Resources: Local Theater + Arts
There are some excellent organizations in Chicago that help local theaters and artists in a myriad of ways, including through funding and monetary support, professional development opportunities for artists and more.
Help for Artists + Theaters
If you know of additional resources for our local artists and theaters, please let us know at storytelling@indivisiblechicagonw.org.
- 3Arts programs are designed to support artists in multiple and tiered ways: (1) Connects artists with local and national funding opportunities, emergency financial resources, crowdfunding, fiscal sponsorship programs, and insurance for artists, (2) Offers accessibility resources to make your work and space more accessible, (3) Supports professional development through education, training and local residency programs.
- The Albany Park Theater Project provides opportunities for Chicago teens to empower themselves and their lives through their Performing Ensemble and college access and success program. By using APTP's resources like college counseling, their tutoring program, and college tours, alumni complete college at rates four times higher than average in Chicago public schools.
- Arts Alliance Illinois helps creative workers, organizations, and businesses navigate funding and operational assistance providers to help them succeed through education, events and access to resources. Resources include a Help Desk with career support for creative workers, including employment readiness coaching and help navigating workforce services and public benefits.
- Chicago Art Department is an artist-run nonprofit that provides space and resources for civically-minded artists to grow their practice while questioning the city we live in. CAD provides opportunities for artistic development through subsidized Studio Residencies, Collective Learning Cohorts, and contemporary Exhibitions and Programs rooted in justice.
- The League of Chicago Theaters members have League support with audience development, marketing, and professional development initiatives like chicagoplays.com, Hot Tix discount ticketing service, the Cooperative Advertising program, job & audition boards, industry trainings, grant opportunities, networking events, and more.
- Old Town School of Folk Music provides financial aid of 25% to 75% off the cost of music classes to those in need. Classes can be taken remotely or at one of their Chicago locations.
- UpBeat Music and Arts provides a variety of music lessons to students of all ages. The nonprofit also partners with After School Matters to provide youth with group piano lessons, ensemble opportunities, mentoring and professional development skills. In 2024, UpBeat provided over 125 scholarships to under-resourced students who love music.
Read a Story about Local Theater + Arts by Amplify:
- NEA Cuts Threaten to Drop the Curtain on Arts Funding
- Neighbors Take Center Stage to Save Our Theaters
Ways to Support Local Theater + Arts
Want to Be a Helper?
There are many ways to support local Chicago theater and the arts: participate in advocacy, donate your time and money, or go enjoy a great show with friends and spread the word!
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