Each semester, The Penn State Thespian Society brings a student-run production to the historic Schwab Auditorium stage. The main-stage shows are the largest aspect of Thespians with students taking on roles in the rehearsal staff, production staff, cast, and crew. The process starts with the selection of the “Big 3” (Director, Producer, and Technical Director) by the executive board of the club. From there, Big 3 chooses the other members of the production and rehearsal staff from Stage Manager, Front of House, Master Carpenter, Costume Designer, etc. Auditions are held, a cast is chosen, and the rehearsal process starts! As the most involved and central focus of the club, each member is working towards the Thespian Society mission “to present theatrical entertainment and to provide the students of The Pennsylvania State University with educational experience in all phases of dramatic production.” This year, join us for our fall musical and our spring musical.
MAIDS
Since the spring of 2002, we hold an annual benefit concert named MasquerAIDS (typically shortened to MAIDS) to raise money for the Centre County AIDS Resource Alliance, an organization based in Centre County that raises funds and awareness in the fight against AIDS. We are proud to take part in an important discussion that branches our university and organization into the State College community. MAIDS showcases all aspects of theatre, including acting, singing, and dancing, all blended together in a medley revolving around a central theme. The theme for the 2024-2025 year has yet to be announced, stay tuned for an announcement soon! If you have any questions, please contact our MasquerAIDS chairs at thespiansmasqueraids@gmail.com.
CSHOW
Each semester, The Penn State Thespian Society puts on our semi-annual Children’s Show performed in Schlow Library! C-Show, as we lovingly call it, is the perfect place for anyone who loves to write, loves to be hands-on, or simply loves to see a child smile while watching their favorite character come to life. We convert a children’s story to perform for the children of the local community by, like our mainstage shows, putting on a completely student-run production. Our Fall 2022 show has yet to be announced, stay tuned for more details soon! If you have any questions contact the Children’s Show chairs at thespianschildrensshow@gmail.com.
THON
THON is the largest student run philanthropy in the world and The Penn State Thespian Society is proud to have been raising money for this amazing cause for almost 20 years! Thespians cherish their two THON families, the McHughs and the Illicetes. Our club works to raise money, provide support, and make connections, not only for our THON children to find the cure, but to raise money for all in the fight against pediatric cancer. If you have any questions please contact our THON chairs at thespians4d@gmail.com.