Lifeline Theatre

Lifeline Theatre is an award-winning professional theatre company located in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, dedicated to exploring, interpreting, and reimagining books and literary works to create compelling stage adaptations. Founded in 1982 by five Northwestern University graduates, the theatre has established itself as a nationally recognized leader in literary adaptation over its 43-year history, with a vision to contribute to a society guided by compassion, empathy, and a willingness to change.

The KidSeries Season, inaugurated in 1986, brings beloved children’s books to life for young audiences ages 4-10 and their families. Productions transform picture books and middle-grade novels into theatrical experiences featuring Mr. Popper’s Penguins, James and the Giant Peach, Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type, The One and Only Ivan, and many other cherished stories. Each production combines professional-quality theatre with age-appropriate content and interactive elements that engage young theatergoers.

Beyond performance, Lifeline maintains a robust education program serving the community year-round. The Student Matinee program brings over 3,000 students annually to special weekday performances complete with post-show discussions, optional workshops, and extensive study guides that connect theatrical experiences to classroom learning. The Artists-in-Residence program pairs professional actor-teaching artists with K-8 classroom teachers in Chicago-area schools, teaching drama skills while supporting learning and social development across all academic subjects.

Summer drama camps welcome children ages 4-14 for week-long immersive experiences where campers explore theatre fundamentals, create characters, build sets, and adapt stories into ensemble performances. The Stories Come Alive! program and specialty workshops serve over 300 children annually, bringing professional artists together with young people to make the arts fulfilling and accessible. All camps and classes culminate in performance sharings where families celebrate their children’s creative achievements.

The theatre employs over 150 artists annually and serves more than 17,000 audience members each season. Community Days initiatives provide financially accessible cultural experiences, particularly for Rogers Park residents, with 3,500 people annually taking advantage of reduced-price tickets. The organization also hosts the BIPOC Adaptation Workshop and Showcase, bringing diverse voices and perspectives to its stages while nurturing emerging theatre artists.