New Media Chicago Summer Stories: Middle School
New Media Chicago Summer Stories: Middle School
Monday, July 6 - Friday, July 17, 9 am - 12 pm
Mon, July 6
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Time
Mon, July 06, 2026 9:00 am - 3:00 pmPricing
$800 For 2 Weeks
Location
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045
Camp registration opens on Monday, February 2 at 10 am
Chicago Summer Stories: A Video Storytelling Camp for Ages 11–14
Discover the Power of Storytelling Using Just an iPhone
Get ready for a summer where creativity meets technology and storytelling comes to life! Chicago Summer Stories is a unique media camp designed for middle school students. They’ll explore the exciting world of video production using a tool they already have—their iPhones.
This hands-on, immersive camp walks students through every stage of video storytelling. From brainstorming ideas and writing scripts to filming and editing, campers dive into the creative process from day one. They’ll work in small teams, experiment with camera techniques, and learn to tell powerful stories using their own voice and vision.
What sets this camp apart is its focus on mentorship and collaboration. High school students from the LFHS New Media program and middle school media teachers help lead the way. They create a supportive, fun environment where younger students feel confident, inspired, and encouraged to learn.
Camp Highlights:
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Plan, shoot, and edit short films using iPhones
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Work closely with peers and high school mentors
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Build storytelling, technical, and communication skills
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Gain confidence in expressing ideas through video
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Learn real-world media techniques in an age-appropriate setting
Whether your child loves making videos, telling stories, or is simply curious about media, Chicago Summer Stories delivers an unforgettable summer. They’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a new way to share their voice with the world. Make sure to check out New Media Summer Stories for High Schoolers as well!
Showcase will be on Friday, July 17 at 7 pm in the John & Nancy Hughes Theater
Check out this video about camp! HERE
Chicago Summer Stories is in its 8th year and has evolved to engage creators of different ages, mentored by professionals in the industry and facilitated by familiar faces in the community. Students will use iPhones and MacBook Pros to capture and finish their editing using Final Cut Pro. For more information on previous experiences, go to www.chicagosummerstories.com
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 Center will take and may use photos and videos from this event for its promotional purposes. Your attendance indicates your consent to the above.
Refunds will only be given up to one week prior to the first week of class of any session. (The refund period for some classes, which require advanced reservations or purchase of materials, may be more limited.) Cancellations will incur a $5 handling fee for programs costing under $100 and a 10% handling fee for programs with fees of $100 or more. If a class is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, you will be notified, and a full refund will be given.
If this class does not meet the minimum participation requirement, you will be notified of the cancellation within one week of the start date.
Easily Reach our Development Team using the form below.
Laura Demmer, Director of Development
Ann Kiesling, Development Associate
847-234-6060
"*" indicates required fields
The John & Nancy Hughes Center Seating Chart
