The Gladstone Theatre Presents NOVEL HOUSE

Under the gold dome, Governor Nathan Deal today recognized the state's best and brightest individuals and organizations with the presentation of the 2016 Governor's Awards for the Arts & Humanities. Aurora Theatre, Georgia's second largest professional theater, proudly accepted one of the five awards given to organizations that have made significant contributions to Georgia's civic and cultural vitality through service to the humanities or excellence in the arts. Aurora was nominated by Doug Hooker, Executive Director of the Atlanta Regional Commission, and Bartow Morgan, Jr., CEO of BrandBank for its continued artistic excellence, immense impact on the region and its thriving educational programming that embraces cultural diversity in both the English and Spanish speaking communities.

"Ann-Carol and I are extremely grateful that Aurora Theatre is being recognized as one of Georgia's major cultural assets," remarked an ecstatic Anthony Rodriguez, Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Aurora Theatre. "In our 21st season, it is important that we, as arts organizations, contribute more significantly than just producing great musicals and plays. Aurora remains dedicated to empowering artists who have not traditionally had a voice, plus we are cultivating the next generation of artists, arts administrators and theater patrons-and we are humbled to accept this prestigious award."

At the ceremony, held in the North Wing of the State Capitol building, a group of past and present members of the Aurora Theatre Apprentice Company performed the song "Alabanza" from the hit musical In the Heights, a co-production between Aurora Theatre and Theatrical Outfit, which recently closed after a sold-out run of more than 18,000 patrons. The awards were immediately followed by a reception in the rotunda.

Aurora Theatre was recognized alongside some of the region's top names and organizations including Kenny Leon, the Beach Institute and the Museum School of Avondale Estates.

Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities
For 26 years, the Governor's Awards in the Humanities have celebrated local community members and organizations that have worked to increase the understanding and appreciation of the humanities in Georgia. For a list of past recipients of the Governor's Awards in the Humanities, visit bit.ly/GovernorsAwards.

In 2012, the Georgia Humanities Council joined forces with the Georgia Council for the Arts and the Office of Governor Nathan Deal to launch the Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities. These awards honor outstanding individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to Georgia's civic and cultural vitality through service to the humanities or excellence in the arts. The awards recognize the value of the arts and humanities in the creation of a thriving economy and their contributions and growth.

For more information on Aurora Theatre programming or to purchase tickets for events, visit auroratheatre.com or call the Box Office at 678.226.6222.

2026 Theater Fans' Choice Awards - Live Stats

Best Sound Design - Top 3

1. Adam Fisher - The Lost Boys

30.3% of votes

2. John Shivers - Chess

15.5% of votes

3. Tony Gayle - Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

8.2% of votes

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