Lookingglass Theatre Company - Chicago's home for the daring and transformative

Nearly four decades ago, a small group of artists imagined a theatre where anything was possible—where stories could spill off the stage, where actors could fly, dive, tumble, and transform, and where audiences would feel the thrill of discovery every time the lights came up. That spark became Lookingglass Theatre Company, a home for bold, visually rich, and physically daring storytelling that has redefined what theatre can be in Chicago and across the country.

From its beginnings as a scrappy ensemble of visionaries to its recognition as a Tony Award–winning leader in American theatre, Lookingglass has remained committed to one belief: that art should ignite curiosity, expand empathy, and bring people together. Today, our work reaches far beyond our stage on the Magnificent Mile—into classrooms, public spaces, and communities throughout Chicago.

The Come As You Aren’t Ball on May 2, 2026 celebrates that spirit of imagination. It honors the artists, educators, and audiences who make our work possible, and it invites our community to step into the extraordinary world that Lookingglass creates every day. Your support helps fuel the next chapter of daring performances, transformative education programs, and stories that remind us of the power of possibility.

We invite you to step directly into that spirit of imagination by joining us at the Come As You Aren’t Ball. Bringing together Chicago’s most engaged leaders, investors, and creative collaborators, the Ball promises an unforgettable evening of artistry.

In true Lookingglass fashion, the evening will be unlike all others, unfolding over two acts. Each act offers its own world of wonder.

Act I welcomes an exclusive group of 170 guests into a vibrant, immersive cocktail and dining experience filled with character, color, and surprise. It will include a beautiful dinner, curated program, fabulous live auction, and special guest appearances. All Act I guests are invited to stay for Act II.

Act II transforms the night into a dazzling dance party and celebration for 400 guests, where creativity reigns and the unexpected becomes the star of the show. Guests will experience savory and sweet bites, open bar, rousing special guest performances, delightful silent auction, and a well-known DJ to carry us through the night.

As it relates to fashion, Come As You Aren't is, at its heart, a costume ball. Guests are invited to arrive in imaginative “character couture” attire inspired by the costumes designed for Lookingglass productions over its history. Whether that means a single striking accessory or a full transformation, you’ll mingle among one-of-a-kind looks and celebrate the artistry of costume design that has helped define 38 years of fearless invention at Lookingglass Theatre.

Thank you for being a part of this experience. Your presence—and your support—help fuel the next chapter of daring performances, transformative education programs, and stories that remind us of the power of possibility. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Come As You Aren't Ball

A celebration of costume design to benefit Lookingglass Theatre Company