For over 14 years, Marquee Youth Stage in St. Charles has been a beacon for creativity, confidence, and community connection. Founded in 2011 by Connie Flores, a passionate educator and artistic director, Marquee has provided performing arts opportunities to children and teens aged 4-18. With a mission to make theater accessible to all, Marquee has become a cornerstone for young performers and their families in the Fox Valley and surrounding areas.

Connie’s love for theater began in her childhood, inspired by her older brother’s school plays. Watching him rehearse sparked her own journey into the performing arts, eventually leading her to study theater education in college. After years of teaching and directing in public schools, Connie noticed a troubling trend: limited funding often meant theater programs were not prioritized. Determined to make a greater impact, she founded Marquee as a 501(c)(3) organization to ensure all youth, regardless of skill level or economic background, could experience the transformative power of theater.

At Marquee, programs are tailored to meet the needs of young performers at every stage of their development. From one-hour weekly classes to intensive rehearsals for full-scale productions, there’s something for everyone. For those seeking a more formal experience, the Musical Theatre Conservatory program offers in-depth training in singing, acting, and dance.

Marquee’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence extends to its newly expanded home at 220 N. Randall Road in St. Charles. This state-of-the-art facility features a 202-seat ADA-accessible theater with a proscenium stage, as well as a versatile black-box space with marley dance flooring. These spaces are not only used for Marquee’s programming but are also available for community rentals, making Marquee a hub for creative expression in the area.

Beyond classes and productions, Marquee offers unique services like birthday party hosting and community outreach initiatives. The organization partners with local groups, including scouts, to introduce young people to the performing arts. Through service projects, Marquee instills life lessons that extend far beyond the stage.

One of Marquee’s strengths is its ability to foster a supportive and inclusive environment. Connie’s vision of making theater accessible to all has resonated deeply with the community. Over the years, Marquee has grown rapidly, and with this growth has come challenges. Moving into the new space was a significant milestone, but the focus now shifts to sustaining and eventually purchasing the building to ensure a permanent home for the arts.

Looking ahead, Marquee is excited to continue its legacy. Plans include a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new theater, a year-round calendar of offerings, and a red-carpet gala showcasing talented young performers.

Marquee invites residents of Thornwood and the surrounding communities to experience the magic of live theater. Whether you’re looking to enroll your child in a program, attend a performance, or simply take a tour, Marquee welcomes you with open arms. A former Alum says "It feels so good to have a place to call home. Thank you, everyone for shaping who I am."  Maine T., Musical Theatre Conservatory Alum & Intern.

Discover the magic, confidence, and community that Marquee Youth Stage brings to every child and family it touches.

For more information, contact Marquee Youth Stage at info@marqueeyouth.org or visit www.marqueeyouth.org. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on upcoming events and opportunities.