The ariZoni Theatre Association is the new iteration of a non-profit organization that was created to develop an awards process that increased the visibility and support the growth of theatre in the Valley of the Sun & Maricopa County. Over the past 30 years, the main focus of the organization was on an annual awards ceremony during which nearly 1000 theater artists are recognized as nominees and more 100 awards are given in both youth and adult categories in 50+ categories.  This continues today with Awards that are given annually to artists after a rigorous adjudication process whereby nearly 100 trained adjudicators attend and adjudicate more than 200 productions each season.

In addition, special awards including outstanding contribution, distinguished service and stage management are given to deserving individuals or organizations for their contributions to theatre; and, if funding allows, the ariZoni Scholarship Committee annually awards one or more scholarships to selected, qualified students.

In 2021, the ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence organization held a detailed strategic planning session including members of the Board of Directors and other theater community members who wished to be involved.  Through that work, it became clear that the organization has the potential to be much more than an awards-producing entity.  The organization has begun that work and one of the first steps was a re-naming of the organization and development of committees to support this transition.  Visit our strateigic planning page to learn more.