Redtwist Reflections: Kalliope Bessler

In the summer of 2022 I was a fresh college graduate from Loyola University, ready to enter the Chicago theatre scene…which had been decimated by the pandemic. With many theaters still trying to get back to pre-COVID lockdown operations, I didn’t expect anyone to take on someone in my position…but Redtwist did. This summer marks my two year anniversary with Redtwist and I could not have asked to get involved with a better theater. In my time at Redtwist, I have moved from being a box officer, to managing the box office, to my newest role as Social Media Coordinator. 

Redtwist Theatre in 2014. Photo from TimeOut Chicago.

As Redtwist grows its patron base and begins remodeling the space, it also bridges the gaps for new generations of theatre makers. With the theater’s renewed commitment to a diverse and inclusive future, it still maintains its original charm of being a storefront Chicago theater that has a longstanding relationship with the community around it. As a young, queer woman in Chicago theatre, I never expected to be welcomed into a long-established theater with the warmth, joy, and commitment that Redtwist gave me. It is such a gift to grow with this theater as we begin renovating our space and ushering in a brighter, more inclusive, and truly thrilling future.