By: Mark Begovich, ITA President-Elect
The 2026 Illinois High School Theatre Festival Planning Committee celebrated the 50th Anniversary in grand style. The Festival and the All-State production are always a massive undertaking, but this year, the team worked a little harder to honor the legacy of one of the largest high school theatre events in the country.
We want to feature these hardworking committee members so that you know who these amazing ITA Volunteers are!
Allan Kimball- Executive Director
A Bit About You- “I am the retired Director of Theatre from Southeastern Illinois College in Harrisburg. Before coming to SIC, I was the Theatre and Speech instructor at DuQuoin High School. I have been involved with ITA and the Festival for many years, both at DuQuoin and SIC. I have served on the Festival Planning Committee off and on for 7 years and as a member of the All-State Production Staff for 4 productions, including directing the All-State Production of Aida in 2020.”
Why You Support The ITA- “The ITA is a vital part of theatre in the state of Illinois. It has produced and continues to produce, the teachers, technicians, and actors that shape and nourish those who live and love live theatre. It is a resource for all of us who are involved in theatre. The ITA provides a networking system that is essential for our personal and professional growth.”
Why You Volunteer For The Festival- “I love theatre. I can't remember a time in my life when I wasn't fascinated by the magic of live theatre. I love being a part of something that provides that sense of wonder to thousands of students every year. My parents always took me to see shows. This is my way of paying if forward. I want everyone who attends the Festival to walk away from this experience with the same feeling of awe that I have every time I see a show.”
Michelle Bayer- All-State Producer/ Secondary Rep
A Bit About You- “I have been teaching theatre, biology, English, and special education for 31 years at Oak Park and River Forest High School. I am the performing arts chair, directing and supervising over twelve productions in our three theatres each year. It is my greatest joy to share my love of theatre with our amazing students, who thrive in the supportive environment we try to create at OPRF. “
Why You Support The ITA- “I like to be involved with the ITA because, as a theatre educator, we can be isolated in our buildings. The ITA allows me the opportunity to collaborate with theatre artists from all over the State of Illinois. Their support, encouragement, and advice help me grow individually and as a drama program.”
Why You Volunteer For The Festival- “I loved the Theatre Festival as a student. My teacher was the executive director during my senior year, and I saw all that the festival had to offer students. I want to be a small part in carrying the banner of IHSTF to as many kids as I can.”
Christina Ordonez- All-State Producer/ ITA Secretary
A Bit About You- “I work at Hoffman Estates High School in multiple roles: Technology and Media Department Chair, Auditorium Manager, Theatre Director, New Educator Coordinator, and Professional Learning Lead. Previous to that, I was an English and Reading teacher. I love reading and spending time with friends and family.“
Why You Support The ITA- “I am honored to be the ITA Secretary, as well as All-State Producer, as I believe this organization is integral to instilling a love of the Arts and Theatre through all age groups in Illinois. Theatre is here to shine a light not just on what is, but what could be, and the ITA fosters that hope and possibility for artists, young and old alike. Theatre is where all art forms come together in a common message, and I believe in the ability of the ITA to shape that message of support and alliance of ALL people in Illinois.”
Why You Volunteer For The Festival- “Theatrefest has been a huge influence on my life, my siblings' lives, and my students' lives since 1994. The ability to not only give back to that community but to hopefully strengthen it for future generations is a privilege. Plus, the people I've met through the committee are WONDERFUL and have become colleagues I can turn to for advice and laughter.”
Anna McSweeney- All-State Director
A Bit About You- “I'm an active Mom of two littles who loves spending time outside playing with them. Currently, I am a dean at Addison Trail High School, theatre director, and student council sponsor. I love vacationing and exploring new places, and so thankful to live in Illinois!“
Why You Support The ITA- “They really supported my journey in becoming a teacher with the partnership with ISU, intern/chaperone program, and even the connections I made with other teachers.”
Why You Volunteer For The Festival- “It's been a dream of mine since 2001 to direct an All-State.”
Thank you to all the Festival Committee members! We will celebrate you later this year.
