best theater-drama programs in Buffalo Grove, IL

Welcome to Portland's premier interactive museum and event venue, Experiment PDX, where imagination and creativity know no age limit! Conveniently situated in the heart of South East Portland on Stark St., within the elegant Luxury Bread Building, this remarkable space is dedicated to the exploration of arts, science, and the limitless boundaries of inquisitiveness. Proudly rooted in Portland, Experiment PDX is a treasure trove of geeky delights, facilitating a unique blend of education and entertainment. Our interactive museum of science and art invites children, families, and adults to indulge their curiosity and creativity through hands-on exhibits. But that's not all; we also provide a diverse range of classes, workshops, and talks led by local artists, academics, and cultural enthusiasts. And yes, we haven't forgotten about the fun-loving adults! At our 21+ events, beverages are available for purchase because, let's face it, who says adults can't have a bit of fun too? Experiment PDX is not just a museum, but also an exceptional venue for hosting children's birthday parties with exciting science and art themes. In addition, we offer event spaces for rent, perfect for a variety of functions. We look forward to welcoming you to a world of learning, creativity, and fun at Experiment PDX!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Founded in 1992, Chicago Kids Company (CKC) is a non-profit theater company that produces original musicals based on fairy tales and children’s stories. Paige Coffman and Jesus Perez, CKC's co-founders, are still running the show today! They write, direct, compose, design, and create the colorful productions that have become a signature of CKC. This award-winning duo has written and produced every single CKC show for the past 29 years. CKC performances are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. Professional actors, sing-along songs, brightly colored costumes and sets, and up-to-date references make the shows fun for children ages 2 to 10. Now in its 29th season, Chicago Kids Company is thrilled to continue to share the joy of theater with young audiences.

If you’re looking for an exciting and enriching activity for your family, look no further than Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts in the Northwest side of Chicago. They offer a wide range of classes for all ages, including dance, acting, and music lessons, as well as performance opportunities to let their students show off their skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, there’s something for everyone! If you need more information or would like to discuss the best classes for your family, don’t hesitate to give Forevermore a call or email. The staff would be happy to talk with you and set up a tour of the school, so you can experience the classes for yourself. You’ll be able to get a feel for the atmosphere and watch as your kids make friends and build confidence. Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts is the perfect way to give your family a creative outlet and a chance to explore the arts. With an array of classes and performance opportunities, your family can find the perfect fit for them. Don’t wait – contact Forevermore today and start your journey together!

Harmony Youth Theater has opened its doors in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago to give children the opportunity to explore the power of the arts. Our mission is to create a safe and inclusive space for young creatives to develop their talents in all aspects of theater. With this program, we hope to foster a sense of self-expression, critical thinking, teamwork and confidence within these young minds. At Harmony Youth Theater, we believe that the arts should be accessible to children in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago. We strive to provide them with a setting to learn, grow and express themselves in unique and inspiring ways. Our goal is to provide an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration and self-confidence through theater and the arts. We are passionate about helping children unlock their potential and reach their highest artistic level.

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.

At MPAC, we believe in the power of the arts to bring people together and break down barriers. We strive to create meaningful experiences for our audience and to provide our students with the tools they need to succeed in the performing arts. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre (MPAC) is a thriving hub of creativity and community. Our theatre seats 329 and every year hosts hundreds of performances, from the Main Stage subscription series to concerts, comedies, and cabarets. The Metropolis School of Performing Arts (SOPA) is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals of all ages, from 4 to 80+. We create arts curricula specifically tailored to each student’s needs, including those with disabilities. At MPAC, we’re passionate about the transformative effect of the arts. We strive to spark joy and connection in our audiences, and to empower our students as they embark on their journeys through the performing arts.

Today, the Old Town School of Folk Music is a thriving institution which offers more than 700 accredited classes, workshops, and private lessons to students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. From guitar and banjo classes to folk dancing and family sing-alongs, the school has something for everyone. Professional instructors teach a range of musical genres, from American folk music to international styles. The Old Town School of Folk Music also offers concerts featuring nationally renowned artists. It is a place where students can celebrate music and cultural expressions rooted in the traditions of diverse American and global communities. The Old Town School of Folk Music is dedicated to providing broad access to the arts. Its five-year strategic plan focuses on improving and expanding artistic opportunities for its students. To ensure its programs remain accessible, the school provides tuition assistance to qualified families. Through its commitment to quality education and its dedication to providing broad access to the arts, the Old Town School of Folk Music has become a pillar of the Chicago community.

At Forte Arts Center, we are dedicated to providing every student with the best possible education in the arts. Our comprehensive instruction programs are tailored to suit the individual needs and abilities of each student, from recreational to pre-professional. Our experienced and dedicated instructors are committed to the positive development of our students, guiding them in the craft of their chosen discipline while also encouraging the development of important life skills such as confidence and respect. Forte Arts Center is proud to be a place where students of all ages can explore the magic and love of the arts. We strive to provide an atmosphere where students can grow and thrive, learning the skills and techniques of their chosen discipline while also gaining insight into the value of friendship, trust, and perseverance. Our commitment to excellence and integrity is the foundation of all we do, and we strive to bring out the best in every student.

At Ovation Academy, we believe that every child should have access to high quality arts education. Our programming and instruction in the performing arts is designed to instill a life-long passion and appreciation for the performing arts in our students. We offer a wide range of classes in vocal training, acting, musical theater, dance, audition techniques, and more. Our Pre School program gets children moving, thinking, singing and using creative play and their imaginations! We also offer students the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the industry with guest teachers and special workshops. Our team of dynamic instructors is passionate about what they do and we strive to create an inspiring learning environment for our students.

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.