Lookingglass Theatre Company

Lookingglass Theatre Company is a Tony Award-winning theater that offers comprehensive education and engagement programs for students of all ages throughout the Chicago area. Founded in 1988 by Northwestern University graduates, the company has built a national reputation for artistic excellence and ensemble-based theatrical innovation, with their education division sharing these same techniques with Chicago-area students and teachers.

The theater’s education programs include three main strands: Creative Community workshops focusing on teambuilding and collaboration, Arts Integration programs that connect theatrical techniques with curriculum content, and Performance Capstone programs that culminate in student performances. School partners can bring students to see spectacular shows at the historic Water Tower Water Works location on Michigan Avenue, participate in workshops led by professional teaching artists, or have Lookingglass bring residency programs directly into their schools.

Student matinees feature post-show discussions and activity guides, while workshops explore the themes, techniques, and magic created each season on Lookingglass stages. The company also offers streaming access to their Emmy-nominated production of Lookingglass Alice through PBS, complete with study guides. Programs are available for school-day or after-school programming, with opportunities for students from beginning through advanced levels to develop their theatrical skills. Through these offerings, Lookingglass Theatre Company aims to inspire creativity, build community, and develop each student’s unique voice through the power of ensemble-based theater.