OUR MISSION

Couch Penny Ensemble creates unique theatrical productions that blend movement, music, and a precise attention to detail. Using highly physical staging and bold visual language, we aim to externalize the inner lives of characters in grand, unconventional ways and embrace a spirit of maximalism. In pursuit of this vision, we also strive to make theatre accessible and affordable, offering unforgettable live experiences for all.

OUR VISION

Couch Penny Ensemble strives to become the home for bold, transformative theatre that Chicago audiences return to again and again. We’re committed to expanding access to our live performance, supporting new work, and fostering more diverse artistic voices as we grow.

OUR PILLARS

RESPECT FOR ARTISTS

A lot of hard work goes into a Couch Penny production, from the performers on stage to the crew behind the scenes. We believe that the best way to show that we value that work is through compensation and uncompromising attention to safety. CPE takes fight and intimacy design seriously from day one and incorporates a non-equity deputy into every project in an ongoing effort to create a safe space to work, play, and transform.

COLLABORATION & COMMUNITY

As an ensemble theatre, collaboration is built into our process. We’re excited to form new artistic partnerships and believe that our work grows stronger through the inclusion of more voices and perspectives. We believe that being a part of the theatre community is both a privilege and a commitment to support and uplift our industry peers.

THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE

Our mission has always centered around the exploration of character and using performance to dive deeper into what it means to be human. We choose to produce scripts and collaborate with artists that share our enthusiasm for what humanity has to offer. Exploring the human experience also means showcasing human talent; Couch Penny Ensemble is proud to be committed to excluding AI from our programming, marketing, and messaging. If it has the Couch Penny name, you know it was created by human artists, start to finish.