By Lindsey Saarie, Director of Drama, Friday Harbor High School
Last week, five Friday Harbor High (and one Middle) School students traveled over 2,000 miles to join thousands of fellow young artists at the International Thespian Festival, held June 22-27 on the Indiana University campus in Bloomington. This annual gathering is the largest celebration of high school theater in the country, and our students made their mark in every way.
For one unforgettable week, our troupe lived like college students, staying in dorms and navigating the sprawling IU campus. More importantly, they immersed themselves in theater at the highest level, attending intensive classes and workshops led by professionals, educators and college faculty from across the nation. From advanced scene study to dance, directing, design and stage combat, the learning was rigorous and inspiring.
Each day concluded with not just one but two top-tier high school performances, ranging from full-length plays and musicals to thought-provoking one-acts. The caliber of storytelling and production was jaw-dropping, a powerful reminder of what high school artists can achieve when given the opportunity and support.
Our students weren’t the only ones hard at work. Chaperones from our program (Lindsey Saarie and Linnea Anderson) volunteered behind the scenes, partnering with Disney Live Entertainment to help judge the prestigious BACKstage Challenge, an immersive technical theater competition that celebrates collaboration, creativity and problem-solving under pressure.
One of the most exciting moments of the week came when senior Alison Power, already serving as an international thespian officer and Washington state representative, earned a superior rating for her solo musical theater performance. Power’s talent, leadership and poise stood out in a festival full of gifted performers, and we couldn’t be prouder.
But more than accolades or packed schedules, what we’ll remember most is the joy of being surrounded by “our people”: artists who care deeply, work tirelessly and believe in the power of storytelling to change lives. We returned to the island tired, sweaty and inspired, ready to bring that energy back to our own stage and community.
In a time when arts education continues to face cuts and challenges, our week at the International Thespian Festival reaffirmed just how essential theater is for young people. These students aren’t just learning how to perform; they’re learning how to lead, collaborate, empathize and dream big. That’s the kind of education that lasts a lifetime.
