Hamnet - Gorton Center - Lake Forest, IL

Hamnet

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Hamnet

First Thursday Series

Thu, May 7
7:00 pm
- 9:00 pm

An image from the movie "Hamnet"- a man and woman are sitting closely together with their heads touching and eyes closed. They are surrounded by green foliage.

Time

Thu, May 07, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045
Join us for a screening of The 2026 Oscar Winner for Best Picture

Hamnet is a deeply moving story about love, family, and loss. It draws us into a quiet world. Then it slowly reveals something profound.

We follow Agnes and William Shakespeare as they build a life together. Their days feel ordinary at first. A home. Children. Work. However, beneath it all, there’s tension between ambition and belonging.

Then everything changes.

When their young son, Hamnet, dies, their world fractures. Grief enters. It lingers. And it reshapes everything they thought they knew.

At the same time, the film stays intimate. It focuses on small moments. A glance. A memory. A silence. Because of this, the story feels deeply human and immediate.

As the family navigates loss, we begin to see transformation. William turns inward. Then outward. Eventually, his grief finds expression through his work. Art becomes a way forward.

Meanwhile, Agnes remains at the emotional center. She holds memory. She carries love. And she shows us what it means to endure.

Ultimately, Hamnet is not just about tragedy. Instead, it’s about connection. It’s about how love persists. And how creativity can grow from even the deepest sorrow.

Gorton Center is a premier destination for outstanding cultural and performing arts experiences serving the residents of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and the surrounding region. As a proud nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are dedicated to enriching our community through an array of exceptional events and programs.

At Gorton Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. Our vibrant calendar is brimming with diverse offerings, ensuring there's always something to captivate and inspire you. From live music performances that resonate with your soul to comedy nights that leave you in stitches, we curate events to suit all tastes and interests. Our dedication to quality and community engagement means you can expect only the best in cultural entertainment.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s always something extraordinary waiting for you. Come be a part of our community, where every event is an opportunity to connect, enjoy, and be inspired.

Gorton offers financial assistance and flexible payment options to individuals who may be unable to afford standard program fees. This support ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate in meaningful learning and cultural enrichment experiences. Applications are reviewed based on demonstrated financial need.

Gorton Center will take and may use photos and videos from this event for its promotional purposes. Your attendance indicates your consent to the above.

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