New Media Summer Stories: High School - Gorton Center - Lake Forest, IL

New Media Summer Stories: High School

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New Media Summer Stories: High School

Monday, June 23 - Friday, June 27, 9am - 3pm

Mon, June 23
9:00 am
- 3:00 pm

New Media students collaborate around a computer to learn visual storytelling

Time

Mon, June 23, 2025 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Pricing

$500

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045
New Media Summer Stories Experience: A Filmmaking Program for Teens

Calling all aspiring filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives! This one-of-a-kind summer program invites high school students to explore the exciting world of video storytelling through a hands-on, collaborative experience.

Over 10 weeks, participants will move through every stage of pre-production. Working in teams, they’ll brainstorm story ideas, write scripts, plan shoots, and prepare production materials. With support from media professionals and local alumni of the High School Media Collective, students will gain real-world insight into how stories are brought to life on screen.

The final weekend offers a thrilling challenge—a 72-hour filmmaking sprint. During this fast-paced experience, students will take on roles such as directing, acting, editing, sound design, and cinematography. They’ll produce a short film from start to finish, gaining practical skills and a deeper understanding of how a creative team operates under pressure.

In addition to technical training, students will walk away with a completed film project for their portfolio, stronger communication skills, and the confidence that comes from creating something meaningful. The program fosters not just creativity but also collaboration, resilience, and problem-solving—skills essential to any creative career.

Open to high school students ages 14 to 18, this experience is perfect for beginners and seasoned storytellers alike. Whether you’re curious about filmmaking or already passionate about media, this is your chance to grow, create, and connect.

About the Program

Now in its 5th year, New Media Summer Stories gives students the chance to collaborate with peers who love filmmaking. Together, they produce a meaningful short film that follows the guidelines of the All American High School Film Festival’s Complete Experience.

Each student takes on a role in Pre-Production, Production, or Post-Production, depending on their interests and experience. The Pre-Production phase starts 10 weeks before filming. At that time, organizers share the prompt and rules with all participants.

Students form a writing team, and they select a producer and director based on experience and creative vision. They also organize departments for each stage of production:

 

At Gorton Center, we offer a wide range of classes for both youth and adults, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From art and yoga to acting and robotics, our diverse programs are designed to inspire and engage.

At Gorton Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. Our calendar is filled with a variety of offerings, ensuring there’s always something to captivate your interest. Our commitment to quality means you’ll be learning from the best instructors in their fields.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s always something extraordinary waiting for you at Gorton Center. Join our vibrant community where every event is an opportunity to connect, get inspired, and learn. Come be a part of Gorton Center, where creativity and learning flourish together.

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.

Details

Date:
Mon, June 23
Time:
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Event Categories:
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Venue

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road
Lake Forest, IL 60045
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Phone
(847) 234-6060