Education
For the community, by the community
Definition’s educational programs are centered around making the arts accessible to the next generation on and off the stage. The ensemble teaches the art of storytelling and authorship through in-school residency programs, touring outreach, and collaborations with community partners. Curriculum is designed to increase empathy and the art of collaboration while learning to appreciate diversity of approach, style, and perspective.
Definition also offers various engagement opportunities, mentoring, and job shadowing in theatrical design with high school students in tandem with our full productions through a program called By Design. An adult playwriting course provides instruction by prolific playwrights and access to work with them to create a first draft of their first masterpiece. Participants conclude by hearing their words performed by professional actors, directed by highly sought after Chicagoland directors.
Explore Our Offerings
Community & Entrepreneurship
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Definition Innovator Small Business Cohort
Definition Theatre, 37 Oaks, and Promise Holdings LLC are partnering to provide space, resources, educational commerce courses, and capital for Black and Brown entrepreneurs on the South and West Side of Chicago. During the 16-week program, BIPOC participants will receive skills in Prototype to Commercialization, Education, E-commerce Distribution & Retail Opportunities, Branding & Promotion, Leadership Development, Seed funding, and Makers Shared Workspace.
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Annual Wadsworth Holiday Gift Giveaway
We started the Gift Giveaway in 2020—a tough time for folks financially, health wise and with remote schooling keeping kids disconnected. I’ve seen the impact firsthand on our students when they get a gift from “Santa.” Support to Definition will help us to build on the amazing cultural history of Woodlawn. Too often, on this side of the city, our young people are told their stories, experiences, and what brings them joy does not matter. We help bring joy to our kids so they feel seen, heard, and valued.
Classes & Workshops
The 101 Series
This expanding series of workshops offers a comprehensive introduction to the foundational elements of theater. Dive into the world of acting, playwriting and dance through these engaging courses designed to ignite anyone’s passion for performance.
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In this introductory course, students will learn the fundamentals of acting, including character development, voice and movement, and improvisation. Through script analysis, scene work, and creative exercises, students will gain confidence and begin to build a foundation for performance and technique.
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This course is designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of playwriting, including dramatic structure, world building, character development, and dialogue. Through writing exercises and peer feedback, students will learn to create compelling characters and stories for the stage.
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This class is an introduction to the principles of dance and movement, including rhythm, alignment, and expression. Through a combination of guided exercises and choreography, students will build strength, flexibility, and artistry while exploring different styles and expressions of dance.
Ensemble & Auditioning
The Ensemble and Audition Workshops are your gateway to building cohesive theater ensembles and assisting any student ace their next audition. These dynamic workshops will elevate your skills in both collaboration + performance.
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In this workshop, Definition ensemble members highlight and discuss the iconic ensemble model found in Chicago Theatre. With unique games and exercises that practice shared creative power, participants learn how to make space for fellow peers through the art of collaboration and are equipped with tools to build future ensembles.
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This series of workshops is designed to help actors prepare for auditions. Topics will include monologue selection and preparation, cold reading techniques, and interview skills. Through mock auditions and personalized feedback, students will gain confidence and improve their chances of success in the audition room.
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This course is designed to prepare actors for the unique challenges of auditioning for television and film. Students will learn techniques for on-camera acting, including understanding cold reads, camera angles and composition, the art of self-tapes, and adjusting to different styles of direction. Through practical exercises and scene work, students will develop the skills and confidence needed to successfully compete in the television and film industry.
After-School Programming
By Design Fellowship
YEAR-ROUND | HIGH SCHOOL
Starting with arts access & mentorship, By Design is a program for high school students to shadow each position on the creative production team of one play in Definition’s season. Students follow the process from the idea phase to completion. With one-on-one mentorship with directors, writers, and designers, each student gets an exclusive look at the team's approach and collaboration process to making socially relevant theatre.
Photo by Joe Mazza | Brave Lux.
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College Audition Prep
FALL | HIGH SCHOOL
High school seniors interested in pursuing a career in acting will receive personalized coaching and guidance to prepare them for college auditions. Topics will include monologue selection and preparation, choosing the right audition material, and interviewing techniques. With the help of industry professionals, students will be fully prepared to showcase their talent and stand out in the highly competitive college audition process.
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Taking Center Stage
YEAR-ROUND | K-12
This course is centered around the art of personal storytelling. Through a variety of exercises and techniques, students will learn to craft and perform their own stories with authenticity and impact. Topics covered will include creating a compelling narrative arc, engaging with an audience, and utilizing movement and gesture to enhance performance.
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The World of Theatre
SUMMER | HIGH SCHOOL
This introductory summer program offers design courses in Scenic, Costume, Lighting, Props, and Sound led by Definition ensemble members, teaching artists, and local collaborators. Through hands-on projects, students learn the basics of each discipline including concept development, technical skills, and production collaboration.
For further information on any of our community or educational offerings, connect with us at info@definitiontheatre.org