City announces nominees for 2026 Tribute of the Muses awards

The City of Yuma's Arts and Culture Division has announced the nominees for four awards to be presented during the 26th annual Tribute of the Muses awards ceremony Friday, November 20, 2026, at the Historic Yuma Theatre (254 S. Main Street). Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 7 p.m.

The annual event honors individuals and organizations whose passion, vision, and dedication have advanced the arts in Yuma. One recipient from each of the four award categories will be announced during the ceremony.

The award categories include:

• Tribute of the Muses Award: A legacy award recognizing significant contributions to the arts and a long-term commitment to Yuma's arts community.
• Apollo Award: Honors an outstanding arts educator with a deep commitment to teaching art forms, including art, music, dance, theatre, or poetry.
• Helios Award: Highlights an up-and-coming voice who is new to the arts and already making an impact on Yuma's arts and culture scene.
• Odyssey Award: Presented to a business, group, organization, or collective that has made significant contributions to the arts and helped foster a more creative community.

"I am always excited to see the incredible talent we have here in Yuma and the many ways individuals and organizations contribute to our arts community," said Ana Padilla, Cultural Affairs Manager. "Tribute of the Muses is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate each of these outstanding honorees and recognize the passion, creativity, and dedication they bring to our community."

This year's celebration will feature a "Tea Party" theme. The awards ceremony is free and open to the public.

Following the ceremony, the Black-Tie Soirée and Silent Auction will begin at 8:15 p.m. at the adjacent Yuma Art Center. Tickets are $25 per person. The silent auction will feature art pieces donated by artists throughout the year, with proceeds benefiting arts and culture programming at the theatre and art center.

This year's Tribute of the Muses Award recipient will receive a custom art piece titled "Celebrate," created by artist Judy Phillips.

NOMINEES

Tribute of the Muses Award

• Holly Hendrick
• Samantha Aguayo

Apollo Award

Helios Award

• Bailey Ray
• Lucy Baker
• Lucy Dusek
• Sheccid Ortiz

Odyssey Award

• A.C.T.S. Performance Troupe
• Arizona Classical Ballet
• Yuma Belly Dance

The Parks, Arts and Recreation Commission and previous Tribute of the Muses Award recipients select the winner in each category.

For more information, visit YumaAz.gov/Tribute or call 928-373-5202.