Top Small Workplaces - 2009 Winner

Company Name: Steppenwolf Theatre Company

Location: Chicago, IL

Nature of Business: Entertainment/Arts

Founded: 1976

Revenue: $15.5 million

Number of Employees: 77

Average Tenure: 5 years

Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf Theatre's ability to develop and attract world-class actors and stage award-winning productions has been fueled by a passionate dedication to Ensemble – literally "a group producing a single effect." Now with 77 full-time staff members and 340 part-time, seasonal or artistic staff, this shared passion is coupled with great ownership and agency in all projects undertaken. Steppenwolf has evolved from a struggling storefront theatre to an internationally recognized company by carefully balancing a "culture of learning" with unparalleled achievement in production. Rarely are extraordinary theatre companies connected with good workplace practices, and the regional company remains one of the most sought-after employers in the industry, where a combination of employee benefits, learning opportunities and distinctive atmosphere result in the retention of talent which might otherwise migrate to TV & Film. Production and administrative staff enjoy remarkably solid healthcare benefits and admirable 401(k) plan, while junior staff are given the opportunity to function as managers and mentors, guiding and instructing interns while gaining management skills and becoming new voices in the leadership of the arts.

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