What do you like best about the International Thespian Festival?
I pretty much love everything about ITF, but if I had to pick one thing it would probably be the fact that thousands of people from all over the world are in this one place for just one week who all share the same love for theater. The amount of talent that is brought to Nebraska every year is incredible, and it’s even more incredible that the talent can be shared with thespians from all over the world. I love seeing the shows every morning and night. There are so many talented people in this one place at one time!


What advice do you have for Thespians who are looking to become ITO?
If you’re truly passionate about becoming an ITO then put that passion to work. Set a few days aside to work on your application and your speech. Think about why you want the position, and then make sure that your sincerity shows through to everyone when you’re running.

What got you interested in theatre?
It was during my summer going into fifth grade. My parents made me go to camp in Indiana for six weeks (now I’m happy that they did), and I decided to take a Theater Arts class. I had so much fun in the class that I took it the rest of the six weeks, and I ended up getting the medal for drama at the end of camp :). Once the school year started I decided to be in the middle school musical and I haven’t stopped since!

What would you say to a Thespian who is on the fence about attending International Thespian Festival 2011?
GO TO FESTIVAL. You will meet so many amazing people from all over the world, and you will make friendships that will last a lifetime. You will see awesome shows, learn a ton from workshops, go to crazy fun thespian dances, and expand your horizons in every possible way as a high school student! There are too many opportunities at ITF to pass up! Do what ever you can to go!

What is your weirdest "quirk"?
I can’t stand when my pants don’t fit right haha.

What are the goals you plan to achieve this year as an ITO?
I would like to raise attendance at Festival and raise awareness of who the ITO are and what it is that we do. I would like to see stronger ITO and Thespian interaction. I want to consistently be in contact with other Thespians throughout the year, rather than only during Festival. I will do this by attending as many state conferences as possible. I think that this is the best way to establish communication with other Thespians and state student officers.

Do you have a favorite role that you have played?
My favorite role that I played would have to be Bud Frump in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Bud Frump is definitely a character. He’s the bad guy of the show so I had a lot of fun playing a villain for a change.

What is a fun fact, that most people don't know, about you?
I am an aspiring pokemon master.

What is your favorite straight play and/or musical?
My favorite straight play would have to be The Boys Next Door (as of Festival ’09), and I can’t pick just one musical so my favorite musicals are Into the Woods, Bye Bye Birdie, Hairspray, and Footloose.

And finally, give us your Facebook link.
http://www.facebook.com/bobby.kirwin

Bio:
My full name is Robert Thomas Kirwin. I was born on October 2nd, 1992. I am a senior at Lake Ridge Academy, and I am a member of troupe #7171. I have two older brothers named Jeff and Jack. They’re twins, but they look nothing alike. Right now I have a fat black and white cat named Pearl. As a kid I had a lot of exotic pets including a chameleon and a hedgehog. I’ve lived in Ohio my whole life. I’m a State Student Officer (North Area Rep!) for Ohio Thespians, and I’m the president of my Thespian troupe at school. I’m a pretty laid back guy and simple things like french fries and a chocolate shake make me very happy. I’m from Ohio so I call carbonated beverages pop! My favorite pop is Coca-Cola. My favorite colors are blue and lime green. I like being outdoors and being anywhere near a lake. I love being on boats and water skiing. During the summer I work as a lifeguard at a pool down the street from my house. I like all types of music but my favorite bands are The Rocket Summer and Jack's Mannequin. I enjoy traveling and I like road trips. My dad is from England, but I’ve never been to England or anywhere in Europe. I want to go really badly though! I love spending time with friends and I like meeting new people, so find me on facebook or come say hi to me at a state conference!