The Emory community is invited to a memorial celebration of the life and legacy of Alice N. Benston. The virtual ceremony, featuring readings and speakers from the Emory and Atlanta theater community, is Sunday, April 18 at 2 p.m. Attendees may offer brief tributes and reminiscences.

Benston, former associate dean of Laney Graduate School and professor of theater studies, passed away on Jan. 29 at the age of 89. Instrumental in building Emory’s Department of Theater Studies as its first full-time chair, Benston was a life-long supporter of the arts and an internationally recognized scholar and dramaturg.

Written tributes and reminiscences are being collected for the family and may be submitted via the My Keeper online memorial site. Donations in Benston’s honor may be made to the Alice N. Benston Award in Theater Studies.