A decision was recently made to no longer continue the University of Alabama/Alabama Shakespeare Festival\'s Master of Fine Arts program. This is a petition to change that decision, and keep the MFA program alive. Since it\'s inception in 1986 the University of Alabama/Alabama Shakespeare Festival\'s Master of Fine Arts program has served as a place for graduate students to learn first hand about regional theater, Shakespeare and the classics, professionalism, and community; along the way discovering their own artistic voice. It has been the foundation for numerous relationships, mentors, and lifelong friendships. The MFA program has also served as a springboard for careers in Theater, Television, and Film. The alumni include Emmy and Tony award winners, stage managers, artistic directors, managing directors, producing directors, designers, performers and many others who contribute to the American theater, sharing their talents with communities here and abroad. We, the following, support the continued excellence and future of the University of Alabama/Alabama Shakespeare Festival\'s Master of Fine Arts program.

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