Education Programs
Northlight Theatre’s education programming is built on the belief that self-expression, creative thought, and confidence are the keys to well-being. We believe the arts teach these skills by encouraging reflective thought, discipline, and collaboration.
Learning the Fundamentals
Build A Play
In this residency program, students explore the fundamentals of acting through a curriculum that emphasizes collaboration and play. Students will adapt and perform a familiar narrative into a new story. This before- , during-, or after- school program can be custom-designed to meet each school’s needs.
Grades PreK-12
Theatre for Social Change
Speak up
Speak Up is a theatre for social change residency that asks students to address issues impacting their community, bringing current events into the classroom and fostering social responsibility. Through the process of creating an original performance addressing topical issues, students use their voices to engage their peers in building positive change in their community.
Grades 6-12
Experience the Magic of Live Theatre
Student Matinees
Students can attend matinees of our mainstage productions! All matinees include a study guide to help teachers better prepare their students for the show.
Grades vary by production
Next Generation of Theatre Makers
Youth Council
The Northlight Youth Council, or NLYC, is an opportunity for passionate North Shore and Chicago teens to help build the next generation of theatre makers. NLYC engages young adults in a variety of student-driven opportunities and allows them an up-close, inside look into the world of stage production.
Grades 9-12
Northlight is grateful to Lead Sponsor Ralla Klepak Foundation for Education in the Performing Arts for their generous support which provides resources to our community’s youth to engage with our theatre arts education programs