Live Bait Theater invites all Chicago Police officers and teenagers to be part of Police-Teen Link. Our program targets youth aged 12-18 and officers of all ranks. We have past and present participants who are happy to talk about their experiences with the FREE program. Just call us at 773-871-1212. Where? We currently have two class locations: 1) Rogers Park: United Church of Rogers Park, 1545 W Morse, Third Floor 2) South Side: Chicago International Charter School, 1309 W 95th St (Enter on Throop) Other sites are being developed on the south side and near-loop neighborhoods. In the past we have held classes at Chicago Park Districts, the Girls and Boy’s Club, and neighborhood cultural facilities. When? We have fall, winter, and spring sessions that run 6-8 weeks, from 6:30-8:30pm. Requirements? Our only requirement is that you commit to all of the classes in the session. Once a session is completed, there is no obligation to continue with the program (Although we’d love you to stay!) Our ideal class size is six officers and ten teens, however we have conducted classes with greater numbers. If our class is full, we will gladly put you on a waiting list. You are free to observe a class before signing up; just call Live Bait Theater and we'll give you the time and location of the Police-Teen Link nearest you. Me, Act? How is that possible? No experience is necessary. Enthusiasm is all that is required. Second City and Improv -Olympic trained instructors will teach the basics of improv techniques. Depending on the interests of our groups, we also do creative writing (monologues, short plays, & poetry) or create a final show for invited guests. Police-Teen Link is about discovering new talents, but it is also about relaxing and having fun. The program has only been in existence for four years, so we are open to catering the program to a group’s specific needs. In addition to our class work, we also take field trips to performances at other theaters. Why should I spend time with people I don’t know, doing something I’ve never done before? Because trying something new is fun. Classes at Second City costs over $150 bucks a semester. This is FREE! This is also an opportunity for police officers and teenagers to have a meaningful experience in a friendly setting. Advanced PTL Some of our officers and teens have been with the program for over four years, developing advanced skills in improv, creative writing, and acting. Some have even gone on to teach classes. To keep our members challenged, we create full-length public performances. Past shows include Live On Stage: Totally Blue, Out of the Blue and Us or Them. Our first two productions were primarily improv shows reflecting aspects of the ensemble’s lives. Us or Them was created by our ensemble through creative writing, improvisations, and transcribed interviews. It focused on the relationships, both good and bad, between cops and teens. It also addresses issues such as teen crime, gangs, and police brutality. Us or Them is available as a model for community-based productions. To obtain a copy of the script, call us at 773-871-1212 or email us at staff@livebaittheater.org For more info or to SIGN UP Call Sharon Evans at 773-871-1212 Live Bait Theater 3914 N. Clark Chicago, IL 60613