Stages Chicago

Stages Chicago is a not-for-profit arts education organization founded in 2016 that provides high-quality, developmentally appropriate performing arts experiences to children and families. The curriculum is developed by professional performers who are also early childhood development specialists with decades of experience both onstage and in the classroom.

The organization offers inclusive programming for all ages and abilities, from infants to high school students. Programs include Broadway Baby classes for infants (birth and up), Mini Stars classes for toddlers ages 2-3 with gentle separation opportunities, Broadway Stars classes for grades K-2, Broadway Prep programs, middle school musical theater productions, piano lessons, and various seasonal camp offerings.

Stages offers multiple program types including weekly classes at locations such as Soul City Church (West Loop), Drucker Center (Lincoln Park), and The Fame Center (South Loop); Day Off Camps inspired by Broadway shows and movie musicals (half-day camps for ages 3-4 and full-day camps for grades K-6); Summer Camp programs; Birthday Party packages; and school-based partnership programs bringing Stages programming directly to schools and early childhood centers.

The organization provides tuition assistance to ensure accessibility and hosts special events including performances at professional Chicago theaters. Classes focus on singing, dancing, acting, and musical theater appreciation, using Broadway musicals and classic stories to engage children while building confidence, creativity, and performance skills. Stages transitioned to not-for-profit status in 2021 to expand reach and better support their mission of making quality performing arts education accessible for all children and families.