best theater-drama programs in Highland Park, 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!

We are confident that by engaging in community service, our students will gain an appreciation for the power of collective action and the importance of helping others. At Forte Arts Center, we believe that a well-rounded education is the key to success in the future. We strive to provide our students with the tools they need to excel, not only in the arts, but in life. We recognize the importance of combining academic excellence with service to the community in order to foster our students’ development. We are confident that our students will leave Forte Arts Center with the confidence and the skills necessary to become successful and contributing members of society.

Since 1946, Tamarak Day Camp has been building a tradition of excellence. Our camp has a well-deserved reputation for providing quality programming, with an emphasis on swimming, beautiful grounds, and a team of experienced staff members. We are dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable experience that allows your kids to develop their skills and build respect for their surroundings. The Tamarak spirit encourages kids to do their best and work together. Join us at Tamarak Day Camp to create a summer of memories!

Since its founding in 2005, Chicago Children’s Theatre has committed to creating world-class theatre for children and families. The company has earned critical acclaim for its innovative writing, directing, and performing, as well as its high-quality design and production expertise. In 2017, the theatre received the National Theatre Award from the American Theatre Wing, creators of the Tony Awards, making it the first theater for young audiences in the nation to receive such an honor. The theatre also produces The Red Kite Project, a multi-sensory interactive theatre program tailored to the needs of children on the autism spectrum.

Parents, your child can be part of the Children's Theatre of Elgin / Fox Valley Theatre Company! It's one of the oldest and largest children's theater companies in the state of Illinois and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your child will have the opportunity to experience the performing arts, either as a participant or audience member. This is a great opportunity for your child to learn, grow, and enrich their lives through theatre. Get more information today!

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.

At Improv Playhouse Theater for Young Audiences (IP-TYA) we understand the importance of creating a safe and supportive community for young people to thrive in. We strive to create a safe and fun atmosphere for our students, and to ensure that every child is included and respected. We are proud to offer accessible, affordable, and quality performing arts programming for children from all backgrounds. Our commitment to engaging young people through the performing arts has been at the heart of our mission since our first production of Peter and the Wolf five years ago.

At KVTA, we understand the importance of our community’s cultural resources. We strive to achieve excellence in all of our productions. We wouldn’t be able to do this without the generous support of our volunteers and the local community. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work from our volunteers to produce each show. Throughout the production season we perform five regular season shows and frequently put on a summer production or theatre camp for the local youth. We are so grateful for the help and support of our volunteers and community members who make KVTA’s productions possible. We are proud to be a part of the vibrant and thriving culture of our community.

Curtain Call Community Theatre (CCCT) is the result of a merger of Fine Arts Association of Frankfort, Kentucky and the Capital Arts Theatre of Frankfort. CCCT is proud to provide an opportunity for community members to participate in the performing arts. Their mission is to foster the development of local performing arts, provide production and education, and create a deeper involvement of the community. The motto of CCCT is “Downtown Quality at Community Theatre Prices”. This mission statement reflects the commitment of the organization to provide quality theatrical productions to the community while keeping the cost of tickets affordable. All productions are staffed by local artists, and the organization is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for audiences of all ages.

For over 28 years, Lincoln-Way families have been able to rely on our outstanding Music and Theatre program. Our highly qualified instructors offer private lessons in guitar, piano, voice, ukulele, and acting, as well as classes for all levels of students. We also host several large-scale Musical Theatre Productions each year and have a youth Rock Band Program that has performed throughout the Chicagoland area. At Lincoln-Way, we are dedicated to providing our students with an engaging education in Music and Theatre. Our experienced staff provides private lessons in a variety of instruments, as well as acting classes and productions. We are also proud to offer our youth Rock Band Program, which has seen great success throughout the Chicagoland area.

Our experienced staff bring an individualized approach to each and every actor, helping them to grow into strong performers. It's our mission to build self-confidence in our actors while allowing them to stay true to themselves. We believe that every actor has something unique to bring to the stage, and through our tailored approach we can help nurture that talent. Our guidance provides a strong foundation to take on any role or challenge, and our positive reinforcement helps our actors to become the best they can be. At the Actors Garden, we are passionate about theatre, and we want to share that passion with you. Our team of experienced professionals will guide you every step of the way in your journey to becoming a confident and strong performer. We know that your unique talents can shine when you are given the freedom to be yourself - and we are here to help you make that happen.

For 25 years, Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School’s BRAVO program has been providing students with the opportunity to experience the powerful transformation of performing arts. BRAVO has become the largest extracurricular program, with over 30% of the student body participating. They use the arts to help foster imagination, empathy, and inclusivity, while promoting courage, community, and diversity. The BRAVO staff and Advisory Board are dedicated to providing quality, diverse, and equitable programming for all students. The program's initiatives and objectives focus on the performing arts, providing students with skills like motivation, time management, organization, and self-esteem. Additionally, BRAVO encourages parent and community involvement, allowing them to help guide students in achieving success.

At Steel Beam Theatre, we are passionate about the performing arts, and we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of artistic programming. We strive to bring our audiences meaningful, thought-provoking, and entertaining professional theatre. Steel Beam is proud to be a pillar of the community, offering an accessible and affordable gathering place for those interested in fostering the arts in downtown St. Charles and the surrounding cities. Steel Beam Theatre is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization with an important mission: to develop programs that build and foster interest in the performing arts for future generations. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of artistic programming, with a focus on passionate, engaging, and provoking theatre that is accessible and affordable to all. We strive to bring our audiences meaningful and entertaining experiences that provoke thought and positive community engagement.

The Theatre of Western Springs has grown from its humble beginnings in 1929, when Mary Cattell founded the Little Theatre of Western Springs. After outgrowing borrowed venues, the theatre launched a successful campaign to build its own 400-seat theatre building in 1961. The theatre has continued to thrive, adding a second, 150-seat black-box theatre in 1976. Today, the Theatre of Western Springs is a place for the entire community to come together and experience the joys of live theatre. With over 400 students trained each year, the Children’s Theatre of Western Springs produces 7 adult productions, 4 student productions, and a holiday show, making it an international leader in the creative arts.

For more than a decade, the Actors Training Center (ATC) has served the greater Chicagoland area. We are honored to have been the recipients of the Illinois Theatre Association's 2019 Award of Honor. Our goal is to inspire a love of the performing arts in people of all ages, and to empower our students to use their art to create positive change in their communities and beyond. Our talented team of experienced professionals equip our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's ever-evolving entertainment industry. We provide our students with the resources that will help them make their mark in the industry of the future.

Two passionate Winnetka women had a dream of creating a space for children to engage in performing arts in the same way they would with sports like baseball, football, hockey, and basketball. Then Children's Theatre of Winnetka was born, and it quickly grew in popularity. Auditions and crew signups were limited to students grades 4 through 8 in public and private schools in New Trier Township. One of the greatest successes of the CTW has been its many “alums”. They have gone on to pursue their passions for acting, singing, dancing, and tech at New Trier, college, and even on Broadway and in Hollywood. Many of the graduates come back to CTW during their high school years to teach dance steps and stage musical numbers. This is incredibly gratifying to the staff, as it demonstrates that they have been able to instill a lifelong interest in theatre and the performing arts in the children. Over the years, the CTW has been a great success, with its students and alumni achieving great accomplishments. It has become a place for children to strive to be the best and entertain not only their parents but their friends too—all for a small admission fee.

Chicago Filmmakers is a long-standing, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to serve the Chicago filmmaking community. Established in 1973, the organization provides an array of services to local filmmakers, including low-cost film classes and youth camps, production funding and fiscal sponsorship, equipment and space rentals, and professional development and networking opportunities. In addition to supporting the local filmmaking community, Chicago Filmmakers also serves Chicago audiences with weekly screenings of independent films, as well as two annual film festivals. Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival and The Onion City Experimental Film + Video Festival both offer viewers a unique opportunity to experience independent films from around the world. Chicago Filmmakers is dedicated to supporting the local filmmaking community and providing educational and entertainment resources to Chicago audiences. Through their array of services and annual events, the organization is a valuable resource for those looking to get involved in the local film industry or simply enjoy independent films.

At Gorton Drama Studio, everyone is welcome! We strive to create a culture of inclusivity, where every person is valued and respected for their unique talents and abilities. Our beautiful spaces, located at Gorton Center in Lake Forest, provide the perfect backdrop for our fun and inspirational classes and rehearsals. From our John and Nancy Hughes Theater to our dedicated dance room and intimate black box theater, Gorton Drama Studio offers a variety of enjoyable and creative experiences for all ages, from entertaining theater to artistic film. Join us as we explore the joy of theater and film together!

Since 2007, the Actors Training Center has been serving the greater Chicagoland area and we are proud to have been honored by the Illinois Theatre Association with their 2019 Award of Honor. ATC is a launching pad for actors of all ages who want to make a career in the performing arts, be it in film, television, or on the stage. Our passionate and dedicated staff are committed to helping our students to reach their full potential and to use their art to make a positive difference. We are proud of the work that the Actors Training Center has done since 2007, and are honored to have been recognized by the Illinois Theatre Association with their Award of Honor. Our program offers young actors the opportunity to hone their craft and to use their talents to make a positive impact in the world.

At our theatre classes, we understand the importance of building confidence and self-esteem in young people. Our classes provide an outlet for children to learn and practice the basics of theatre, as well as develop important life skills. Through our classes, young actors can practice their craft while also learning the fundamentals of public speaking, social support, problem solving, and more. By providing our students with the opportunity to audition for roles, we give them a chance to practice their craft in a fun and engaging way. During the session, they will practice their lines with their directors and become part of an ensemble for the show. Finally, they will have a chance to showcase their talent to the world in a live performance. At our theatre classes, we strive to make sure our students are growing and developing in a positive way. We are proud to offer a variety of classes to students from the age of 4 to 18, and we are committed to helping them become the best possible version of themselves.

The Round Lake Area Park District is devoted to fostering a healthy lifestyle for all. Through its diverse range of recreation programs, facilities and open spaces, the Park District is dedicated to helping local residents lead active and vibrant lives. From family-friendly parks and playgrounds to sports fields and trails, the Park District is committed to providing an array of recreational opportunities that are fun, safe and accessible. The Park District also offers a variety of programs to meet the needs of the community. These activities range from outdoor fitness classes and sports leagues to educational classes and outdoor adventure trips. Additionally, the Park District provides an array of facilities, including community centers, swimming pools, ice arenas and fitness centers. The Park District is passionate about preserving and maintaining the natural environment. The Park District’s open spaces provide the community with opportunities to explore and appreciate nature. Through education and outreach, the Park District encourages its visitors to take part in responsible stewardship of our shared natural resources. By providing quality recreation programs, facilities and open spaces, the Round Lake Area Park District is committed to making the area a great place to live, work and play.

The Chicago Academy for the Arts is an independent high school for performing and visual arts that has earned national recognition. Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, the Academy provides students with a unique blend of college-prep academics and professional-level arts training. The Academy’s daily schedule features three blocks of academic classes and a flex period, followed by a three-plus hour immersion in the student’s chosen arts department. Dance, Media Arts, Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts are all offered, giving students the opportunity to learn the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought, and creative expression.

The Park District is responsible to the people of Wilmette through the election and referendum process. It is authorized by the Illinois Park District Code, which allows it to levy taxes, acquire and develop parks, build and operate recreation facilities, and conduct recreation programs. The Park District's mission is to provide quality recreational facilities, programs, and services to meet the needs of the community, now and in the future. The Park District is committed to making Wilmette a community that can be enjoyed by all, offering a variety of recreational activities for everyone. From swimming pools to golf courses to youth programs, the Park District provides a wide variety of programs and facilities to keep Wilmette’s citizens healthy, active, and engaged. The Park District also works hard to preserve the natural beauty of Wilmette, protecting its natural resources for future generations.

Harper College’s Performing Arts Center is a professional venue designed to showcase the work of talented theatre, music, stagecraft and dance performers. With the capacity to seat over 400 people, the Center provides an opportunity for performers to share their art with a larger audience. If you’re looking to develop your skills in art, dance, music, theatre or writing, the Community Music & Arts Center offers classes taught by experienced and passionate instructors. Classes are designed to help you master the skills you need to express yourself creatively, while also helping you understand the social and historical implications of engaging with the arts. At the Community Music & Arts Center, we believe that arts should be accessible and a part of everyday life. We offer a variety of programs aimed at making sure you have the tools and resources you need to fully experience and appreciate the arts within your own environment.

Welcome to the vibrant Winnetka community! If you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, our performing arts programs are the perfect way to get involved. From dance and theater to music classes, there’s something for everyone. Our education and enrichment activities span from early childhood development to dog obedience. Kids can learn the fundamentals of basketball and other sports in a safe, fun atmosphere through our youth sports programs. For adults, we offer a range of activities from chess and whiskey tasting to lectures, fitness, and special events. Come on down and take a look - we can’t wait to show you around! At Winnetka, we’re all about making a difference in our community. Whether you’re a new resident or have been here for years, our performing arts programs will bring out your creative side. We offer everything from dance and theater to music classes. Plus, our education and enrichment activities cover topics like early childhood development and dog obedience. Kids can learn the basics of basketball and other sports in a non-competitive, fun environment with our youth sports programs. As for adults, there’s plenty to do - from chess and whiskey tasting to lectures, fitness classes, and special events. Stop by and get to know us - we’d love to meet you!

. The Park District understands the need to bridge the gap between public resources and the funds necessary to maintain and enhance its world-class facilities. With 44 parks, beaches, and 11 sports and nature facilities spread over 700 acres of land, the Park District is a valuable part of the community. Property taxes are the main source of funding for the Park District, making up around 50% of its operating costs. However, only 6% of resident property taxes are paid directly to the Park District. This is why the Park District needs to look for other sources of funding to ensure the continued success of its facilities. The Park District is committed to finding new sources of funding to keep its parks and nature facilities running at the highest level. Community support is essential to maintaining these invaluable resources and to ensure that generations to come can enjoy them.

The Deerfield Park District has thought of it all! We offer trips to exciting places such as movie theaters, museums, and even bowling alleys. We make sure to keep the kids entertained and having fun while also learning, so they can come home with a smile on their face. We are proud to offer a variety of programs to our youth and teens. Creative arts, cooking, skills, hobbies, performing arts, dance, music, and sports and athletics are all available. And with our After School Club and After School Enrichment Programs, the Deerfield Park District has something to keep every kid busy until Mom and Dad get home from work. We also offer School Days Out Trips to keep your kids entertained and having fun when they are off of school. With our programs, your kids will come home with a smile on their face!

One of the things that the Channahon Park District prides itself on is its commitment to providing a fun and safe environment for children to play in. The Park District has designed a variety of programs where children are encouraged to learn, grow, and interact with other children their own age. Parents have the opportunity to meet other parents and build relationships with people in the community. At the Channahon Park District, we are dedicated to providing a high quality experience for your family. We focus on creating a safe and fun environment for your children to learn, grow and make friends. Our programs are designed to help children build relationships with their peers and parents have the chance to meet other parents. We invite you to join us and take part in the activities offered at the Channahon Park District!

At Maria Emilia Fermi’s School, we offer a unique “homeschool in school” experience for our students. Founded and directed by Maria Emilia Fermi in 1994, with her son Brando Fermi Crawford managing the day to day operations, our school is committed to providing the highest quality education. Our curriculum is focused around a full Spanish Immersion program, and has been recognized by MENSA as a recommended program for gifted students. We believe that in order to provide the best learning environment for our children, we must create an atmosphere that is both fun and engaging. At Maria Emilia Fermi’s School, we strive to provide our students with the best educational opportunities possible. Our Spanish Immersion program is designed to help students excel, and is specifically tailored to meet the needs of our gifted students. Our school is the perfect place for your child to get the best education available.

At the Tinley Park-Park District, we understand the importance of recreation and the impact it can have on the quality of life in our community. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing creative recreational programming opportunities and excellent customer service, all while maintaining quality recreational facilities and parks. We take great pride in our commitment to Tinley Park, and we strive to make sure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the recreational facilities and parks we have to offer. Our goal is to ensure that Tinley Park remains a vibrant and beautiful place to live. We’re proud to provide a wide range of recreational programming opportunities for all ages. From sports and fitness to arts and culture, there’s something for everyone at the Tinley Park-Park District. Our friendly staff is always available to help you find the right program or activity for you and your family. At the Tinley Park-Park District, we’re dedicated to providing the best quality recreational facilities and parks, so that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Tinley Park. We strive to ensure that our parks and facilities are safe and enjoyable for everyone, and that the highest level of customer service is provided. With our commitment to creativity and excellence, we’re sure that Tinley Park will continue to be a great place to live and play.

The Academy offers a variety of courses in three main sectors of the arts: dance, music, and pre-school. With each sector, we provide a unique and enjoyable experience tailored specifically to our students. Our teachers are committed to creating a safe and inviting atmosphere that encourages creativity and exploration. We use a combination of traditional methods and modern techniques to ensure that our students are receiving the best possible instruction. Our faculty is comprised of industry-leading professionals who have years of experience in their respective fields. We also strive to provide our students with the most up-to-date training and resources to help them reach their goals. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced performer, The Academy is sure to have something to offer you! Click below to learn more about our course offerings, teaching philosophy, and faculty.

At Allegro Studios, we’re proud of our history of teaching music, dance, and other performing arts to families across Lemont, Lockport, and beyond. As the world around us changes, our commitment to our students and our commitment to the arts remain the same. At Allegro Studios, we create a welcoming space for students of all ages and skill levels to come together to learn, practice, and perform. We strive to be a family where everyone is accepted and celebrated for their unique talents and skills. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’d love to have you join the Allegro family– there’s always room for one more.

At Allegro Studios, we are proud of our history and what we have accomplished in the past. Our two studios in Lemont and Lockport have been thriving for many years, providing quality music and dance lessons to students of all ages. And, while the future is always uncertain, our goals remain the same: we want to provide a safe and welcoming environment where students can come to learn and perfect their craft. We believe in creating an extended Allegro family, where students, teachers, and staff can come together to learn, create, and perform. Our enthusiastic team is always ready to welcome new members, so why not join us today? Together, we can make beautiful music and dance.

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park is a 10-acre spectacle located between Cass and Jefferson Streets along the river in downtown Joliet, Illinois. This park is the result of a commemorative project that was built to honor the 200th anniversary of the United States of America. The park is co-managed by the 501c3 organization, Will-Joliet Bicentennial Park, Inc., and the City of Joliet. It is the only park of its kind that is not a part of the Joliet Park District. The Will-Joliet Bicentennial Park, Inc. is dedicated to providing a venue for low-cost performing and fine arts activities for people of all backgrounds, regardless of race, religion, ability, or creed. The Park Inc. is also committed to making these fine and performing arts accessible to the Joliet community at an affordable cost.