In the pancake-flat prairies of Illinois, where the corn whispers secrets to the soybeans, a unique species of energetic youngsters can be found, known as the "Theatro Kidstrous Dramaticus." Commonly known as the Illinois Theatre Kids, these spirited individuals possess a sparkling zest for life that is as infectious as a ticklish kangaroo on a trampoline. Our hero, Oscar the Oversized Otter and his magical spotlight, navigates through the bustling city of Chicago, the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River, down to the quaint charms of Springfield, scouting for these theatrical prodigies. “Every kid in Illinois has a flair for drama, as obvious as a corn cob at a tomato fight. Why, even the Illinois squirrels perform one-act plays with acorns!" Oscar would often say. With their imaginations wilder than a pack of prairie dogs on espresso, these kids pour their hearts into dramatic performances, whether it's a riveting school play about the first settlers or a backyard reimagining of a famous Broadway musical. They embrace their roles with passion, turning into anything from Shakespearean kings to tap-dancing tomatoes. Their creativity is as boundless as Lake Michigan, their enthusiasm as towering as the Willis Tower. You'd often find them practicing their lines while walking their dog, dancing like a possessed scarecrow during lunch breaks, or memorizing scripts under the blankets with a flashlight, past their bedtime. So, if you ever find yourself in the Land of Lincoln, listen carefully. You may hear the echoing laughter of Oscar the Otter, watching another hilarious rehearsal by the Theatro Kidstrous Dramaticus, the spectacular Illinois Theatre Kids.
Read morebest theater-drama programs in Evanston, IL
Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!
Founded in 2016, Stages Chicago is dedicated to providing the highest quality, developmentally appropriate performing arts experiences. Our curriculum is designed by a team of professional actors and early childhood development professionals, who have decades of experience both onstage and in the classroom. At Stages Chicago, we are proud to offer a wide range of inclusive programming for all ages and abilities. For infants, we offer developmentally appropriate music classes that are both entertaining and educational. We also offer after school programs, which provide a great training ground for the next generation of performers. We are committed to making quality performing arts education experiences accessible to all children and families. That’s why we transitioned to a not-for-profit organization in 2021, so we can expand our reach and better support our mission of providing access to the performing arts.
In addition to our commitment to quality music education, we are proud to be an active member of the Evanston community. We support local schools and partner with organizations that have similar goals of making music more accessible to all. In 2007, we were honored to receive the Evanston Mayor’s Award for the Arts, recognizing our dedication to music education and our history as an arts incubator. We look forward to continuing to create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore and learn music.
At Mudlark Theater, we believe in the power of theater to unlock the potential of every child. Our not-for-profit organization provides children with the opportunity to learn theater arts in a meaningful way. Through our residencies, classes, and camps, our students learn more than just theater skills; they develop life skills such as empathy, listening, public speaking, critical thinking, and collaboration. Our productions provide entertainment for audiences of all ages, while also helping to build confidence in our students. At Mudlark, we take pride in creating an environment where every young person's story and identity is embraced and celebrated. We want our students to feel welcome and safe, so they can explore their own potential and develop skills that will help them succeed in any field they choose. Our program is designed to be an enriching experience that helps students grow academically and personally, preparing them to make a difference in the world. Mudlark Theater is dedicated to equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed. Our unique approach to theater education combines life skills with theater arts, while also emphasizing the importance of honoring and celebrating all young people. We strive to create a space where students can learn, explore, practice, and grow, so they can make their mark on the world.
At the Piven Theatre Workshop, children and adults alike have the opportunity to explore the joys of theatre within a safe and playful atmosphere. Through a wide variety of games and techniques, students can open their imaginations, act on impulse, and focus on their fellow actors instead of self-critiquing. With this, the Workshop builds a community and an ensemble in which students can take risks and find their individual voices. It also provides them with the necessary skills to communicate truthfully and with conviction on stage or screen.