Chandler Prep Drama Teacher Earns Honor for Stage Excellence

Aaron Blanco, a drama teacher at Chandler Prep, has been recognized for his exceptional artistry in stage combat choreography, earning him an ariZoni Award, Arizona’s premier honor for theatrical excellence. His work was celebrated for his exceptional artistry in stage combat choreography in the Southwest Shakespeare Company’s 2025 production of Romeo and Juliet.

Often called Arizona’s equivalent to the Tony Awards, the ariZonis honor outstanding contributions to the Valley’s vibrant theater community. For over 30 years, the ariZoni Theatre Association has been a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the visibility and growth of theatre in the Valley of the Sun and Maricopa County. Originally founded as the ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence, the organization now evaluates over 200 productions each season, selecting nominees and recipients for its annual awards. It remains the largest theatre awards program in Arizona, celebrating artists across both professional and youth categories.

During the 2023–2024 season, a professional production Blanco directed, The Three Musketeers, received three nominations, two of which recognized his individual work for Best Director and Best Fight Choreographer. Blanco was honored to win the Best Fight Choreographer award that season, marking the first of his two consecutive wins.

Stage combat is an intricate craft that requires a rare combination of discipline, safety, and emotional truth. Blanco’s choreography has drawn praise for its realism, narrative depth, and respect for performer safety, blending artistry and storytelling in ways that immerse audiences while safeguarding those on stage.

“These awards mean more than just recognition,” Blanco shared. “They represent the dedication, teamwork, and trust that go into every fight scene. I’m grateful to the performers who bring my choreography to life and to the theater community that values this unique art form.”

At Chandler Prep, Blanco brings this same passion and precision to his classroom, inviting students to explore the timeless pursuit of what is True, what is Good, and what is Beautiful. His professional experience enriches his students’ experience, offering firsthand insight into how technical skill and artistic vision work hand-in-hand to serve storytelling.

Blanco’s ongoing success on Arizona’s stages reminds us of what makes Great Hearts teachers so special. Our educators flourish both inside and outside the classroom, inspiring students through a living example of artistic and moral excellence.

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