COVID-19 Attendance Policies
All attendees must read and agree to adhere to our COVID-19 attendance policies.
Ticket Policies
Arrival
We typically open our lobby to the public 30-minutes prior to each performance and often have pre-show lobby activities for families to enjoy! We encourage guests to arrive between 15-30 minutes prior to the performance to ensure families can be in the best position to secure their general admission seating when the house opens (typically 15 minutes prior to curtain). Limited FREE on-site parking in our adjacent private parking lot is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If our lot is full, there is also ample street parking in the neighborhood nearby.
Tickets & Seating
When you arrive, please check-in at the Box Office to receive your Will Call tickets. CCT does not issue printed tickets prior to your performance. When we open the theatre space, CCT staff will direct you to our general admission seating in the theatre. Our seating is primarily composed of cushioned couch-style seating for a more relaxed audience environment. We do have a select set of traditional armchair seats throughout the theater for those who might need them. Please let us know prior to your arrival if you have any accessibility needs, including wheelchair seating, or needing a seat with a back, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Animals
Only service animals are permitted at Chicago Children’s Theatre. All other animals are not permitted in the theatre.
Coat Check
We do not currently offer a coat check but we have numerous coat racks in the lobby that are available for you to use free of charge.
Dress Code
We have no formal dress code, and we encourage you to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. As types of performances vary, there is no standard dress code for patrons, though a shirt and shoes are required at all times. When in doubt, business casual is always appropriate. In addition, please consider the effects of strong perfumes and colognes on those seated around you. Often, our young audience members dress up in their favorite costumes for performances, which is always encouraged.
Food & Beverage
We have a concession stand in our lobby where limited food and beverage can be purchased. Food and beverage may be enjoyed in the lobby, but no food is allowed inside the theatre. Drinks are allowed in the theatre only if they have a lid.
Late Seating
Late seating is allowed at the discretion of the House Manager and may not be possible for some performances. If you arrive late, ushers will seat you at the earliest appropriate time during the performance, usually at the end of a scene. Out of respect for the performers and other audience members, you will be asked to wait in the lobby with an usher until the appropriate seating break. We have a video monitor in our lobby for latecomers to use until they can be seated. If you need to leave a performance early, we ask that you leave at a point in the performance when moving around would be a minimal disturbance to those around you, such as during applause. We cannot seat patrons later than 30 minutes after showtime.
Lost and Found
Our Guest Services Team oversees and manages any items left behind. Items considered “lost & found” will be kept secured in our secure office for up to 30 days. If you believe you have lost an item while at the theatre, please contact our Guest Services Team by emailing boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org or calling (312) 374-8835.
Photography, Video, & Use of Electronics
Taking pictures and video recordings inside the theatre space during the performance is strictly prohibited. Once the show has begun, please turn off or silence all electronic devices that may ring, beep, vibrate, or otherwise produce a sound that may disrupt performances. Electronic devices include mobile phones, pagers, and alarm watches. If CCT staff is made aware of any photography or videography that has occurred, patrons will be approached and asked to delete all files and footage. CCT reserves the right to remove any patrons in violation of this policy without refund.
Snapping photos of your family and friends before and after the show is permitted. Using the camera on your cell phone is encouraged, but please leave your professional cameras at home. If you post your photographs, make sure to Tag us on InstaGram or Facebook!
During Performances
Many of our performances are interactive or immersive, and we encourage families and children to participate as they see fit. Here at CCT, we call ourselves a “no shushing theatre”! Patrons are requested to respectfully react to the show and to laugh, gasp, and applaud as they see fit. Patrons are highly encouraged to stay in their seats for the duration of the performance and to be aware of other audience members and performers that may be close by. CCT staff are on hand to assist with any emergency exits as needed.
Transaction Policy
There are no refunds or account credits related to ticket purchases. For ticket purchases, exchanges are available on a case-by-case basis. To inquire about any ticket issues, please contact our Guest Services Team by emailing boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org or calling (312) 374-8835.
Restrooms
Family restrooms are available on both the first and second floor of the building.
Smoking
Smoking, including electronic devices, is strictly prohibited anywhere inside the building, and within 25 feet of any entrances or exits.
Firearms
In compliance with the Illinois Firearms Concealed Carry Act, the carrying of weapons of any kind is prohibited in the theatre and on theatre property.
Filming Notice
During your visit, you or members of your family may be filmed, videotaped, and/or photographed by a Chicago Children’s Theatre employee, contract photographer or the media. By entering Chicago Children’s Theatre, you consent to your voice, name, image, and/or likeness being used, without compensation, by Chicago Children’s Theatre, in any medium of publicity or advertising, and you release the Chicago Children’s Theatre, its members, agents, employees, and board from any liability.
FAQs
How much are single tickets?
Ticket prices during the season vary depending on the show. Please check each individual show page for more details. We are happy to answer any questions at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org or by phone at (312) 374-8835.
Why is there a processing fee for each ticket?
We incur merchant processing expenses for every package and single ticket sold. Our low-cost fees help us continue to provide high-quality professional theatre in Chicago.
Can my child sit in my lap?
Lap seats are available for children under 18 months, which cost $13 per child and can be purchased with Guest Services at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org or by phone at (312) 374-8835. Children over 18 months are very welcome to sit in your lap, but a full-priced ticket is required.
Your show information says “Ideal for Ages 8 and Up”, but my child is mature for a 7-year-old, can they still come?
Our age recommendations for our shows based on run time, author recommendation, and the content of each show. However, you know your kids best! We trust your discretion while attending Chicago Children’s Theatre shows.
How can I book tickets for a large group?
Groups of 10 or more are eligible for an exclusive discount. Head to Groups & Discounts for more information or contact the Guest Services Team at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org, or by calling (312) 374-8835.
I have a stroller. Is there space at the theatre where I can put it?
Yes! We have a stroller parking area in our building, but space is limited. If it is possible for you and your family, we strongly recommend leaving your stroller in your car or at home. Due to local safety codes, strollers are not permitted inside the performance space.
Is Chicago Children’s Theatre ADA accessible?
Yes! Chicago Children’s Theatre is fully ADA accessible. When purchasing your tickets, please inform our Guest Services Team if you require any particular accommodations. You can reach our Guest Services Team at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org, or by calling (312) 374-8835.
How can I redeem my CCT Subscription tickets?
For any questions about your CCT Season Subscription, please contact our Guest Services Team at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org, or by calling (312) 374-8835.
If you have further questions about our Theatre Policies, please contact our Guest Services Team at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org, or by calling (312) 374-8835.