New “baby theatre” for ages 0-3
It’s been popular in Europe and in a few other U.S. cities, so now “theater for the very young” is set to debut in Chicago.
Next summer, the Emerald City Theatre will open the nation’s first performance space of its kind at 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago, and do the world premiere production of “Goodnight Gorilla” for ages 0-3.
“We regularly see younger brothers and sisters ages 0-3 brought along to our performances and we are pleased to be launching this effort to better serve the youngest of our audience,” said Ernie Nolan, associate artistic director and writer/director of the play “Goodnight Gorilla.” “No longer will the youngest be the forgotten audience.”
It’s true, that until now, babies are not welcomed at most theater productions because they’ll be too noisy and disruptive. But a crying baby or a wandering, babbling toddler is not a problem at this new baby theater. The new theater space will be open and sensory-friendly, have easy-access restrooms with changing tables, easy car parking and indoor stroller parking, and will hold a maximum of 50 adults and children.
“At the theater, parents get the chance to share a creative experience with their child and with other parents. That sharing is liberating and simply fun. It gives us parents an education in how to play like a baby and builds a sense of community at the same time,” said Karen Cardarelli, artistic/executive director.
The theater’s goal is to introduce very young children to an immersive, artistic experience and create theater that inspires early learners through play.
Emerald City Theatre is a nonprofit theater and was named the 2009 and 2010 Nickelodeon Parents’ Pick Award for Best Theater Group for Kids. Its performance home is at the Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.
The 2011-2012 season includes “If You Give a Cat a Cupcake,” “Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells,” “Snow White” and “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.” For details, see emeraldcitytheatre.com or call (773) 935-6100.