About

Court Theatre
5535 South Ellis Ave. •  Chicago, IL 60637 
(773) 753-4472 • www.CourtTheatre.org

Mission:  Court Theatre is guided by our mission to discover the power of classic theatre. Court endeavors to make a lasting contribution to American theatre by expanding the canon of translations and adaptations of classic texts. We revive lost masterpieces, illuminate familiar texts, and distinguish fresh, modern classics. Named “the most consistently excellent theater company in America” in December, 2006 by The Wall Street Journal, Court has a national reputation for excellence and innovation.

Court’s hallmark is our unique approach to classic storytelling. Through five bold and compelling mainstage productions, popular symposia and post-performance discussions, and extensive educational programming, Court expands the collective understanding of classic theatre and its timeless ability to speak to our common experiences. We continuously work to extend our reach and more deeply engage our audience through a broad range of initiatives.

History:  In 1955, Court began when a small group of artists and neighbors came together to produce three Molière plays under the stars in the Hutchinson Court at the University of Chicago. In 1975, Court was established as a professional, not-for-profit theatre. Under the artistic leadership of Nicholas Rudall, Court opened its first five-play subscription season in the intimate 251-seat Abelson Auditorium in 1981. Artistic Director Charles Newell took over the leadership of Court Theatre in 1994. In 2005, Court welcomed Dawn Helsing as Executive Director. Court has co-produced with other nationally prominent regional theatres in Philadelphia, Seattle, and most recently, the Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven. Court Theatre received an unprecedented, industry-leading 10 Joseph Jefferson Awards for its 2005-06 productions of Man of La Mancha and Fences.