Department of Theatre and Dance welcomes the Kentucky Theatre Association

More than 300 Kentucky high school students from 11 schools will be on the University of Kentucky campus November 21 and 22 for the Kentucky Theatre Association State Conference (KTA). 

Hosted in partnership with the University of Kentucky Department of Theatre and Dance, the festival highlights Kentucky’s vibrant theatre community and provides students with opportunities to learn from professionals, connect with peers, and experience live theatre at the university level.

Throughout the weekend, students will participate in interactive workshops led by UK faculty, exploring topics ranging from acting and design to technical production and movement. The festival also features performances from regional-winning high school theatre programs, who will take the stage as part of the High School Theatre Festival. The top schools will advance to perform at the South Eastern Theatre Conference in Chattanooga, Tenn., this spring.

In addition, the students will attend private performances of the Department's production of Hype Man: A Break Beat Play, by Idris Goodwin, with support from the UK Office of the Vice President for Research.

The weekend includes the Community Theatre Festival and the Roots of the Bluegrass New Play Festival, featuring excerpts from finalist scripts. The readings will be performed by UK Theatre and Dance students and local Kentucky performers, showcasing original work from emerging playwrights and celebrating the state’s creative voices.

“We are so excited to celebrate the amazing theatre being produced in our state,” said Melissa Gilbert,  KTA engagement chair. “The amount of talent in our high schools and communities is tremendous. It’s going to ba a great weekend for theatre in Lexington.”

Image: Student winners on stage at the 2024 KTA state conference, courtesy of KTA