Goodman Theatre's variety of free programming enables youth from all over Chicagoland to thrive in the arts and experience theater first hand with working professionals, teachers and artists. Programs (listed below) are offered to audience members of all ages to engage in deeper explorations of the work on the Goodman's stages:
- Now in its 24th year, the Student Subscription Series works with over 40 Chicago public high schools each year to creatively supplement students' reading, writing, critical thinking and communication skills. Special matinee performances of Goodman productions are supplemented with exclusive teacher training workshops, educational guides and post-show discussions.
- CONTEXT: Discourse & Discussion is a series designed to engage the community in debate, dialogue and deeper exploration of themes within Goodman productions. Unlike a traditional post-show discussion which centers on the production, CONTEXT events focus on particular issues raised within the plays and explore how they resonate in today's culture.
- Cindy Bandle Young Critics (CBYC) is a joint venture between Goodman Theatre and the Association for Women Journalists that introduces 11th grade girls to the art of theater criticism and the world of professional writing. Participants see every show in the Goodman's season, interview theater artists and receive one-on-one mentoring from professional journalists. CBYC is named in honor of Goodman Theatre's late Press Director Cindy Bandle.
- General Theater Studies (GTS) is a six-week summer intensive for 14-19-year olds with a focus on critical thinking, literacy and storytelling. Designed to validate student voices, help them examine their creativity and introduce them to the creation of theater, GTS is an ensemble-building program that culminates in an original student performance.