New Media Summer Stories: High School

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New Media Summer Stories: High School

Monday, June 22 - Friday, June 26, 9 am - 3 pm

Mon, June 22
9:00 am
- 3:00 pm

new media hs camp night

Time

Mon, June 22, 2026 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Pricing

$500 For the Week

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045

Camp registration opens on Monday, February 2 at 10 am

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 1 week, 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.

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.

Showcase will be on Monday, June 29 at 7 pm in the John & Nancy Hughes Theater

Check out this video about camp! HERE
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:

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.

Details

Date:
Mon, June 22
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