West Loop Classes – Ages 11 to 14

Chicago Children’s Theatre’s classes for students in Grades 6-8 challenge young artists to tell stories from their own experiences and from the world around them. In classes exploring multimedia, film, devising, and advanced acting, young artists build artistic and life-learning skills to engage with art, media, and their world thoughtfully and critically. Each session features a showcase for friends and family on the final day of class! 

Red Kite Workshop: Improv! | Fall 2026
Date: Oct 4, 2026

October 4 - December 13, 2026

Sundays, 11:30-12:30pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
For ages 8-12 

No class on November 29, 2026

This is a drop-off class—students attend without their caregivers.

Registration: $300 plus fees, financial assistance is available

REGISTER NOW

Designed for youth on the autism spectrum, this actor’s workshop will focus on the basics of improv! During this 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! In the final workshop, you’ll perform a mini Improv show for friends and family right in your classroom!

Teen Acting Lab: The Actor's Toolbox | Fall 2026
Date: Oct 4, 2026

October 4 - December 13, 2026

Sundays, 12:30-2:00pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
For ages 11-14 

No class on November 29, 2026

This is a drop-off class—students attend without their caregivers.

Registration: $450 plus fees, financial assistance is available

REGISTER NOW

Add some tools to your actor’s toolbox in this advanced acting class! Sharpen your acting skills through learning vocal warm-ups, scene study techniques, scene analysis, and monologue rehearsals.  Guided and coached by a professional acting coach you will rehearse monologues and scenes that you can take with you to your next audition! Elements of the actor’s toolbox that you’ll explore include:

  • Character physicality and body language 
  • Vocal technique and projection
  • Text analysis to enhance scene work
  • Being an active scene partner

…and more! The last day of class will culminate in a showcase of original scenes and monologues right in your classroom.  

Red Kite Teen Workshop: Improv! | Fall 2026
Date: Oct 4, 2026

October 4 - December 13, 2026

Sundays, 12:45-1:45pm
at Chicago Children's Theatre, 100 S Racine Ave
For ages 13-18 

No class on November 29, 2026

This is a drop-off class—students attend without their caregivers.

Registration: $300 plus fees, financial assistance is available

REGISTER NOW

Designed for youth on the autism spectrum, this actor’s workshop will focus on the basics of improv! During this 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! In the final workshop, you’ll perform a mini Improv show for friends and family right in your classroom!

Learn more about Financial Assistance opportunities, our Education Policies & FAQs, and our current roster of Teaching Artists.

If you have questions about CCT’s education programming please contact Catherine Councell at cc@chicagochildrenstheatre.org, or by calling (312) 374-8827.