The African American Theater Arts Troupe (AATAT) at the University of California, Santa Cruz strives to give Black theater, which is historically underrepresented in the arts, a place for growth and learning which is accessible to all students. Recently the founder and director of AATAT, Professor Don Williams, sat down with colleagues, including Lisa Marie Rollins, for a fireside chat about the organization and its future.
“AATAT is really a historical and very unique theater troupe of its own kind, it’s the only one in the UC system,” says Williams. One goal of Williams’ was to give perspective on AATAT’s history and its importance as an organization. “At UC Santa Cruz we really have the great potential of being cutting edge, especially with regards to the arts of color.”
Williams started AATAT over 30 years ago with the hope of uplifting students of color. In the early years Williams did everything himself, including helping pay for productions. He also used his own household items as props and dedicated 15-20 hours every week directing shows and keeping AATAT running.
AATAT has grown over the years both in funding and participation. During its over 30- year history it has given out $150,000 worth of scholarships. This includes $1,000 scholarships every year for students who are elected by their peers. Williams also gives out a scholarship to students of his choosing.
Along with directly benefiting UC Santa Cruz students, Williams’ work has helped students throughout the Santa Cruz area. In addition to creating productions, AATAT members go around to local high schools where they play theater games and encourage students in their educational and theater goals.
A focus of the recent fireside was to increase funding, so that AATAT can continue its work creating an inclusive theater curriculum for all students. “We have a dynamic team of faculty and staff, there’s none like it in the UC system,” says Williams. “We have high potential to do a lot more, as far as service to our community and the various culture groups in the arts, and we are actively seeking donations via our website to help sustain this outstanding program.”