The Athenaeum was built in 1911 as a community center for the arts. Today it houses many of Chicago's most exciting and innovative theatre companies, dance companies, improvisation troupes, and training schools. Under the direction of SCT Productions, the Athenaeum continues its original mission as a recreational center for the neighborhood, as well as the entire metropolitan area. Meeting rooms have been transformed into studio theatres and classrooms into affordable office space for young arts organizations. Presently, there are three studio theatres, in addition to the original 1,000 seat main stage facility available for rental by outside producers.