We believe stories can
change the world.
Up Next
the final show of our Shape of Courage Season!
June 7 @ Haymarket Pub & Brewery
a day celebrating what migration makes possible in (and beyond) Albany Park
June 20 @ our Studio home
Discover the Shape of Courage.
A season of storytelling that celebrates bravery in every form—whether quiet or loud, public or deeply personal.
Join us for shows, workshops, podcasts, and events rooted in courage and care.
What began in 1999 as a small theater founded by a group of college friends has evolved into one of Chicago’s most celebrated and respected storytelling organizations.
2nd Story uses well-crafted, first-person stories told by the people who lived them to inspire change through storytelling events, classes and workshops, and professional development learning opportunities for individuals, students, families, educators, and professional artists. Today, we continue to create spaces where people can share and listen to each other's stories, and to date, have shared over 1,500 world premiere stories.
We believe that everyone has a story to tell.
see a show
2nd Story is producing events all over Chicago every month. From intimate pubs in Rogers Park to big venues in the West Loop, we have an event for you.
take a class
Be the storyteller of your own life. Geared towards individuals with no experience at all as well as artists/writers/performers seeking to hone their technique.
partner with us
Build stronger connections and develop new ways of working together with your business, school, or community group.
Photography by Layne Dixon