
What California’s Theatre Licensure Fight Can Teach Us About Advocacy
As a theatre educator, advocacy can sometimes feel like an abstract concept, something reserved for policy experts, state leaders, or
International Thespian Festival 2026 registration is open! Learn more.
As the largest professional organization for theatre educators, EdTA supports teachers and students, advancing the benefits of theatre education nationwide.
Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) members are actively involved in more than 5,000 schools and communities. We have recognized and honored more than 2.5 million students and their theatre educators since 1929.
EdTA is home to the International Thespian Society, the only honor society of its kind for middle and high school theatre students. Founded in 1929, ITS and its Thespian troupes have affirmed the quality of educational theatre programs, bringing credibility and distinction to students, teachers, and schools.
EdTA is devoted to building the very community it serves by giving back through our philanthropic arm, the Educational Theatre Foundation, which provides financial support to expand access to theatre programs to every child and enhance excellence in theatre education globally.

As a theatre educator, advocacy can sometimes feel like an abstract concept, something reserved for policy experts, state leaders, or

The 2026 Festival will feature an expanded Main Stage lineup that reflects the breadth of school theatre today. The Educational

By Amber Friel, NAfME Communications Manager, Advocacy and Public Policy After months of intense advocacy and lingering uncertainty, the much-anticipated
EdTA’s Community Forum

