Theatre that inspires children, families, schools, and communities.

Young People’s Theatre of Chicago (YPT) is Chicago’s professional Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) company in residence at the historic Greenhouse Theater Center. Founded in 2021, YPT creates immersive, high-quality theatrical experiences that engage, inspire, and bring together children and families of all ages and backgrounds.

Our Story

YPT was founded when the Greenhouse Theater Center invited veteran children’s theatre director Randy White to launch a dedicated TYA company. The company’s acclaimed debut season featured the world premieres of Peabody and Dory Fantasmagory, along with the sold-out production of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, establishing YPT as a vibrant new voice in Chicago’s TYA community.

In just four seasons, YPT has built a reputation for artistic excellence and a deep commitment to exceptional theatre for young audiences. Its productions have consistently earned some of the highest ratings among Chicago theatre productions on Theatre In Chicago. Most recently, YPT presented sold-out productions of Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are In A Play!”, A Year with Frog and Toad, and The Hobbit, as well as the Midwest premiere of The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen by Evanston playwright Gloria Bond Clunie—a joyful, intergenerational celebration of Harlem hoop culture.

Theatre for Every Young Person

At YPT, we believe young people deserve theatre that reflects the diversity, richness, and wonder of the world around them. We bring locally, regionally, and nationally acclaimed work to the stage—productions that spark imagination, foster connection, and invite children and families to see themselves and one another in new ways.

As we celebrate our fifth anniversary, YPT is proud to continue this commitment with a season featuring a world premiere and two Chicago premieres. We invite Chicago audiences to celebrate with us as we experience the joy, discovery, and transformative power of live theatre.

Learning Through Theatre

Education and access are at the heart of YPT’s mission.

The company’s School Matinee Program welcomes thousands of students each season, responding to growing demand for engaging, curriculum-connected theatre experiences. Every production is supported by a comprehensive Companion Guide aligned with Illinois State Standards, helping teachers extend the experience from the theatre into the classroom.

YPT has also expanded its educational offerings with summer theatre camps, giving young people new opportunities to develop creative skills, build confidence, collaborate with others, and explore artistic expression in a supportive environment.

Looking Ahead

With a dedicated staff and board of directors, YPT is poised for continued growth and deeper engagement throughout Chicago and the surrounding region. YPT is building a place where young people can discover stories, see themselves represented, and experience the joy and thrill of exceptional live theatre.

Welcome to Young People’s Theatre of Chicago!

two actors featured in Young People's Theatre of Chicago's theatrical production of Dory Fantasmagory

Mission

To cultivate a lifelong passion for the stage by offering diverse and extraordinary theatrical experiences for children of all ages and backgrounds.

Values

Excellence
Engagement
Joy
Inclusion
Enrichment
Discovery
Empathy

Vision

Young People’s Theater of Chicago aspires to be a local, regional, and national leader in the production of theater for young audiences.
YPT will develop its board and operations with a focus on fiscal viability, community engagement, and production quality.
YPT will develop the capacity to own and manage the Greenhouse Theater Center within the next decade.

  • “Will your kids be entertained? The answer (spoiler alert!) is ‘YES’ judged by the happy vocal reactions of the kids at the matinee I attended! A solid debut!”

    Chicago Reader, Knuffle Bunny (2021)

  • "Boasts both excellent direction, a talented cast and superb supporting artistry by a top-notch technical team.”

    Chicago Theatre Review, The Diary of Anne Frank (2024)

  • "A vibrant production that packs soul, substance, and silliness into one hour...the cast creates the textured fabric of a diverse, multicultural city and at my performance, kids were up and dancing in their seats.

    Chicago Reader, Last Stop on Market Street (2024)

  • "When it comes to theater for youngsters, the Young People’s Theatre of Chicago sure knows its stuff."

    Around the Town, Junie B. Jones (2023)