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6 Small Theaters in Chicago Putting on Great Shows

Chicago is often celebrated as a theater capital. While the city’s iconic venues like the Steppenwolf Theatre or the Chicago Theatre tend to grab the spotlight, the charm often lies within its smaller theaters and historic movie houses. These cozy venues may not have the lavish budgets or big-name lineups of their bigger counterparts, but they are brimming with creativity, passion, and distinctive performances.

If you're a theater lover or simply looking for a unique night out, here’s a list of six small theaters in Chicago that are producing outstanding shows you won’t want to miss.

Chopin Theatre

Nestled in the Wicker Park neighborhood, the Chopin Theatre is a beloved destination for experimental and thought-provoking performances. Established in 1990, this intimate venue has become known for hosting diverse programming that ranges from contemporary plays to spoken word and world music.

One of the theater's standout features is its strong emphasis on the community. The Chopin Theatre regularly collaborates with local and international artists to bring unique experiences to life. It’s also home to The House Theatre of Chicago, whose productions often spark creativity and invite audience participation.

Upcoming Highlight: Keep an eye on their events calendar for bold, boundary-pushing works blending visual art, theater, and music.

Mercury Theater

Known for its warm ambiance, the Mercury Theater, located in the Southport Corridor, is a cultural gem. With seating for just 300 guests, this venue offers an intimate theater experience where every seat feels like the best in the house.

The Mercury is primarily known for its charming musicals and high-energy comedies. It cultivates an inviting, relaxed vibe—perfect for those unfamiliar with formal theater settings but eager for a great show. Some of its recent standout productions include hits like Spamalot and Women of Soul.

Why Visit:

The venue is also connected to The Venus Cabaret, a smaller space hosting immersive performances and cabaret-style shows complemented by a drink selection.

Lookingglass Theatre

Founded in 1988, the Lookingglass Theatre has made a name for itself by producing visually stunning, ensemble-driven storytelling. Located in the historic Water Tower Works building on Michigan Avenue, this Tony Award-winning gem combines theatrical innovation with thought-provoking narratives.

Lookingglass is renowned for pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling—often weaving aerial acrobatics, unique staging, and multimedia into their performances. Their dedication to creativity and quality has earned them a loyal following over the years.

Must-See:

Check out their enchanting reimaginations of literary classics and thought-provoking contemporary plays that beautifully combine physicality and artistry.

The Newport Theater

If you’re into unconventional performances, the quaint and quirky Newport Theater is the perfect place to explore Chicago’s alternative theater scene. Situated in Lakeview, this venue serves as home to cabaret, burlesque, and other avant-garde creations that break traditional storytelling norms.

The Newport offers a space for emerging creators to showcase unique performances that range from improvised comedy to live music events. Thoughtfully decorated, this intimate theater feels both casual and charming, making it the perfect place to enjoy something different.

Fun Fact:

It’s not all risqué—The Newport Theater also hosts storytelling nights, sketch comedies, and off-the-wall variety shows, proving there’s something for everyone in its lineup.

Theater Wit

Looking for intelligent, subversive, and comedic performances? Enter Theater Wit, one of the most dynamic boutique theater spaces in Chicago. Located in Lakeview, this venue hosts a mix of resident companies and visiting productions, creating a robust lineup of fresh, bold works.

Theater Wit is dedicated to fostering clever, human-centered stories that often carry subtle social or political commentary. It’s also one of the few venues that offers a subscription service where members pay a flat rate to see unlimited shows throughout the year.

Don't Miss:

Expect thought-provoking plays peppered with sharp humor that reflects the complexities of modern life.

Greenhouse Theater Center

Rounding out the list is Greenhouse Theater Center, located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park. This historic venue offers four stages, each dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and innovative productions. From provocative new works to re-imaginations of canonical scripts, the Greenhouse seeks to provide a wealth of variety.

The Greenhouse also provides programming aimed at fostering community education, regularly hosting workshops and talkbacks. While the environment is casual, their focus on compelling storytelling is serious.

Pro Tip:

Watch for its annual festival featuring new playwrights—perfect for experiencing raw, research-driven, and boundary-testing narratives.

Support Small Theaters in Chicago for an Unforgettable Experience

Chicago’s smaller theaters bring a richness to the city’s arts landscape—one driven by passion, experimentation, and community connection. Whether you’re interested in boundary-pushing experimental works or cozy musicals, these six venues promise unforgettable experiences.

The next time you’re planning a night out, skip the big theaters and try something new. Who knows? You might find a hidden gem.