April 24, 2009

UAB Theatre's Production of "In the Blood." Download image.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Department of Theatre has been awarded full accreditation with the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST). Of the 85 applicants, only three received full membership and three received associate membership, said Will York, chairman of the UAB Department of Theatre.

NAST, founded in 1965, is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges and universities. It has approximately 160 accredited institutional members. NAST establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials. Institutional membership is gained only through the peer review process of accreditation. Accreditation is a stamp of approval, a sign that an institution ascribes to, believes in and has met an external set of basic criteria for the programs it offers.

York said members of the department were excited to hear the good news from NAST of their full accreditation and membership.

"It's always good when your peers acknowledge that the work you do is of a level that warrants a national recognition. We have worked hard to meet the standards set by this agency and are proud that we have been granted membership," York said.

The UAB Department of Theatre has won the highest honors awarded to university theaters, including national honors and best in region from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. In 2008, UAB's production of "In the Blood" was one of three shows chosen by KCACTF from 300 in consideration nationwide. It marked the first time in 22 years an Alabama university's show went to the national theater festival. Faculty members in the department continue to work professionally in addition to teaching. UAB Theatre performances are presented at the Alys Stephens Center, UAB's own world-class performing arts center. Next year the department will celebrate its 40th anniversary.