For Youth | Education | Goodman Theatre

Goodman’s teen programs bring young artists together at the intersection of theater and community—harnessing the power of the arts to spark curiosity, inspire dialogue, and explore the ways storytelling connects us. Designed for teens to experiment, create, and grow, these programs provide opportunities to develop artistic skills, discover new perspectives and engage with Chicago’s exciting theater community.

PlayBuild Youth Intensive

FOR 14 TO 18 YEAR-OLD STUDENTS IN THE CHICAGOLAND AREA

Discover the artist within you in this four-week intensive that pushes the bounds of creativity, storytelling and performance! Participants will generate new work using a wide range of artistic skills such as acting, improvisation, writing, directing, movement and beyond. Taught by renowned industry professionals with an emphasis on civic practice, participants will use these skills to develop an original performance and learn how to create theater in service of change.

Musical Theater Intensive

FOR 14 TO 18 YEAR-OLD STUDENTS IN THE CHICAGOLAND AREA

Calling all triple threats! Taught by a team of professional musical theater artists, this intensive is designed to refine skills in acting, singing and dancing with an emphasis on storytelling and civic practice. At the end of this four-week program, students will perform in a showcase of work ranging from original scenes to contemporary musical theater.

Youth Arts Council

FOR CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12

Take the lead as a member of Goodman Theatre’s Youth Arts Council (GYAC), a hands-on program where young Chicagoland artists use their passion for theatre to connect communities and inspire change! Participants collaborate to produce events, engage peers, and amplify diverse voices, gaining real-world experience in arts leadership. Guided by mentorship from professional artists and Goodman staff, GYAC members develop skills in teamwork, communication, and civic engagement—all while making an impact in their schools and communities.