About TheaterWorks

OUR MISSION

Theater Works provides opportunities for children, patrons and artists to experience theater that inspires, enriches and enlightens through the experience of the performing arts.

OUR VISION

To be a significant cultural resource for Peoria and the West Valley, improving the quality of life through the expression and experience of the performing arts.

TheaterWorks’ vibrant story stretches back to 1986, when a group of passionate theatergoers envisioned a thriving community theater company in the northwest area of suburban Phoenix. Led by the visionary David Wo, these individuals weren’t daunted by the lack of an established space. Their dedication secured funding within a short timeframe, and just five months later, TheaterWorks presented its very first production. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that has seen the company evolve from a converted feed store to its current home at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts.

 

From the very beginning, TheaterWorks wasn’t just about entertaining audiences. Recognizing the power of theater to ignite young minds, they established “Kids Alive” in 1987. This flagship program provided a platform for creativity and performance opportunities, fostering a lifelong love of theater in countless young people. This dedication to inclusivity extends further with the creation of the “AdaptiveWorks” program, ensuring that the magic of theater reaches everyone, regardless of ability.

 

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In 1997, the theater community mourned the loss of its founder, David Wo. Yet, his legacy continues to inspire TheaterWorks. Today, the company thrives as a major cultural resource, producing a diverse range of shows that cater to all ages and interests. The Main Stage Series features full-scale productions of classic and contemporary plays, musicals, and comedies. YouthWorks continues to spark a love for theater in younger audiences with engaging productions. Theater Alive and SummerWorks provide educational programs and workshops led by theater professionals, nurturing the next generation of performers and enthusiasts.

 

TheaterWorks’ achievements have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2019 Arts Advocate Organization Award by the National Society of Arts & Letters and the 2020 Governor’s Arts Award for Chris Hamby, C.W. McMillin Executive Director. However, the greatest reward remains the impact the company has on the Peoria community. TheaterWorks provides a platform for artistic expression, fosters a love for theater in young minds, and offers enriching experiences for audiences of all ages. It’s more than just a theater; it’s a vibrant community where everyone can connect, be entertained, and be inspired.

TheaterWorks Team

Box Office: (623) 815-7930
boxoffice@theaterworks.org
Staff: (623) 815-1791

2024-2025 Board of Directors

KRISTOFER R KAUTZ

CHAIR
SRP

DIANE ROBERTS

VICE CHAIR
RISEevents & Consulting

JILL MAPSTEAD

SECRETARY
Social Profit Strategies

JORDANN ENGELBRECHT

TREASURER
First Bank

JUSTIN SHAVER

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
APS

NICK KLINKA

AAA Insurance

COURTNEY GREGER

West USA Realty

SARAH THOMAS

Banner Univ. Medical Center

MARYLOU STEPHENS

City of Peoria Liason

Plan Your Visit

TheaterWorks at Peoria Center for the Performing Arts is conveniently located in Old Town Peoria on W. Washington Street and N. 83rd Drive, next to Osuna Park and across the street from Lucidi Distilling Co.

Directions
 
Parking in the PCPA lot is available and free for performances, but this lot fills up fast and patrons are reminded to arrive 60 minutes before their performance to obtain parking in the venue lot.

Additional parking is available along W. Washington Street, the Park and Rides on N. 84th Ave. & Washington St. or N. 84th Ave & Jefferson St., the Peoria Community Center and at the Peoria Cafe in the designated spots. Upon arrival, the TheaterWorks concession stand opens 60 minutes prior to performances and offers snacks and beverages to enjoy!
Scroll to Top