Meet ITO Catie Jamieson

My goal as an International Thespian Officer (ITO) is to advocate for mental health awareness as part of the #TheatreInOurSchools efforts and other theatre advocacy movements. Many of us sometimes feel stressed or anxious in our theatre departments because we are participating in rehearsals, shows, and so many other troupe events. It is important for teens to be taught the importance of mindfulness and to have healthy stress-release tactics. By advocating for mental health on a national level, Thespians will feel more empowered and heard.

Catie Jamieson
Troupe #6309
Northwood High School

COMING TOGETHER FOR A COMMON GOAL

Through my time in the International Thespian Society (ITS), I have learned the importance of vulnerability and working together as an ensemble. Additionally, collaborating with my troupe has taught me that performing arts space is for creativity and fun. But most importantly, I have learned that the people involved in theatre are absolutely amazing. We all come from different backgrounds, ethnicities, sexual orientations and gender identities, and yet we all work together for the common goal of creating art on stage.

Meeting others who genuinely support one another and root for each other is what I find most inspiring. I am so thankful for the friendships I have made and the memories I have created through ITS.

UPLIFTING FELLOW THESPIANS

I have lived in five different states and attended seven different schools so far in my life. I most recently moved from Denver, Colorado, to Irvine, California, in August 2020. Moving during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic definitely had its challenges. I struggled with my mental health. I want readers to know that they can always reach out to me for support because I know the feeling of loneliness.

I think it is so important that we continue to uplift the Thespians in our community, and I want to be an advocate for this. Moving so much definitely had its upsides as well: I learned that I love to interact and meet new people!

Instagram: @catie.jamieson