Join the Chicago Playback Theatre Ensemble (CPTE) on October 13th for our second annual fundraiser, Playback and Pie, and support social change through storytelling in Chicago! For six years, CPTE has been building community in the greater Chicago area by using Playback Theatre, an interactive form of improvisational theatre, to bring the personal stories of our audience members to life on stage.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our ensemble consists of 15 performers and teaching artists dedicated to our unique approach to storytelling that aims to spark dialogue, broaden perspectives, and promote healing by celebrating and validating the truths of the stories we receive. CPTE focuses on collaborating with community partners to create performances and educational workshops that particularly support mental health advocacy, underserved youth, and LGBTQIA+ communities. All proceeds from this event support the Chicago Playback Theatre Ensemble, making it possible to continue social change through storytelling throughout Chicago.

Our fundraiser will include:

A Playback performance, “Treat Yourself Tales,'' on audience stories of triumphs, challenges, and moments worth savoring– the kind of moments we treat ourselves for, from the joyous milestones that demand a grand celebration to the relentless hard work that warrants a pat on the back!
Complimentary slice of pie and cash bar
Silent auction (Including bids to pie your favorite actor in the face!)
Words from our community partners and a preview of our 2025 season

More About CPTE:

Playback Theatre as an artform was created in 1975 and is practiced worldwide. Playback was formally established in Chicago six years ago after CPTE’s founder, Allison Sokolowski saw her own story with her college Playback troupe about struggling with her mental health which gave her the self-compassion she needed to seek support. Allison wanted to add the power of Playback to Chicago’s rich storytelling and theatre traditions. CPTE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is the only professional theatre company in Chicago performing and teaching the art of Playback Theatre.

What You’ll Support:

Pay our expanding ensemble of artists for training necessary to provide our season programming
Subsidize our sliding scale public performance tickets to keep Playback accessible at community venues like Third Space Chicago
Provide stipends for our administrative team to support our growing programming needs

Most importantly, your support builds community through amplifying the true stories of Chicagoans. You can read more about our work and partnerships on our website: https://www.chicagoplaybacktheatre.com

2024: Playback and Pie!

The Chicago Playback Theatre Ensemble's 2025 Season Fundraiser