Originally named the Dramatic Society, the St. John's University Chappell Players Theatre Group (CPTG) has been the premiere theatre organization for St. John's University since the 1930's. CPTG is committed to the learning and development of all persons involved in the art of theater. These experiences are extended to the roles of actor, backstage worker, writer, designer, director, and audience member. 

Students participating in CPTG are offered diverse theater experiences and opportunities to contribute and participate in a growing repertoire of professional as well as original student written and directed pieces. CPTG regularly works in conjunction with Alpha Psi Omega, the National Theater Honor Society.

Under the artistic direction of theatre professionals Nicholas J. Caccavo and Emily Abma, CPTG has staged numerous productions including Hairspray, Godspell, The Addams Family, A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Dinner Party, The Library, and In The Heights, just to name a few. 

The Chappell Players stage four mainstage productions per school year including a Musical and Cabaret for Charity which benefits St. John's Bread and Life Mobile Soup Kitchen in the fall and a Straight Play and Children's Show in the spring.