About the Nonprofit
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The Story Theatre will pose questions, rather than provide answers. We develop and produce new work that is whimsical, melancholic, mythic in vision, and intimate in scale. We are run by a governing artistic ensemble, who ensures our work is actively dismantling racism and inequity, while cultivating community through activism and catharsis.
Who We Are & What We Do
The Story Theatre is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit storefront theatre based in Chicago, IL. We produce world-premiere plays with teams of local Chicago artists in order to provide our audiences with thoughtful, detailed, and entertaining artistic experiences. Our plays ask questions rather than providing answers.
The Story is made up of a Governing Ensemble of 5 diverse Chicago theatre makers, a Board of Directors of 5 local leaders, and the more than 1,000 patrons, donors, and supporters who have engaged with our work.
How We're Different
Hierarchy is so last season. Both our Governing Ensemble and rehearsal rooms are run through an egalitarian structure where each artist's voice and perspective is heard. We normalize conflict resolution, create a shared vision, and honor our differences--all in the spirit of collaboration that is integral to art making.
The Story is the only Chicago theatre to be run this way, and our Emerging Playwright Residency Program is the singular residency opportunity for early career playwrights ready for their first production.
Why It Matters
Art and activism walk hand-in-hand. By telling the stories of playwrights from historically marginalized communities, The Story puts money in the pocket of local Chicago artists AND starts meaningful conversations that impact our world. Moreover, we pair each show with community outreach initiatives to ensure that the conversations we start do not end at the theatre.
