About Goodman Theatre Center · Chicago
The Goodman Theatre Center, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a world-renowned theater founded in 1925. It serves as a vital cultural hub for the city, offering a diverse range of theatrical productions, immersive experiences, and educational programs. Known for its commitment to quality, equity, and community, the theater has presented nearly 200 world or American premieres and hosts over 375 annual performances. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to artistic excellence and social impact, with leadership under Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director John Collins.
Established in 1925, The Goodman Theatre Center is more than a performance venue—it’s a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural identity. It presents a wide array of plays, musicals, and immersive experiences, including world premieres and community-driven events like '100 Free Acts of Theater.' The theater is deeply involved in education and community engagement, offering programs for youth, schools, professionals, and the broader public. Its mission centers on equity, diversity, and inclusion, reflected in its IDEEA Action Plan for anti-racism and accessibility. The Goodman also hosts off-campus experiences and collaborates with artists and organizations to activate creativity across the city. With a $22M+ annual budget and 230,000+ attendees, it remains a vital force in Chicago’s arts scene.
- In business
- since 1925
- Serves
- Chicago, IL
About The Goodman
Since 1925, The Goodman has been more than a stage. A world-renowned theatrical home for artists and a gathering space for community, it’s where stories come to life—bold in artistry and rich in history, deeply rooted in the city it serves.
Leadership & Staff
Led by Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director John Collins, The Goodman is staffed by a diverse team of artists, educators, and administrators committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Susan V. Booth – Walter Artistic Director
- John Collins – Executive Director
- Lewis Warrick – Chief Financial Officer
- Owen Brazas – Systems Administrator
- Jodi J. Brown – Business Office Manager
Education & Engagement
The Goodman offers programs for youth, schools, professionals, and the community, including after-school workshops, immersive summer programs, and professional development opportunities.
- For Youth: After-school programs and theater workshops
- For Schools: Field trips and teaching resources
- For Professionals: Internships and engagement opportunities
- Community Workshops: Immersive and collaborative experiences
Events & Rentals
The Goodman offers rental spaces for events and performances, and hosts immersive experiences like Dennis Watkins’ The Magic Parlour and David Byrne’s Theater of the Mind.
- The Magic Parlour (Dennis Watkins)
- Theater of the Mind (David Byrne & Mala Gaonkar)
- 100 Free Acts of Theater (citywide)
- Rental spaces for events and performances