When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre
Why DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
DePaul University's Merle Reskin Theatre, located in the heart of Chicago's Loop community, is a premier destination for theatre enthusiasts and a fantastic meeting place for friends seeking cultural enrichment. Housed within a historic venue built in 1910 by renowned architects Marshall and Fox, the theatre combines classic architectural beauty with modern theatrical productions. With a seating capacity of 1,325, it offers an intimate yet spacious atmosphere that enhances the live performance experience. As home to The Theatre School at DePaul University, the theatre hosts nearly 100 public performances each year, attracting over 35,000 attendees. It stages a diverse range of productions, including the acclaimed Chicago Playworks for Families and Young Audiences series, making it perfect for visitors of all ages. The theatre also serves as a performance space for DePaul's School of Music and various nonprofit organizations, reflecting its commitment to community arts engagement. Conveniently accessible by multiple Chicago transit lines and located near vibrant neighborhoods, the Merle Reskin Theatre is ideal for a memorable outing with friends, blending cultural sophistication with social connection. Affordable ticket options, including discounted prices for DePaul students, further make it an inviting venue for group gatherings.
Here's what people think of DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre
As of recent, DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre holds a 4.5-star rating based on 77 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise DePaul University's Merle Reskin Theatre for its rich history, beautiful and well-preserved architecture, and high-quality theatrical productions. Positive reviews highlight the theatre's comfortable seating, excellent acoustics, and the professional caliber of performances by students and guest artists alike. Many visitors appreciate the accessibility of the venue, both in terms of location and ticket pricing, which allows a broad range of audiences to enjoy world-class theatre. The theatre's welcoming atmosphere and the diverse program schedule receive frequent commendations from patrons who enjoy attending performances with friends or family. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional issues with parking due to the downtown location and limited faculty/staff ticket availability, which some found restrictive. A few users mentioned that certain shows might feel more academic than fully professional, reflecting the educational mission of the venue. Overall, however, the majority of critics and audience members regard the Merle Reskin Theatre as a cherished cultural asset in Chicago, valued for its historic ambiance and vibrant offerings. The positive experiences far outweigh the negatives, making it a recommended destination for live theatre enthusiasts and social groups seeking quality entertainment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Margaret Farr
Staff was great, and the space is interesting! The big downside is that the bathrooms are in the basement! There is one, single use restroom for handicapped individuals at the back of the theater.
Fredo Aguilar
An amazingly historic theatre nestled right in the heart of the city on Balbo just West of the iconic Chicago Water Fountain. The student led productions held here are amazing family entertainment and you definitely need to be looking at the schedule of upcoming events for The Theatre School at DePaul
Shelley M
Good selection of stage productions for young audiences, inventive, visually striking sets. Good sound. Friendly staff. Family friendly pricing. Wish they had a dedicated parking lot. Other issue is the seats. They are old, sunken, uneven and uncomfortable with springs sticking you in your tush :(
Laura Woods Soarella
Get Stage Time Instead of Screen Time And help your youngster learn about live performance in a setting where kids are welcome. Theatre is beautiful. Grandma's and those with balance issues, the bathrooms are down a set of stairs. This is a best kept secret in Chicago with affordable seats and all student run productions. Brava!
Rosalie Zoleta
Merle REskin theatre plays a lot of international movies and documentaries and they all are very deep stories. I enjoyed one a couple years back and i am waiting to go again. They serve popcorn and drinks. Each theatre is small, but the chair you sit in is great. It feels like you are right at home. It is a must go to theatre when you are in the mood to watch these kind of movies. Gladly they are all subtitled in English, if you don't mind that at all.
How to reach DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre
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Why DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at DePaul University - Merle Reskin Theatre with your friends?
Gathering your friends at the Merle Reskin Theatre offers a uniquely enriching and memorable experience that combines cultural sophistication with historic charm. This theatre, located in Chicago’s vibrant South Loop, is not just a venue for performances—it’s a landmark steeped in over a century of arts and history. When you and your friends come here, you’re stepping into a space where artistry and education intersect, immersed in the same halls where rising theater talents develop their craft. Its intimate yet spacious setting—with a seating capacity of around 1,325—means you can enjoy high-quality live theatre without feeling lost in a massive crowd, allowing for an engaging group experience. Whether you’re theater aficionados or simply looking for a refined outing, the Merle Reskin Theatre provides a social and cultural hub perfect for meaningful conversations and shared enjoyment. Its central Chicago location makes it easy to access, surrounded by the city’s best dining and entertainment options, enabling your meetup to extend beyond the show itself. All these features combine to make the Merle Reskin Theatre an exceptional place to rally with your friends for unforgettable arts-focused outings.
What performances and activities can groups enjoy at the Merle Reskin Theatre?
The Merle Reskin Theatre boasts an extensive array of performances primarily featuring productions by DePaul University’s prestigious Theatre School and School of Music. Attending these live shows means witnessing budding artists refine their craft on a historic stage known for its high caliber of theatrical presentations. The theatre’s yearly calendar includes over 200 productions that range from contemporary plays to classical pieces, musical performances, and children’s theatre, which broadens the appeal for groups of all ages. For families, the Chicago Playworks series provides innovative, thought-provoking children’s plays, making it a perfect destination for groups with young audiences looking to introduce kids to live theatre. The diversity and quality of performances ensure that every meetup group can find a show that fits everyone’s tastes and interests. Moreover, attending a theatre show fosters a shared emotional journey and sparks lively post-performance discussions, enriching the social dynamic of your gathering.
How does the theatre's historic and architectural significance enhance the group experience?
The Merle Reskin Theatre provides more than just entertainment; it offers an experience enriched by history and stunning architecture. Built in 1910 originally as the Blackstone Theatre, the venue was designed by famed architects Marshall and Fox, whose work captured the elegance of the early 20th century. The theatre’s historical significance is palpable in its beautifully maintained interior and façade, paying homage to Chicago’s cultural evolution over the past century. When you bring friends here, the setting itself becomes a conversation starter, inspiring awe and appreciation beyond the performance on stage. Its adjacency to the iconic Blackstone Hotel enhances the sense of place in Chicago’s vibrant theatre district, making your outing feel like part of a larger cultural adventure. This rich backdrop creates a memorable atmosphere, where your group is not just passive audience members but participants in a continuing legacy of artistic expression.
Why is the Merle Reskin Theatre ideal for group meetups and social gatherings?
The theatre’s layout and amenities are tailored to accommodate groups comfortably and inclusively. With over 1,300 seats, it supports a range of group sizes, whether intimate circles of friends or larger family reunions. The venue’s commitment to accessibility, including wheelchair seating and accommodations for those with disabilities, ensures everyone in your group can fully participate in the experience. Its central downtown location offers ample street parking and easy public transit access, minimizing logistical stress when coordinating a group meetup. Beyond the performances, there’s plenty of opportunity to extend your social experience into nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars, capitalizing on Chicago’s bustling South Loop scene. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, the Merle Reskin Theatre acts as a cultural anchor that transforms a regular gathering into a distinctive event.
What makes attending theatre productions at a university venue like this special for groups?
Experiencing theatre at a university setting such as DePaul’s Merle Reskin Theatre lends a unique educational and inspirational dimension to group outings. Unlike commercial theatres, this venue showcases performances by students who bring fresh creativity, experimental approaches, and high levels of dedication to their craft as they train to enter professional ranks. Watching these developing artists offers your group the chance to witness the future of theatre firsthand—a dynamic and often unpredictable experience that can inspire conversation and an appreciation for the arts. The educational mission of the venue means productions tend to be deeply thoughtful and artistically rigorous, giving your meetup a sense of participating in a community that values culture, learning, and innovation. Supporting student work at such an historic venue adds meaning and vitality to your group’s day or evening out.
How accessible and convenient is the Merle Reskin Theatre for group organizers?
Located at 60 East Balbo Drive, the theatre is situated in Chicago’s Loop neighborhood, easily reachable by car, bus, or train, making it a hassle-free destination for groups coming from various parts of the city or suburbs. The theatre’s proximity to landmarks like Michigan Avenue and adjacent hotels makes it ideal for attendees who might combine a night at the theatre with other activities such as dining or sightseeing downtown. The venue offers ample street parking options and is designed with accessibility in mind, including wheelchair seating, to accommodate all members of a group comfortably. Booking tickets for groups is straightforward through DePaul’s Theatre School website or box office, and staff are experienced in assisting with group arrangements, making planning efficient. The theatre’s well-established presence and institutional support ensure that group visits are smooth, comfortable, and professionally managed.
What additional experiences surround a visit to the Merle Reskin Theatre?
A meetup at the Merle Reskin Theatre can be the centerpiece of a broader cultural outing due to its prime location in Chicago’s entertainment district. Surrounding the theatre are numerous fine dining restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively bars where groups can gather before or after a show to discuss the performance and enjoy each other’s company. The South Loop area offers various sightseeing opportunities, including nearby museums and parks, which make it easy to design a full day of activities around your theatre visit. Seasonal events and city festivals often occur close by, providing additional entertainment choices seamlessly integrated with your meetup. This flexibility enhances the overall appeal of the theatre as a gathering spot where arts, socializing, and urban exploration combine into one vibrant, engaging experience.
How does the theatre support community engagement and promote social connection through its events?
The Merle Reskin Theatre serves as a cultural hub that brings diverse communities together around live performance, fostering social interaction and collective enjoyment. Its programming includes a wide range of plays and musical events that appeal to different demographics, encouraging groups of friends and families to share enriching encounters. Beyond entertainment, the theatre is also involved in educational initiatives, workshops, and community outreach, which deepen audience engagement and create a sense of belonging. Hosting your meetup here means participating in a venue that actively nurtures community spirit and cultural exchange. The shared emotional and intellectual experience of watching live performances strengthens bonds between attendees, serving as a catalyst for conversations, new connections, and lasting memories among your group.
With its rich history, diverse performances, excellent accessibility, and prime location, the Merle Reskin Theatre exemplifies a premier choice for hosting gatherings of friends and family who appreciate culture and social connection. Its combination of historic charm and contemporary relevance ensures that every visit is much more than just a night at the theatre—it’s an event that enlivens your relationships through the power of live art.