Skip to main content

UA Little Rock to Hold 44th Annual See-A-Song: Sign-A-Palooza Event

A sign language interpreter translates during a freshmen convocation event.
A sign language interpreter translates during a freshmen convocation event.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Interpreter Education Program is proud to celebrate the 44th anniversary of its iconic event, “See-A-Song: Sign-A-Palooza.” The event promises to be a unique and captivating experience, showcasing the artistic talents of students and members of the Deaf community.

The celebration is set to take place on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, from 6-8 p.m., at Parnell Hall at the Arkansas School for the Deaf. It will be hosted by the Interpreter Education Program’s Artistic Class and features current IEP students, faculty, alumni, and Deaf community members.

Dr. Meagan Beaty, a long-time participant and program coordinator of the Interpreter Education Program, describes the event as one of her favorites, as it allows students to step out of their comfort zones and express themselves creatively with a language that we all share.

“This experience helps the current Artistic Interpreting students benefit from applying what they have learned in the class,” Beaty said. “Each participant has an opportunity to use American Sign Language in a creative way that is not part of our everyday work as an Interpreter.”

The event will be presented in ASL with voice interpretation to ensure inclusivity.

As Beaty emphasizes, the event is a personal favorite for many, including herself. She shares, “I have participated in See-a-Song almost every year since I was in the Interpreting Program as a student in 2012. This event is one of my favorites to see students of all levels getting out of their comfort zone and being creative with a language that we all share.”

This year’s “See-A-Song: Sign-A-Palooza” builds on the program’s legacy, which dates back to 1979. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s interpreter program has played a crucial role in developing professionals who facilitate communication and cultural understanding between the Deaf and hearing communities. This annual event is not only a tribute to the program’s rich history but also a testament to the dedication of its students and the vibrancy of the local Deaf community.

For more information contact Beaty at mrbeaty@ualr.edu.