History
Founded by five Northwestern University graduates, Lifeline moved into its permanent home in Rogers Park, a converted Commonwealth Edison substation, in 1986. The facility includes a 99-seat theater, rehearsal and office space, a scene shop, and costume, prop, and scenery storage. Lifeline serves 17,000 people each season running from September through August with a 3-play MainStage Season and a 3-play KidSeries season. Lifeline has received close to 100 Joseph Jefferson awards, citations, nominations and After Dark awards. In 2007, Lifeline was honored by the Joseph Jefferson Awards Committee with a Special Citation for its 25-year contribution to Chicago theater.
Specialties
Lifeline Theatre is driven by a passion for story. Our ensemble process supports writers in the development of literary adaptations and new work, and our theatrical and educational programs foster a lifelong engagement with literature and the arts. A cultural anchor of Rogers Park, we are committed to deepening our connection to an ever-growing family of artists and audiences, both near and far.