Be a Light

We want to announce that ​the 
UAA ​
​Department of ​
Theatre and Dance has decided to join the national Ghostlight Project.
​The goals of the project are​
 an extension of the sort of work we began with
​our production of Stalking the ​
Bogeyman last year and
​which we ​
​intend to
 continue in the future.
 
​In case you're unfamiliar with Ghostlight, it begins with a national simultaneous event. ​
On January 19, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. in each time zone across the country, members of the theater community - from Broadway to regional theaters to high schools and colleges and community theaters - will come together to launch
​the project
. Gathering outside of theaters, people will join in a collective, simultaneous action, together creating “light” for times ahead. Inspired by the tradition of leaving a "ghost light" on in a darkened theater, institutions will make or renew a pledge to stand for and protect the values of inclusion, participation, and compassion for everyone--regardless of race, class, religion, country of origin, immigration status, (dis)ability, gender identity, or sexual orientation. 

​The project, and our department,
 aim
​s​
to create brave spaces that will serve as lights where:
  • It is safe to be who you are, regardless of race, class, religion, country of origin, immigration status, (dis)ability, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
  • Diverse opinions are not only tolerated, but invited.
  • Active listening and courageous exchange are fundamental values.
  • Collective action and community engagement, both within and outside the walls of the theater,
    ​ ​
    are cultivated, encouraged, and supported.
​We invite all faculty, staff, students and community members ​
to join us
​ at the kickoff​
​ on Thursday, January 19, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. in the lobby outside the MainStage Theatre in the Fine Arts Building.​
​Please bring ​friends, colleagues, students, as well as a flashlight or cellphone with a light that you can illuminate during the ceremony.