Youth Education
Our classroom focuses on the importance of creative expression and collaboration, while teaching the fundamentals of theatre through structured play. Classes not only enhance performance skills, but also develop concentration, self-esteem, discipline, and basic problem solving. We offer year-round education for ages 5-18, divided into fall and spring semesters with a summer session of shorter camps and workshops.
All classes end with a performance on our main stage, during our Showcase Week. All students receive a Certificate of Achievement, handed out at the end of the Showcase Performance, during a short and celebratory ceremony.
For specific dates and detailed information, please see our Registration Page.
Overview of Class Levels*
- Beginner classes are for those just starting out at Chicago Street or those who have taken one summer camp with us. We suggest that all get underway with the foundational skills taught in our beginner classes.
- Intermediate classes are for those building upon skills gained in a previous class. If your child has had at least one full semester at Chicago Street, they should feel confident progressing to the intermediate level.
- Advanced classes are for those who have had at least one year at the Intermediate level.
*Progressing through levels is supported by Instructor Evaluation and at the discretion of the Director of Education.
An energy-packed exploration of imagination, the emphasis of this class is on creative expression through structured play. Young students learn to “act out” a story while important skills such as listening, concentration, and collaboration are introduced.
While acting out favorite stories and playing theatre games, students explore imagination and creative expression with a purpose. Students are guided through the basic elements of drama (who, what, and where). The emphasis is on extending concentration and focus while illuminating discipline, self-esteem, empathy, understanding, and basic problem solving.
In this stimulating class, students learn to sharpen their work in improvisation and theatre games while transitioning into scripted material. The concept of “playing” the wants and needs of characters is introduced, as they are taught to understand the importance of “listening.” The continued emphasis on concentration, discipline and self-esteem is enhanced through collective and constructive assessment.
In this exploratory class, students sharpen their work in improvisation and theatre games while creating and developing character. The concept of ‘playing’ the wants and needs of characters is applied through the creation of scenes. The continued emphasis is on concentration, discipline and self-esteem is enhanced through collective and constructive assessment.