VISION
To establish American Blues Theater as the nation’s leading intimate theater that connects art as service.

MISSION
American Blues Theater is an Ensemble of artists committed to producing new and classic diverse stories that ask the question: “What does it mean to be American?”

ABOUT US
Winner of the prestigious National Theatre Company Award from American Theatre Wing (Tony Awards), American Blues Theater is a non-profit arts organization that produces high-quality productions with a focus on stories that are relevant, timeless, and inclusive to the American spirit.

American Blues Theater is committed to developing new work as more than half of the productions are world and Chicago premieres. Play development programs include the nationally-recognized Blue Ink Award, commissions, readings, and the 16th annual Ripped Festival of short plays.

American Blues Theater believes in teamwork both on and off-stage. A leader in community engagement for decades, the theater matches each play’s themes with other non-profits’ missions to raise awareness.

In addition to producing plays, American Blues Theater offers a range of free services, including continuing education programs, writing instruction and matinees for Chicago Public Schools, dramaturgical materials, and post-show discussions to widen access in the community.

American Blues Theater and its artists have earned 238 Joseph Jefferson Awards and nominations, 44 Black Theater Alliance Awards, and numerous industry accolades, including nominations and awards for the Pulitzer Prize, Academy Awards, Tony Awards, Golden Globes Awards, Emmy Awards, and more.