WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES CHICAGO’S THEATRE SCENE UNIQUE? We have over 200 theatre companies here, which many people don’t know. And Chicago is known for its storefront theatre scene. We have amazing storefront theatre companies that do phenomenal, award-winning work throughout our 77 neighborhoods and beyond. HOW DOES THE CITY ITSELF INFLUENCE OUR THEATRE SCENE? Chicago’s diversity has a huge impact on our stages. We as a city are very reflective of the diversity of the nation as a whole. This empowers us to tell stories from different cultural backgrounds and share those different lived experiences with those in the room. It’s very special, and an opportunity to share stories and humanity through performance. Steppenwolf Theatre Campus WHAT IS THE MISSION OF CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK? Every February, Chicago Theatre Week offers accessibly priced tickets to shows all over the city and surrounding suburban areas. The tickets are priced so that people can see as many shows as possible. It’s a great opportunity to come enjoy Chicago and become a theatre fanatic during that time. Vision Latino Theatre Company CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: CLAYTON HAUCK; JAMES STEINKAMP PHOTOGRAPHY; @TEQUILAGRAPHICS (2 PHOTOS) WHAT ARE SOME ESSENTIAL CHICAGO THEATRE EXPERIENCES? I would say visitors definitely should check out our storefront theatre scene — places like Steep Theatre , A Red Orchid Theatre , Aguijón Theater , PrideArts , Lifeline Theatre , and so many more. Then there are the classic theatres like the Goodman Theatre , Steppenwolf Theatre , and The Second City . Broadway In Chicago also brings amazing works and artists from across the country to be seen on our stages. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO’S THEATRE COMMUNITY? I love how much of a family we are. We really support each other and the work we are doing on stage. Chicago is an incubator for playwrights, actors, and new theatre companies to develop their talent. And our theatre scene is a reflective voice of what makes Chicago Chicago — different people from different backgrounds, coming together and sharing space. Chicago Shakespeare Theater 7
Chicago Visitors Guide 2025: Page 7
