Chris Hamby, artistic director for TheaterWorks, 10580 N. 83rd Drive, Peoria, received the Governor’s Arts Award in the Central Arizona Artist category.

The virtual event celebrated the many facets that support and contribute to the arts and culture sector in Arizona.

“Chris is a theater visionary with incredible talent, devotion and passion that creates magic on and off the stage,” TheaterWorks board chair Tom Doyle stated in a news release.

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The Governor’s Arts Award Artist Category recognizes a living Arizona artist of significant merit, leadership or reputation whose creations or contributions enrich the state and the field of the arts. With a career spanning two decades, Mr. Hamby has made an indelible mark on the Arizona arts sector.

He has worked with many Valley theater companies including North Valley Playhouse, Greasepaint, East Valley Children’s Theatre, Phoenix Theatre Company, Desert Foothills Theater, Mesa Encore Theatre and TheaterWorks.

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Celebrating his 10th anniversary with TheaterWorks, Mr. Hamby has made significant contributions to the organization including the creation of the PuppetWorks program, the revitalization of the YouthWorks program, the creation of the Broadway Senior program and, most recently, the creation of the immersive theater experience, “Curiouser & Curiouser.”

 “The impact that Chris has made on the lives of so many is indisputable,” TheaterWorks managing director Cate Hinkle stated. “He is a magnetic leader and a remarkable artist. And, his work is just beginning. I am proud to work alongside Chris and support his vision.”