Joey Summers, a junior in the Frederick theater department has been appointed as an international Thespian Society (ITS) for the 2025-2026 academic year. Joey is known for his outstanding performances in Frederick Theater and as the president of troupe 4391, now is taking on the pivotal role of an ITS officer or state thespian officer (STO) to represent Frederick high school.

This is a huge step for Joey Summers because not only does he get to proudly represent the Frederick high school theater department but he also gets to help plan thespian events, establish state policies, fundraise, and advocate for the arts.

International thespian society (ITS)

The international thespian society (ITS) is an honor society for middle and high school students that are in drama and the theater arts. This program recognizes and celebrates the achievements of high school theater students who demonstrate amazing talent and dedication to the performing arts.

This kind of membership is typically earned through active participation in their theater program and shows and students will earn points based on their role or how much they contribute, once you have acquired 10 points you will be offered to join ITS for a lifetime.

ITS offers opportunities for students to connect with others that are passionate about theater, engaged in leadership roles, and gain recognition for their hard work. This program also offers workshops, scholarships and other resources to help students further their education with theater.

ITS was founded in 1929 by Rex Lardener and Paul H. H. Spelbrink, they were both high school teachers and theater enthusiasts. It was originally called the national thespian society.

The name “ Thespian” comes from the Ancient Greek actor Thespis who is often credited as the first person to perform a solo act in Greek drama, which became the term for theater people today. It was first established in New York City and over time it became an international organization.

ITS mission is to honor student achievements in the theater arts, promote the value of theater as a tool for personal growth, and encourage lifelong engagement with the performing arts.

Eligibility and leadership development 

For Joey to be eligible to become a STO he has to meet several requirements. Firstly he had to have a membership with ITS, he had to demonstrate strong leadership abilities, this includes being a role model for other students, actively participating, and contributing positively to the theater community.

Joey had to be committed to the goals and missions of ITS and following them. Joey also had to demonstrate responsibility. Lastly Joey had to be in a good standing in ITS meaning he had to demonstrate a positive reputation and has fulfilled all necessary obligations for his membership.

All these requirements led to Joey being appointed a STO for Frederick high school. Additionally Joey has greatly demonstrated passion, dedication, and leadership in Frederick theater for three years with his unwavering dedication to not only his performance on stage but also behind the scene with leading theater in a leadership role.

Joey’s journey in theater 

Joey has been performing on stage for over ten years, but his love for the art began much earlier. From singing in choir, to hosting talent shows, the stage is where he wanted to be. High school theater has impacted his life significantly. Joey feels this is where he met some of his closest friends and where he wanted to grow as a person.

He feels he wouldn’t be the person he is today without the amazing world of theater. Joey states “when I think back to my performances and how impactful they have been,I think of the one act play I did with Micah Witler, my first ever show at Frederick, where I played a flamboyant drama queen named Tom. Or my first high school musical “ High Fidelity” where I played the most pathetic man in the world.” Joey also states how newsies really “ sparked his passion for theater.” Even though he has never played a role in it.

Joey’s vision as a STO 

“I am so excited to serve as an STO because I get to represent the amazing people of Frederick high school theater,” says joey. “ People like Mia Salas, she is an amazing costume designer and stage manager and friend. Or Payton Clark, I always see her as a motivated freshman with a massive heart. I can’t wait to show Colorado who we are.” Joey states.

Joey’s mission is to bring everyone together to celebrate the world of theater, from participating in unified theater events to ticket swaps at other schools. “Theater is something to celebrate and doing it with other people is something I strive to do!” Joey adds.

Gratitude and support 

Joey acknowledges the pivotal role that others in his life have played in his journey.“ My first director, sky cash showed men the inner workings of theater, he also taught me everything I know. Sierra Sanchez really encouraged me to join theater at Frederick high school and made the last two years she was here the most memorable.

Engdahl has been a huge role model, an amazing friend, and an incredible scene artner. My directors Mr. Brown and Mrs. B for giving me amazing opportunities in theater . But most importantly my parents. They were the ones who took me from rehearsal to rehearsal, signed me up for classes, and summer camps. Encouraged me to practice even when I didn’t want to. Also helping me memorize my lines and much more.”

A new chapter for Frederick theater 

Joey’s appointment as a STO is not only a testament to his dedication but it will also contribute to the continuing growth and success of Frederick high school theater program. His leadership will inspire those in theater to pursue similar roles and take on leadership roles both in and outside of the school community.

“To those who might be on the fence about doing theater, I say take the risk!” Joey advises. “You’ll never grow as a student, human, or leader if you don’t take risks in life. And if you do take that risk, now that the amazing people here at Frederick theater got your back!”