Oil Lamp Theater

The Oil Lamp Theater is an award-winning storefront theatre with only around 60 seats in the heart of Glenview, a suburb north of Chicago. It was founded in February 2005 by Keith Gerth, who initially staged productions for up to 35 guests in his condo in Chicago's Lakeview neighbourhood. In 2012 the theatre was incorporated as a nonprofit and moved into its present home on Glenview Road. The name goes back to Gerth's childhood: in his rural hometown the power often went out, and in the warm glow of oil lamps the family would gather to tell stories. It is precisely this intimate, homey atmosphere that defines the house – with a cosy lobby, freshly baked cookies and a close connection between audience and ensemble. Each year more than 10,000 patrons enjoy six mainstage productions and special events.