We believe stories can
change the world.
Sponsor the Birthday Bash!
Community-minded businesses and individuals can show their support of 2nd Story’s work and engage our dedicated fans by becoming event sponsors. Download the 2026 sponsorship deck to learn more.
Help us celebrate Chicago & 2nd Story
Our annual Birthday Bash fundraiser is your chance to kick back with fellow story-lovers and ensure the future of 2nd Story spaces.
Join us April 11, 2026 at 8pm!
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