In-School Theatre Residencies & Performing Arts Programs in Chicago
Stages at School | Performing Arts Education for Elementary, Middle & High Schools
Bring the excitement, creativity, and transformative power of theatre directly into your school!
Stages at School partners with Chicago-area elementary, middle, and high schools to provide engaging, developmentally appropriate performing arts education led by professional teaching artists.
Through theatre, music, movement, and creative collaboration, students develop artistic skills while building confidence, strengthening communication, and discovering the power of working together.
Whether your school is looking to introduce students to theatre, expand its performing arts enrichment opportunities, or explore a school-based residency, Stages Chicago can help bring meaningful arts experiences to your students.
Theatre Education That Makes an Impact Beyond the Stage
The skills students develop through theatre extend far beyond performance.
At Stages Chicago, we believe performing arts education gives students opportunities to find their voices, explore new perspectives, and develop confidence in a supportive, collaborative environment.
Our school programs encourage students to:
-
Find Their Voice: Develop communication, self-expression, and public speaking skills.
-
Build Confidence: Practice taking creative risks, trying new things, and sharing ideas.
-
Collaborate with Others: Strengthen teamwork, listening, and problem-solving through ensemble-based activities.
-
Develop Empathy: Explore different characters, stories, experiences, and perspectives.
-
Think Creatively: Use imagination and artistic expression to approach challenges in new ways.
-
Discover Their Potential: Build a foundation in theatre and performance while developing skills that support personal growth.
Types of Programming for K-12 Schools
In-School Theatre Residencies
School-based theatre instruction that gives students opportunities to explore acting, storytelling, ensemble work, and performance skills through an ongoing learning experience.
Musical Theatre Enrichment
Creative performing arts instruction that introduces or develops skills in acting, singing, movement, and musical storytelling.
Musical Theatre Workshops & Special Programs
Focused performing arts experiences that help students explore creativity, collaboration, and self-expression through theatre-based activities.
Performing Arts Education for Every Stage
Elementary School Theatre Programs
Introduce younger students to the foundations of theatre through imaginative storytelling, creative movement, character exploration, and collaborative activities that encourage confidence and creativity.
Middle School Theatre Programs
Support growing performers as they explore self-expression, communication, ensemble work, and the creative process in a supportive, engaging environment.
High School Theatre Programs
Provide opportunities for older students to deepen their exploration of theatre, artistic expression, collaboration, and performance skills through age-appropriate instruction.
Students of different ages bring different experiences, interests, and abilities to the theatre classroom. Stages Chicago believes arts education should reflect those differences.
Across all grade levels, our goal is to create an inclusive environment where students feel encouraged to participate, discover their strengths, and experience the joy of performing arts education.
Are your students ready for a fully staged musical? Ask us about our Middle & High School program featuring MTI Jr & MTI Kids productions!
Your Partner in Performing Arts Education
Stages Chicago is an approved CPS Vendor
Every school community is unique, and meaningful arts education begins with understanding the students and educators we serve.
Stages Chicago brings together experienced teaching artists, developmentally informed instruction, and a commitment to inclusive arts education.
We are proud to work with schools throughout the Chicago area and to be an approved Chicago Public Schools vendor.
Whether you're a principal, arts educator, enrichment coordinator, or parent organization representative, we welcome the opportunity to learn about your school's performing arts goals and explore how Stages at School can support your students.
