THE BIRTHDAY BASH
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026
Great Central Brewing Company (221 N Wood St, Chicago IL, 60612)
This year’s annual fundraiser, 2nd Story’s Birthday Bash, celebrates The Shape of Courage—our season-long exploration of what it means to show up, speak truth, and hold one another through uncertain times. And there’s no better place for that story than Chicago: a city that meets every challenge with creativity, resilience, and heart.
Chicago’s artists, educators, and neighbors continue to remind us that courage takes many forms. It’s the act of listening with compassion, of telling one’s story aloud, of making space for others to be fully seen. Through that lens, the Birthday Bash is both a celebration and a call to action: an evening of connection, laughter, and powerful storytelling that fuels the programs keeping our city’s stories alive all year long.
PRODUCTION TEAM:
Curated by Amanda Delheimer*
Directed by Lexi Saunders
Produced by Ali Drumm*
FEATURING STORIES BY:
Khanisha Foster*, Matt Miller, Karla Estela Rivera*
*denotes 2nd Story company member.
A note about ticket sales
This fundraiser, just like all of our events this season, has three ticket levels in order to increase financial accessibility and transparency around what it actually costs to produce a 2nd Story event. All ticket tiers receive the same show experience.
$250 - This ticket level reflects Transparency. It covers the real cost of creating a 2nd Story experience.
$125 - This ticket level reflects Balance. Less than full cost, it helps us grow and share more stories.
$50 - This ticket level reflects Care. It’s here for ease–so everyone can be a part of the story without financial strain.
“Chicago Courage” isn’t just a theme — it’s a call.
If your company’s ready to stand with bold storytelling and brave community, we’d love to have you as a sponsor.
