The next generation needs you.

Each season we have the privilege of connecting with thousands of people in our community. People like you, aligned with our vision of a world where LGBTQ+ people thrive, free from prejudice and discrimination. And in our 31st season, we honored our past, grappled with our present, and felt connected to the community. We are proud to share these highlights with you:

LIFE OUT LOUD inspired new audiences around Northern Illinois. This interactive touring workshop traveled to new partners like Cary United Methodist Church in Cary, IL and Kingswood United Methodist Church in Buffalo Grove, IL. Rev. Timothy Biel Jr. from KUMC shared, “Many thanks to you and the cast for illuminating us...Life Out Loud: Voices of Pride is a gem. Keep the faith.” and Rev. Noval of CUMC shared, “It’s time for churches to reckon with the harm they’ve done to the LGBTQ+ community. Life Out Loud did a great job of helping us further that healing process.” We are honored to do this bridge building work with faith leaders.

The Queer Youth Ensemble returned with a warm welcome! Since October 2025, seven young artists have been paid to participate in the program, learning theatrical and storytelling skills, and gaining professional experience in the arts. This program develops leaders who will be at the forefront of social change and cultural upheaval. Their culminating performance, Vantage Point, was featured during Re/Generation Studio at The Goodman Theatre this spring.

The World Premiere of Preston Max Allen’s Modern Gentleman was a salve to our spirits. During our popular run on the Schwartz Stage at Raven Theatre, our audiences shared how connected it made them feel, underscoring the way authentic queer stories capture the full spectrum of our collective humanity. And our groundbreaking work continues! We've announced our plans for next season and look forward to welcoming you back to the theatre.

Our continued success is all thanks to you. Surviving in the current political climate has been a challenge, and yet, our mission still stands. Our future is secured by passing on this torch to the next generation of theatre-makers, and we need your help to get us there. Your support will provide hourly pay for youth ensemble members, nourishing community meals, leadership development opportunities with partner organizations, travel costs for touring programs around the region, and more.

Please consider donating $10, $100, $1,000 or whatever you can to keep the fire alive. You can also deepen your impact with a recurring gift by selecting the "monthly" frequency after choosing your amount.

Whether your priority is providing essential meals and workshops for our Queer Youth Ensemble or bringing new plays to glorious life onstage, your donation will ensure we can deliver on our mission well into the future.

Thank you for being by our side!