About us

The 1901 Gallery Theatre is an independent, non-profit art and performance space in Chicago that has been hosting a variety of theatrical events since October, 2004. From gallery exhibits featuring live local musicians and artists, theatrical burlesque shows, comedy showcases, alternative craft faires and film screenings, The 1901 goes from gallery to theatre literally overnight!

 Founded by musicians Guisef Volium and Genivre Vine, The 1901 has been an ever-expanding entity, far surpassing the initial expectations of holding writing workshops and band rehearsals. The space itself was initially a dilapidated 6-car garage with no insulation, heating or cooling. With a kernel of inspiration, a large personal investment, precise planning and a whole lot of elbow grease, The 1901 was erected from a ghostly shell and has been hanging on tight for the duration of the ride.

 The 1901 is different from most entertainment venues. We are not a bar, so we cannot receive sponsorship and promotional assistance from liquor companies, tax breaks for advertisements, nor do we have an entertainment budget from any sort of “corporate headquarters.” We rely 100% on donations from the patrons at our events and money from our own pockets so that we may continue to provide a space for the number of dancers, photographers, sculptors, musicians, painters, writers, designers, directors, actors and artists that call The 1901 their home away from home.

 Our patrons, cast and crew are all truly amazing people that help create the magical vibe that is Chicago‘s most awesome underground gem. 
 We’re ready for the next adventure - are you?

*IN THE DARK T-shirts available NOW for $17 (+$3 shipping)*
Order one TODAY and show off your love & support for the
COOLEST UNDERGROUND Theatre Space in Chicago!


 
CLICK HERE to purchase the T-shirt!



KICKSTARTER BACKERS
The 1901 loves you for helping us successfully fund our Drive!

"PAL"
Mara Mayhem, Alison Eldridge, Travis Mitchell, Leyla Oglesby,
Viva LaMuerte, Ernst Charles Jr., Giuliana Aiello, Brianne Adelman,
Melissa Genova

"1901 CHUM"
Patrick Fitzgerald, Bubes Radley, Bill Linkenheimer, Tamie Yost,
Duanne Walton, Katherine Majewski, Vincent Bilancio, Jessica Bailey,Meghan O'Connell, Cinnamon Hayes, April Guentner,
Cassandra Kimmel, Happypet Groomers, Elysia Lock, Cruel Valentine, Lisa Bennett & Alex Jerousek

"AWESOME"
Michelle Maynard, Miss Ellie Noise, Mark Schaffer, Foxy Goat,
 John D. Jones, Scary Lady Sarah, Mandy Dempsey, Jordan Arndt, Tara Riley, Jennifer Gilley, Curt Lotspeich, Rosie Maybe, Taylor K.,
Tony, Sky Cotton, Jennifer Anne Buckley,
Matthew Nudelman, Amourena Tsokatos, Vittorio Carli & Peter Kelly

"BEAUTIFUL"
Titty Perkins, Mister Vibe, Candice Bree, Pryoplasm, Chuck Kidwell,
JB Anderton, Branka Stephens, Chateau GRRR, Steve ., Bella Bathory,Dash Ellis, Portia Sykes, Gothic Art Chicago, Jeanne Newman, Bob Bilow, Jeremy Scheuch, Jamillia & Angela Eve

"BRILLIANT"
Ben Spurrier & Nyx Greenfire

"NOTORIOUS"
Kashif Pannus Ali, Kevin Nay, Jezzibel Bates, Vaudezilla Productions, Jason Messerli & Steve Welch

"SUPER-HERO"
Maya Sinstress, Scott Schaffer, Nancy Schaffer, Jason Ernst &
Leon Grossman

"ROYALTY"
Thomass & Eve Whittenburg

"PATRON SAINT OF THE 1901"
The Reverend J.D ChicagoDom