Name: Cold Readings for Chicago Actors and Writers (Free)
Start: 2026-03-03T21:00:00-06:00
End: 2026-03-03T22:30:00-06:00
Location: Chicago Dramatists

Cold Readings for Chicago Actors and Writers (Free)

Every Tuesday, we feature five pieces of new writing that are read aloud in front of a live audience by Chicago actors.
Doors open at 8:15. Casting begins at 8:30. We cast from the audience. It's free and everyone is welcome.
The best way to learn about Tuesdays@9 is to attend Tuesdays@9. It's free and the community is friendly and welcoming.
After casting is complete, we present the new work to a live audience at 9:00 sharp. We also feature a Chicago musician who shares up to 10 minutes of their original music.
ACTORS: If you would like to be considered for reading show up between 8:15 and 8:30. Simply let us know you would like to be considered. No headshots or resumes needed.
WRITERS & MUSICIANS: If you would like to be a part of the lineup, simply come to a Tuesdays@9. Say "hi" and we'll get you situated.
DONE BY 10:30 P.M.: The cold reading of five pieces of new writing plus one featured musician begins at 9:00 and runs 80-90 minutes with one brief intermission filled with arts-related announcements.
WHAT'S IN A NAME: We are called Tuesdays@9 Chicago because we host this event every Tuesday...at nine o'clock. Though the doors open at 8:15, the readings start at 9:00 and we're done by 10:30 p.m. Free and open to all.
GETTING THERE: We meet at Chicago Dramatists, which is steps from the Blue Line and #66 bus-line. There is limited free parking on the street. If you can't find a free parking spot, there is plenty of nearby parking for about $5 with the ParkChicago app. Our address is 798 N. Aberdeen St.
ACCESSIBILITY: There is room for one wheelchair in the audience, plus we can add wheelchair seating on the stage. The first row of seating is step free. We have some scripts blown up to sixe 22 font. If you have low vision and would like to be considered for reading, bring your iPad or tablet. If you are cast, we'll set you up with a music stand and you can blow the font up to whatever size works best for you. We do not read from phones!
KIDS: Over the years, kids have occasionally accompanied their artist-parents or guardians to Tuesdays@9. Though some of the writing may not be considered appropriate for children, everyone is welcome and we trust parents and guardians to talk to their kids about the importance of free speech.