The Children’s Theatre Institute was founded in December 1999.  The organization’s roots, however, began in 1992 as Chicago TheatreWorks, a touring company founded by Indiana native James Leagre while he was living in Chicago.  Under Leagre’s leadership, TheatreWorks served more than 250,000 students, bringing theatrical adaptations of classic literature into Midwest schools.  When Leagre returned to Indianapolis in 1997, he expanded the organization to include education and outreach programming, resulting in the Children’s Theatre Institute (CTI).  CTI launched its first season in November 2000.  After three successful seasons on the north side, CTI relocated to downtown Indianapolis, taking up residence in the Old Centrum Building. 

On February 29th, 2008 CTI opened its brand new state-of-the-art 300 seat Theatre.  This muli-functional space is located inside the Gene B. Glick Junior Achievement Education and Conference Center at 74th street and Keystone Avenue. Having a place to call home is allowing CTI to deepen and expand its programming. It also allows the opportunity for young children to have a complete theatrical experience. We'd love to see you in our new home soon!