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Community Theatre

Divisional Events and Meetings


To contact the Youth Theatre representatives and/or join the Committee, please email communitytheatre@illinoistheatre.org.

Join us at the Professional Theatre Opportunities (PTO) on Saturday, February 7, 2026!

Workshop for Professional Auditions

Division Representatives


Karen Shuman

Expires 2027


Alka Sharma is the Founder and Director of Mandi Theater, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promote Indian theater to the American community at large. Passionately immersed in the world of theater, she has won several acting accolades as an amateur artist both in India and abroad. A strong patron of the arts, Alka has been active in Indian Theatre since her school and college days, where she acted and directed several short plays. She has directed and acted in lead roles in multiple successful productions. She and her team also bagged many awards in the field of Theatre and Community Service, and has been strengthening the Indian roots in the USA.


Laura Palti

Expires 2026

Laura Palti serves as the Executive Director of Debut Theatre, where she leads the organization’s mission to inspire, educate, and engage audiences through the power of live performance. With a strong background in administration and community engagement, Laura is dedicated to supporting both emerging and established artists while ensuring theater remains accessible to all.

Before joining Debut Theatre, Laura held leadership roles in property management at Neder Capital, where she focused on building collaborative partnerships, expanding community outreach, and strengthening organizational growth. She is especially passionate about nurturing young talent and fostering a vibrant arts community that reflects diverse voices and stories.

Under her leadership, Debut Theatre continues to grow as a creative hub, offering innovative productions and programs that connect audiences of all ages. Laura believes deeply in theater’s ability to spark dialogue, strengthen communities, and celebrate the shared human experience.



Upcoming events

  • ITA Professional Theatre Opportunities: Interviews, Auditions and Networking

    • 03/07/2026
    • 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
    • Wirtz Center Chicago
    Register


    Saturday, March 7, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    Northwestern University’s Wirtz Center Chicago

    710 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611

    The Illinois Theatre Association (ITA) proudly announces the launch of its revamped Professional Theatre Opportunities (PTO) Program, a first-of-its-kind event designed to transform how theatre artists and hiring companies connect.

    ***UPDATE***

    Traditionally, this event was a one-day, in-person event held in Illinois. But now, we are extending the benefit of participating for a full year in a new digital format.

    Participants will be invited to submit their headshot, bio and resume/CV along with a link to their videos, website and/or portfolio. Hiring companies will be able to gain access to this library of theatre talent for a full year as the need arises.

    Throughout the year, the Professional Theatre Representatives of Illinois Theatre Association will share other mentorship and educational opportunities to create a vibrant environment for collaboration and professional growth.

    With the PTO Conference, the Illinois Theatre Association reaffirms its commitment to networking, creativity and professional excellence. By bridging the gap between artists and employers, ITA is helping shape a more connected and sustainable future for theatre in Illinois and beyond.

    The kick-off of this new program will take place March 7th, 2025. From 9am – 1pm registrants can schedule a video prep session with a FREE video recording at the Northwestern University Wirtz Center Chicago. Submission feedback sessions will take place throughout the day and there will be a VIRTUAL Master Class.  Professional Theatre Opportunities Program creates a powerful new platform where theatre professionals and employers can meet face-to-face, collaborate and discover fresh talent across all disciplines.

    Participants will enjoy interactive networking sessions, live interviews, and one-on-one meetings — creating a vibrant environment for collaboration and professional growth.

    With the PTO Conference, the Illinois Theatre Association reaffirms its commitment to networking, creativity and professional excellence. By bridging the gap between artists and employers, ITA is helping shape a more connected and sustainable future for theatre in Illinois and beyond.

    All participants are able to schedule a personal feedback session with a professional in your area of interest. Professionals are listed in the form below, and James is happy to review your audition before recording, if desired.

    SPECIAL OFFERING: PTO is now offering VIRTUAL, personalized 1:1 feedback sessions for all participants. Protolight will be on hand to tape applicants who want a new video. If you want to attend in person, you can receive your feedback prior to your taping. The deadline to register for an in-person video recording is 2/20/2026.

    Feedback will be given by the following Professionals:

    Jimmy Calitri - Professional Theatre Division Rep (Auditions)

    Noah Record - Professional Theatre Division Rep (Tech/Lighting/Design)

    Brandon Wardell - College Theatre Division Rep (Resumes/Portfolios)

    What to Expect Over the Year

    • Dedicated events and opportunities for actors, choreographers, designers, directors, musicians, music directors, stage managers, and technicians
    • Interactive networking and one-on-one meetings with hiring companies
    • Auditions and interviews designed to highlight your best work
    • A collaborative, energizing environment built for professional growth and creative exchange

    Registration Details

    • $20 – Individuals auditioning or interviewing
    • $100 – Professional theatres or companies seeking talent
    • Registration deadline: February 20, 2026 to book a video recording session on March 7, 2026.

    Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

    For questions, contact professionaltheatre@illinoistheatre.org.

    Audition/Interview Information  Information for Professional Hiring Companies

    Show details

Past Event Recordings


Thanks to the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT) for awarding ITA with a "Certificate of Appreciation" after the 2023 Illinois State Community Theatre Festival! 


© 2022 Illinois Theatre Association is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. 4055 W. Peterson Ave., Chicago, IL 60646

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