Our History

Thespian Academy, a cornerstone of Chicago's vibrant theater scene, boasts a rich history deeply rooted in the passion and dedication of its founder, Eleanor Vance. Established in 1988, Eleanor, a celebrated stage actress known for her captivating performances and commitment to the craft, envisioned a sanctuary where aspiring actors could cultivate their talents and hone their skills in a supportive and challenging environment. Driven by her unwavering belief in the transformative power of theater, she sought to create an academy that would not only provide rigorous training but also foster a sense of community and collaboration among its students.

Eleanor's vision was brought to life in a modest storefront studio nestled in the heart of the theater district. From its humble beginnings, Thespian Academy quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to acting education, blending classical techniques with innovative methods. The academy attracted a diverse group of students, each with their own dreams and aspirations, but united by a shared love for the performing arts. Word of mouth spread rapidly, and soon Thespian Academy became known as the place where passion, creativity, and discipline converged to produce versatile and captivating performers.

Over the years, Thespian Academy has evolved and grown, adapting to the changing landscape of the theater industry while remaining true to its core values. The academy has expanded its curriculum to include a wide range of courses, from acting basics and scene study to voice and diction and improvisation. It has also attracted a team of highly skilled and experienced instructors, all seasoned professionals in their respective fields, who bring their expertise and industry insights to the classroom. Thespian Academy has become a launchpad for countless successful actors, many of whom have gone on to achieve recognition on stage, screen, and television.

Our Mission

At Thespian Academy, our mission is to provide high-quality, comprehensive acting education that fosters the growth of talent and enables students to achieve their artistic goals. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive community where every voice is heard and every actor feels empowered to take risks and explore their potential. We strive to instill in our students a lifelong love for the performing arts and equip them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in today's competitive acting world.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be recognized as the leading acting academy in Chicago and beyond, a place where aspiring actors can find the resources, guidance, and inspiration they need to realize their dreams. We aspire to cultivate a new generation of talented and versatile performers who will make a meaningful contribution to the world of theater and film. We envision a future where Thespian Academy continues to evolve and innovate, embracing new technologies and approaches to acting education while remaining committed to its core values of excellence, integrity, and community.

Core Values

• Excellence: We are committed to providing the highest quality acting education, upholding rigorous standards and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Integrity: We conduct ourselves with honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct, ensuring a fair and equitable learning environment for all students.
• Community: We cultivate a supportive and collaborative community where students can connect with each other, learn from each other, and grow together as artists.
• Passion: We are driven by our passion for the performing arts and committed to inspiring that passion in our students.
• Innovation: We embrace new technologies and approaches to acting education, constantly seeking ways to enhance the learning experience and prepare our students for the future.