This January, Highland Park High School’s Theater Department announced the establishment of its own Thespian Honors Society, Troupe #13297. Dedicated to promoting club engagement, bolstering awareness, and fostering a prominent thespian community, the Theater Honor Society has already garnered much traction among students.
This year’s troupe Vice President, Harry Shapiro, explained the purpose of the honor society.
“The theater troupe is designed to get student involvement beyond the productions themselves. Our student board is a means to give students input and direct stakes in the department that they have spent so much time in.”
On January 26, the troupe held its very first elections, choosing its annual officers. Senior Eli Levin was elected President, Harry Shapiro as Vice President, Kavan Walker as Secretary, and Andrew Boiles as Head of Recruitment. Additionally, the society chose junior Jack Sollinger as Head of Promotion and Gabrielle Sullivan as Head of Fundraising.
Throughout their involvement in the theater community, each officer has exemplified great dedication and commitment to Highland Park’s thespian programs, being avid participants in performances and events.
“This year is a flagship year, so our goals are largely revolving around setting up systems that can then be used as effectively as possible in subsequent years,” Shapiro said. “These involve fundraising opportunities, recruitment efforts, and also social events held just for fun.”
In recent meetings, the troupe has focused its efforts on recruitment. Members have been working fervently to develop incentives to encourage department members to join the troupe. Through various improvements and additional events, the Thespian Honors Society aims to expand the program far beyond its previous goals.
Head of Promotion, Jack Sollinger, shares, “In our troupe, we are focused on making our theater program stronger. We are supporting new productions, helping organize events like the 24-Hour Musical, and getting more students involved in theater. It’s about stepping up as leaders and making sure our program keeps developing and growing.”
Ultimately, as the year moves forward and the troupe grows more accustomed to new developments, students should look toward Highland Park’s Thespian Honor Society for ways to get involved in the community. Whether one is a seasoned performer or a member of the stage crew, everyone can find their place in this group and work together to promote and improve the creative environment.