I saw my first show here recently: Oak! It was a highly clever and tightly written work, with fantastic direction and acting, such a gem. I'm surprised I haven't been here before, but I'm slowly expanding my experiences with smaller Chicago theaters every year. They have a great season and I'll definitely be back! Nice lobby with unique cocktails to take into the show, comfy seats.. read more

Always delicious! Nice little place to stop for a delicious piece of homemade pie, quiche or sandwich!

Another theater gem in the city. Productions are high quality with very affordable ticket prices. All the seats have good views so don't worry about picking the right one. Great sound and lighting. You won't be disappointed. read more

I highly recommend Raven's adaptation of Sharyn Rothstein's timely new play "Right to be Forgotten" which deftly explores the potential multi-faceted social and societal consequences of individuals' online existence. The play was well balanced in delivering varying perspectives on a serious topic interspersed with humorous moments. A review from the Week summarizes the highlights The raven theater has two separate stages and the one dedicated to this production is intimate and comfortable with a theater in the round feel. The Raven does require patrons to wear masks at all times and have a supply for those that might not be aware of the policy or may have forgotten. read more

Raven Theatre - Review from "The Week" periodical - Summer Camps Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Wonderful 'local' theatre We recently attended and very much enjoyed the Raven's adaptation of Orson Welles' Dracula. It was a staged reading (unsurprising since Welles' Dracula was originally a radio play), the actors were quite good, and the atmospheric visuals and music lent verisimilitude to the performance. The Raven itself was lovely with an delightful lobby with snacks and the house was quite comfortable with excellent views of the stage. Lastly, the staff were welcoming and gracious. Located a little less than a half hour north of Downtown Chicago, it was completely worth the trip. read more

My wife and I visited this place another day. We watched "Dracula" show. It is a nice place. They don't have a buffet, only some soft drinks, but there's a bar across the street and a few other places within a walking area. There's a parking for patrons, so don't worry about the street parking; however, you need to be a bit early, the parking lot is not too big. The play was not too long about 90 minutes and we liked it in general. Do not expect too much, this is not a classic theater. The actors are really good. And the atmosphere is very cozy, there are no more than 60 sits. I would defiantly visit this theater again. read more

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My wife and I visited The Raven Theater for the first time, this past Sunday to see Night Watch. What a pleasant surprise. Excellent play, Superb actors, Terrific set design. Every seat has a great view. Though everyone in the cast is to be complimented, the lead actress Aila Peck was amazing. Oh, and the staff could not have been more helpful. We are older and have been to many plays, I.E. Cats, Hamilton, Les Misérables, Pippin. We were totally impressed. Thanks, J.G. read more

I've subscribed to Raven for about four years now. They consistently do very good shows here, and their rental schedule has interesting things happening as well. Staff are really friendly and have a good memory for subscribers and regulars; it is nice to visit here and be so warmly welcomed. This theatre is nicely sized at about 100 seats, and has a good location. There is free parking (it's limited, so you'll need to get there early), but even when I've arrived at a time that's cutting it close to subscriber-entrance time and had to park on the street, I haven't had a real problem finding a space across the street or down the block. They also have a concession stand with candy and drinks, and there's a drinking fountain in the lobby, too. I encourage anyone who loves or even just likes theatre to be sure to make their way to Edgewater and see a show here. Raven has had a four-show season for the past several years, so there is a lot to choose from. They also offer subscriber packages at different rates, so if you enjoy it I highly encourage the membership. Perks include priority seating (subscribers are admitted to the theatre first, about 20 minutes to curtain), free concession ticket each show, and subscriber-only night where subscribers get to attend a rehearsal of the show in production. It's a cool way to get to see the production come together, see the final product once it begins its run, and it's a lot of fun to bounce questions off the actors and director and gain their insights into the production. read more

I caught The Agency Theatre Collective's staging of Hellcab here last month and fell in love with the space. The lobby and bathrooms are nicely done, spacious, and clean, there are several bars and places to eat on the same street, and they even have parking! I look forward to seeing more, and perhaps even working on, shows here! read more

Raven Theatre - Hellcab - Summer Camps Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Our son has done this for four straight years and grown in wonderful ways as a result. Nice mix of serious art and creativity, with fun and a schedule that allows for plenty of exercise and time outside. Staff is very patient with different personality types. Our favorite summer camp! read more

Something is very wrong here!! Free parking lot, always discounted tickets on Goldstar, clean theatre, comfortable seats, and amazingly performed classic plays... but only 6 reviews!! Do you people not know about the Raven?!? Well if you don't know, now you know The Raven really focuses on American classics; they have performed plays such as A Street Car Named Desire, Death of a Salesman, A Few Good Men, Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf, and many more. Though I've only have had the pleasure of seeing Death of a Salesman, I can tell that any other play would be worth seeing here. Each actor performed as though it was opened night, putting their heart and energy into every line. It was truly a powerful performance. Other then the performance (which has a lot to do with it) what I like about the theatre is that the staff is friendly, they don't charge you an arm and a leg for concessions, did I mention free parking lot, and it's a spacious theater with super comfortable seats. The lobby is like a mini lounge, complete with a couch, and a few tables with chairs. The walls are covered with framed photographs that look like historic photos or famous plays but if you look harder, it's actually photos from some of the plays performed at the Raven. It really is a great theatre and I most certainly will be back. I mean a performance of 12 Angry Men or The Odd Couple, how could you pass that up!! read more

It used to be a grocery store,,,,,,, What a delightful find here in the Edgewater community ! i went to see laughter on the 23 rd floor and sat no more than five feet from the stage floor ! it was like a big big screen tvshow ,,,,,for get i said that ,,,,, You know it used to be a Grocery store ? The sound and lighting were top notch and the seats were wonderfuly comfortable = even for a fat ass like me ! the Lobby was filled with photos of their past productions of 25 years I you know it used to be a grocery store ! the lobby is where the check out counters were ) five things i love about the Raven Theater 1 location it is in my neighbor hood 2 perfect views from every seat in the house ' 3 contemporary and classic productions 4 competitive prices with the other theaters too ! 5 it used to be a grocery store ! read more

The best part of this theater is it's small size - there are only a dozen or so rows of seats (at the main stage), so even if you're in the very back you are still right next to the actors. I've been to two shows and both were produced, directed and acted at a very high level, the lighting, sound and decorations/props were done extremely well, considering the budget couldn't be that big. Get there about half an hour before the show since the seating is general and the parking lot is bit tight - or get here even earlier and grab a bite at the diner across the street. Overall, thrilling, intimate and moving live theater at a reasonable price. read more

I was a little hesitant at first because of the price. But it was honestly worth every penny. My 9 year old son made a lot of new friends. And I was able to see a whole new side of him that I did not know existed. His confidence really increased, and he enjoyed every day of the program. It is also a good opportunity to teach your children responsibility. My son knew he had to be responsible and study his scripts every night, and he stayed on top of it.The teachers were really nice, professional, and always were available to answer questions. I worked with Daniel and Dana, both were very nice. We will be returning next year. I think my son has caught the acting bug. Every child should experience this at least once. read more

This theater is great. You get to see really unique performances by lots of different actors and directors. The theater is well kept and has a great staff. Its an enjoyable place to be and pretty reasonably priced as well. You can call ahead to find out their schedule so that you can choose the show that interests you the most! read more

Raven Theatre - Summer Camps Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Went to the final performance of Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas Goose and had a wonderful time. Even though it was the final performance the actors seemed fresh and full of energy. It was great fun - the perfect Sunday impulse. This is a really good neighborhood theater. They have an approachable ambience. Very small and inexpensive but entertaining and cosy. They are consciously trying to make a difference in the neighborhood and took up a collection afterwards for a local food pantry. My biggest disappointment was how little they collected. Guess the audience was out of Christmas Spirit! read more

So my wife and I really enjoyed "Dividing the Estate" a few weeks ago. Raven is a comfortable medium sized theater that goes out of its way to make its guests comfortable. The staff made sure to let us know that we could help ourselves to the fresh veggies and dip, and that anyone with a subscription could take a candy bar for free! The play was immediately engaging and the acting was better than normal for neighborhood Chicago productions. We especially liked the two sisters who were "80's" prima donna's with their shoulder pads and Farrah Faucet Hair. read more

What a terrific theater. I've lived nearby for many years but hadn't seen a show here until recently, but I was impressed with the quality of the play space and the production itself. If the tickets were a tiny bit cheaper I'd likely be a regular, but I'll be back regardless. read more

Yesterday, with my family, I saw "The Women of Lockerbie" and it was absolutely fantastic! The actors were truly great. There was literally no set change the entire time and minimal props but they had the bawling through the whole thing. It was really spectacular to see such a great play that was almost entirely great just because of the emotion the actors brought to it. I definitely recommend seeing it. My mother bought the tickets so I'm not sure exactly the cost but I heard it was low. The theatre itself was really cute and super close to my school (Go Ramblers!). All of the employees were kind and it was just a great experience overall. read more

My 8 year old son has been attending this camp for the past couple of years. Not only does he want to return this summer, but wants to do more than one, 2-week session! The staff engage well with the kiddos and genuinely care about the process of creating theatrical works. The Raven Theatre Take Flight Summer Camp is an inspired community of artists sharing their love of the craft for sure. Love it! read more

This theatre is in my neighborhood and I have walked/ridden my bike/jogged by this place for years but have never seen a performance. Last night I was treated to a birthday present to see Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. I wish I had been going to all the other plays I had seen advertised on their marquis. I was blown away by everything from the set, to the performance of the actors. I felt as if I was transported to a plantation in Mississippi. I even cried, not once, but twice. If you have not been to a performance here I would do it, pronto. We have a gem of a theatre right here in our midst! read more

We love Raven summer camp and have participated for many years. The instructors are excellent: both supportive and challenging. My daughter has learned so much about theater: from script-writing, to casting, to rehearsal to final performance - and she was always excited to go (which was not frequently the case for other camps we attended). We feel very lucky to have found Raven. read more

Raven Take Flight is so awesome. My kids have been going for many years, both to the summer camp and to the Saturday sessions during the school year. Both boys (now 9 and 12) love the atmosphere of fun and supportive, artistic growth they find there. It's really a community feeling, one that values and celebrates all different kinds of kids for who they are and can be. Our kids can't wait to go again this year! read more

I remember way back when the Raven was a supermarket. Now it's a high-quality, intimate theater where you can watch the the great classics of the American theatrical literature brought to life. See those plays you loved in high school English class at the Raven, where you'll find wonderful actors, friendly staff and not a bad seat in the house. I'd been to the Raven a few times back when I lived in Chicago, and have been lucky to pop in for fine productions of "Death of a Salesman" and "Twelve Angry Men" while in town this season. I highly recommend the latter, which is still running. If you can, find a deal on Goldstar and head to this gem of Edgewater, where the parking is hassle-free and you're sure to get your money's worth, even if you pay full price. read more

I love off Broadway theater and I think some of the best plays I have seen have been in theaters like the Raven. These Shining Lives was one of the best plays I have seen all year. The seating was intimate and a huge plus...we didnt have to search for parking. I totally enjoyed the cinnamon flavored coffee and the staff was so warm and inviting. Bathrooms were spotless. I totally recommend this theater and going to see These Shining Lives...it was AWESOME! read more

Great little theater...great shows...free parking...inexpensive ticket prices...what more can you ask for? If you get a chance to see a show there...do it. Plus, a lot of their shows are listed on Goldstar (as mentioned in other reviews) which is awesome. There is no reason not to try it out! read more

My sons love Raven Theatre summer camp! They've attended a two week camp for the past several years. It is one of the most engaging, confidence building, fun things they do all year. They are treated lovingly and respectfully by the staff. Last year they also attended the set design camp and learned a lot about lighting, set building and acoustics. The environment is non-competitive and team building. The show that the students put on at the end of camp is always amazing! read more

The theater is intimate and inviting. I enjoyed being on the level of the actors and it helped get into the spirit of Twelve Angry Men. It was the perfect venue to feel the intensity of the emotions. It's right on the Clark bus route so getting there and back was great! read more

I visited the Raven Theater to see 12 Angry Men. How could I pass it up, I got half price tickets from Hot Tix. The theater has a its own parking lot and its right off the 22 clark bus. 12 Angry Men was great- the actors put on a great performance! A great community theater at a very affordable price! read more

A quaint venue, great performances and wonderful restaurants just a bit south on Clark Street. There are higher priced venues with much more recognition. But there isn't a better value in the Chicago. read more

We have a 12 year old son and 10 year old daughter who have been attending Raven summer camp for the past 4 years and they love it. The teachers are great, the kids love developing the story, working on the set and costumes and of course the performance! Raven's program expects a lot of them and they always have a great time there. read more

A great space to see a show! I have driven by hundreds of times but never stopped in. Clean, comfortable, good shows, friendly staff. I highly recommend frequenting this space to see theater in Chicago. read more

What a great little gem of a theatre. We saw A Soldier's Play. The theatre doesn't have a lot of seating so the shows are very intimate. The acting was fantastic and there is plenty of parking nearby. A must visit. read more

I saw The Crowd You're In With last night and thought the play and each individual actor was great. The place is small and the actors are very close to the seats. They were are incredibly expressive and passionate in their performances. My wife and I were very happy we went. read more

Saw Brighton Beach Memoirs Sunday afternoon (6/30/13). The staff was extremely friendly. I got a discounted rate of $15 for being a student. The play itself was funny and moving. Some of the actors were no less than brilliant, and the staging was fantastic. If I lived in Chicago, I would be a regular! read more

This theater really is great. The staff is extremely friendly and recommends upcoming (and great) shows. I have seen quite a few performances here. They choose an eclectic range of performances, with the sound, lighting and productions being top quality. The space is very small and intimate, so much you feel a part of the production itself. I highly recommend anyone to come to this small but lovely theater. read more

What a great place to see live theater!! Went to see 'Death of a Salesman' and only have great things to say about the sold-out performance! The space is used to its maximum, the staff is friendly and the acting was excellent. The literature demonstrates their commitment to the community and youth theater and expression. A great pillar for the neighborhood, and I can't wait to see more performances! Free parking in the neighborhood - if not their lot - good food close by, and Champions across the street for a drink after. What more could one want??!! read more

I just wanted to let everyone know that These Shining Lives, while performed at the Raven Theatre, was actually produced by Rivendell Theatre Ensemble- I saw a few comments citing the Raven as the producer. Rivendell was actually just renting a space in the building. That said, the Raven is great as well! read more

I just saw A Soldier's Play on Sunday March 24th. Great play! The theater was a great venue. Pretty packed house but seating was comfortable and not right on top of each other. Second play I've seen there and will definitely go back! read more

Went to the Raven last night and saw Tennessee Williams' Vieux Carre. Difficult play and young director who perhaps did not understand the note of nostalgia. Good cast. On the other hand--I think there is more to good theatre than free parking and former grocery store, actually the width of the stage was not a plus for me. Perhaps a site like that would be better in the (semi) round. Major pet peeve which may mean I don't go back. They are trying so hard to get subscribers that they were giving out free snacks. OK but I was distracted by the crinkly wrappers especially after the intermission. If people get snacks over the tenter all then eat them in the lobby and don't bring your pop cans and candy wrappers into the theatre to distract those who want to listen. Also I understand saving money by not printing tickets or having a seating chart but I am not fond of a stampede for seats. read more