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Our
Mission
Mission Statement
Ensemble Society is dedicated to fostering creativity, community, and growth through unique productions, ensemble collaboration, and comprehensive training. We believe in the power of theater to inspire, challenge, and unite. Our mission is to cultivate a supportive environment where young performers can explore their talents, develop their skills, and discover their unique voices. At the core of our company is a commitment to providing high-quality training that empowers young artists to excel on and off the stage.
Meet the Founders
Stefanie Guggenheim & Alana Guggenheim
Sisters, Stefanie and Alana Guggenheim, hold their fondest childhood memories in the theatre space, and they credit this creative and performative upbringing for many of the foundational skills that guided them through adolescence to adulthood. Their goal is to provide a supportive and uplifting community where young, passionate theatre artists can thrive while learning and growing within their craft. Together, the sisters hold over a decade of experience working in children's theatre, and it is a dream to make Ensemble Society a reality! "Miss Stefanie" has directed and choreographed tons of youth musicals and actually began her assistant-directing career when she was only 14-years-old. She now teaches middle school full time. "Miss Alana" has assistant directed for many years in addition to doing public relations work within the Chicago performing arts community. Stefanie and Alana created "Ensemble Society" to emphasize the teamwork and belonging that brings shows with the most heart to life!
TESTIMONIALS
Carly’s experience with Ensemble Society has been truly special. She’s grown as a performer, gained confidence, skill, and a true understanding of her craft. What makes this troupe special is the sense of family Stefanie, Alana and Abigail create - not just with the kids, but the parents as well. We can’t thank Ensemble Society enough for being such a positive part of her journey!
Stephanie Baron [Deerfield Parent]
Youth Ensemble Society has been an absolutely wonderful theater program for our family. We have two children, ages 12 and 14, who have been with the company since its debut. My children have participated in the Youth Ensemble Society, and my son additionally loved the Studio Yes program. We had previously been in multiple theater companies prior to this and are blown away by our children’s growth in all aspects of performance and the quality of their productions. The company creates a very inclusive environment with high performance expectations where the kids really love going to rehearsal, take immense pride in their productions, and love being with all their cast mates each week in and out of rehearsal. The positivity and motivation fall from the outstanding leadership and direction from their phenomenal directors. This society is like a second family for our children. The excitement for theater is so contagious, my husband and I even took their adult class with no theater experience. We quickly learned what special talents these directors have and just loved being part of the process as well! For aspiring thespians of any age and any level of experience, Ensemble Society is the theater company to be a part of!
Jodi Zuckerman & The Wielansky Family [Deerfield]
I have had three children participate in Ensemble Society and I can't speak highly enough about the program. I have watched my children blossom and thrive as they have worked as a group with other children to put together amazing shows. They have gained confidence each year that they have participated. They have also watched them mature as they have worked and collaborated with other members of their team. Stefanie and Alana are amazing directors who bring such positivity and light to the program. They show these young actors their potential by helping them to produce truly amazing shows. Make sure you don't miss out on this amazing program. You will not be disappointed!
Britt Hanson [Highland Park Parent]
YES has been an extraordinary experience for my son. He’s found a supportive, encouraging community that both nurtures him and challenges him to grow into his best self. The directors set high expectations, but they lead with compassion and genuine care for every student. I’m equally grateful for the opportunity to be part of Adult Ensemble Society, where I’ve rediscovered my love of performing while connecting with an incredible group of people. I wholeheartedly recommend YES and Adult Ensemble Society—and truly any program led by Stefanie or Alana—to anyone seeking a meaningful, high‑quality musical theater experience for their children or for themselves.
Shelly Cohn [Deerfield Parent]
Youth Ensemble Society is a special combination of high-quality programming, skill-building, and pure joy. Stefanie and Alana are pros, and have built a community of talented theater-lovers who can develop their talent and produce high-caliber productions, while also providing a safe space for the group to grow and bond. We also love the "extras" like group outings to local theater productions. I highly recommend Ensemble Society to anyone!
Maxine Zats [Deerfield Parent]
Get in Touch
Reach Out to Us
If you have any questions or want to learn more about our upcoming program, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Fill out the form or email ensemblesoc@gmail.com or call (224) 470 - 1470