For ages 1-4 with a caregiver
Sundays, 9:00-9:45am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$116 | 4 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Grab your little one and reach for the stars! Through multi-sensory drama and music activities, you and your child will soar through the solar system, make friends with aliens, and boogie like gravity can’t hold you down. In this creative play class for our youngest learners, we'll act out our favorite parts of beloved stories and explore early music concepts. The sky will become the limit for your little one's developing imagination!
This class will be taught by Catherine Councell.
For ages 4-7 with a caregiver
Sundays, 10:30-11:15am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$116 | 4 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Designed for youth on the autism spectrum with a participating grown-up, this highly-interactive creative drama class will get the whole family moving and imagining! Bond with your little one through creative drama, music, and multisensory activities, while supporting your child’s motor development, communication skills, self-confidence, and blossoming creative spirit.
For ages 12-36 months with a caregiver
No class Feb 16
Mondays, 9:30-10:15am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Get dancing and grooving with your little one at Bubble Jams! This fun-filled class for tiny musicians-in-the-making and their grown-ups features singing, dancing, and a variety of instruments to try out. So come jam out to your favorite classic and new songs, show off your best dance moves, and play in a dazzling stream of bubbles!
This class will be taught by Catherine Councell.
CCT SPECIAL EVENT (not part of a subscription)
Chicago Children’s Theatre will present its first-ever Chicago Sensory Theatre Summit, a new, international convening of theater professionals, teaching artists, educators and disability advocates interested in boosting accessibility and engagement in the live performing arts.
Throughout February 2026, theater artists, educators and audiences from around the U.S. will gather for industry-only workshops as well as public-facing events including Red Kite, Green Mountain, an immersive sensory theater experience for the very young, Red Kite Prom on Valentine’s Day, CCT’s 20th Birthday Bash Open House, and more.
Chicago Children’s Theatre Co-Founder and Artistic Director Jacqueline Russell and CCT’s education staff curated the summit by drawing from the company’s 20 years of sensory work. These include CCT’s Red Kite Project experiences for children on the autism spectrum, all-access productions like X-Marks the Spot: An X-Tra Sensory Xperience inspired by visually impaired audiences, and its recent R.O.A.R. (Residencies of Arts and Resilience) program involving trauma-informed teaching and multi-sensory integration.
“The Chicago Sensory Theatre Summit will demonstrate the positive impacts of inclusive, immersive performance experiences for diverse audiences, especially neurodivergent individuals or those with sensory sensitivities, by engaging multiple senses like touch, smell, taste, sight and sound, beyond seeing and hearing.” - Founding Artistic Director Jacqueline Russell
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Chicago Sensory Theatre Summit Industry Mixer
Monday 2/2/26 @ 6pm, Free with RSVP
Red Kite Prom
Saturday 2/14/26 @ 7pm, $10 per participant (Ages 13 - 18)
Red Kite Friendship Tour
Sunday 2/15/26 @ 10am & 12pm, $10 per participant (All Ages)
A Piece of Cake!
An immersive theatrical experience for the very young (Ages 1 - 6)
Saturday 2/28/26 @ 9:30am & 11:30am, $10 per participant
Sunday 3/1/26 @ 9:30am & 11:30am, $10 per participant
CCT 20th Birthday Bash Open House
Saturday 2/28/26 @ 1pm, Free with RSVP (All Ages)
WORKSHOPS
Engaging 8 Senses To Theatricalize Your Classroom
Monday 2/9/26 @ 5pm, Pay-What-You-Are-Able ($25-$100)
Your Neuro-inclusive Drama Classroom: Preparing To Meet Your Students Where They Are
Thursday 2/12/26 @ 1pm, Pay-What-You-Are-Able ($25-$100)
Return To Self & Space: Essential Ground Work For Creatives
Wednesday 2/18/26 @ 10am or both Wed 2/18/26 & Friday 2/20/26, Pay-What-You-Are-Able ($25-$100 per day)
Multisensory Play In Bedside Pediatric Theatre
Thursday 2/19/26 @ 1pm, Pay-What-You-Are-Able ($25-$75)
Intro to the Hunter Heartbeat Method
Friday 2/20/26 @ 4pm, Pay-What-You-Are-Able ($75-$150)
Hunter Heartbeat Method Weekend Intensive
Saturday 2/21/26 & Sunday 2/22/26 @ 10am, Pay-What-You-Are-Able for both days ($160-$260 for both days)
Co-Creating Theatre For The Very Young
Monday 2/23/26 @ 1pm, Pay-What-You-Are-Able ($25-$75)
Thank you to the IL Arts Council and Thoma Bravo for being our Chicago Sensory Theatre Summit sponsors!
For ages 1-4 with a caregiver
Wednesdays, 9:00-9:45am
at Park West Cooperative, 2214 N Bissell St.
$174.00 | 6 sessions
Grab your little one and celebrate the people who love you most! Through creative drama, music, and movement, you and your little one will explore all the special moments that make families unique—from cozy bedtime stories to silly dance parties. In this creative play class for our youngest learners, we'll act out our favorite parts of beloved family-centered stories, explore early music concepts, and throw a family celebration right in our classroom!
For ages 1-4 with a caregiver
Saturdays, 10:45-11:30am
at The Menomonee Club - Lincoln Park, 1535 N Dayton St.
$174.00 | 6 sessions
Grab your little one and celebrate the people who love you most! Through creative drama, music, and movement, you and your little one will explore all the special moments that make families unique—from cozy bedtime stories to silly dance parties. In this creative play class for our youngest learners, we'll act out our favorite parts of beloved family-centered stories, explore early music concepts, and throw a family celebration right in our classroom!
For Pre-K & K, ages 4+
Tuesdays, 4:00-4:45pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
3...2...1...drama time! In this multi-sensory creative drama class, you'll blast off into outer space and explore the galaxy as a crew! Through story-based drama, music, and movement activities, you'll zoom past planets, meet friendly aliens, and discover new worlds together as you gain skills in:
- Performing confidently in front of others
- Using body and voice to play a character
- Identifying and portraying emotions
- Working together as a space crew
…and more! On the final day of class, we will share our favorite space adventures with family and friends!
This is a drop-off class—students attend without their caregivers.
This class will be taught by Lizzy May.
For grades 3-5
Tuesdays, 5:00-6:00pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$232 | 8 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Ready to dance like a true Broadway ensemble? In Dance Lab, you'll explore musical theatre dance through warm-ups, across-the-floor movement, and learning choreography. Then, take it to the next level by creating an original group dance routine that celebrates your ensemble! Class will include skill building in:
- Performing musical theatre dance steps and combinations
- Gaining awareness of body placement and alignment
- Warming the body up effectively for dance
- Creating and performing ensemble choreography
…and more! In the final class, you'll perform a mini dance showcase for friends and family right in your classroom!
This class will be taught by Ariya Hawkins.
For grades 1-2
Tuesdays, 5:00-6:00pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$232 | 8 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Get ready to take the stage as a collaborative and confident performer! In this improvisational theatre class, you'll learn that the best improv happens when everyone works together. Through improv games and ensemble work, you'll build skills in:
- Adding onto ideas with "Yes, And…"
- Performing short-form improv games
- Making bold character choices
- Active listening and supporting your teammates
…and more! On the last day of class, friends and family will watch your mini-improv show right in your classroom!
This class will be taught by Lizzy May.
For grades 3-5
Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Lights, camera, action…it’s time to bring your stories to life on screen! In this multi-media acting class, you will sharpen your storytelling and acting skills while exploring the basics of filmmaking. Through creating your story, designing backdrops, and acting our scenes, you and your classmates will work together to create never-before-seen short movies. As you create, you will practice:
- Storyboarding as a building block of story creation
- Acting for the camera
- Creating distinct characters
- Working together as a film crew
…and more! On the last day of class, you’ll have a red carpet premiere for family and friends right in your classroom!
This class will be taught by Sil Rivera.
For grades K-2
Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Once upon a drama class, the children of Chicago discovered the magic of musical storytelling… and the world was never the same! In this drama class full of lively songs, playful theatre games, and creative movement, you will build skills in:
- Performing confidently in front of others
- Using body and voice to create a character
- Singing as an ensemble in unison and harmony
- Acting out stories through song
…and more! The class will end happily ever after with a joyful performance in your classroom for family and friends.
This class will be taught by Kaitlyn Fields.
For grades K-2
Sundays, 9:15-10:15am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
It’s a bird…it’s a plane… it’s Acting Adventures! Through theatrical explorations of superhero stories, you'll discover your superpowers, battle villains, and work as a team to save the day. Class will include skill building in:
- Using body and voice to create a character
- Creating original stories with a beginning, middle, and end
- Using your imagination to make bold choices
- Working together as a superhero team
…and more! On the last day of class, you'll perform your original superhero adventure for family and friends right in your classroom.
This class will be taught by Sil Rivera.
For grades 3-5
Sundays, 10:00-11:30am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$392 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Two voices are better than one! In this musical theatre class, you'll discover the magic of performing with a partner through iconic duets and ensemble numbers. You'll explore the ways collaboration can tell a story as you practice:
- Building a confident singing voice through lessons in vocal technique
- Singing in unison and harmony
- Expressing character through body and voice
- Learning and performing group choreography
…and more! On the last day of class, you will perform your showstopping numbers for family and friends right in your classroom.
This class will be taught by Juliet Huneke.
For ages 10-15
Sundays, 11:30am- 2:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Designed for young people on the autism spectrum, this lively musical theatre workshop will encourage you to find the music within you! Throughout class, you and your ensemble will build skills in…
- Building a confident singing voice
- Expressing character through body and voice
- Identifying and portraying a variety of emotions
- Practicing and performing group choreography
…and more! In the final workshop, you’ll perform a mini musical theatre showcase for friends and family right in your classroom!
This class will be taught by Juliet Huneke.
For grades 6-8
Sundays, 12:30-2:00pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$392 | 9 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Acting is a team sport! Sharpen your acting skills by building a strong ensemble and rehearsing scenes, all guided and coached by a professional theatre artist. Through collaboration and exploration, you'll discover how to create compelling performances with your scene partners. Class will include skill building in:
- Developing clear and complex characters
- Analyzing text to enhance scene work
- Exploring staging choices to strengthen your storytelling
- Using objectives and tactics to become a dynamic scene partner
…and more! The last day of class will culminate in a showcase of scenes right in your classroom.
This class will be taught by Catherine Councell.
Join us this Winter and explore our wide selection of unique weekly classes for theatre novices, accomplished performers, and everyone in-between. Led by experienced and enthusiastic teaching artists, our classes help students gain confidence, develop their artistic voices, and build lasting friendships. Financial Aid is available!
Extra benefits for Skinner West students include free after-school pick-up and pre-class homework help offered in our lobby!
For grades K-2
No class Feb 16
Mondays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 12/7/25 for a 15% discount!
Pack your bags and get ready for an imagination adventure! Through theatre games and dramatic play activities, you’ll act out stories and myths from around the world, make new friends, and use your imagination to travel far beyond the classroom. Class will include skill building in:
- Performing confidently in front of others
- Using body and voice to create a character
- Creating original stories inspired by myths from all different cultures
- Using your imagination to make bold choices
…and more! On the last day of class, you'll perform your original globe-trotting adventure for family and friends in your classroom.
This class will be taught by Juliet Huneke.
For grades 1-5
9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before care from 8:30-9:30am and free after care from 4:00-5:30pm
$100 per camp day
During Chicago Public School non-attendance days for students, Chicago Children’s Theatre offers high-energy day camps for children in grades 1-5. Throughout the day, students will rotate through a series of unique arts and theatre classes, dig deeper into their interests by making selections between curated arts activities, and forge new friendships along the way. Past camps have included: acting, improv, songwriting, clowning, beatboxing, puppet design, yoga, prop and costume creation, and much more. Each day of camp is entirely different from the last!
For ages 5-8
Thursdays, 4:30-5:30pm
at The Menomonee Club - Lincoln Park, 1535 N Dayton St.
$290.00 | Register by 12/26 for a 15% discount!
Are you the next Broadway star? Or is singing in the shower more your speed? Either way, Triple Threat will have you learning the music and dances from some of your favorite classic and contemporary musicals. Through character work, movement study, and vocal exploration, you’ll develop essential skills for taking to the stage confidently and charismatically. On the last day of class, you will perform some favorite songs and scenes for family and friends.
For ages 9-13
Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm
at The Menomonee Club - Lincoln Park, 1535 N Dayton St.
$290.00 | Register by 12/26 for a 15% discount!
Are you the next Broadway star? Or is singing in the shower more your speed? Either way, Triple Threat will have you learning the music and dances from some of your favorite classic and contemporary musicals. Through character work, movement study, and vocal exploration, you’ll develop essential skills for taking to the stage confidently and charismatically. On the last day of class, you will perform some favorite songs and scenes for family and friends.
For grades 1-3
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$585 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Get your giggles on this spring break and join us for a fun-filled improv camp! KIDPROV will build your stage presence, confidence, self-awareness, and teamwork through improv games and drama activities designed for all kinds of learners and all kinds of fun. On the last day of camp, family and friends are invited to a mini-improv show by the West Loop's newest improv troupe right in your classroom!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For grades 1-5
9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before care from 8:30-9:30am and free after care from 4:00-5:30pm
$100 per camp day
During Chicago Public School non-attendance days for students, Chicago Children’s Theatre offers high-energy day camps for children in grades 1-5. Throughout the day, students will rotate through a series of unique arts and theatre classes, dig deeper into their interests by making selections between curated arts activities, and forge new friendships along the way. Past camps have included: acting, improv, songwriting, clowning, beatboxing, puppet design, yoga, prop and costume creation, and much more. Each day of camp is entirely different from the last!
For grades K-2
Mondays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Get ready to take the stage as a collaborative and confident performer! In this improvisational theatre class, you'll create hilarious characters through theatre games and ensemble work. Class will include skill building in:
- Adding onto ideas with "Yes, And…"
- Performing short-form improv games
- Making bold character choices
- Active listening and supporting your teammates
…and more! On the last day of class, friends and family will watch your mini-improv show right in your classroom.
For Pre-K & K, ages 4+
Tuesdays, 4:00-4:45pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Next stop: Imagination Station! In this multi-sensory creative drama class, the sky is the limit for your imagination. Through story-based drama, music, and movement activities, you'll imagine new worlds and create original stories as you gain skills in:
- Performing confidently in front of others
- Using movement to tell a story
- Identifying and portraying emotions
- Generating imaginative ideas and communicating them to others
…and more! On the final day of class, we will share our imaginary adventures with family and friends.
This is a drop-off class—students attend without their caregivers.
For grades K-2
Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
You’re a shining star, no matter who you are! In this lively class for young music lovers, you’ll sing out-of-this-world melodies, build acting skills with theatre games, and create and perform an original outer space adventure. You’ll build skills in:
- Performing confidently in front of others
- Using body and voice to create a character
- Acting out stories through song
…and more! On the last day of class, family and friends are invited to a mini-performance right in your classroom.
For grades 3-5
Tuesdays, 5:00-6:00pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Get ready to take the stage as a collaborative and confident performer! In this comedy theatre class built on team spirit, you'll learn to embrace your fearless, bold, and hilarious side through improv games, character exercises, and sketch writing and performance. You'll build skills in:
- Adding onto ideas with "Yes, And…"
- Performing short-form improv games
- Making bold character choices
- Writing original sketches
…and more. On the last day of class, friends and family will watch your mini-comedy show right in your classroom!
For grades K-2
Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
All aboard, matey! Inspired by classic pirate legends, you will learn the basics of acting, character creation, and working with your ensemble to create an original sea-worthy saga. Class will include skill building in:
- Using body and voice to create a character
- Collaborating to create original stories with a beginning, middle, and end
- Making bold, imaginative choices
On the last day of class, you will perform your original pirate tale for families, friends, and scallywags right in your classroom.
For grades 3-5
Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$203 | 7 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
What world will you create? In this multi-media acting class, you will sharpen your storytelling and acting skills while exploring the basics of scenic design. Through creating your story, designing backdrops, and acting out scenes, you and your classmates will work together to create never-before-seen fantasy epics. As you create, you will build skills in:
- Creating unique characters using body and voice
- Collaborating with a team to create an original story with a beginning, middle, and end
- Using theatre design techniques to create one-of-a-kind settings for your story
…and more! On the last day of class, family and friends are invited to watch your original story premiere right in your classroom.
This musical based on Margaret Wise Brown’s beloved children’s book is drenched in primary colors that pay homage to Clement Hurd’s vivid illustrations in an all-new, immersive setting. Catchy songs, delightful dancing, a technicolor set, the quiet poetry of the original tale, and the humorous antics of one very nocturnal bunny all play a part in this fun, family-friendly celebration of one of the most iconic children’s books of all time.
Adapted from the book GOODNIGHT MOON by Margaret Wise Brown, © 1947 by Harper & Row, Publishers, Inc. Text © renewed 1975 by Roberta Brown Rauch. Illustrations © renewed 1975 by Edith T. Hurd, Clement Hurd, John Thatcher Hurd, and George Hellyer, as trustees of the Edith & Clement Hurd 1982 Trust and by Albert E. Clarke III, Trustee of the Albert E. Clarke III Living Trust dated April 3, 2013. Used by permission of HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
For ages 1-4 with a caregiver
Sundays, 9:00-9:45am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$174 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Grab your little one and make bedtime an adventure! Through creative drama, music, and movement, you and your child will explore all the moments that make bedtime special—from cozy stories to bathtime to favorite lullabies. In this creative play class for our youngest learners and their caregivers, we'll act out our favorite parts of beloved bedtime tales, explore early music concepts, and celebrate sweet dreams together!
For grades K-2
Sundays, 9:15-10:15am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$174 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
The Earth needs heroes: that's YOU! Through theatrical explorations of environmentally conscious stories, you'll discover the power of working together to help planet Earth. Class will include skill building in:
- Using body and voice to create characters
- Creating original short plays or scenes with a beginning, middle, and end
- Using theatre to encourage civic engagement
…and more! On the last day of class, you'll perform your original eco-friendly story for family and friends right in your classroom.
For grades 3-5
Sundays, 10:00-11:30am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Some dreams are too big to be held down! In this music, dance, and acting class, you'll reach for the stars by exploring heroines, rebels, and changemakers from the modern musical theatre canon. Class will include skill building in:
- Singing in a musical theatre style with confidence
- Expressing character through body and voice
- Learning and performing group choreography
…and more! On the last day of class, you will perform your gravity defying numbers for family and friends right in your classroom.
For ages 4-7 with a caregiver
Sundays, 10:30-11:15am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$174 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Designed for youth on the autism spectrum with a participating grown-up, this highly-interactive creative drama class will get the whole family moving and imagining! Bond with your little one through creative drama, music, and multisensory activities, while supporting your child’s motor development, communication skills, self-confidence, and blossoming creative spirit.
For ages 10-15
Sundays, 11:30am- 12:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$174 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Designed for young people on the autism spectrum, this theatre class will encourage students to take on the roles of both designer and performer. Get ready to move beyond sock puppets and explore more advanced and theatrical styles of puppetry! In this class where you get to do it all, you’ll build skills in:
- Creating distinct characters
- Planning and executing an artistic project
- Communicating with others in improvised scenes
- Making bold and imaginative choices
…and more! On the last day of class, you’ll have a mini puppetry showcase for family and friends right in your classroom!
For grades 6-8
Sundays, 12:30-2:00pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$261 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Practice your acting skills on the silver screen! In this advanced acting class, you will hone your on-camera acting through scene work and solo work. You will build skills in:
- Creating characters through voice, body, and facial expressions
- Using acting techniques specific to on-camera work
- Filming self-tapes for auditions like professional actors
On the last day of class, we’ll roll out the red carpet for an on-screen presentation of your work!
This class will be taught by Catherine Councell.
For ages 12-36 months with a caregiver
Mondays, 9:30-10:15am
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
$174 | 6 sessions
Register by 3/8/26 for a 15% discount!
Get dancing and grooving with your little one at Bubble Jams! This fun-filled class for tiny musicians-in-the-making and their grown-ups features singing, dancing, and a variety of instruments to try out. So come jam out to your favorite classic and new songs, show off your best dance moves, and play in a dazzling stream of bubbles!
CCT SPECIAL EVENT (not part of a subscription)
In addition to all the fun on CCT’s own stage in 2025-26, internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter and activist Natalie Merchant, in partnership with Chicago Children’s Theatre and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, will debut Cabinet of Wonder, a delightful introduction to the traditional nursery rhymes by Mother Goose that has been years in the making.
Cabinet of Wonder will be unsealed later this year when the 16-part music video series drops online for free viewing around the world. The videos feature Merchant playing a dual role: a modern-day librarian-teacher figure named Miss Natalie with a passion for nursery rhymes, and an 18th-century fashioned Mother Goose who introduces the children, through song and dance, to the characters in her rhymes. The series is professionally filmed, features a cast of children from CCT’s Education programming, members of the CSO with special guests, a magic cabinet, intricate costumes designed and created by Merchant herself, and shadow puppetry created by Manual Cinema. The website will include teaching material developed with support from the University of Chicago’s Thirty Million Word initiative and the Carole Robertson Center.
Throughout the 2025-26 season, CCT and CSO teaching artists will engage hundreds of Chicago children through in-school residencies at local schools and Head Start programs. In fact, Merchant’s inspiration, original compositions and costumes for Cabinet of Wonder began eight years ago while she was volunteering as a Head Start visiting artist at an underserved school in her hometown of Troy, New York. Last month, the National Head Start Association, in honor of its 60th anniversary, announced its partnership with Merchant, who is gifting them the Cabinet of Wonder curriculum to expand early learning arts access for the nearly 800,000 children and families served by Head Start programs nationwide. Read NHSA’s announcement here.
The project peaks next spring when Merchant returns to Chicago to debut her live concert, Mother Goose & The Cabinet of Wonder, Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. as part of the CSO for Kids series. Tickets will include VIP seating. Stay tuned for details. Tickets to the concerts go on sale on August 6. To purchase, visit cso.org.
Cabinet of Wonder is a co-production of Natalie Merchant, Chicago Children’s Theatre and the Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. To learn more, visit cabinetofwonder.org.
NATALIE MERCHANT IN CONCERT
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These productions are suitable for all ages – toddlers, children, and teens, but best suited for certain ages as indicated. However, you know your kids best! We trust your discretion while attending Chicago Children’s Theatre shows.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns to communications@chicagochildrenstheatre.org.
Special Events (separate from subscription)
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For rising grades 2-5
No camp June 19
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$1055 | 2 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Deep in the jungle lies a lost city full of secrets—and only YOU can uncover them! In collaboration with professional theatre artists, you'll become bold explorers, meet mysterious creatures, and uncover the ancient jungle city as you create an original action-packed play. You’l rotate through music, drama, and design class to create every part of this never-before-seen quest. On the last day of camp, you will perform your original play for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For ages 4-6
Monday-Thursday, 9:00am-12:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
$250 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Dive deep into the ocean for a whale of an adventure! In this half-day drama camp, you'll explore the wonders of the sea through story-based drama, music, and movement. Swim with whales, play with dolphins, and ride the waves through fun-filled creative drama activities, all while developing social emotional skills and imaginative thinking. On the final day of camp, you'll share your ocean adventures with family and friends in a mini performance in your classroom!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For ages 4-6
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-12:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
$300 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
All aboard for adventure! In this half-day drama camp, you'll explore the exciting world of transportation through story-based drama, music, and movement. Chug like a train, bob like a boat, and zoom like a bus through playful creative drama activities, all while developing social emotional skills and imaginative thinking. On the final day of camp, you'll share your travel adventures with family and friends in a mini performance in your classroom!
Class content in the afternoon session is identical to the morning session. Campers may sign up for EITHER the Morning Session of Story Explorers OR the Afternoon Session of Story Explorers. Campers may not attend both sessions and CCT cannot provide childcare in between the sessions.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 4-7
No camp July 3
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$1,640 | 3 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
They said it was the final encore, but the music is calling them back! In this not-yet-written musical adventure, you will collaborate with professional theatre artists to reunite a legendary band for one more show. Create unforgettable characters, dynamic scenes, and show-stopping musical numbers as you explore themes of friendship, teamwork, and the power of music. On the last day of camp, you will perform your original musical for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For ages 4-6
Monday-Friday, 1:00pm-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
$300 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
All aboard for adventure! In this half-day drama camp, you'll explore the exciting world of transportation through story-based drama, music, and movement. Chug like a train, bob like a boat, and zoom like a bus through playful creative drama activities, all while developing social emotional skills and imaginative thinking. On the final day of camp, you'll share your travel adventures with family and friends in a mini performance in your classroom!
Class content in the afternoon session is identical to the morning session. Campers may sign up for EITHER the Morning Session of Story Explorers OR the Afternoon Session of Story Explorers. Campers may not attend both sessions and CCT cannot provide childcare in between the sessions.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 1-3
No camp July 3
Monday-Thursday, 9:00am-3:30pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:00am, free after-care from 3:30-5:00pm
$470 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Step right up for the greatest show on earth! Drawing from traditions of outdoor spectacle theatre, you'll collaborate with professional theatre artists to create your very own circus parade. Each day will feature drama activities and art projects as you become daring acrobats, hilarious clowns, and majestic ringmasters. Camp will culminate in a spectacular parking lot parade performance filled with lively music, surprising sideshows, and larger-than-life circus magic for family and friends to cheer on from the sidelines!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information on summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 1-3
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-3:30pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:00am, free after-care from 3:30-5:00pm
$585 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Get your giggles on and join us for this fun-filled improv camp! KIDPROV will build your stage presence, confidence, self-awareness, and teamwork through improv games and drama activities designed for all kinds of learners and all kinds of fun. On the last day of camp, family and friends are invited to a mini-improv show by the West Loop's newest improv troupe right in your classroom!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For ages 8-22
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-12:30pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
$950 | 3 week camp
Financial assistance is available!
Camp Red Kite is a dynamic theatre day camp for young people on the autism spectrum. During three fun-filled weeks, campers ages 8-22 explore drama, music, and visual arts! Throughout each camp day, campers rotate through engaging arts classes with their age-appropriate small groups, growing their sense of community, imaginative thinking, and self-confidence.
Camp Red Kite is led by a trained team of theatre artists, administrators, and CPS Special Education teachers dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for youth on the autism spectrum. Join us at Chicago Children’s Theatre this summer for an exciting arts experience that encourages self-expression, social engagement, and creative exploration!
On the last day of camp, family and friends are invited to enjoy scenes, songs, costumes and much more created by campers!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs. If you have any questions about Camp Red Kite, please email redkite@chicagochildrenstheatre.org.
For rising grades 1-3
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$585 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Down on the farm, there's always a story to tell! Cluck with chickens, moo with cows, and gallop with horses in this lively camp for young music lovers. You'll sing songs, practice basic acting skills, create original barnyard characters, and dance your heart out as you bring farm fables to life. On the last day of camp, campers will perform a medley of songs and scenes for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 3-5
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$585 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Find your power and unlock your funny! Comedy Performance is a week-long improv and sketch comedy camp for those ready to find their funny bone. In a camp built on team spirit, you'll learn to embrace your fearless, bold, and hilarious side through improv games, character exercises, and sketch writing. At the end of the week, the West Loop's newest comedy troupe will perform for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 6-10
Monday-Friday, 10:00am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 9:00-10:00am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$585 | 1 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
Want to bring your life stories to the stage? Explore the Neo-Futurist style of using your unique voice to tell personal tales in creative and theatrical ways! Whether it’s using a homemade puppet to tell us about your best friend or transforming your school lunch disaster into an original song, a Neo-Futurist ensemble member will guide you in telling YOUR stories YOUR way! At the end of the week, you will perform up to 20 two-minute plays in a one-of-a-kind show for family and friends in CCT’s Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
The Neo-Futurists are a collective of wildly prolific writer/director/performers who create:
- Theater that is a fusion of sport, poetry and living-newspaper.
- Non-illusory, interactive performance that conveys our experiences and ideas as directly and honestly as possible.
- Immediate, unreproducible events at affordable prices.
- Performance and educational programming that embraces those unreached or unmoved by conventional theater – inspiring them to thought, feeling and action.
Read more on their website!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 1-4
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$1,170 | 2 week camp
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
There's a yeti in the mountains, and they need your help! In collaboration with professional theatre artists, you'll trek through snowy peaks, befriend quirky mountain guides, and meet one very friendly yeti as you write an original adventure play. Along the way, you might discover that the strongest friendships can be found in the most unexpected places. On the last day of camp, you will perform your heartwarming tale for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 5-8
Monday-Friday, 12:00pm-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
$400 | 1 week camp, half day
Register by Jan 11 for a 15% discount!
A song is more than just notes and lyrics—it's a story waiting to be told! In this focused musical theatre intensive, you'll work with professional theatre artists to master the art of acting through song. Explore character development, vocal technique, and emotional storytelling as you build your musical theatre repertoire. Through both individual coaching and ensemble work, you'll discover how to connect deeply with your material and deliver powerful, authentic performances. At the end of the week, you'll showcase your work in an intimate performance for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information about summer camps, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 1-3
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-3:30pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:00am, free after-care from 3:30-5:00pm
$585 | 1 week camp
There’s something strange going on at Chicago Children’s Theatre…who will save the day? Those meddling kids, of course! In collaboration with professional theatre artists, you'll create clues, crack codes, and solve the case as you develop your very own short mystery story complete with original characters and set design. On the last day of camp, you will perform your thrilling tale for family and friends in CCT's Pritzker Family Studio Theatre.
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.
For rising grades 4-7
Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at CCT, 100 S Racine Ave
Free before-care from 8:30-9:30am, free after-care from 4:00-5:30pm
$585 | 1 week camp
There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to making thunder rumble or doors creak in your favorite shows and movies… That’s where sound designers come in! In collaboration with professional technical theatre artists, you'll dive into the art of sound design and foley art by creating an original radio play filled with sound effects you design and perform. On the last day of camp, you'll share your recorded radio play with family and friends in a listening party right in your classroom!
Masks are welcome but not required during this camp. For more information, please see our Education Policies & FAQs.