Thespys, or the Thespian Excellence Award Ceremony, is an international program that recognizes student achievement in theater. Thespians put together presentations showcasing their talent. From acting to tech the ceremony is open to students in any aspect of theater. According to Juniper Detrano (’26), Lincoln’s stage manager and a devoted thespian, “The process of preparing for Thespys usually starts right after the play, and lasts around a month and a half.”

The Thespys competition starts at the state level, where groups from various schools get together and students showcase their work. Then, students who receive a “superior” score move on to an even bigger stage, the International Thespian Festival.

There are quite a few categories ranging from acting to set and costume design, to state management and marketing. Overall, the ceremony draws you closer to other thespians, while getting to showcase your talent, as Detrano said, “You are not competing against other people, you are competing against the rubric.”

“International Thespys is a lot of recruiting, you can sign up for interviews and apply for colleges and recruiters, and that is a huge way to get into the theatre network,” thespian and costume designer Fae Semyan (’25) states.

There are also opportunities for awards and scholarships. According to the Thesyps’ official website, “Superior-rated students and Thespy award winners will receive pins and/or medals that recognize their outstanding achievement,” and “Qualified Thespy Finalists are eligible to apply for Thespy-related scholarships.”

Thespys creates a sense of community within the students that participate and the entire theater community. This year’s program created a sense of unity that many students cannot find anywhere else. “It was a wonderful way to connect to other theatre departments, and have a nice community time, and practice doing what you love, and practice feeling proud of it,”  Detrano said.

Overall, while stressful, Thespys creates community and connection amongst the theater community at Lincoln. At the ceremony or even just preparing- thespians create memories that will last them a lifetime.  “I feel pride in the fact that I get to create and share something I care so much about with the people I love,” Lance Coffey (’25) stated.

If you are interested in becoming a Thespian or applying for Thespys 2025, you can contact Mrs. Sullivan, the theater director for more information.