Theater
Chicago’s Black theater community has long been a force for truth-telling, healing, and cultural preservation. These companies carry decades of artistry rooted in our stories—stories of resilience, joy, struggle, and triumph. From legacy institutions to rising stages, Black theater in Chicago continues to challenge narratives, build community, and create space for voices that deserve to be heard. Explore the companies keeping this powerful tradition alive.
Black Ensemble Theater
4450 N Clark St, Chicago, IL. Iconic Black-led Chicago theatre committed to eradicating racism.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 S South Chicago Ave. Black cultural arts center offering theatre and programs.
Pegasus Theatre Chicago
7655 S Racine Ave. Black-founded and youth-focused theatre known for Young Playwrights Festival.
Theater 47
1951 W 47th St. Community-based Black theatre producing original works rooted in Black culture.
Congo Square Theatre Company
2936 N Southport Ave. African Diaspora theatre producing powerful cultural stories.
Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre
Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St, Evanston, IL. A celebrated Black theatre institution producing powerful, historically grounded, and culturally rich performances for over 40 years.
Perceptions Theatre
South Side Chicago. Black-led theatre developing and showcasing BIPOC stories.
Definition Theatre
965 W Chicago Ave (rehearsal/office). Black ensemble-driven theatre committed to African diaspora storytelling.
Pulse Theatre Chicago
Chicago, IL. Pulse Theatre Chicago is a Black-led company committed to staging culturally resonant, socially conscious stories that center the Black experience.