10 Theatre Conferences to Check Out in 2024
The theatre world is home to many different conferences and events that are designed to spread information and make you into a better theatre practitioner. It can be hard to get a good overview of the best ones out there. And that’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the greatest theatre conferences around the world in 2023, sorted chronologically!
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1. MATC Mid-America Theatre Conference
Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Next Dates: March 7-10, 2024
The MATC➝ is an event-packed theatre conference that zones in on a different theme each year. This year’s conference is about “Impossible Theatre” and will focus on making the impossible possible.
2. NAMT Conferences
Location: Oklahoma City, OK
Next Dates: April 3-5, 2024
The National Alliance for Musical Theatre Conferences➝ take place in the spring and in the fall. These generally include a special performance and tour of the area, along with panels, speakers, networking, and parties!
3. ETC International Theatre Conference
Location: Nova Gorica, Slovenia
Next Dates: April 17-21, 2024
The ETC International Theatre Conference➝ is held twice a year in different cities around Europe, and every year follows a different theme. Although this is a “closed” event for members of the theatre network and selected guests, it is possible to experience the conference with an exclusive invite. And if you’re lucky enough to attend, you’ll experience talks from international experts, panel discussions, networking, and performances!
4. Last Frontier Theatre Conference
Location: Valdez, Alaska
Next Dates: June 8 – 15, 2024
The Last Frontier Theatre Conference➝ has been taking place since 1993. Not only do the attendees catch great classes and inspirational stories from successful theatre artists, but they also get to attend special evening performances.
5. IFTR: The Stories We Tell
Location: Manilla, Philippines
Next Dates: July 15 – 19 2024
At the International Federation for Theatre Research➝ annual conference, different themes are discussed each year – and the theme for 2024 should be announced in the future!
6. Black Theatre Network Annual Conference
Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Next Dates: July 26-29, 2024
The BTN Conference➝ focuses on strengthening the Black theatre community through the sharing of information, networking, master classes, workshops, and social gatherings. The conference is packed with exciting events and this year’s theme is “Centering Blackness: Nurturing the Creative Spirit”.
7. ATHE Annual Conference
Location: Atlanta, GA
Next Dates: August 1-4, 2024
The Association for Theatre in Higher Education hosts a yearly conference in which different themes are explored in depth. The theme of this year’s ATHE Conference➝ is “Revisioning The Story”. At this conference, you can expect an exciting range of discussions, workshops, and key-note speakers that are all designed to move you forward.
8. Midwest Theatrefest
Next Dates: September 14-15, 2024
The Midwest Theatrefest➝ is a gathering for theatre professionals and enthusiasts alike. Featuring curated workshops and panels led by industry experts, attendees can explore a diverse range of sessions covering topics ranging from hair and makeup to rigging and audition preparation. This convention welcomes students, families, and community professionals, offering something for everyone passionate about live entertainment.
9. EdTA National Conference
Location: St. Pete Beach, FL
Next Dates: September 26 – 28. 2024
The annual EdTA National Conference➝ hosts 500+ participants and is held in cities around the USA. The event is home to interesting keynote speakers, workshops, networking, and exciting professional development intensives.
10. American Society for Theatre Research Conference
Location: Seattle, Washington
Next Dates: November 14 – 17, 2024
The American Society for Theatre Research Conference➝ is an annual event in which theatre artists can explore a specific theme or issue. This conference offers a wide range of talks, performances, and activities.
Want to stay in the loop with all things related to musical theatre?
Know of any other great theatre conferences?
Or have you taken part in one of the above? We’d love to hear all about it in the comments below. And if you’re looking for other ways to develop your theatrical skills, you can always check out our extensive list of theatre degree and learning programs!
Author: Stacy Karyn
Stacy Karyn is the founder of Theatre Trip, author of The Thespian’s Bucket List, and creator of The Cast Album List. She holds a BA in theatre, a TESOL drama certificate, and has worked and interned with Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters.