description Chicago Shakespeare Theater Overview
Chicago Shakespeare Theater is a prominent theatrical company founded in 1986 by Barbara Gaines. Located on Navy Pier since 1999, its facility includes the 500-seat Courtyard Theater and the 200-seat Upstairs Studio space. The organization is one of the largest theaters dedicated to Shakespeare in North America, producing a year-round season of classical plays alongside contemporary works and family programming. It received the Regional Theatre Tony Award in 2008 for its sustained artistic excellence and contributions to the Chicago theater community.
help Chicago Shakespeare Theater FAQ
Where is the Chicago Shakespeare Theater located?
Chicago Shakespeare Theater is located on Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, where it has been based since 1999. The facility on the pier houses multiple performance spaces specifically designed for staging classical and contemporary theatrical works.
Who founded Chicago Shakespeare Theater?
The company was founded in 1986 by Barbara Gaines, who served as artistic director and guided its growth from a small Shakespeare-focused troupe into one of the largest theaters in the United States dedicated to classical work. Under her leadership, the organization moved to its permanent Navy Pier home in 1999.
What performance spaces does Chicago Shakespeare Theater have?
The Navy Pier facility includes the 500-seat Courtyard Theater, designed in a modified thrust configuration inspired by Shakespeare's Globe, and the 200-seat Upstairs Studio space for smaller, more intimate productions. The venue also includes flexible spaces used for special programming and educational events.
Has Chicago Shakespeare Theater won a Regional Theatre Tony Award?
Yes, Chicago Shakespeare Theater received the Regional Theatre Tony Award, one of the most prestigious honors recognizing sustained excellence in American regional theater. The company has also won numerous Joseph Jefferson (Jeff) Awards for its productions of Shakespeare and other classical and contemporary works.
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