Lookingglass Theatre Company

Lookingglass Theatre Company Chicago: Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Lookingglass Theatre Company, housed within the historic Water Tower Water Works on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, is a celebrated institution blending the city’s architectural heritage with cutting-edge performing arts. Since 1988, Lookingglass has become synonymous with ensemble-driven, multidisciplinary theater, earning national acclaim and establishing itself as a must-visit for theater enthusiasts and culture seekers alike (Newcity Stage; Lookingglass Theatre About).

This guide provides an in-depth overview of Lookingglass Theatre Company—covering its history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and surrounding attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or a Chicago visitor eager to explore historic sites, this resource will help you plan an exceptional experience in the heart of the city.

Company History and Artistic Vision
Visitor Information
Exploring the Historic Venue
- Architectural Significance
- Venue Layout and Amenities
Special Programs and Community Engagement
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Media and Maps
References
Conclusion and Final Tips

Company History and Artistic Vision

Founding and Early Years

Established in 1988 by Northwestern University graduates, including David Schwimmer, Lookingglass Theatre Company aimed to revolutionize Chicago’s theater scene through an ensemble-driven, multidisciplinary approach that integrates theater, dance, music, and circus arts (Newcity Stage). The company’s early nomadic years fostered artistic innovation, though a permanent audience base was a challenge until Lookingglass secured its current home in 2003 (WTTW News).

Water Tower Water Works: A Permanent Home

Since 2003, Lookingglass has occupied the Water Tower Water Works, one of the few survivors of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 (Water Tower Arts District). The 200-seat black-box theater offers flexible staging for inventive productions and is a model for adaptive reuse of historic architecture (Chicago Historical Sites).

Artistic Achievements

Lookingglass has staged over 70 world premieres and garnered 42 Joseph Jefferson Awards, in addition to the 2011 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. The company is recognized for spectacular works like Mary Zimmerman’s Metamorphoses and inventive adaptations such as Lookingglass Alice (Lookingglass Theatre About; Amusements Parks Reviews). Commitment to new voices is seen in recent productions like Iraq, But Funny (Stage and Cinema Review).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Box Office: Tuesday–Saturday, 12 PM–6 PM, and open one hour before showtimes.
Performance Days: Regular performances Tuesday–Sunday, with evening shows and weekend matinees.
Venue Access: The historic building is accessible to ticket holders during showtimes.

Check the official Lookingglass Theatre website for current schedules and special events.

Tickets and Booking

Purchase: Online, by phone (312.337.0665), or at the box office.
Pricing: Generally $35–$80, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible seating and assistive listening devices available on request.
Advance Booking: Strongly recommended due to intimate capacity and high demand (Stage and Cinema review).

Directions, Parking, and Accessibility

Address: 163 E. Pearson St. at Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Public Transit: CTA Red Line (Chicago Ave stop), multiple bus routes.
Parking: Discounted rates at 875 N. Michigan (John Hancock Center), Olympia Centre Self Park, and Water Tower Place (validation at the box office).
Accessibility: Ramps, accessible restrooms, and large-print programs. Service animals welcome.

Exploring the Historic Venue

Architectural Significance

Erected in 1869, the Water Tower Water Works is a rare survivor of the 1871 fire and showcases Gothic Revival architecture, with limestone façades and striking turrets (Water Tower Arts District). Its transformation from water pumping station to premier cultural venue is a testament to Chicago’s adaptive spirit.

Venue Layout and Amenities

Theater Space: Flexible black-box design enables immersive staging.
Lobby: Recent renovations include a new lobby with enhanced accessibility and comfort (Chicago Tribune review).
Services: On-site restrooms, concessions, and periodic lobby exhibits.

Special Programs and Community Engagement

Lookingglass is deeply engaged with the community through:

Education: In-school residencies, student matinees, summer camps, and a Young Ensemble program (Lookingglass Theatre About).
Partnerships: Collaborations with groups like Teatro Vista, Instituto Cervantes, and Actors Gymnasium for accessible, relevant programming (Spotlight on Lake).
Events: Annual Sunset 1919 honors Chicago’s Black and Indigenous histories (Werner’s Theatre Reviews).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Magnificent Mile: Renowned for shopping and dining.
Historic Water Tower: Adjacent to the theater.
John Hancock Center: Observation decks with city views.
Museum of Contemporary Art: Nearby for art lovers.
Chicago Riverwalk: Ideal for a scenic stroll.

Travel Tips:

Arrive early to explore the lobby and historic building.
Use public transit or validated parking to avoid downtown traffic.
Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.
Take advantage of local restaurant partnerships for dining discounts (Lookingglass Theatre: Plan Your Visit).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I buy tickets?
Purchase online, by phone (312.337.0665), or at the box office (Lookingglass Theatre: Plan Your Visit).

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, including wheelchair seating and assistive listening devices.

Are there guided tours?
Occasional backstage tours and special events; check the website for announcements.

What are the best nearby attractions?
Magnificent Mile, John Hancock Center, Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Chicago Riverwalk.

Is parking available?
Yes—use nearby garages with box office validation for discounts.

Are family visits encouraged?
Yes, with family-friendly shows and youth programming.

Visual Media and Maps

Lookingglass Theatre Exterior
Lookingglass Theatre Company exterior at Water Tower Water Works building

Inside Lookingglass Black Box Theatre
Lookingglass Theatre Company flexible stage setup

Virtual Tour of Lookingglass Theatre

Map to Lookingglass Theatre

References

Conclusion and Final Tips

Lookingglass Theatre Company is a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural landscape, uniting bold artistry with historical significance. Housed in the iconic Water Tower Water Works, it offers both locals and tourists a unique blend of immersive theater and architectural history. From its acclaimed productions to its robust educational outreach, Lookingglass exemplifies the creative resilience and community spirit that define Chicago.