Our Mission

Through community collaborations with Chicago organizations, small businesses, and nonprofits since 2019, CPTE uses Playback Theatre to bring the stories of our audience's personal experiences to life onstage through interactive improvisational theatre, movement, and music. CPTE is a 501c3 nonprofit theatre that aims to facilitate community-building, dialogue, broadening of perspectives, and healing by celebrating, validating, and honoring the truths of the communities we engage with.

CPTE’s History

CPTE has partnered with communities across Chicago since 2019 to create performances and workshops that build connection by bringing true audience stories to life through Playback Theatre.

Founded by Allison Sokolowski in 2019, CPTE was established to add Playback Theatre to Chicago’s improv and theatre landscape and to harness its potential for healing and social change. Although Playback is practiced nationally and in 70+ countries, no professional Playback company existed in Illinois at that time.

CPTE began by touring free performances at Chicago Public Library and Chicago Park District sites. During the pandemic, CPTE transitioned to virtual programming and partnered with No Shame On U to present free performances focused on mental health. Their work was also featured at Playback North America’s 2020 conference

In 2022, CPTE incorporated and expanded into workshop programming. Through a residency with the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, young people explored mental health through Playback and performed alongside professional actors in a free community event. CPTE later adapted this model for other partners, including Jamieson Elementary School’s GSA Club.

In 2023, CPTE became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and found an artistic home at Third Space Chicago where they provide free monthly workshops for seniors. They partnered with Rincon Family Services (RFS) to provide free public mental health programming, and later an ongoing workshops for RFS’s Certified Recovery Support Specialist program to augment their student’s skills for sharing and listening in recovery environments. CPTE also toured queer themed shows at LGBTQIA+ businesses, eventually developing their annual Pride Month tour in partnership with Center On Halsted.

CPTE remains Chicago’s only professional Playback Theatre company and they continue to offer affordable performances and workshops, often focusing on LGBTQIA+ communities and mental health.