Chicago Children’s Theatre Education Programs

Chicago Children’s Theatre Education Programs include camps and classes where children create and perform their own stories. Many programs use devised theatre, where participants work together to create original plays and theatre pieces and then perform that original work as a group.

• Ages: 5–13 years old
• Schedule: Winter, Spring, and Summer camps in one- and two-week sessions; Summer Camps run June 8–August 21, 2026

Since its formation in 2004, Chicago Children’s Theatre has served more than half-a-million students and families through productions, classes, and camps, including programming for children on the autism spectrum. The education programs include afterschool classes with weekly sessions for children of all ages and experience levels, School’s Out Day Camps on Chicago Public Schools non-attendance days for children in grades K–5, and The Red Kite Project, which is a series of programs for youth on the autism spectrum and their families. The organization also produces professional theatre productions for students of all ages with discounted ticket prices for school groups, offers in-school residencies, and provides professional development opportunities for educators of all disciplines. The education team includes Director of Education Catherine Councell, Education & School Partnerships Manager Jordan David Wallace, and Director of Development Matt Merrill. Chicago Children’s Theatre states that its mission is to inspire children and families to lead lives of adventure, courage, and curiosity. One parent or educator shared, “I think this program was the highlight of the school year for many of our children. I hope we get a chance to be a part of this fantastic program…”

Last updated July 29, 2026.