Vision: A radically kind Chicago that champions children’s ideas
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Playmakers Laboratory is an arts education that teaches creative writing and theatre to 3rd-5th grade students in Chicago Public Schools. The stories written by our students are then adapted into sketches, songs, plays, and videos in an effort to celebrate and amplify the voices of young people.
This week PlayMakers Laboratory is visiting 6 Chicago Public Libraries teaching storytelling to young readers!Check us out at Thurgood Marshall, Brainerd, Douglass, Humboldt Park, Near North, & Lozano!
https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?q=PlayMakers%20Laboratory
Did you get your 🎟️ TICKETS 🎟️YET? 🎟️
⏰THERE’S STILL TIME! ⏰
🌟Join us for our FIRST IN PERSON GALA EVENT SINCE 2019 🌟
🎉CELEBRATION OF AUTHORS GALA: A FAMILY FRIENDLY FUNDRAISER! 🎉
🎉🥳🎉🥳TODAY JUNE 16 at 6:30pm AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART IN PILSEN🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉
We have a wonderful night planned with:
❤️Silent Auction! Games! Food + Drinks!
🧡Open Bar for adult guests!
💛Photo Booth! Tarot Readings!
💚Balloon Animals with Clarke Newton!
💙Puppet Crafting with Chio Cabrera & Jake Coz!
🩵A Story Performed by Muffy Fishbasket!!
💜Special Guest: Christina Anthony!
YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS IT! CLICK THE LINK 4️⃣ TICKET INFO ‼️‼️
🌟Tomorrow is the BIG DAY 🌟
Our Celebration of Authors Gala: A Family Friendly Fundraiser is HAPPENING ! Don’t miss it there are still TICKETS 🎟️ 🎟️ available in the link in our bio!
We our presenting our first ever PlayMaker Of The Year Award to the wonderfully talented Christina Anthony! We are so thrilled to have her!
Christina Anthony did a radio segment interview with Rufus Williams on WVON Radio. Click on the video below to listen in AND WE HOPE TO SEE YOU TOMORROW AT THE GALA ! 🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉
Have you ever wanted to set sail with a group of friends?! Experience you own private sailing ⛵️ excursion for 4 right here in Chicago! Just one of the many auctions items you can bid on this Friday June 16 at our Celebration of Authors Gala & Fundraiser! 🎉
Can’t attend the Gala?! 🚨Our online auction is LIVE 🚨 CHECK THIS OUT AS WELL AS OUR OTHER AMAZING AUCTIONS ITEMS!
🌟LINK FOR TICKETS & AUCTION IN OUR BIO🌟
🤩HAPPY BIDDING🤩
We Are 4️⃣ days away and counting to our first in person Celebration of Authors Gala since 2019!! 🎉🥳🎉
Friday June 16TH at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen! Our PlayMakers will be performing a selection of stories written by our🤩 STUDENTS🤩
You don’t want to miss it! Go to the LinkTree in our Bio for TICKETS 🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️
⚡️FLASH SALE ⚡️ TODAY ONLY! ⚡️
Get your Celebration of Authors Gala Tickets 🎟️ at a discount by using promo code: EARLYBIRD at check out.
🚨ADULT TICKETS ARE $25 OFF 🚨
🚨YOUTH TICKETS ARE $15 OFF 🚨
That means ADULT TICKETS are $50 instead of $75 😱
YOUTH TICKETS are $35 instead of $50😱
It’s ! Grab a friend and get ready to have some fun on June 16th!
Link for tickets is in our BIO ‼️
Also don’t forget to bid on our silent auction ‼️Link in BIO ‼️
Happy ! At PML we want our students to always feel safe and empowered to be and to love whoever they want. 🌈❤️🌈❤️🌈❤️
Diamond from Colombia Explorers Academy wrote this story about a character who comes out to their parents and we couldn’t be more proud to share this story with you.
Our students are incredible, insightful and inspiring. We’re so excited about this year’s COA Gala and to feature more students’ stories. Don’t miss out! Tickets available at
https://www.paperlesspost.com/go/mLyVdNgUBeypAgC5JKVvG/pp_g/previewac9f36722ec850a587c35b261c01a503?utm_content=media&utm_source=flyer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=flyer_invitation_v4
🌟Meet Our Special Guest For Our Celebration of Authors Gala🌟
She's got the style of Gem and the Holograms with the grace and wisdom to empower anyone to be their authentic selves. Get ready for Story Hour with
Muffy Fishbasket! ❤️
🌟MUFFY FISHBASKET Is WORLD FAMOUS in her mind and the original Drag Broad. Her performance has been referred to as a mix of Madeline Khan confusion and Mae West camp, which is good because she's done her best to steal both of their acts. She has trained in circus arts at the Actors Gymnasium and Trapeze School New York and performs regularly at Hamburger Mary's , Carbon Arc, Campit and the House of Blues. Muffy had performed all over the country and sometimes even in a stage in an actual show!
Muffy Fishbasket is also the Chicago director for the nationally recognized Story Hour with Drag Queens.
🌟Meet Our Special Guest for Our Celebration of Authors Gala! 🌟
The Wonderfully Talented Clarke Newton!
Have you ever had a bad day and the only thing that could cheer you up was your very own Pokemon balloon animal? Or ever have a good day and you knew it could only get better with your very own balloon alien in a spaceship? Well you're in luck because we have the multi-talented Clarke Newton to dazzle you and your family with all your balloon animal needs!
🌟Clarke Newton (They/He) is a writer, actor, improvisor, producer, balloon artist, stilt walker etc. from the suburbs of Washington D.C., where they worked for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as a Programming Coordinator and Festival Producer. Since moving to Chicago they have performed all over the city, including ComedySportz Chicago, the Second City, The Annoyance, Laugh Out Loud Theater, and Chicago SketchFest.
🌟MEET OUR SPECIAL GUESTS FOR OUR CELEBRATION OF AUTHORS GALA! 🌟
Ever want to learn the art of puppetry? 🎭 You and you family can get a chance to do just that at our 🌟Celebration of Authors Gala🌟 with spectacular duo,
Chio Cabrera-Coz and Jacob Coz!
🌟Rocio "Chio" Cabrera is a Mexican-American artist seeking to share traditional and new Hispanic stories through puppetry. Rocio is a self-taught multi-disciplinary artist focused on miniatures. She is currently working on a live puppetry performance about the surviving ancient Mayan codices titled, Juana And The Missing Mayan Book which will be featured at this year's Chicago Puppet Lab Showcase from June 1st-11th at Chopin Theatre.
🌟Jacob Cabrera Coz is a writer, puppeteer and builder. He's a Massachusetts born and raised creative. He's been involved in a number of productions alongside his wife, Chio Cabrera-Coz. Jacob will also be featured at this year's Chicago Puppet Lab Showcase puppeteering in Juana And The Missing Mayan Book at the Chopin Theatre from June 1st-11th.
Join us for an evening of giving ❤️ as we celebrate our first ⭐️IN PERSON ⭐️ GalaFundraiser since 2019‼️😱 We have a wonderful evening planned for you❣️as we honor our wonderful alum Christina Anthony with the PlayMaker Of The Year Award 🏆 Plus Our very own PlayMakers will be performing adapted stories from students from the 2022-2023 school year 😃 There will be food, silent auctions and so many fun activities! Also a chance to win a week stay at the 🏖️ Vidanta Resort in Mexico 🏝️ 🥳🥳 DON’T MISS OUT! TODAY IS THE LAST DAY FOR EARLY BIRD TICKETS 🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️❤️🎟️ Tickets on the LinkTree in our Bio ❤️
Don’t miss out on your earlybird tickets to support a wonderful cause ❤️Tomorrow is the last day!
WHAT’S THAT YOU SAY?! Early Bird Ticket deadline is extended till May 22nd?! 🎉🥳🎉 ¡HUZZAH ! 🎉🥳🎉
Don’t miss out on your chance to get your Early Bird Tickets! 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️We hope you can join us Friday, June 16 from 6:30 to 10:30pm at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen!
Last January Playmakers laboratory was at risk of shutting down indefinitely. The pandemic hurt Playmakers Laboratory’s finances and ability to teach in schools. The nonprofits board voted to close the organization, a move that devastated company members and alumni. With the amazing efforts of our staff, volunteers, and supporters we were able to raise our goal of $60,000 to help us get back on our feet.
Our organization relies on the generosity of supporters and donors like you to continue our work. This year our Celebration of Authors Gala will give guests a chance to see a live performance of stories, written by students from the 2022 to 2023 school year, adapted for the stage by Playmakers very own teaching artists.
We hope we can count on you to make the celebration of authors event the best one yet! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This year, PlayMakers Laboratory is proud to present ❤️🏆 The PlayMaker Of The Year Award 🏆❤️to none other than our PML alum Christina Anthony❣️
Christina Anthony is a multi-talented actress, writer, vocalist, and improviser. She is originally from the Chicago comedy scene and is best known as an emeritus company member of Playmakers Lab after teaching creative writing throughout Chicago Public Schools to countless students. Christina is also an alum of the Second City e.t.c. Chicago where she co-wrote three award-nominated sketch revues and performed thousands of shows for Chicago audiences.
Most recently, Christina was a series regular on the ABC Black-ish spinoff Mixed-ish and starred opposite Kristen Bell in the Netflix dark comedy series The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window. This spring, she made the move to NBC to appear in a lead role in Non-Evil Twin, a sitcom pilot created and starring Amber Ruffin.
We are thrilled to be able to honor Christina Anthony at this year’s Celebration Of Authors Gala on June 16. Early bird tickets are still on sale till May 22nd❣️ visit our Linktree in our bio to purchase!
WHAT’S THAT YOU SAY?! Early Bird Ticket deadline is extended till May 22nd?! 🎉🥳🎉 ¡HUZZAH ! 🎉🥳🎉
Don’t miss out on your chance to get your Early Bird Tickets! 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️We hope you can join us Friday, June 16 from 6:30 to 10:30pm at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen!
Last January Playmakers laboratory was at risk of shutting down indefinitely. The pandemic hurt Playmakers Laboratory’s finances and ability to teach in schools. The nonprofits board voted to close the organization, a move that devastated company members and alumni. With the amazing efforts of our staff, volunteers, and supporters we were able to raise our goal of $60,000 to help us get back on our feet.
Our organization relies on the generosity of supporters and donors like you to continue our work. This year our Celebration of Authors Gala will give guests a chance to see a live performance of stories, written by students from the 2022 to 2023 school year, adapted for the stage by Playmakers very own teaching artists.
We hope we can count on you to make the celebration of authors event the best one yet! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Early bird tickets for the Celebration of Authors Gala is now on sale!
We hope you can join us on June 16th at the National Museum of Mexican Art for our gala fundraiser. The night will include a Silent Auction, open bar and a performance by our very own Playmakers showcasing work from the entire 2022-2023 school year!
Clink link for tickets! https://www.paperlesspost.com/go/mLyVdNgUBeypAgC5JKVvG/pp_g/previewac9f36722ec850a587c35b261c01a503?utm_content=media&utm_source=flyer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=flyer_invitation_v4 💃 💃🏽💃🏻💃🏿🕺🏽🕺🏿🕺
⭐️⭐️WE WERE FEATURED IN THE READER BEST OF CHICAGO 2022⭐️ ⭐️
FOR:🎉🎉 🎭 BEST ARTS EDUCATION PROGRAMMING 📝📓🎉🎉
�We are beyond grateful to be recognized in the Reader for the work we do to provide a platform where young children can express themselves creatively, in a world that will sometimes say, "You can't be an astronaut! You're too sweet!" (Vanessa, 4th Grade)
Check out the article in the Linktree in the bio 😃😃😃⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️😄😄😄
PlayMakers Laboratory's
Gala & Celebration of Authors
returns in-person for the first time since 2019! 💃💃💃💃💃💃💃🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺 We hope you can join us on Friday, June 16 from 6:30pm to 10:30pm at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen!
Along with a performance of stories adapted by the PlayMakers from this school year, our Gala will feature a delightful evening of music, food & beverage and silent auction.
All proceeds support PlayMakers Laboratory's programming in under-served communities and the Chicago Public Schools. EARLY BIRD TICKETS ON SALE APRIL 15!!! 🎟 🎭 🎟 🎭
Our friends The Neo-Futurists are hosting Gemma Soldati and the family friendly show "The Adventures of Sleepyhead" on Saturday Feb. 18th! See a video preview here https://youtu.be/RbOwITkOvPY and tickets are available by visiting https://neofuturists.org/events/the-adventures-of-sleepyhead/
THE ADVENTURES OF SLEEPYHEAD
BY GEMMA SOLDATI
"She’s the dreamer of dreams. The walking-talking nap. A snoozer and a muser. Children and adults alike will delight in this adventure to the heart of dreamland as Sleepyhead fends off the Zzz… From the brain of award winning clown, Gemma Soldati, this otherworldly, interactive hour explores the source of imagination and the tick-tock of our internal clock. The Adventures of Sleepyhead promises better dreams and a good night sleep or your money back. Full of puppetry, audience participation and physical comedy. For dreamers of all ages!"
THANK YOU, Beyoncé & BeyGood for your recognition of PlayMakers Laboratory as an Organization Committed to Service!
We LOVE serving our students throughout Chicago and aim to do it for plenty more years to come.
PlayMakers Laboratory is a nonprofit organization in its 26th year. We provide arts education programs to students aged 7-13 throughout Chicago, focused on storytelling, theater, and social-emotional skills.
PML is an ensemble of teaching artists who create an experimental learning environment in which students share their personal voices and celebrate the power of their imaginations. PML accomplishes this through creative writing workshops and in-school performances of students stories. PML also engages the broader community in support of the visions of young people through public performances of their work.
Support our work at www.playmakerslab.org/donate
You're Invited! You are so important to us as a partner and supporter. We couldn't continue teaching creative writing classes without you.
We invite you to donate to PlayMakers Laboratory this giving season BEFORE the clock strikes midnight to close out 2022. www.playmakerslab.org/donate
Remember, your donation is tax deductible! End the year with one more good deed. When you donate you are supporting young voices like Leslie's in her story,
The Fire King, which you can read below!
🔥👑🔥👑
The Fire King by Leslie, 5th grade, Dixon Elementary
There was once a man who was covered in fire. His eyes blood red his hair looked like cooled magma. The fire king said “Whad do you wanne Bethany” Bethany responded “Please come back home, your family misses you.” The fire king screamed “how am I suppose to come home if I burn every thing I touch” and the he accidentally burned Bethany. The Fire King said “oh no what have I done.”
The End.
Mother Nature knows Climate Change is real and so does Jai who wrote “What Mother Nature Does to You” over 10 years ago! So as you keep warm this winter, we hope you consider making a donation to PlayMakers Lab AND that you do your part to reduce the effects of climate change!
Thank you for Supporting PlayMakers Laboratory's Annual End-of-Year-Giving Campaign. Please enjoy this staged story titled: WHAT MOTHER NATURE DOES TO YOU by Jai, from New Sullivan Elementary. Adapted by the PlayMakers from our 25th Anniversary Celebration.
www.playmakerslab.org/donate
WHAT MOTHER NATURE DOES TO YOU
By Jai, New Sullivan Elementary
There was no tornados and then when mother nature saw all her grass and trees being cut down by the people who lived in log cabins—who would for their fires, she got mad. She said “don’t cut down any more trees or else I will have a tornado to kill you” The Cabin people did not believe her they said “You are kidding” she said “try me” then they cut more trees and she got more angry and angry. She put the hot air on top and the cold air on the bottom and then she started to spin and spin with her arms and they did not believe she was mother nature, but then they started to, but she started to throw the tornado at them and they died because the tornado was so strong they couldn’t handle it that they passed out and mother nature killed them. When mother nature gives a warning don’t try her or you will die. THE END.
Love is Love is Love! This is what we learn from our students who write stories following the PlayMaker motto “Every Idea is a Good Idea”
www.playmakerslab.org/donate
Thank you for Supporting PlayMakers Laboratory's Annual End-of-Year-Giving Campaign. Please enjoy this staged story titled: SECRET PILOT by Diamond, from Columbia Explorers Academy. Adapted by the PlayMakers from our 25th Anniversary Celebration.
Secret Pilot
By: Diamond, Columbia Explorers Academy
Long ago there was a famous singer but they didn’t want to be a singer.The only reason they were one was because they wanted to make their parents proud. So they kept quiet. Their name was Boda Frost. They really liked to go to the beach with friends.They lived in Chicago. They actually really love planes and the sunset. Their dream was to fly a plane and fly into a sunset with their partner. But they were in a secret relationship and they did a lot with each other. Then a few years later they came out to their parents and Boda and their partner got married. THE END.
Eeooo! Eeooo! The Sirens are ringing telling you to make your Tax Deductible donation to PlayMakers Laboratory before the year is over…. Otherwise you’ll be dealing with those pesky IRS moles in April!
www.playmakerslab.org/donate
Please enjoy this staged story titled: IRS MOLES by Ben from Hough Street School. Adapted by the PlayMakers in our 25th Anniversary Celebration.
IRS MOLES
By Ben L, Hough Street School
Eeooo! The sirens rang throughout the city. Speakers popped out of buildings. “Run, the IRS Moles are coming” said the speakers. Everyone ran. They knew that moles would make them pay. “Come on” said Harold to his mother as they ran. “But the cookies” said his mother, “we need them.” “We’ll have to leave them” said Harold. “Dang” said his sister. “I say we fight back against this tax collecting” said Bob who was 2 and very smart. No one noticed. He hopped down from his mother and ran back to the house unnoticed by his family. Suddenly out the window he saw a bunch of Moles in tuxedos. “Those must be the IRS Moles” thought Bob. Abruptly one walked up to his house and knocked on the door. Bob found a ladder and opened the door. “You have taxes to pay” said the Mole. Now Bob may have been a genius but he didn’t know what you were supposed to pay taxes with. He knew that he had to give the Mole something, so he went to the cupboard and got some squishy canned peas. When the Mole saw the peas he screamed and ran for his life. Moles have a horrible allergy to squishy peas. All the people came back and told Bob he should be mayor. The only person who did not like this idea was the current mayor. But nobody cared and Bob led them wonderfully. THE END.
We had another WONDERFUL SHOW at Pottawattomie Park! Our fearless leader Kaylyn directed an amazing show, written by campers at Pottawattomie Park After School Program.
A highlight includes a student shouting out mid-premiere of a song “I LOVE THIS SONG!”
We are lucky to work with so many young people all over Chicago!
THANK YOU to everyone who made it out for our 25th Anniversary celebrating 25 Years of Students’ Stories! 🤩🌟
We are lucky to have a collective full of past and present PlayMakers Laboratory teaching artists & performers come back each time we do an anniversary show. Big love to our big fam ❤️
And it’s not too late to donate to our end-of-year giving campaign at the link in our bio!
TONIGHT! Make your way to the Neo-Futurist Theater for PlayMakers Laboratory’s 25 Years of Students’ Stories: A One Night Only Anniversary Performance. There are two performances at 6:30PM and 8:30PM. Tickets can be purchased for $25 in honor of our 25 years by heading to our website www.playmakerslab.org/shows
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance! IF you purchase tickets at the door, space is limited, and cash is preferred!
Thanks for visiting us this morning and chatting about our 25th Anniversary Show!
Catch our segment at 4pm today! then come to the show tonight at 6:30 or 8:30PM at the Neo-Futurists Theater!
Only a few more hours until PlayMakers Laboratory’s 25 Years of Students’ Stories: A One Night Only Anniversary Performance at the Neo-Futurist Theater.
There are two performances at 6:30PM and 8:30PM. Tickets can be purchased for $25 in honor of our 25 years by heading to our website www.playmakerslab.org
We recommend buying tickets in advance! IF you purchase tickets at the door, space is limited & cash is preferred!
TONIGHT! Come see PlayMakers Laboratory’s 25 Years of Students’ Stories: A One Night Only Anniversary Performance at the Neo-Futurist Theater on December 5, 2022.
There are two performances at 6:30PM and 8:30PM. Tickets can be purchased for $25 in honor of our 25 years by heading to our website www.playmakerslab.org
We recommend buying tickets in advance!! IF you purchase tickets at the door, cash is preferred!
OKAY, Let's CELEBRATE! TOMORROW! Come see PlayMakers Laboratory’s 25 Years of Students’ Stories: A One Night Only Anniversary Performance at the Neo-Futurist Theater on December 5, 2022.
TWO PERFORMANCES: 6:30PM and 8:30PM.
TICKETS can be purchased for $25 in honor of our 25 years by visiting http://ow.ly/TSNm50LSVxs
Not available to attend? Donate to our end-of-year giving campaign at our website!
"A House" is one of our favorite Holiday-themed stories, and we're so excited to bring it to you on Monday! PlayMakers Lab is celebrating our anniversary of 25 Years of Students’ Stories with two public performances on Monday, December 5 at 6:30 pm & 8:30 pm at the Neo-Futurist Theater.
For 25 years, PlayMakers Laboratory has provided vital arts education by conducting creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. PML’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public.
You can support the creativity of Chicago youth by purchasing tickets to see a story like this performed LIVE at our 25th Anniversary Show at www.playmakerslab.org/shows
A House by Lucy, Loyola Park After School Program
One day there was a house on ridge elfs lived there and the elfs just bought the house. The next day the elfs lived there one of the elfs went to the bathroom and all of the elf went after him but they all wanted to go to the bathroom in the house. There are 100 elfs waiting for the bathroom. There is one bathroom in the house. All the elf have name their names are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and on and on to 100 and elf number 1 says “We should have 100 bathrooms in this house.” So number 99 went to the neighbor and used their bathroom. Number 10 went to the school and all the elf went to the school except number 99 and 5 but the school was full so all the elf that are not 5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 99 had to go home and hope that 5 is done…with the house bathroom so some one came and built 100 more bathrooms so all the elf can go to the bathroom the problem is solved. The end
THANK YOU, BLOCK CLUB CHICAGO! 🌟🌟 Get your tix now for our 25th Anniversary Show on Monday, December 5! Head to our website http://ow.ly/QnWv50LSBLl for tickets now! And read the full Block Club Chicago article at http://ow.ly/TT8n50LSBLn
From Block Club Chicago: "PlayMakers Laboratory nearly closed during the pandemic despite its more than two decades of teaching theater and creative writing to Chicago kids.
Its board voted to close due to lost opportunities to partner with schools and parks on programs. But after its staff and volunteers rallied to save the organization, PlayMakers will return to the stage Monday for two special 25th anniversary shows.
PlayMakers Laboratory’s “25 Years Of Students’ Stories” is 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Monday at the Neo-Futurists Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave.
The show will be a take on PlayMakers’ flagship production, “That’s Weird, Grandma,” a live sketch show in which professional actors put on plays written by kids. For tickets ($25), click here.
The new show comes nearly a year after PlayMakers’ board voted to dissolve.
The pandemic has been especially brutal for PlayMakers, which receives funding through in-person instruction in schools and live performances, which were restricted during pandemic shutdowns. With its revenue streams gone, the board early this year decided to pull the plug, staff said at the time.
In response, staff members and supporters worked to form a new board for the group and organize an emergency fundraiser to keep the lights on. It worked, with PlayMakers raising more than $60,000 last spring, said Brandon Cloyd, executive artistic director at PlayMakers."
We're delighted to bring a CLASSIC back to the stage on Monday when this story is performed LIVE! Get your tickets now for our 25th Anniversary show this Monday, December 5! 2 PERFORMANCES: 6:30PM & 8:30PM. www.playmakerslab.org/shows
You can also make a tax-deductible donation today to support 25 more years of inspiring imaginations! www.playmakerslab.org/donate
Thank you!
Untitled by Cesar C., Stockton School
My sister fell on garbage and she cried. The end
This we are giving the gift of storytelling to YOU, our faithful audience! This is a real story written by Lucy N in a PlayMakers Lab classroom. Join us today on to continue working towards our vision of a radically kind Chicago that champions students' ideas.
You can support the creativity of Chicago youth by purchasing tickets to see this story performed LIVE at our 25th Anniversary Show. You can also make a tax-deductible donation today to support 25 more years of inspiring imaginations! All at our website at www.playmakerslab.org
Thank you!
A House by Lucy N., Loyola Park After School Program
One day there was a house on ridge elfs lived there and the elfs just bought the house. The next day the elfs lived there one of the elfs went to the bathroom and all of the elf went after him but they all wanted to go to the bathroom in the house. There are 100 elfs waiting for the bathroom. There is one bathroom in the house. All the elf have name their names are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and on and on to 100 and elf number 1 says “We should have 100 bathrooms in this house.” So number 99 went to the neighbor and used their bathroom. Number 10 went to the school and all the elf went to the school except number 99 and 5 but the school was full so all the elf that are not 5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 99 had to go home and hope that 5 is done…with the house bathroom so some one came and built 100 more bathrooms so all the elf can go to the bathroom the problem is solved. The end
This we are giving the gift of storytelling to YOU, our faithful audience! This is a real story written by Cesar C in a PlayMakers Lab classroom. Join us today on to continue working towards our vision of a radically kind Chicago that champions students' ideas.
You can support the creativity of Chicago youth by purchasing tickets to see this story performed LIVE at our 25th Anniversary Show. You can also make a tax-deductible donation today to support 25 more years of inspiring imaginations! All at our website at www.playmakerslab.org Thank you!
By Cesar C, Stockton School
My sister fell on garbage and she cried. The end
Chicago, IL
60649
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#tbt to another digital adaptation made for one of our virtual school shows! Please enjoy "Power Tells" by Ja'Shawn H. For more stories like this, check out our Youtube! Power Tells by Ja'Shawn Holmes Once upon a time there was an unicorn princess who was actacked by demons she was send to earth 6 years later rises and defeat the demon king #playmakerslaboratory #playmakerslab #chicago #chicagoplays #storytelling #story #cps #chicagopublicschools #artseducation #artsed #socialemotionallearning
#tbt to another digital adaptation made for one of our virtual school shows! Please enjoy "Power Tells" by Ja'Shawn H. For more stories like this, check out our Youtube! Power Tells by Ja'Shawn Holmes Once upon a time there was an unicorn princess who was actacked by demons she was send to earth 6 years later rises and defeat the demon king #playmakerslaboratory #playmakerslab #chicago #chicagoplays #storytelling #story #cps #chicagopublicschools #artseducation #artsed #socialemotionallearning
Our students write about many themes in each residency, and often they use their everyday experiences in their writing. Three years ago we partnered with Millennium Park to teach creative writing in the park. Vincent wrote this poem about his home, Chicago. For more stories like this, visit our Youtube. The Story of My Life by Vincent H., Millennium Park Summer Residency, 2019 When I think of Chicago I think of my home. It taught me a lot that’s in my dome. I thank God for making me one of his creatures Now when I grow up I was thinking of being a preacher Every day someone gets shot that’s to prove life isn’t fair. So now everybody needs to help and care. The End. #playmakerslaboratory #playmakerslab #chicago #chicagoplays #storytelling #story #cps #chicagopublicschools #artseducation #artsed #artistsoninstagram #art #artist
Our students write about many themes in each residency, and often they use their everyday experiences in their writing. Three years ago we partnered with Millennium Park to teach creative writing in the park. Vincent wrote this poem about his home, Chicago. For more stories like this, visit our Youtube. The Story of My Life by Vincent H., Millennium Park Summer Residency, 2019 When I think of Chicago I think of my home. It taught me a lot that’s in my dome. I thank God for making me one of his creatures Now when I grow up I was thinking of being a preacher Every day someone gets shot that’s to prove life isn’t fair. So now everybody needs to help and care. The End. #creativewriting #cps #chicagopublicschools #playmakerslaboratory #artseducation #chicagoplays #theatre
Our students write beautiful poems on poetry day, and we wanted to re-share this adaptation from 2020, made by PML Board Member & Emeritus Company Member Deanna Myers. The poem was originally written by Taj at Dixon Elementary, one of our longest running partners. It was then adapted into a song by Company Member Jordan Harris. For more stories like this, check out our Youtube! The Wind and the Rain by Taj, Dixon Elementary You float like feathers Even in the windy weather When it swishes you Wish that the wind Would stop but now All you hear are Tiny Raindrops Thump thump on the Roof they go. Flowing Down the gutters extremely Slow. When the wintertime Comes you see ice and snow. The End. #playmakerslaboratory #childrenstheatre #chicagoplays #chicago #youth #cps #chicagoarts #artsed #artseducation #socialemotionallearning
Our students write beautiful poems on poetry day, and we wanted to re-share this adaptation from 2020, made by PML Board Member & Emeritus Company Member Deanna Myers. The poem was originally written by Taj at Dixon Elementary, one of our longest running partners. It was then adapted into a song by Company Member Jordan Harris. For more stories like this, check out our Youtube! The Wind and the Rain by Taj, Dixon Elementary You float like feathers Even in the windy weather When it swishes you Wish that the wind Would stop but now All you hear are Tiny Raindrops Thump thump on the Roof they go. Flowing Down the gutters extremely Slow. When the wintertime Comes you see ice and snow. The End.
The students we work with in Chicago Public Schools write some really brilliant stories. Darrell F. is one of these students. When the PlayMakers read this story they thought it had to be adapted. For more stories like this, find us on Youtube. Rights! by Darrell F., Dvorak School of Excellence Rights are for every person, even black and whites. Without rights this world would not be right. People used to be slaves but the president of Chicago back in the day said no slaves in Chicago. Then Harriet Tubman made the railroad. So now, African Americans are yelling for justice on the street blocking traffic. They feel mad because whites get more than blacks. Because we didn’t get to go to school. They had clean indoor bathrooms, we had disgusting outdoor bathrooms. So now they are walking down the street holding signs for justice. When 2016 came the world got even better. The leader of the group of Justice is named Jacob. He feels mad because we can’t get a job because we’re black. He’s saying “Justice is for all”. THE END
Our students write the best characters! Meet Bennie & Edie, created by Ariel D. from Kinzie Elementary. If you enjoyed this story, check out our Youtube for more and be sure to support our Go Fund Me at https://gofund.me/3193331f Bennie and Edie by Ariel D., Kinzie Elementary Ben was a human that lived in a terrible place he was very lonely until one day he found a zombie and named him Ed they loved each other very much. They played all day it was good until the showbiz master the owner of all showbiz kid napped both of them and Ben was locked in a cage that was at the end of a abstacle course, 12 abstacle courses. Ed went through all of them searching fo Ben, when he finally found him he ate him and Ben and Ed were both zombiez. The end
In the classroom with PlayMakers Laboratory where Teaching-Artist Aissa goes over the first PlayMakers agreement, "Every idea is a good idea" 💡 #PlayMakersLaboratory #artseducation #artsed #Chicagopublicschools #Chicago #teaching
Our students are at the heart of what we do. They are our future and our goal is to provide a creative space where they feel confident expressing themselves. Donate today to continue this amazing work. https://gofund.me/3193331f #artsed #artseducation #Chicago #CPS #Chicagopublicschools #kidscreate #PMLMeans2Me
Our teaching artists are the rock of our organization. They create a learning environment where students feel free to express themselves and share their stories. Donate today to continue this amazing work. https://gofund.me/3193331f #artsed #artseducation #Chicago #CPS #Chicagopublicschools #kidscreate #PMLMeans2Me
What does journaling mean to you? Check out this video and let us know what PML means to you! Using the hashtag #PMLMeans2Me create your own video and tag us. There is still time to donate. Help save PlayMakers Laboratory: https://gofund.me/3193331f #artsed #artseducation #Chicagotheater #kidscreate
Check out this video and let us know what PML means to you! Using the hashtag #PMLMeans2Me create your own video and tag us. There is still time to donate. Help save PlayMakers Laboratory: https://gofund.me/3193331f
Murder Mystery at a famous restaurant? Hear a queens account of the shocking events. Presenting the digital adaptation of Queen Victoria's Account of the Mystery of Lady Elizabeth written by Libby P from the Loyola Park After School Program. I walked out from my palace to catch a carriage to go to a famous restaurant. I can’t recall the name now but as I walked through the door it was not as fancy as I had hoped but still fancy. I was greeted by Lady Elizabeth. She had said, “My husband seems to be missing at this time and would otherwise be here to greet you as well. I believe he is in the kitchen maybe helping prepare the food just for your presence.” She wore a sickingly yellow dress that made me wonder who her tailor was so I can make sure I stay far, far, far away I couldn’t be seen wearing something like that. The guests started complaining about the food saying it was a little off so as you might guess I was starting to get nervous. Because my food had not been served yet. Just then out of the midst of the banter of the room came a shriek. I of course had just eaten my food and was thirsty so I had just taken a sip from my glass so it surprised me greatly and I almost spat it out. But the cry of distress seemed to come from a customer who was just about to take a sip of soup when she saw a ghastly sight, an eyeball in her soup. Imagine finding some thing off of a living person in something you wish to consume. I would not only scream and shout I would sue! But later after the commotion had died down I went to the kitchen to inspect! But as I walked in there was more commotion. But instead with the police! A cook fully in uniform had handcuffs and was almost in tears. I almost felt bad! Lady Elizabeth was sobbing and as I looked around I saw a head. The End. Murder Mystery at a famous restaurant? Hear a queen's account of the shocking events. Presenting the digital adaptation of Queen Victoria's Account of the Mystery of Lady Elizabeth written by Li
Presenting a digital adaptation of Girls Need Education written by Abby from Avondale-Logandale Elementary. Dear, who may be concerned in girls not in school. I believe that girls in every country should go to school. Reason one Girls have the right to have education to become someone when they are adults Reason two it is not fair that in other countries boys can only have education Reason three girls may feel upset and think principals of school don’t like them Reason four girls might start thinking about their future and think they are nothing. In conclusion these are all my reasons why girl should have education. THE END. #InternationalWomensDay #ArtsEd #ArtsEducation #KidsCreate #Chicagoarts
It’s Tax Season and you know what that means, the IRS Moles are coming!! Ben L from Hough Street Elementary captures everyone's favorite season with the story IRS Moles. IRS Moles by Ben L. Eeooo! The sirens rang throughout the city. Speakers popped out of buildings. “Run, the IRS Moles are coming” said the speakers. Everyone ran. They knew that moles would make them pay. “Come on” said Harold to his mother as they ran. “But the cookies” said his mother, “we need them.” “We’ll have to leave them” said Harold. “Dang” said his sister. “I say we fight back against this tax collecting” said Bob who was 2 and very smart. No one noticed. He hopped down from his mother and ran back to the house unnoticed by his family. Suddenly out the window he saw a bunch of Moles in tuxedos. “Those must be the IRS Moles” thought Bob. Abruptly one walked up to his house and knocked on the door. Bob found a ladder and opened the door. “You have taxes to pay” said the Mole. Now Bob may have been a genius but he didn’t know what you were supposed to pay taxes with. He knew that he had to give the Mole something, so he went to the cupboard and got some squishy canned peas. When the Mole saw the peas he screamed and ran for his life. Moles have a horrible allergy to squishy peas. All the people came back and told Bob he should be mayor. The only person who did not like this idea was the current mayor. But nobody cared and Bob led them wonderfully. The END
172 heroes have helped us surpass $20,000 in donations. We are getting closer to our goal of $60,000 thanks to heroes like you! 🎉🥳 Check out the GoFundMe here: https://gofund.me/3193331f #Chicagotheater #Creativearts #artseducation #Theaterarts #Chicago #ChicagoPublicSchools #CPS #KidsWriteIt #WorldSaved #PlayMakersLab #Artsed #CTW2022
We were so excited to get back to teaching in person this fall, and we started the year off strong at Lake Forest Schools! From Cherokee Elementary, Jane, Quinn, Kai, Luca, Teddy S, and Veer bring us a story filled with magic. For more stories like this, subscribe to our Patreon, starting at just $2 at www.patreon.com/PlayMakersLaboratory The Mysterious Bottle by Jane, Quinn, Kai, Luca, Teddy S, and Veer Cherokee Elementary Once there was a student at Cherokee School named Fred. Fred eats a peanut butter and jelly sandwich everyday at school with an apple. But every day a bully named Michael would steal Fred’s sandwich. One day when Micheal took his sandwich, Fred was feeling mad, sad, and hungry. Fred wished Micheal was a sandwich and POOF! Micheal turned into a sandwich! But How? What Fred didn’t realize is that earlier at recess he found a bottle and put it in his pocket. He didn’t know that when he made that wish there was a genie inside the bottle who made it happen. Fred was still so hungry that he ate the sandwich (aka Micheal) Little did Fred know but the genie was evil and plotting against Fred. Fred burps up Micheal and they work together to destroy the evil genie. The end. #playmakerslaboratory #chicagotheatre #creativewriting #chicagopublicschools #artseducation #virtualplays #sketch #funny #digital #videos
We were so excited to get back to teaching in person this fall, and we started the year off strong at Lake Forest Schools! From Everett Elementary, Vivian brings us a story of friendship and the power of kindness! Please enjoy "The Best Friend Crush" by Vivian W. For more stories like this, subscribe to our Patreon for just $2 at www.patreon.com/PlayMakersLaboratory The Best Friend Crush by Vivian W., Everett Elementary Hi I am Astrid and I have a crazy story but to understand the story we need to go back in time. I was a very shy kid I did not have a lot of friends i was bullied for being so small but I vowed some day i would get them back but there was one person how stood up for me her name was Alexis she is so caring and kind but she had a bad reputation but the rumors were wrong she was really cool. We started talking and I felt a connection with her it was like the world stopped, i wanted it to last forever but lunch was ending so we had to part. When I came home all I could think about was her. My dads asked me who the person was and I could not lie to them so I told them about Alexia, her long brown hair and her beautiful brown eyes. They were so happy for me. Prom was coming and everyone was getting asked out. At lunch Alexia was acting weird, at the end of lunch she asked to talk and I said ok. She asked me out to prom. I was so excited. THE END 🍄
From last year's New Year's episode of "That's Weird, Grandma: House Par-Tay", we bring you "Limo Party" by Zechariah V. For more stories like this one, subscribe to our monthly Patreon show for only $2 at www.patreon.com/PlaymakersLaboratory Limo Party by Zechariah V., 5th Grade, Avondale Logandale School Luis and I went to a party. It was an adult party but we were fifteen. The party wasn’t that fun. A guy came in and started wrecking everything. So we left on a limo. We were tired and bored. Suddenly the car driver stopped! We have some celebrities. Pink was in the limo and the Black Eyed Peas and also Red Hot Chilly Pepper. Pink started singing I am a rock star and I got my rock moves and I don’t want you tonight. Then the Black Eyed Peas started singing. Cause your future Boom boom boom boom boom pow those chickens jagging my style. The Red Hot Chille Peppers. All around the world we can make time. The party was saved. Everybody had a good time.
Ho Ho Ho, Happy Holidays! 🎄 Did you know that PlayMakers Laboratory is returning to the Neo-Futurist Theatre THIS WEEKEND and NEXT? That’s right! We’ll be back at the Neo on Friday, December 10th for a preview at 7:30, then we open on the 11th and we run through Sunday, December 19! So bring your friends, your kids, your in-laws with all the drama… because you will like it! Get your tickets now at www.playmakerslab.org/shows 🎅❄️
THANK YOU for helping us PASS $3,000 this Giving Tuesday! As a thank you, here’s a new adaptation from this year's Sheridan Elementary residency! Text “PML” to 41444 or visit igfn.us/e/z4Ikwg to donate now! The iPhone 13 by Luke, Henry, Thomas, Grace, and Bridget, Sheridan Elementary Once There was a wolf named Wilbur who wanted to upgrade his iphone plan because his phone was sending him blackmail. So he went to the apple store, which was a big apple, to upgrade his plan. A pig walked up to him to assist him in buying an iphone 13. He sold Wilbur the phone and he went home to download MarioCart and Roblox. When they uploaded it his phone went black and suddenly a chicken’s face popped up and said “Whatever you do, don’t throw the phone in the volcano.” At first he thought it was the three little pigs tricking him but they had a truce. Wilbur goes to the nearest volcano to find… Little Red Riding Hood in a chicken granny mask and says “You naughty wolf, you ate my grandma so you must pay!” Wilbur was at the edge of the volcano and says “How much?” She says “Your Life”... To Be continued… PS book 2 coming to theatres in 2023. The End.
Thank YOU to Paulina and Mandy for your donations! GIVE to PML and GET a personalized POEM from the PlayMakers! Text "PML" to 41444 or visit igfn.us/e/z4Ikwg to donate now!
THANK YOU for helping us reach $1,000 this Giving Tuesday! As a gift to you, we’re premiering a new adaptation from this year's residency at Sheridan Elementary! Help us reach $3,000 and we’ll release "The iPhone 13", another new adaptation from our residencies this year! Text “PML” to 41444 or visit igfn.us/e/z4Ikwg to donate now! The Green People by Jake, William, Lucy, George, and Maggie, Sheridan Elementary Setting: A backyard with a trampoline. Once upon a time, on a morning in 1893, it was cold, foggy, and rainy. Mike Wazowski, a green person who can’t think because he eats too much lettuce and likes to rob people, is jumping on a trampoline in the fog and rain in a backyard. He jumped as high as he can and saw Shrek. Mike landed on the roof. Shrek was Mike’s BFF, but he’s breaking into Mike’s house. Mike notices because he is also a robber. Mike tries to stop Shrek by belly bumping him through a window. But it backfired and Mike flew back into a wall. Shrek laughed and belly bumped Mike out the window. It turned out that Shrek didn’t realize this was his best friend Mike. But then Mike threw butter lettuce through the window and made Shrek slip on it. He fell down a never ending hole and Mike went down to belly bump him back up and they both bounced to the moon. Mike Wazowski was hurting and Shrek was happy. The End.
Thank YOU to The Carlsons and Daniel U. for your donations! GIVE to PML and GET a personalized POEM from the PlayMakers! Text "PML" to 41444 or visit igfn.us/e/z4Ikwg to donate now!
THANK YOU for helping us reach $300 already this Giving Tuesday! Because we’re so grateful, we’re sharing a BRAND NEW adaptation of “Colorful Cherry Pit” written this fall by Ruby A. Help us reach $1,000 and we’ll release “Green People”, another new adaptation from our residencies this year! Text “PML” to 41444 or visit igfn.us/e/z4Ikwg to donate now! Colorful Cherry Pit by Ruby A., Cherokee Elementary You know how a person looks like a person? Long fingers, baby fat that stays forever, and a stick out belly button.HA! you thought wrong! You are thinking about people on TV. You are not thinking about the people who own purple cows. You're not thinking about the REAL world. My name is Cherry. I live on an awkward Island. And I own a purple cow. When I look at myself in the mirror I have green skin, red eyes, and really short fingernails.Well the fingernails are my fault but still. When other people look at me they see a big block of nothing.ya, that's because I can go to any shape I want but I choose Invisibility. Every day when I feed My purple cow she asks me "why be Invisible when you can be anything?" And I reply with a big fat BECAUSE. This is because I don't need everyone's to stare at me everywhere I go. Today I went to the GROCERY STORE.When I go, I wear a fat black coat. Why? Because Invisibility only works for as long as a Goldfish lives, Then I have to restore it.Suddenly, I TRIP! My coat tears and it leaves me standing there with my body. I looked like a colorful cherry pit.people come into the isle and they all stare. A long stare then people start saying I look cool! I did not know why they had different feelings then last time. I was told I was a colorful cherry pit. The End.
Give a little, get a little this Giving Tuesday. When you donate to PlayMakers Laboratory on or before November 30th you will receive a gift from us in a form of a poem. Donate today at http://ow.ly/KaLO50GXB0U #GivingTuesday #PlayMakerslab #Artsnonprofit
James from Harold Washington Elementary wrote this story about a Thanksgiving meal way back in the year 2006. Last year the cast reunited virtually to create a digital adaptation. Please enjoy "Thanksgiving" by James! For more, subscribe to our Patreon at www.Patreon.com/PlayMakersLaboratory Thanksgiving by James, Harold Washington Elementary Once there was a family who’s having Thanksgiving. The boy’s name is John, his mother’s name is Jenny, and his aunties and his uncle’s names are Jack and Dorthy. Before they ate John made a Thanksgiving toast. Everybody says are you sure about this. He says yes I am. Jack the uncle said, this is a wonderful thing to do. Dorthy his auntie is waiting for the food, but she doesn’t want to toast. He toast anyway. This is what he said I love all of you and I wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. The End.
Ever wonder what would happen if a t-rex came to the pumpkin patch? Myron B. and Marshun F. at Morton School of Excellence wrote about it in The Trex at the Punkin Patch. For more stories like this, check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/PlayMakersLaboratory The Trex at the Punkin Patch by Myron B. and Marshun F., Morton School of Excellence Setting: the punkin contest T. Rex: I can’t wait to go to the punkin contest to eat some punkins. (Looking at the punkins) J: Look at that big T. Rex. (Looking scared) T. Rex: Those punkins sure look good. (Smiling) J: Look at his big sharp teeth. (Hiding behind the table) T. Rex: Before they notice I should sneak to the punkins. I am going to eat all of the punkins. (Looking worries) J: I think I pooded on myself. (Looking embarrassed) T. Rex: Look at that juicey punkin. (Trying to eat it) J: He’s trying to eat the punkins. (scared) T. Rex: They saw me. (running away) THE END.
Eugene imagines Thanksgiving from the perspective of Hans the turkey. PML Company Member Aissa Guerra adapted this story last year, and we're excited to present it to you today! For more stories like this and our November episode of "That's Weird, Grandma: House Par-Tay", head to www.patreon.com/PlaymakersLaboratory Hans, The Turkey by Eugene, Reavis Academy Hans, the turkey, ran away this Thanksgiving to become a pirate. They got a boat and went to the middle of the river and they saw a chickens then they throw rocks at them then they throw rocks back then the had a rock fight then the turkey throw a rock and hit a chicken in the head. Then the chicken said yo mama, and hit the turkey in the mouth, then they said we give up you guys are punks man we are a threat to you turkeys.
Shattered Globe Theatre Company
At Theater Wit 1229 W Belmont Avenue
UrbanTheater Company at Batey Urbano
W Division Street
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
E Randolph Street
Still Point Theatre Collective
N Hermitage Avenue
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