We’re excited to share some important updates that will make our judging process stronger, our communication smoother, and our celebrations even more fun. Here’s what’s new this season, starting on Sept. 1, 2025:

• A Fresh Approach to Judge Selection
  We’re moving to a renewable one-year term structure for all judges, beginning with the 2025–2026 season. This means that at the close of each season, all judging terms conclude and a new roster is selected for the year ahead.This helps keep perspectives fresh, allows more community members to participate over time, and ensures that every judge meets our established criteria at the start of each season.  These changes began as a result of an internal audit conducted by the judging affairs subcommittee.Earlier this year, we surveyed all current judges about their continued interest and experience as judges. Those who met the criteria, were still interested, and had been active in the past year were invited to apply, along with community members recommended by our Board of Directors and others who had expressed interest.  This is our pilot year, and we hope to tweak this new model so it’s ready to receive new applications for next year.

  The Judging Affairs Selection Subcommittee reviewed each application with the goal of creating a balanced mix of theatre professionals, educators, supporters, and practitioners. To maintain the highest standards of impartiality, the Selection Subcommittee has also updated the criteria to include that board members and artistic directors of theaters will not serve as judges this season. We feel this ensures a more objective process and protects the integrity of the awards.

  The new roster of judges will be required to:

  a) take structured training before any ballots are submitted;
  b) commit to submitting at least 8 ballots a season;
  c) follow our code of ethics.

  The result is a dedicated panel of 41 judges who represent a wide range of experience and perspectives. These one-year terms open and reset each August, and anyone meeting the criteria will have the opportunity to be considered for future seasons. 

  Additional Selection Criteria:

  – Location in San Antonio Metro Area: Can they realistically be available to review shows?
  – Theatre Attendance: Do they regularly attend multiple theatres?
  – Education & Experience: What credentials and expertise do they have?
  – Previous ATAC Experience: Have they been a judge before in good standing?
  – Relationship with participating ATAC Theaters: Are there any potential conflicts of interest with our participating theaters?

  We are deeply grateful for the role our judges have played in supporting ATAC’s mission. Their work has helped ensure that theatre artists throughout San Antonio receive the recognition for their work.  We know how much time and work goes into judging local theatre.

• Goodbye, Word Docs. Hello, Electronic Ballots!
  Our old system of emailing Word files back and forth was clunky and prone to errors. This year, we’re moving to an easy-to-use electronic ballot system. Theaters and judges will be able to submit ballots right from their computers or even mobile devices — making the process faster, cleaner, and more accurate.
• A New Way to Celebrate — Nominee Reveal Party
  Mark your calendars! On the evening of October 5, we’re hosting our first-ever nominee reveal party at the Wonder Theatre. Join us for an exciting night where we announce this year’s nominees live. More details are coming soon, but we promise it will be a night to remember.
• More to Come
  We know change takes adjustment, and we’re committed to listening and learning as we go.  Thank you for your continued support of ATAC and for helping us honor the incredible theatre community in San Antonio.

For any questions, comments, or concerns, please reach out to Board President Isidro Medina at president@atac-sa.org.

To learn more about our judge selection process please visit How to Be a Judge.

In service,
The Alamo Theatre Arts Council Board of Directors

Isidro Medina
President

Benjamin Farrar
Executive Vice President

Belinda Harolds Huntsinger
Gala Vice President & Treasurer

Blake Hamman
Judging Vice President

Sami Serrano Bassig
Secretary

Alejandro Pesina Ortega
Theatre Liaison

Kareem Abu Dahab
Courtney Davis
Laura T. Garza
Nerryl Williams
Maggie Wilmoth
Grantham Woods