Chicago DCASE Streamlines Storefront Theater Space Dance and Theater Application Process; Deadline 1/15

The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has announced a new, streamlined process, making it more accessible for Chicago's theater and dance companies to take advantage of performance space and opportunity to workshop their programs.

While the Storefront Theater, located across the street from the Chicago Cultural Center at 72 E. Randolph, has afforded these opportunities before, the program is now expanded to include new performances spaces. Additionally, it allows for theater and dance companies to utilize space according to their needs, whether those needs are a few days or a six week run.

"The City of Chicago is fortunate to have a rich theater and dance community," said Michelle T. Boone, DCASE Commissioner. "What we hope to provide is a nurturing element for those budding productions as well as bringing original and exciting artistic pieces to new audiences."

The process to take advantage of this opportunity will also be streamlined into one application, no matter the size of the company, whether it's theater or dance or whether or not it's a fully realized performance or a new works in development for a future production. One application will be available to companies seeking to be part of the Chicago Cultural Center Presents (fully realized performances) and In the Works (plays in development). Deadline is January 15, 2013 for projects that will be ready for performance, September 2013-August 2014. Projects that are in need of development space for March 2013-December 2013 will also have a January 15, 2013 deadline.

Applications are now available on line at www.chicagoculturalcenter.org.

The performance schedule for 2013 includes 16 dance and theater companies utilizing space in the Storefront Theater, on stage at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and in newly renovated dance studios at the Chicago Cultural Center, will be available in mid-December.