Theater in Chicago

Theater in Chicago tells the story of how small theater companies grew into important places known all over the world. Chicago has always liked traveling shows and creating new plays that later go to Broadway and other cities.

According to Variety editor Gordon Cox, Chicago has one of the most active theater scenes in the United States, after New York City. By 2018, people could watch up to 100 shows any night from 200 different companies. Some of these theaters are very famous, while others perform in small spaces called "storefront" theaters. This shows how lively and growing Chicago's theater world is. As American Theatre magazine says, Chicago's theater is "justly legendary".

History

Chicago's theater history began in 1834 with its first show by a performer named Mr. Brown. In 1837, the first theater company, the Chicago Theater, opened in the Sauganash Hotel. One of its actors, Joseph Jefferson, later became famous, and Chicago’s main theater award, the Joseph Jefferson award, is named after him.

After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, producer David Henderson helped Chicago become known for theater. Many new theaters opened, attracting famous acts. In the 1890s, Hull House started a theater program. In 1912, the Chicago Little Theatre was founded, helping start the Little Theatre Movement in the United States. After World War II, new theater styles developed in Chicago. Famous theaters such as The Second City, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and The Goodman Theatre grew from small groups into important places.

The Second City, started in 1959, became famous for its improvisational style. Other theaters like The Kingston Mines Theater and the Organic Theater Company also helped build Chicago’s lively theater scene. The Goodman Theatre became known for its revivals and new plays, especially works by David Mamet. Today, Chicago remains a key place for theater in the United States.

Today

Chicago has many small theater companies, like A Red Orchid Theatre, Lifeline Theatre, and Remy Bumppo Theatre Company. Some have their own special places to perform, while others use unique spots such as storefronts, bars, or small studio spaces around the city.

Many of Chicago’s bigger theaters create shows that might later go to Broadway. Famous plays and performances often visit Chicago, especially in the busy Chicago Theatre District. These theaters work together with groups of artists who help make each show come to life. Chicago is also known for helping new plays and writers grow, with special programs to support them.