Introduction
The Lenaea High School Theatre Festival is an annual three-day celebration of creativity and talent, bringing together high school theatre students from across the West Coast. This dynamic event invites students to perform, receive personalized feedback from professional theatre artists, and explore their craft through hands-on workshops in every corner of the theatre world.
Founded in 1956 and inspired by the ancient Greek Lenaea festivals, Lenaea began as an initiative of Sacramento State College (now CSU Sacramento) to nurture and elevate high school theatre programs. Since becoming an independent nonprofit in 2012, Lenaea has found its home at the Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College.
Students can showcase their skills in a wide range of competitive categories:
Inspiring the next generation of theatre artists for nearly 70 years!
Monologues
Duo Scenes
Musical Theatre Solos
One-Act Plays
Original Script
Student Direction
Costume Design
Scenic Design
A hallmark of Lenaea is its interactive feedback sessions. After performing or presenting their work, students receive direct coaching from theatre professionals. Actors can immediately try new choices on stage, while designers and writers gain insight to refine and elevate their concepts — a rare, transformative experience that sets Lenaea apart.
Beyond competition, Lenaea offers lab-style workshops led by actors, directors, designers, producers, and university professors. Each year, students can dive into topics such as:
For Performers
Acting
Improvisation
Shakespeare
Stage Combat
Dance & Choreography
Vocal Technique
For Creators & Makers
Playwriting
Directing
Scenic Design
Costume Design
Prop Design
Lighting Design
For the Next Stage
Audition Technique
College Audition Prep
Every February, more than 1,700 students from over 70 schools — spanning from Los Angeles to Alaska — come together to create, learn, and connect. The result is a vibrant community where young artists gain confidence, develop their craft, and celebrate the shared joy of theatre.
