Court Theatre

Court Theatre Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Court Theatre, nestled in the culturally dynamic Hyde Park neighborhood on the University of Chicago campus, is one of Chicago’s leading venues for classic and contemporary theater. Since its founding in 1955, Court Theatre has transformed from an amateur summer stage to a Tony Award-winning institution known for scholarly productions and diverse, socially relevant programming. At Court Theatre, audiences experience both timeless texts and new works that spark conversation about race, identity, and social change, all within an intimate 251-seat setting.

This guide provides detailed, up-to-date information for planning your visit: visiting hours, ticketing options, accessibility, transportation, nearby attractions, and highlights of current and upcoming productions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theatergoer, use this resource to maximize your Court Theatre experience and explore Hyde Park’s surrounding cultural treasures.

For schedules, tickets, and more, visit the Court Theatre official website. You can also use the Audiala app for real-time updates and seamless ticket purchases. (Court Theatre Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, History & Visitor Guide, Theatre in Chicago, Chicago Tribune)

Historical Overview
Visiting Court Theatre: Practical Information
Programming Highlights: Must-See Productions
Visitor Amenities and Facilities
Nearby Attractions and Dining
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Educational and Community Engagement
Safety and Health Protocols
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Years (1955–1970s)

Court Theatre began in 1955 as an outdoor summer stage, serving the University of Chicago and Hyde Park communities. Under the leadership of Nicholas Rudall from 1971, the theatre developed a unique approach, combining academic rigor with accessible, relevant adaptations of classic works.

Professionalization and Growth (1975–1980s)

By 1975, Court Theatre had become an Equity theater, drawing top talent and elevating production quality. Its relocation in 1981 to the purpose-built Abelson Auditorium marked a new era of professional excellence and audience engagement.

Artistic Leadership, Mission, and Innovation (1994–Present)

Led by Charles Newell since 1994, Court Theatre redefined “classic theater” to include diverse narratives from various cultures and eras. Collaborations with University of Chicago faculty and extensive community engagement have been hallmarks of its programming. Signature initiatives, such as the Barbara E. Franke Commissioning Program, foster new works that expand the theatrical canon.

National Recognition

Court Theatre received the 2022 Tony Award for Excellence in Regional Theatre, cementing its reputation for innovation and artistic achievement (Newcity).

Visiting Court Theatre: Practical Information

Location and Transportation

Address: 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637
Situated in Hyde Park, Court Theatre is easily reached by CTA buses (#2, #6, #15, #28), the Metra Electric District (55th-56th-57th Street stop), or by car. On-campus and street parking are available, though public transit is recommended during busy times. (Theatre in Chicago)

Visiting Hours and Box Office

Box Office: Monday–Saturday, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM; extended hours on performance days.
Performance Schedule: Typically Wednesday–Sunday evenings, with weekend matinees during mainstage season (September–May).

Ticketing and Pricing

Single Tickets: $30–$65 (subject to production and seat location).
Subscriptions: $117–$288 for 2025–26 season packages.
Discounts: Available for students, seniors, University of Chicago affiliates, and groups.
Purchase Methods: Online, by phone, or in person. Early booking is recommended (Court Theatre).

Programming Highlights: Must-See Productions

Court Theatre’s dynamic programming includes reimagined classics and bold new works.
2025/26 Season Highlights:

Big White Fog by Theodore Ward (Sept 12–Oct 12, 2025): A powerful look at Black life on Chicago’s South Side during the Great Depression (BroadwayWorld).
The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare (Nov 14–Dec 14, 2025): A contemporary directorial interpretation of the classic.
Miss Julie by August Strindberg: A gripping drama of class and passion.
Out Here: A new musical exploring identity and transformation.

Recent Acclaimed Productions:

“Falsettos” (co-produced with TimeLine Theatre)
“An Iliad” (solo performance directed by Charles Newell)
“Berlin” (stage adaptation of Jason Lutes’s graphic novel)
(Court Theatre: Berlin, Chicago Tribune)

Visitor Amenities and Facilities

Court Theatre’s intimate Abelson Auditorium features excellent sight lines and acoustics. Amenities include:

Accessible restrooms (including gender-inclusive options)
Coat check (seasonal)
Concessions stand (snacks and beverages)
Friendly, knowledgeable staff to assist with seating and accessibility

Image suggestion: Photo of Abelson Auditorium interior with alt text “Court Theatre Abelson Auditorium stage view”

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Enhance your visit by exploring Hyde Park’s cultural landscape:

Museum of Science and Industry
Robie House (Frank Lloyd Wright)
Smart Museum of Art
University of Chicago campus landmarks

Dining:

Medici on 57th: American fare, bakery
Nella Pizza e Pasta: Italian cuisine
Valois Restaurant: Classic cafeteria-style
Reservations are recommended for pre-show dining.

(Theatre in Chicago)

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Court Theatre is fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry, designated seating, and assistive listening devices. Service animals are welcome. Contact the box office in advance for additional accommodations, such as open captioning or ASL interpretation during select performances.

The theatre’s programming intentionally centers diverse voices, including works by Black playwrights and LGBTQ+ stories, reflecting its commitment to representation and inclusion (BroadwayWorld).

Educational and Community Engagement

Court Theatre offers robust educational outreach:

Student matinees and discounted tickets
Workshops, classroom visits, and talkbacks
Community events and post-show discussions These initiatives reach thousands of students and community members annually, fostering deeper engagement with the arts (Theatre in Chicago).

Safety and Health Protocols

Court Theatre follows current public health guidelines. Mask and vaccination requirements may change; updated policies are posted on their website. Enhanced cleaning and hand sanitizing stations are in place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Court Theatre’s visiting hours?
A: Box office is open Monday–Saturday, 12 PM–6 PM, with extended hours on show days. Check the official website for updates.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase tickets online, by phone, or at the box office. Advance booking is strongly recommended.

Q: Is Court Theatre wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. There is step-free entry, accessible seating, and assistive listening devices available. Contact the box office for specific accommodations.

Q: Are there discounts?
A: Yes—for students, seniors, groups, and University of Chicago affiliates.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited on-campus and street parking is available. Public transit is recommended during peak times.

Q: Does Court Theatre offer guided tours?
A: Not regularly, but special events and post-show talks are often held. Check the website for current offerings.