BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Gorton Center - ECPv6.15.17//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Gorton Center
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://gortoncenter.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Gorton Center
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20240310T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20241103T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250922T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250922T163000
DTSTAMP:20260421T153830
CREATED:20250708T171030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250807T192622Z
UID:20006486-1758553200-1758558600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Mixed Media Art Journaling for Kids
DESCRIPTION:Inspire Creativity and Confidence Through Art Journaling \nGive your child the gift of creativity\, self-expression\, and emotional exploration through the magical world of art journaling. This unique program offers a playful\, nurturing\, and non-judgmental space where young artists can freely explore their thoughts\, feelings\, and imaginations using an exciting mix of materials\, textures\, and techniques. \nOver the course of six engaging 90-minute sessions\, children will dive into a wide range of creative processes designed to spark inspiration and build artistic confidence. Activities include: \n\n\nGelli Printing for vibrant\, layered textures \n\n\nStenciling to add patterns and playful shapes \n\n\nCollage-making using recycled materials and found imagery \n\n\nCreative writing and poetry to connect words with imagery \n\n\nWatercolor and acrylic painting to explore color\, blending\, and mood \n\n\nAnd so much more! \n\n\nEach child will design and fill their very own personal art journal—a beautiful\, expressive keepsake that captures their unique artistic journey. These journals will be as individual as the children creating them\, filled with drawings\, colors\, textures\, and heartfelt reflections. \nBy the end of the course\, your child will not only take home a one-of-a-kind journal but also gain confidence in their creative voice\, enhanced fine motor skills\, and a deeper appreciation for artistic expression. Most importantly\, they’ll walk away with the tools and encouragement to continue creating and exploring long after the final session. \nPerfect for kids of all artistic abilities—no experience necessary\, just curiosity and an open heart! Ages 9 – 12
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/mixed-media-art-journaling-for-kids/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Vees-Art-Class-3.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250922T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250922T183000
DTSTAMP:20260421T153830
CREATED:20250703T171945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T183830Z
UID:20006458-1758558600-1758565800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Musical Theater Performance Class for Ages 8 to 14
DESCRIPTION:In this exciting musical theater performance class\, students will develop their skills in singing\, dancing\, acting\, and character creation while learning the importance of focus\, teamwork\, and theater etiquette. Each class offers personalized guidance to help young performers build confidence and grow as triple-threat artists. \nStudents may enroll in Monday classes. The session will culminate in a performance showcasing material from Broadway Junior Revue by Musical Theatre International. Featured selections may include songs from Willy Wonka Jr.\, Seussical Kids\, Beauty and the Beast Jr.\, Frozen Jr.\, Elf the Musical Jr.\, Peter Pan Jr.\, Winnie the Pooh Kids\, Matilda the Musical Jr.\, and more! \nThis is a fun and supportive environment where creativity and expression take center stage — perfect for both new and experienced performers. \n\nMondays\n4:30 to 6:30 pm\nSeptember 22 – November 16\n8 weeks\n2 Performances – Saturday\, November 15 @ 1 pm and Sunday\, November 16 at 1 pm\n1 Day = $550 \n\nInstructors: Jeremy Kruse\, Emmy Bjerre-Jensen and Carla Garippo \n  \n \nJeremy Kruse\, acting teacher/director/Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio\, is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017). 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  \n  \n  \nEmmy Bjerre-Jensen is an experienced teacher in the classroom and on the stage. She has a bachelor’s in digital cinema and a master’s of education from DePaul University. A lifelong singer and performer\, Emmy has studied voice in a variety of styles and has helped students of all ages develop healthy\, confident singing techniques. Emmy has served as musical director on numerous musical theater productions and she is thrilled to be sharing her love of music\, theater\, and vocal performance with students of all ages and experience levels. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nCarla Garippo\, dance teacher/choreographer\, received her professional dance training from Ruth Page Center for the Arts and was a principal dancer of The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Company of Chicago. She is fluent in Ballet\, Jazz\, Tap\, Hip-Hop\, Modern\, Lyrical\, Contemporary\, Poms\, Pointe\, Musical Theatre\, Stretch/Conditioning and Character. Some of Carla’s credits include: The Chicago Tribune Charities production of “The Nutcracker ” at The Arie Crown Theatre\, Dirty Dancing\, Carnaval at The Victor Hotel\, Dance Chicago\, MTVs Sweet 16\, as well as various music videos and concerts nationwide. Carla teaches dancers of all ages and levels and is excited to be a staff member at Gorton Drama Studio.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/acting-for-ages-8-to-14-mf/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Age,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Gorton-Peter-Pan-Now-2025-231.jpg
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250923T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250923T173000
DTSTAMP:20260421T153830
CREATED:20250729T185136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T150642Z
UID:20006511-1758643200-1758648600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Theater Basics For Kids
DESCRIPTION:Theater Basics for Kids \nInstructors: Jeremy Kruse\, Emmy Bjerre-Jensen and Carla Garippo \nThis fun\, beginner-friendly class introduces students to the fundamentals of acting\, singing\, and dancing through a rotating class structure that keeps things fresh and engaging. Students will be divided into groups according to age. In acting\, students will develop original scenes through improvisation and acting exercises. We will explore characters and situations from well known stories like “Cinderella\,” “Harry Potter\,” “Spider-Man” and “Mean Girls.” The kids are free to suggest any character they wish to work on from any story they wish. In singing and dancing\, they’ll learn age-appropriate songs and choreography from musical theater. The session ends with a relaxed\, low-pressure demonstration where students perform the scenes they’ve created along with the songs and dances they’ve been working on. It’s perfect for kids who are curious about theater and want to get their feet wet—or for those with some experience who are looking for a fun\, low-key environment to continue exploring their creativity. \n\nTuesdays September 23 – November 11\nAges 5 to 14\n4:00 pm to 5:30 pm\nPrice: $300\n\n \nJeremy Kruse\, acting teacher/director/Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio\, is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017). 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  \n  \n  \nEmmy Bjerre-Jensen is an experienced teacher in the classroom and on the stage. She has a bachelor’s in digital cinema and a master’s of education from DePaul University. A lifelong singer and performer\, Emmy has studied voice in a variety of styles and has helped students of all ages develop healthy\, confident singing techniques. Emmy has served as musical director on numerous musical theater productions and she is thrilled to be sharing her love of music\, theater\, and vocal performance with students of all ages and experience levels. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nCarla Garippo\, dance teacher/choreographer\, received her professional dance training from Ruth Page Center for the Arts and was a principal dancer of The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Company of Chicago. She is fluent in Ballet\, Jazz\, Tap\, Hip-Hop\, Modern\, Lyrical\, Contemporary\, Poms\, Pointe\, Musical Theatre\, Stretch/Conditioning and Character. Some of Carla’s credits include: The Chicago Tribune Charities production of “The Nutcracker ” at The Arie Crown Theatre\, Dirty Dancing\, Carnaval at The Victor Hotel\, Dance Chicago\, MTVs Sweet 16\, as well as various music videos and concerts nationwide. Carla teaches dancers of all ages and levels and is excited to be a staff member at Gorton Drama Studio.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/theater-basics-for-kids/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Age,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/GDS-Collage.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250924T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250924T183000
DTSTAMP:20260421T153830
CREATED:20250703T173611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250910T175959Z
UID:20006472-1758731400-1758738600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Film Acting & Production: Alice in Wonderland
DESCRIPTION:On-Camera Acting and Film Production\nIn this exciting on-camera class\, students will dive into the art of film acting while helping bring two original plays — written by Jeremy Kruse and first performed on stage this past winter — to the screen. These scripts are being newly adapted for film\, with fresh scenes and storylines created just for this project. \nStudents will work on scenes from the evolving Alice Again series\, including “The Jabberwocky Necklace\,” and “Willy-Nilly.” Those who participated in the live theater productions will have the special opportunity to build on their previous roles – or work on other roles – with new material written specifically for film\, while new students can step into characters for the first time. Every student will have a sizable role. \nThroughout the class\, students will learn the subtleties that make screen acting different from stage work. They’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process. \nOnce filming wraps\, there will be a short post-production period during which Jeremy will edit the films. Within two weeks of the final class\, families will be invited to a special screening of the completed projects. Additionally\, the finished films will be submitted to local film festivals\, giving students the exciting chance to see their work shared with a wider audience. \nThis class offers a rare opportunity to develop on-camera acting skills\, contribute to an original film project from script to screen\, and be part of a creative and collaborative filmmaking experience. \n\nWednesdays and Thursdays\nAges: 8-14\n4:30pm to 6:30pm\nSeptember 24 – November 13\nScreening: December 4 at 6pm\n$800\n\nInstructor: Jeremy Kruse\nAbout Our Artistic Director:\n \nJeremy Kruse\, teacher/director/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 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/film-acting-production-alice-in-wonderland/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Age,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250927T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T153830
CREATED:20250825T191643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T144558Z
UID:20006596-1758970800-1758974400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tai Chi
DESCRIPTION:Tai Chi is an inclusive form of exercise that anyone can do\, whether you are in peak shape\, or have limited mobility. Despite its slow pace\, it is a valuable exercise for all ages\, read about the health benefits below. Dress comfortably and be prepared to have fun in Ken’s class. \nHealth Benefits \nTai Chi has numerous health benefits. It is good for balance\, flexibility\, and stress – regular Tai Chi practice can improve overall physical health and well-being. In fact\, Harvard Health suggests Tai Chi might be “…the perfect activity for the rest of your life.” \nAs a form of exercise\, researchers in Toronto found it is equivalent to brisk walking. So\, instead of worrying about your steps (how boring)\, join Ken’s class and have some more fun while you exercise. \nUnlike other forms of exercise\, Tai Chi movements are performed with relaxed muscles and a focus on deep breathing. Slow and gentle\, Tai Chi can improve blood flow\, balance\, and relaxation. Each Tai Chi pose flows into the next with circular\, continuous movements. This helps improve your balance and flexibility without putting strain on muscles and joints. \nTai Chi is also a very social activity\, commonly practiced in groups that rhythmically synchronize slow movements with deep breathing. Like meditation\, Tai Chi creates a calm and focused mind and can create a state of mindfulness. \nTai Chi also benefits emotional well-being and mental health. Regular Tai Chi practice can improve concentration\, physical self-awareness\, and create a sense of inner peace. Tai chi is a great exercise for relieving stress and has been shown to benefit hypertension and high blood pressure. \nWhat is Tai Chi? \nIt is a Chinese traditional exercise that blends martial arts’ movement with meditation. Dating back a thousand years\, Tai Chi remains a popular activity in China and around the world. \nTai Chi is a series of slow\, choreographed martial arts movements and poses. Tai Chi poses are circular and continuous\, with an emphasis on smooth transitions and maintaining a centered and grounded posture. Tai Chi poses mimic the movements of animals or nature\, such as flowing water or a bird in flight.  \nKen has been practicing martial arts for 27 years\, and started Tai Chi training in 1996 with Sifu Dale Washington\, Sifu Ban Toy in 2000 and Grand Master Yang Jun in 2006. He has been practicing Tai Chi for 21 years and teaching Tai Chi for 12 years. In 2016\, he received a Gold Eagle certificate from Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan Association. certificate. Ken is also one of Grand Master Yang Jun’s Disciples for the Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan. He teaches Kickboxing and Full-contact Martial Arts teacher and is certified by Ng Family Martial Arts Association.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/tai-chi-september-27/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Wellness,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Tai-Chi.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR