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About Definition Theatre

Definition Theatre at 55th is an intimate storefront venue in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. With a flexible, general admission setup and a total capacity of about 150 (roughly 65–70 seated), it offers an up-close theatre experience that’s easy to access and enjoy. The venue is part of Definition Theatre’s ongoing mission to present new plays, world premieres, and bold co-productions, while planning a future permanent home in Woodlawn.

Below you’ll find practical details to help you secure your seats, plan your visit, and explore nearby lodging and dining options. We’ve got you covered with transportation tips and where to stay or eat around the Hyde Park area.

Venue overview: Definition Theatre at 55th (Definition @ 55th) is a small, flexible storefront space located at 1160 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615. The venue specializes in intimate performances, often presenting world premieres and collaborations such as Judy’s Life’s Work (2024) and Fat Ham (2025, with Goodman Theatre). It also hosts the Amplify New Plays program and other ambitious productions like Splash Hatch on the E Going Down (2025).

Seating and capacity: All seating is general admission. Total capacity is up to about 150, with approximately 65–70 seats for seated audiences and room for standing attendees when appropriate. Expect a close-up, theater-in-the-round or flexible seating arrangement that adapts to each production.

Parking and transportation: Free on-street parking is available along 55th St and S Woodlawn Ave. There is no on-site lot. The venue sits about a 15-minute walk from the 55th/56th/57th Metra stop. The 55 bus (eastbound) connects to the Green Line Garfield station for easy access from downtown Chicago and surrounding neighborhoods.

Nearby hotels: For visitors needing a place to stay nearby, consider these options: Hyatt Place Chicago South/University Medical Center (5225 S Harper Ave), Sophy Hyde Park (1411 E 53rd St), and The Study at University of Chicago (1227 E 60th St). These properties offer convenient access to Hyde Park's culture and cuisine.

Dining and nightlife: Hyde Park and nearby areas offer a range of dining choices, from casual eateries to refined options. We partner with trusted local partners to highlight places that pair well with evenings at Definition Theatre. Explore nearby cafés and restaurants before or after a performance to complete your night out in Chicago’s south-side arts corridor.

Getting the most from your visit: Secure your seats early for high-demand performances, arrive a bit early to enjoy the neighborhood, and check the venue’s social channels for updated show information and any schedule changes. For accessibility or special accommodations, contact the venue ahead of your visit.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Address and venue: Definition @ 55th, 1160 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615; intimate storefront theatre in Hyde Park.
  • Venue type and seating: small, flexible storefront space; all seating at Definition @ 55th is general admission; total capacity up to about 150 (seated ~65-70; standing to ~150).
  • Parking and transit: free on-street parking along 55th St and S Woodlawn Ave; no on-site lot; 15-minute walk from the 55th/56th/57th Metra stop; 55 bus eastbound from Garfield Green Line.
  • Nearby hotels: Hyatt Place Chicago South/University Medical Center (5225 S Harper Ave); Sophy Hyde Park (1411 E 53rd St); The Study at University of Chicago (1227 E 60th St).
  • Notable events hosted: Amplify New Plays program; world premieres and co-productions such as Judy’s Life’s Work (2024) and Fat Ham (2025, with Goodman Theatre); Splash Hatch on the E Going Down (2025).
  • Renaming/demolition status: Definition @ 55th is an interim venue as Definition Theatre plans a permanent Woodlawn home at 6400 Cottage Grove Ave; no demolition of the Hyde Park space reported.