Forget the subterfuge associated with the annual Mayor’s Arts & Humanities Award presentation at Tri-State University? Not a chance.

When local actor and musician Gerry Ferrell took the stage in Wells Theater to announce this year’s “winner” on March 31, he did so believing Angola Mayor Dick Hickman, the traditional presenter, was absent due to a political commitment. Ferrell had just begun when Hickman strode down the center aisle to proclaim Ferrell the award recipient.

The award, instituted in March 2001 by late Angola Mayor Bill Selman to recognize the contributions of local individuals to the arts in this area, has a long-running tradition of fooling its recipient. Last year, TSU’s own Dr. Tom Tierney earned the award as a surprise second recipient, along with Theresa Hornbacher, an area contributor in the world of dance.

Tierney directs the TSU Humanities Institute, and helps coordinate the award presentation each year. The Steuben County Community Foundation administers the award, and the Arts and Humanities Advisory Group recommends candidates.

Ferrell presided over the Steuben County Theatre for several years, and has served prolifically in its productions. “The Sound of Music,” “South Pacific,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “A Christmas Carol,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” and “Camelot” are just a few productions in which Ferrell has showcased his talent.

He was instrumental in securing grant money to bring productions like “The Frog Prince” to local elementary school children in Dale Hughes Auditorium, and in bringing the Fort Wayne Philharmonic to Lake James for its annual Patriotic Pops concert. He has performed with local musical groups, the Pleasant Lake Lions Club minstrel show, and local pageants and church plays. He helps local actors develop their craft, and lends technical and lighting expertise to local productions.

“I love live theater because you get the opportunity to make a mistake like I did today,” Ferrell quipped. “You can’t trust this mayor,” he told the group. He called himself shocked and honored to receive the honor. “God bless you for this beautiful honor,” he said.