THE GREAT GORTON ELECTION - Gorton Center - Lake Forest, IL

THE GREAT GORTON ELECTION

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THE GREAT GORTON ELECTION

Tuesday November 3, 9 am - 3 pm

Tue, November 3
9:00 am
- 3:00 pm

$110
A young girl on stage leaning forward, singing to the audience

Time

Tue, November 03, 2026 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045

THE GREAT GORTON ELECTION

It’s election day – but on stage, anything is possible! In this high-energy one-day theater experience, students create original characters, campaign platforms, speeches, commercials, and comedic debate scenes as they run for the most entertaining and unexpected offices imaginable.

From “Mayor of Musical Theater” to “President of Recess,” performers explore how actors use voice, physicality, and storytelling to persuade, entertain, and lead an audience. The day blends improvisation, comedy, writing, and performance as students build campaign teams, develop slogans, and bring their characters to life.

Song & Performance Material may include:

  • You’re the One That I Want
  • This Is Me
  • Count on Me
  • Best Day of My Life
  • We’re All in This Together

Final Event: A live “Election Night Rally” where students present speeches, songs, and campaign moments before casting the final vote.

No prior experience needed – just imagination, energy, and a willingness to campaign theatrically!

  • Level Two: Explore/Develop Day Camp
  • Ages 9–14
  • Tuesday | 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
  • November 3, 2026
  • 1 Day | 6 Hours | $110
Meet The Gorton Drama Studio Creative Team

Jeremy Kruse, Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series, 2017).The book was published in Korean and Chinese in 2022. Jeremy is a professional actor, published playwright, award-winning screenwriter, and award-winning filmmaker. Some of the classes he taught at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York include Method Acting, Comedic Improvisation, Sketch Comedy Writing, and Acting for Film and TV. He graduated from The Strasberg Institute at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts where he majored in drama. Jeremy also teaches privately, one on one  www.jeremykruse.com and www.jeremykruseactingtraining.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 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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