30 for 30

Founded in 1982, the mission of Stage Left Theatre is to develop and produce plays that raise debate and challenge perspectives on political and social issues.

Over the past thirty years, Stage Left has produced over 100 mainstage, late-night, off-night, children’s and touring productions that have garnered critical accolades, as well as 40 nominations and 16 awards for excellence from the Joseph Jefferson Awards Committee.

Stage Left is also a home for new play development with a national reputation. Downstage Left offers playwrights the resources to develop a project from the conceptual stage to full production. Downstage Left's flagship program, LeapFest is an annual new work festival that has sent 25% of it's participants on to full productions at Stage Left and theaters around the world.

In the fall of 2010, after 15 years in our previous home at 3408 N Sheffield, Stage Left became one of the resident companies at Theater Wit – a multi-theater complex that provides expanded seating capacity and audience amenities, greater design opportunities, and a higher profile as part of an emerging Belmont Theater District.

This new performance venue is a big step for us, and we love working there. But it is significantly more expensive, and we need your help as we continue to grow into our new situation. For thirty years, we have been an active and distinctive voice in the vibrant Chicago theater scene. Help us make this year the first of the next 30.