The American Readers Theater Association was established in April 2000 to:

> Ensure the ongoing strength of the Readers Theater art form

> Provide a forum for the discussion and study of Readers Theater among scholars and students

> Promote creativity and artistic freedom in Readers Theater

> Establish and host a new national championship tournament, devoted exclusively to Readers Theater

> Recognize the individual elements that contribute to Readers Theater through a broad range of specialty competition awards

> Archive information and records related to Readers Theater competitions and innovative performances

> Showcase Readers Theater for broader public audiences