WE BELIEVE IN COMMUNITY CONNECTION
For 50 years, Gorton Center has worked to enrich the lives of our communities through cultural arts, education, and charitable service. As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, Gorton Center relies on the generosity of residents and businesses to help fund the programs & services offered and are grateful for the support received from our community.
Gorton Center presents live music and entertainment, films, and classes for all ages in our historic building. We also house Gorton Children’s Learning Center, a high-quality early education and daycare center that has been in operation for over 35 years. We welcome our community to rent our spaces to host their own events onsite. Additionally, Gorton Center houses the offices of ten other nonprofit organizations on the second floor of our building.
HISTORY
From 1901, when our building opened as a school, to our present, we are filled with culture and history.
50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
In 2024 Gorton will celebrate 50 years as a gathering place in our community.
CURRENT PROGRAM GUIDE
The Window is published and mailed to Lake Forest & Lake Bluff residents three times a year.
GORTON DRAMA STUDIO
Dedicated to providing Method acting, dramatic writing education and professional caliber performance opportunities on the stage and screen.
STAFF & BOARD
We are engaged and committed to bringing exceptional arts and culture to our community.
2026 Sponsor
2026 Sponsor
2026 Sponsor
2026 Sponsor
2026 Sponsor
2026 Sponsor
2026 Sponsor
PAM & DAVID WAUD
2026 Fly FIshing Film Festival Sponsor
Oktoberfest Tent Underwriter
Mountainfilm on Tour Co-Presenter
Mountainfilm on
Tour Sponsor
Performing Arts Sponsor
Wellness Class Sponsor
Arts Programming
First Thursdays
Film Series
Photography Partner
Patrick Marsek
Photography Partner
Michael Delott
Photography Partner
Marcus Norman
Landscape Maintenance
Survey Software
Friend of Oktoberfest
Photography Partner
Eric Decker
Safety Town Sponsor
Safety Town Sponsor
WHAT'S NEW
View "MORE" - Gorton's 2025 Annual Report
2025 was More Than We Imagined - Find Out Why
Kids Take the Stage with Gorton Drama Studio’s Cinderella This Summer
This summer, Gorton Drama Studio brings the classic story of Cinderella to life. Campers ages seven to 17 learn acting, stagecraft, collaboration, and confidence as they rehearse and perform this beloved fairytale. From fairy godmothers to glass slippers, every role plays a part in an inspiring, joy-filled theatrical experience that ends with a live performance in the John & Nancy Highes Theater.
