By Matthew Kerns, Upper School Theatre Arts Teacher
Spotlight on Creativity: MICDS ThesCon at Missouri State Thespian Conference 2026
In early January 2026, theatre students from across the state gathered at Union Station in St. Louis for the Missouri State Thespian Conference, better known as ThesCon, the annual conference of the Missouri Thespians. The event brought together high school performers, technicians, and theatre educators for several days of learning, performance, and celebration of the art of theatre.
The MICDS ThesCon Chapter was proud to take part in this exciting experience. Students participated in a wide range of workshops focused on acting, musical theatre, technical theatre, and leadership. These sessions allowed students to learn from industry professionals while sharpening their skills and exploring new areas of theatre.
Conference highlights included MainStage and one-act performances, inspiring keynote sessions, and the Thespys, where students had the opportunity to present their work in adjudicated events. This year’s keynote speaker was famous sword swallower and St. Louis native Joshua Routh, whose message encouraged students to embrace boldness, discipline, and individuality in their artistic journeys. Throughout the conference, MICDS students connected with fellow thespians from across Missouri, sharing ideas and building a stronger theatre community.
Winter Term Arts Reading Workshop
Also, during Winter Term, drama students continued their creative momentum with an arts reading workshop focused on performance across genres and time periods. Students explored classic and contemporary texts, including The Miser by Molière, The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe, and the film script of Legally Blonde.
Through guided readings and discussion, students examined language, tone, character, and storytelling techniques unique to each work. The workshop culminated in a collaborative class project in which students recreated the iconic courtroom scene from Legally Blonde, bringing together acting, staging, and ensemble work in a dynamic final performance.
Together, Missouri ThesCon 2026 and the winter term workshop provided MICDS students with meaningful opportunities to grow as artists, collaborators, and storytellers, setting a strong foundation for the remainder of the theatre season.