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Guest Artists
The 2026 New Jersey Thespian Festival will be held on the weekend of January 17-18, 2026 at Washington Township High School in Sewell, NJ.
It is the mission of The International Thespian Society to expand educational theatre opportunities, and we are looking for theatre professionals who would like share their passion for their art through hands-on workshops and learning experiences with New Jersey students. Our event typically brings in over 1,500 high school students from across the state.
We will provide lunch and coffee for guest artists attending the festival. All guest artists will also be provided with a swag bag courtesy of NJ Thespians.
What We're Looking For
Workshop Leaders
Host a workshop in your area of expertise. The key is keeping these high school students engaged in a workshop that offers them a tangible, hands-on experience. Workshops will take place in person this year. The payment for workshop leaders is negotiable.
Keynote and Panel Speakers
New Jersey Thespian Festival usually hosts two Keynote speakers, one at Opening Ceremony and one at Closing Ceremony. New in 2025, we are looking to begin moderated panel discussions. Those interested should email the High School Festival Team at hsfestival@njthespians.org
Education Program Representation
You can participate in our in-person college fair and promote your college, university or summer program to high school theatre students, audition and interview seniors looking to pursue acting or theatre design and production, teach workshops, or sponsor events. There are many ways to get involved!
Thespy Adjudicators
Adjudicators will be compensated as follows: $150 for Saturday, $125 for Sunday, $300 for both days. Adjudicators will be expected to judge in the category that is closest to their specialty and the Adjudicator Coordinators will personally match you to the proper judging assignment.
Sponsors
The New Jersey Thespian Festival provides a win/win situation for your business and our participants. Your business gains exposure and direct contact with a wide variety of theatre teachers and students from across the state of New Jersey, while our students get direct access to professionals in the industry. You can support the New Jersey Thespian Festival through the purchase of advertising space, vendor tables, sponsoring events, in kind donations and more!
Thank you!
We hope that in some way, shape, or form, you are able to join us for Festival!