Founded in 1978 as the International Schools Theatre Association, ISTA began as a single school theatre festival dedicated to collaboration, creativity, and intercultural understanding.
From those early festivals, ISTA has evolved into a global arts community producing over 60 international events each year across theatre, film, dance, and storytelling.
For nearly 50 years, ISTA Global Arts Learning has championed ensemble learning—placing collaboration, creativity, and shared discovery at the heart of everything we do. Our non-competitive, inclusive approach continues to inspire young people, educators, and artists around the world to connect across cultures, tell stories that matter, and create with purpose.
Since 2006, ISTA has been the official global provider of accredited IB DP Theatre teacher workshops. Today, our partnership continues to grow—expanding to include professional development for Film, Dance, and MYP Arts, alongside IB-aligned student events. Together, we’re shaping innovative resources, handbooks, and learning experiences that inspire creative teaching and learning across the IB community.
Honorary Membership recognises individuals whose leadership and creativity have had a lasting impact on ISTA and global arts education.
Anne first experienced ISTA at a high school festival in Cairo in 2006 and has since held multiple roles, including ensemble leader, artistic director, and trustee. She founded ISTA’s first performing arts academy in Shanghai.
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Shanghai, China
A part of ISTA since 1998, Fenella has worked as an ensemble leader, artistic director, and DP Theatre teacher trainer. She has hosted festivals across four continents, led artist residencies, and played a key role in developing ISTA’s online teaching model during the pandemic.
Global (Four Continents)
David joined ISTA in 1997 and spent 16 years as an ensemble leader, festival artistic director, trustee, and later, president. His work with ISTA interweaves both his professional theatre career and personal journey, taking him to arts events worldwide.
Global (Arts Hubs Worldwide)
Mike has been involved with ISTA since 1978 and served as President from 1994 to 2004, helping establish ISTA as the official IB global provider for DP Theatre. His leadership played a key role in ISTA’s international growth.
Global (IB Network)
An ISTA artist since 1993, Ian attended numerous festivals before joining the Board of Trustees, where he served as Vice President. He also worked as a staff member of the ISTA team between 2015 and 2020.
Global (ISTA Team)
Sherri has been instrumental in ISTA’s artistic and educational development, working across student events, masterclasses, and productions. She considers her experiences within the ISTA ensemble to be among the most rewarding of her career.
Global (ISTA Ensemble)
Iain first encountered ISTA as a DP English teacher and later hosted some of Asia’s first ISTA festivals. He served as Board Chair from 2011 to 2019, focusing on developing ISTA’s policies and global expansion.
Asia
Carla joined ISTA in 1987, initially as a festival artist, before helping guide the transition from founder Pat Zich to CEO Sally Robertson. She has also supported ISTA in expanding our presence in the Americas.
Americas
We remember ISTA Honorary Members whose legacy of creativity and vision continues to guide our work and the global arts education community.
Dinos joined ISTA in 1990 and played a pivotal role in shaping its artistic vision over three decades. He served as President, Executive Director, and a key IB Theatre specialist, inspiring countless young artists and educators worldwide.
Global (IB Theatre)
Doug was involved with ISTA for over 30 years, hosting festivals and serving on the Board of Trustees. He was instrumental in establishing ISTA’s presence in Asia, shaping the organisation’s international reach.
Asia
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A founding father of ISTA, Ted was a champion of the ensemble model, helping to shape the ISTA approach to theatre-making. His work in Milan, Paris, and Michigan State University left a lasting legacy.
Global (Ensemble Model)
Become an ISTA member and support us in our mission to inspire, create, and connect through the transformative power of the arts.
Become a member of our online network of like-minded arts educators and gain access to exclusive resources, early event registration, and ongoing professional support to enrich your practice.
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