About The piven theatre workshop
The Piven Theatre Workshop: A Top Actors’ Training Center in Chicago
The Piven Theatre Workshop is a renowned acting school located in Evanston, Illinois, just north of Chicago. Founded by Joyce and Byrne Piven in 1974, the workshop has become one of the most respected and influential training centers for actors in the country.
With a focus on ensemble work and improvisation, the Piven method emphasizes emotional truth and authenticity in performance. Students are encouraged to explore their own creativity and develop their unique voice as actors.
Over the years, many famous actors have trained at the Piven Theatre Workshop, including John Cusack, Joan Cusack, Jeremy Piven (Byrne and Joyce's son), Aidan Quinn, Sarah Ruhl (a Pulitzer Prize finalist), Lili Taylor (an Independent Spirit Award winner), among others.
The workshop offers classes for all levels of experience - from beginners to advanced professionals - as well as workshops for teachers and directors. Classes are taught by experienced instructors who have worked extensively in theatre, film & television.
In addition to its training programs for actors, The Piven Theatre Workshop also produces plays throughout the year. These productions showcase both emerging talent from within its student body as well as established artists from around Chicago.
One of The Piven Theatre Workshop's most notable productions was "Bleacher Bums," which premiered at Organic Theater Company before moving to Broadway. Written by Joe Mantegna (who also starred in it) along with other members of Organic Theater Company including Dennis Franz ("NYPD Blue"), Roberta Custer ("ER"), Ian Williams ("Chicago Fire") among others; "Bleacher Bums" became an instant hit with audiences across America.
Another notable production was "Tales From Hollywood," written by Christopher Hampton ("Dangerous Liaisons") which premiered at Steppenwolf Theater Company before moving off-Broadway. This play explores themes such as exile & displacement through stories about exiled German writers living in Hollywood during World War II.
In recognition of its contributions to theatre education & production over four decades; The National Endowment for Arts awarded The Piven Theatre Workshop with a grant worth $20k back in 2016-17 season alone!
Overall; if you're looking for an acting school that will challenge you creatively while providing you with top-notch training from experienced professionals; then look no further than The Piven Theatre Workshop!