performance (Required)
1. Learn the Choreography: Follow the guided audition tutorial videos.
2. Practice: Make sure you feel confident with the dance routine.
3. Record: Film your performance using the provided audio track (not the tutorial file). Ensure your entire performance is visible in the video frame.
4. Upload: Submit your video to the system.
Acting Performance (Required)
1. Monologue: Read the show synopsis and character description.
2. Rehearse: You don't need to have the monologue memorized, but try not to read directly from the script the whole time.
3. Record: Film your audition. Make sure you are clearly visible in the frame.
4. Upload: Submit your video to the system.
Tumbling & Special Skills (Optional)
1. Record Your Skills: Film a short video (30 seconds max) showcasing your special skills.
Examples include tumbling, turns, leaps, etc. *Only perform tumbling if you have been properly trained.*
2. Upload: Submit your video to the system.
Want to play a Featured Role?
If you would like to be considered for one of these lead roles (June, Vivienne, Max, Mickie), please submit your initial materials as soon as possible. Some performers may receive callback/ side materials based on their initial submission.
TECHNICAL CREW SUBMISSIONS:
This is a full-scale production, and we’re also looking for student technicians in:
Sound & Mics
Lighting & Projections
Props, Costumes & Scenic
Stage Management & Production
Stage Manager/Production Manager
- Submit 3 - 5 pages of your past stage manager prompt book
- Submit a Design Concept PowerPoint of All State Showcase
○ Watch performer audition videos, listen to tracks, and read the synopsis for inspiration. The info can be found above by clicking the Audition Info link.
○ There should be slides for design concept, costume design, lighting design, projection design, set/props design in this order
- Submit a 5 minute recording of you presenting your concept PowerPoint
Sound Operator
- Submit 2 - 3 audio tracks of past sound design work that is original student work
- Submit Design Concept PowerPoint of All State Showcase
○ Watch performer audition videos, listen to tracks, and read the synopsis for inspiration. The info can be found above by clicking the Audition Info link.
○ Include a slide on 2 - 3 ambient sound you would hear, a slide on 2 - 3 sound effects you would include, and then a slide on any other info you want to present.
- Submit a 5 minute recording of you presenting your concept PowerPoint
Lighting Operator
- Submit 5 - 7 images of past lighting design work that is original student work
- Submit Design Concept PowerPoint of All State Showcase
○ Watch performer audition videos, listen to tracks, and read the synopsis for inspiration. The info can be found above by clicking the Audition Info link.
○ Should include 7 - 10 images of what you hope to create. Could be a mood board, inspiration images, or something you create yourself
- Submit a 5 minute recording of you presenting your concept PowerPoint
Set/Props Design
- Submit 5 - 7 images of past set/props design work that is original student work.
- Submit Design Concept PowerPoint of All State Showcase
○ Watch performer audition videos, listen to tracks, and read the synopsis for inspiration. The info can be found above by clicking the Audition Info link.
○ Should include 7 - 10 images of what you hope to create
- Submit a 5 minute recording of you presenting your concept PowerPoint
Costume Design
- Submit 5 - 7 images of past costumes design work that is original student work.
- Submit Design Concept PowerPoint of All State Showcase
○ Watch performer audition videos, listen to tracks, and read the synopsis for inspiration. The info can be found above by clicking the Audition Info link.
○ Should include 7 - 10 character designs
- Submit a 5 minute recording of you presenting your concept PowerPoint
If you have any questions please contact Matthew Peters.
Auditioners will submit the following information to the Evaluation System.
Headshot - JPEG format only (Even for Technicians)
Resume - PDF format only
Audition Type:
- Performance - Combined 2 Minute Upload MAX! - URL or Video Format accepted
- Acting - 2 contrasting monologues - not to exceed 2 min
- Musical - 1 monologue and 1 musical number - not to exceed 2 min. Accompaniment cannot contain vocals.
- Tech - URL or Video Format accepted (Area of Technical Interest / 2 minute video Highlighting 2 of your best technical works / 3 Portfolio Submission Files See PDF Example - PDF)
- Educator - URL or Video Format accepted (90 sec video Introducing yourself and tell us: Who or What inspired you to become a teacher and why do you want to pursue education? / 15 slide presentation of your high school work - PDF Example)
Guidelines for DemocracyWorks can be:
- Include a cover page with your name, school, troupe number, e-mail, phone number, director’s name, email, phone number.
Submission procedures to Texas Thespians DemocracyWorks competition
- Essays must be typed (12-point type preferred).
- Upload a clean copy (PDF) of each essay. Short answers can be placed in one PDF document.
Include a cover page, with the following information:
- your name, email address, telephone number(s)
- your Thespian troupe number; the name of your school
- the name and telephone number of your troupe director
- Attach a head-shot and short bio
- Important: if your essay is selected as a winner, you must be available to attend the Texas Thespian Festival. You will be responsible for the cost of coming to the Texas Thespian Festival. Essay winners will be recognized and prizes will be awarded at the State Festival.
Essay Topics:
Prompt 1: Spotlight on Student Voice: Theater as a Platform for Change. Theater is a way to be heard. Write an essay about how participating in theater has empowered you or others to raise awareness about important issues. How does giving students a voice on stage reflect the values of democracy?
Prompt 2: Curtains Up on Community: Theater’s Role in Civic Unity. From school auditoriums to local playhouses, theater brings people together. Write an essay exploring how theater builds community and bridges divides. How does being part of an ensemble, audience, or production team model democratic collaboration and inclusivity?
Texas Thespians will be offering a Career Fair for all Seniors to participate in during the State Festival for FREE.
- Looking for a start to your career?
- Looking for a summer job?
- Looking for a part-time job during college?
Must be a senior currently and willing to complete the online application with video submission. Live component on site for companies interviewing for prospective hires.
Five Categories to choose from ( you can choose two): URL or Video Format accepted.
- Performance - 2 contrasting monologues not to exceed 2 minutes
- Vocal Performance - 2 contrasting vocal performances not to exceed 2 min.
- Technical - Include your area of technical interest, a 1 minute video highlighting 2 of your best technical works and a portfolio submission highlighting 3 of your best works.
- Dance - 2 performances of different styles not to exceed 2 minutes.
Their submission window will be from September 15th to October 17, 2025.
There will be a live component opportunity to engage with Career Fair Companies on the final day of the festival for a two hour window. Please plan ahead for appropriate wardrobe, resumes to share, questions to ask.
The Troupe Display will be rated by a panel of judges according to their content, creativity and originality.
- We will provide a 6-foot table
- NO electricity is provided or accessible
- Your presentation can be anything that celebrates each troupe’s identity, values, and impact through a creative, student-led storytelling display. This is your chance to show the Texas Thespians community who you are—not just what you do.
- Required paperwork for adjudication will be completed via Submittable before festival.
- All display items must fit on the table and may not be higher than five feet (5'0"). Rubric elements should be evident with a quick assessment. - Table Height + 5' = Total
Rules for the contest.
- All teammates should be dressed in all black
- One student per school is allowed to submit an entry.
- Content must be original, school-appropriate, and respectful. No offensive language or discriminatory material.
- Performance is limited to 5 minutes per act, with no props, costumes, or individual crowd work allowed.
- Judging will focus on originality, timing, and audience engagement, with positive feedback from a supportive panel of judges.
- All participants must submit their routine prior to festival. Each participant will receive a response once the video has been viewed. They will either be told that their content is appropriate or receive notes on changes required in order to be performed at the event.
- Festival staff reserve the right to stop any performance if festival’s code of conduct and guidelines are not followed.
- DIRECTORS ARE REQUIRED TO BE PRESENT AT THE LIVE PERFORMANCE AT REHEARSAL.
- Required materials for adjudication will be completed via Submittable before festival.
In the Improv Challenge , the skills that are measured are:
- Say YES and…
- NEVER SAY NO
- Strong Character work
- Clear scene development
- Energy
- Attitude
- Following the rules of the game
- Listening and Reacting
- Keeping it clean
- Strong Ensemble Work
Rules
- Schools can enter one team into the IMPROV Competition. $15 per student entered in event.
- Teams consist of 4 - 8 troupe members (4 compete at one time based on student choice)
- All event participants must be registered for a State Festival by the registration deadline.
- Short Form IMPROV for all rounds with a round of PUNS at each match.
- Professional comedians with judge to determine winners.
- Dress code encouraged are troupe shirts and jeans, but not required
- Students must be present for their round or will be disqualified.
- After each round your team will be alerted that they have moved on or have been eliminated.
Rules
- Teams of 1 - 4 are allowed to collaborate on the challenge. You may use actors to complete the script/voice over requirements
- Entrants will use the scene provided to create the sound design.
- All elements of the sound design must be original student work. If it is in the public domain, students need to change or update to create their own vision.
- Directors will sign off that work is original work.
- The script/prompt may not be altered in any way. The order of events and how the script/direction is navigated is what is being judged.
- The time period may be changed as long as it is supported by the final product and concept statement.
- All designs are due by midnight on October 28, 2024.
- Winners will be announced at each festival with the top sound design for each festival being played during opening ceremonies.
What to Prepare
1. Design Justification (PDF)
- 7-10 sentences explaining the thought process, any time period updates, challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
2. Submit 3-5 screenshots on how you made the digitally edited or created Sound FX or made changes to the original source material for the other elements (JPEG or PNG)
3. Submit a PDF or Word Doc of your sound cues on the script provided
2. Final Track will include
- 1 - 2 minutes in length
- At least 2 Music Tracks- Orchestral Only, No Vocals
- At least 2 Foley Sound Effects
- At least 2 Voice Overs
- At least 2 Ambient Sound Effects
- If a sound design is done effectively you will have many more than the minimum
Rules
- Can be a solo, duet, or a group of 4.
- The type of lighting that you have on your home campus (listed in required documents) will be considered in your scoring. The purpose is to use lighting you have available to accurately convey the meaning of the song.
- The film footage should be of the whole stage and be one continuous shot. You are not permitted to edit in various clips, cuts, or close ups.
- Entrants will use the music provided to create the theatrical lighting design.
- Entrants should create their own lighting designs and not copy from other sources. Directors will sign off that work is original work for this years competition prompt.
- The music may not be altered in any way. The interpretation of the music and how the music is navigated is what is being judged.
- Students are allowed to use 3 scenic elements. No students/actors may be used as bodies on stage.
- Haze is permitted based on individual home campus guidelines.
- The use of projections is not permissible in this competition at this time.
- The use of a cyclorama is permitted but no other types of reflective or specialty curtains can be used.
- All designs are due by midnight on October 28, 2024. Winners will be announced at each festival with the top lighting design for each festival being played during opening ceremonies.
Rules
- All teammates should be in dressed in all black
- Teams are composed of a minimum of 6 students and a maximum of 10 students. These students may be used however you see fit during your allotted time.
- Students will be given a scene ahead of time to be designed, memorized, and rehearsed.
- Students will be provided specific scenic elements for their use at their own discretion. See list of items provided on next page.
-Note that the set items we will be providing are 1/2 scale UIL set pieces made of foam.
- 6 LED lighting instruments will be provided for the students to utilize.
-These will be hooked up prior to your time.
- Instruments will be daisy-chained and will have limited mobility.
- You should have a minimum of 3 lighting cues.
- A full sound system, minus the playback device, will be set up prior to your time.
- You will be required to play an “Official Sound Check” provided to you.
- You should have a minimum of 1 music cue and 1 sound effect.
- The maximum time allowed for completion of this event is 10 minutes.
- Teams will be cutoff at the 10 minute mark and will need to restore as safely and quickly as possible.
- During their 10 minute time slot (beginning after slating), students will need to:
- Set up their set, lights, and sound.
- Perform their short scene.
- Strike their items back to the designated location in the competition space.
- Deductions are listed on the rubric.
- The approximate size of the performance space will be 20ft x 20ft
Directors should register their Texas Team Challenge teams.
Each team needs a separate entry.
Only one submission PER TEAM!
Competition will occur at the state festival, but you MUST register on Submittable to be adjudicated.
Applications are due on October 28, 2024 at 11:59 PM
Your team will design a single set for the show listed in the packet you receive at state festival. You may choose any one of the scenes listed in the packet but you must be clear about your choice in your design and on your justification page. You have 2 hours to complete your design, turn it in to the judge and have your area completely clean. You should work as a team and collaborate as much as possible. Your design must remain in the box provided. You may not alter the box because in reality you would not be able to alter the theater. Failure to observe and follow the required rules will result in disqualification.
Contest Rules and Suggested Supplies
Directors should register their Texas Team Challenge teams.
Each team needs a separate entry.
Only one submission PER TEAM!
Competition will occur at the state festival, but you MUST register on Submittable to be adjudicated.
Applications are due on October 28, 2024 at 11:59 PM
Your team will design two (2) masks for the show listed in the packet you receive at state festival. You may choose any two of the characters listed in the packet but you must be clear about your choice in your design and on your justification page. You have 2 hours to complete your design, turn it in to the judge and have your area completely clean. You should work as a team and collaborate as much as possible. Failure to observe and follow the required rules will result in disqualification.
Contest Rules and Suggested Supplies
Directors should register their Texas Team Challenge teams.
Each team needs a separate entry.
Only one submission PER TEAM!
Competition will occur at the state festival, but you MUST register on Submittable to be adjudicated.
Applications are due on October 28, 2024 at 11:59 PM
Your team will design two (2) hair/makeup looks for the show listed in the packet you receive at convention. You may choose any two of the characters listed in the packet but you must be clear about your choice in your design and on your justification page. You have 2 hours to complete your design, turn it in to the judge and have your area completely clean. You should work as a team and collaborate as much as possible. Failure to observe and follow the required rules will result in disqualification.
Contest Rules and Suggested Supplies
Directors should register their Texas Team Challenge teams.
Each team needs a separate entry.
Only one submission PER TEAM!
Competition will occur at the state festival, but you MUST register on Submittable to be adjudicated.
Applications are due on October 28, 2024 at 11:59 PM
Your team will design two (2) costumes for the show listed in the packet you receive at state festival. You may choose any two of the characters listed in the packet but you must be clear about your choice in your design and on your justification page. You have 2 hours to complete your design, turn it in to the judge and have your area completely clean. You should work as a team and collaborate as much as possible. Failure to observe and follow the required rules will result in disqualification.
Contest Rules and Suggested Supplies
The Dramatic Design Challenge will showcase the work of our student designers from their home campuses. Designs can be from any published play or musical of their choice. Each team must present a unified design concept, designs, and construction for Scenic, Costumes, Publicity, and Properties.
Applications are due on October 28, 2024
GUIDELINES: Each design team will develop a unified design concept from a published play or musical of their choice and design and construct four specific items A design team needs to consist of four (4) students: a scenic designer, costume designer, publicity designer, and properties designer.
- Scenic Designer: One student in charge of the design and presentation of a set model or perspective drawing.
- Costume Designer: One student in charge of the design and presentation of one costume plate.
- Publicity Designer: One student in charge of the design and presentation of a 11”x17” poster advertising their production.
- Properties Designer: One student in charge of the design, construction and presentation of a hand-held prop.
Each team will submit a slide show (11 slides) presenting a pictorial reference of their work.
- Schools can enter each category in the Lip Sync Challenge. (Solo, Duet, and Group)
- Entries will be evaluated LIVE at State Festivals
- Prompt "Quack to the Future" - Troupes can use any song found in a Back to the Future Movie LIST.
- Total time of performance (once slate is complete) can not exceed 5 minutes.
- If time is exceeded, entry will be disqualified.
- Songs may be edited for time or as a mash up.
- Be creative and think outside the box!
- Performers will not be judged on singing.
- Up to six chairs and one table can be used and will be provided.
- Props and Costumes are permitted and encouraged in the competition.
- Fog/Haze/Perishable Materials (Food, water, etc.) are not permitted
Apply to Musicalworks
2024 Musicalworks Deadline - October28th, 11:59 PM
Submission will be uploaded in the Submission Portal.
Rules and Guidelines, which follow the national model, are listed below. Musicalworks promotes original musical writing by high school students and is open to members of the International Thespian Society.
Participants may submit the opening number to an original student-written musical for review. Selected student lyricists and composers will have the chance to workshop and stage their creation with professionals and student musical theatre actors at the Festival. One opening number will be chosen for workshops and a performance at Festival.
Early submissions are encouraged. Submissions will be acknowledged at the time of receipt and will not be returned.
Please include a head-shot and a short bio at the time of your submission.
In a Playwriting adjudication, the Thespian must write and submit an original short play for the theatre. The play must be an original work written solely by the playwright and should not include copyrighted or any other material used from another writer or source. Plays that include music and lyrics are not allowed. Only one (1) play may be submitted per Thespian.
In a Short Film adjudication, the Thespian must create an original short film. The film must be of original content and may be a collaboration among up to 16 Thespians total, inclusive of actors, technicians, writers, and directors. Adaptations are not permitted. Only one (1) film may be submitted per student/group in one of the following genres: Short Live-Action Film, Short Animated Film, Short Documentary Film. Separate rubrics are included for each category.
In the Musical Theater Dance Competition, the skills measured are:
- Clear character development
- Establishment of mood or setting
- Ability to create believable characters
- Use of focus and concentration
- Use of dance and movement
- Integration of body, movement and staging
In the Musical Theater Dance Competition, the skills measured are:
- Clear character development
- Establishment of mood or setting
- Ability to create believable characters
- Use of focus and concentration
- Use of dance and movement
- Integration of body, movement and staging
In the Musical Theater Dance Competition, the skills measured are:
- Clear character development
- Establishment of mood or setting
- Ability to create believable characters
- Use of focus and concentration
- Use of dance and movement
- Integration of body, movement and staging
In a Solo Musical Theatre Performance, the Thespian must present one musical selection from a published score written for musical theatre. The adjudicators will consider how well the piece is acted as well as how well it is sung. The selection may contain dialogue; however, it should primarily be a “sung and not spoken” selection.
A duet is defined by the International Thespian Excellence Awards as a performance for 2 players. A ensemble scene is defined as a performance for 3-16 players. In each case, every participant must be actively involved in the scene/song chosen for performance.
A ensemble scene is defined as a performance for 3-16 players. In each case, every participant must be actively involved in the scene/song chosen for performance.
In a Solo Acting performance, the Thespian should prepare two contrasting selections from published works written for the theatre. Performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, or any other medium are not permitted.
A two person scene is defined by the International Thespian Excellence Awards as a performance for 2 players.
A duet is defined by the International Thespian Excellence Awards as a performance for 2 players. A group scene is defined as a performance for 3-16 players. In each case, every participant must be actively involved in the scene chosen for performance.
In a Stage Management entry, the Thespian must present digital and/or physical documents that showcase the stage manager’s promptbook and other paperwork for a production of a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable, though it is strongly recommended that the Thespian was responsible for the actual stage management for a realized production.
In a Scenic Design adjudication, the Thespian must prepare a scenic design for a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
In a Theatre Marketing entry, the Thespian must prepare a marketing campaign for a production of a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable, though it is strongly recommended that the Thespian was responsible for the actual publicity in a realized production.
In a Sound Design entry, the Thespian must prepare a sound design for a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
Lighting DesignIn a Lighting Design adjudication, the Thespian must prepare and present lighting designs for a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
In a Makeup Design adjudication, the Thespian must prepare and present makeup design renderings for a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. For the purposes of Thespy adjudications, teeth and hair are considered part of the makeup design and should be included in the materials outlined below. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
In a Costume Construction presentation, the Thespian must prepare a presentation and realized execution for one costume for a published work written for the theatre. Costumes for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one Thespian may be involved in the construction. No collaborations are permitted. Costumes for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
In a Costume Design adjudication, the Thespian must prepare and present costume designs for a published work written for the theatre. Designs for performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the design; no collaborations are permitted. Designs for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
For a Prop Construction entry, the Thespian must be able to articulate the purpose of the prop in the show and their process in creating the prop. Students should also be able to explain the job description and responsibilities of a property designer. Props should be created for theatrical performances. Props for performances of original works, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts and/or any other medium are not permitted. For the purpose of this contest, the definition of a prop is any object used in a performance that isn't part of the set or worn by an actor. Only one (1) Thespian may be involved in the construction; no collaborations are permitted. Props for either theoretical or realized productions are acceptable.
The Thespian must prepare the following:
- A full constructed prop that reflects the Thespian’s capabilities and strengths that is created to be used in a plan or musical.
- The prop must be full built/constructed. Do not choose a prop that has to be or can be purchased and then finished or decorated. This prop must be brought to ITF.
- The prop can be built using any materials or tools needed
- The prop should be finished and ready for use by an actor on stage.
- The finished prop must be presented at contest.
- Props have a $100 limit for supplies. An itemized expense sheet should be included in the artifact binder.
- A required artifact binder (digital or paper) must include at the minimum the following:
- Typed play synopsis which includes a prop list for the entire show
- Artistic Interpretation of the show
- Given circumstances that includes what the prop is and how it is used in the play
- Typed materials and methodology list explaining how it was built
- Research pictures showing how your chosen prop might look. This must especially be done if the prop is from a historical period.
- Pictures of the building process for the chosen prop
- Final photo of the prop
The Mark Batts Memorial Technical Theatre Grant, presented by Texas Thespians, honors the memory and contributions of Mark Batts, a revered figure in the technical theatre world. This grant is designed to support and encourage high school technical theatre programs across Texas, enabling them to enhance their productions, purchase equipment, and provide professional development opportunities for students and educators.
Grant Description:
The Mark Batts Technical Theatre Grant offers financial assistance to high school theatre programs in Texas with a focus on technical theatre. The grant aims to foster innovation and excellence in lighting, video, sound, set design, costume design, stage management, and other technical aspects of theatre production. Texas Thespians hope to inspire the next generation of technical theatre professionals and enthusiasts by providing funds.
Eligibility:
- Applicants: The grant is open to all Texas high schools with an active theatre program.
- Program Focus: The applying program must demonstrate an emphasis on technical theatre, including, but not limited to, set design, lighting, video, sound, costume design, and stage management.
- Membership: The applying school must be an active member of Texas Thespians.
Grant Guidelines:
1. Application Process:
- Proposal Submission: Schools must submit a detailed proposal outlining the specific technical theatre needs and how the grant funds will be utilized. This could include equipment purchases, software licenses, professional development for students and educators, or other relevant expenses.
- Budget Breakdown: The proposal must include a detailed budget that indicates the total amount requested and itemizes all anticipated costs.
- Project Timeline: Proposals must include a timeline for the project or purchases, highlighting key milestones and completion dates.
- Supporting Materials: Schools are encouraged to include supporting materials such as photographs, sketches, or videos that showcase their current technical theatre work and future plans.
2. Award Criteria
- Innovation and Creativity: Proposals that demonstrate creative approaches to technical theatre challenges will be given priority.
- Impact on Students: Consideration will be given to how the grant will benefit students, enhance their learning experiences, and prepare them for future opportunities in technical theatre.
- Need-Based Consideration: Schools with limited access to resources and funding will be given special consideration.
- Sustainability: Proposals that outline how the benefits of the grant will be sustained beyond the initial funding period will be favored.
This award is only for programs that have educational value, not cosmetic needs. Troupes should not apply for assistance with new curtains, seating, or areas for which the district is responsible.
Examples of Grant Use:
Sound System Improvements
- Wireless Microphones
- Sound Mixing Console
- Music Editing Software
- Digital Classroom Programs for sound or video editing
Theatrical Lighting
- LED or Intelligent lighting that can be designed by students
- Portable Light boards or wireless instruments
- Digital lighting programs - QLab, etc.
Projectors
- Classroom style projectors
- Digital media software to create backdrops
- Rental equipment assistance as long as students are incorporated into the design of the project
Shop Tools or Materials - that will have direct student use.
Programs or Training - students must be present and attend training.
Innovation - out-of-the-box ideas that would greatly benefit student learning and mastery of Technical Theatre objectives.
3. Grant Amount:
- The grant amount may vary based on the needs and scope of the proposals received.
- (2) $500
- (1) $1000
- (1) $2000
- $4000 max annually
- Matching option if you have already applied for a grant in the same area of need.
4. Reporting and Accountability:
- Final Report: Grant recipients must submit a final report detailing how the funds were used, the outcomes achieved, and the impact on their technical theatre program.
- Acknowledgment: Grant recipients are expected to acknowledge Texas Thespians and the Mark Batts Memorial Technical Theatre Grant in promotional materials and performances that benefit from the grant.
5. Deadlines:
- Application Opens: October 6th, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 8th, 2026
- Award Announcement: Texas Thespians Educator Conference, January 2026
- Project Completion: Projects funded by the grant must be completed by April 1st, 2026.
The Mark Batts Technical Theatre Grant honors Mark Batts' legacy by empowering high school theatre programs to reach new heights in technical theatre. We invite all eligible schools to apply and look forward to seeing the inspiring work that will result from this initiative.
For more information or questions regarding the grant application, please contact:
Texas Thespians
B.K. Goodman
Director of Operations
bk.goodman@texasthespians.org
www.texasthespians.org/festivalgrant