Chicago Shakespeare Theater Announces 35th Anniversary Season
Chicago Shakespeare Theater located on Navy Pier. James Steinkamp / Courtesy of Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Chicago Shakespeare Theater Announces 35th Anniversary Season
Chicago Shakespeare Theater located on Navy Pier. James Steinkamp / Courtesy of Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Pandemic-era federal relief funds were a lifeline to theaters in Chicago and across the country. Now, those dollars are drying up as theater seats aren’t filling up at the same rate as before the pandemic. Do theaters need to rethink their business model to stay alive?

Reset checks in with two Chicago theaters, a critic and arts advocate for more.

GUESTS: Chris Jones, chief theater critic, Chicago Tribune

Claire Rice, executive director, Arts Alliance Illinois

Jeannie Lukow, executive director of Porchlight Music Theatre

Kara Riopelle, managing director with Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Chicago Shakespeare Theater Announces 35th Anniversary Season
Chicago Shakespeare Theater located on Navy Pier. James Steinkamp / Courtesy of Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Chicago Shakespeare Theater Announces 35th Anniversary Season
Chicago Shakespeare Theater located on Navy Pier. James Steinkamp / Courtesy of Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Pandemic-era federal relief funds were a lifeline to theaters in Chicago and across the country. Now, those dollars are drying up as theater seats aren’t filling up at the same rate as before the pandemic. Do theaters need to rethink their business model to stay alive?

Reset checks in with two Chicago theaters, a critic and arts advocate for more.

GUESTS: Chris Jones, chief theater critic, Chicago Tribune

Claire Rice, executive director, Arts Alliance Illinois

Jeannie Lukow, executive director of Porchlight Music Theatre

Kara Riopelle, managing director with Chicago Shakespeare Theater