URTA Announces Recipients of 2026 Excellence AwardsURTA has announced the recipients of the 2026 Awards for Excellence in Undergraduate Training. The awards recognize the work of undergraduate instructors, coaches, and mentors, as well as institutions, for excellence in the training and preparation of undergraduate theatre artists. This year's award recipients are: Individuals: Jennifer Dasher, associate professor and assistant school director, University of Florida (costume design and technology) Elizabeth Greer, private coach (acting) Brian Hapcic, professor, University of Northern Colorado (lighting design and technology) Karen Kangas-Preston, senior academic specialist, Michigan State University (properties design) Emily Lotz, assistant professor, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (scenic design and technology) Rachel Wells, technical director, Northern Michigan University (technical direction) Institutions: Acting - Alabama State University Design & Technology - Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) URTA acknowledges the vital contribution of these instructors and institutions, providing undergraduates with the essential skills needed for advanced theatre training and ultimately to take their place in the profession. The two institutions, Alabama State and SCAD, will receive Candidate Awards, providing free registration for the URTAs to a student of their choice. "The URTA Excellence Awards continue to highlight a special class of undergraduate mentors," says URTA executive director, Tony Hagopian, "the 2026 awardees are making a lasting impact on the next generation of theatre artists."Each year, nearly 1,000 candidates pursuing graduate training in theatre take part in the URTA Auditions & Interviews ("the URTAs"). The event also includes classes, workshops, and panel discussions on theatre topics of interest to both candidates and recruiters. Candidate registration for the 2027 URTAs is open now. 
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