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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T090000
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DTSTAMP:20260727T151030Z
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LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T151030Z
UID:20007394-1788858000-1788861600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Yoga with Areta
DESCRIPTION:Yoga With Areta \nJoin Areta for a traditional Vinyasa Flow yoga class. This one-hour\, bi-weekly practice blends poses\, breathwork\, and meditation. Each session helps release tension\, restore balance\, and strengthen the body. At the same time\, you’ll open and lengthen your muscles. \nWhether you’re new to yoga or have years of experience\, this mindful flow will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. Just bring a mat and a water bottle\, and you’re ready to go. \nVinyasa Flow is a dynamic style of yoga. It links breath with movement as you move smoothly from pose to pose. This practice combines ancient traditions with a modern\, fluid rhythm. Its creative sequences encourage you to explore your body\, breath\, and mind in harmony. \nYoga offers powerful benefits. Physically\, it supports heart health\, flexibility\, and strength. Mentally\, it reduces stress and tension. Emotionally\, it boosts energy and leaves you feeling grounded and revitalized. \nAreta has been teaching yoga in Lake Forest and in yoga studios along the North Shore for 10 years and is E-RYT 500 Certified. Areta’s passion is bringing yoga to EVERY BODY\, and has additional certifications in Meditation\, Adaptive Yoga for Disabilities\, Senior Yoga\, Love Your Brain for traumatic brain injury\, Yoga for Eating Disorder Recovery\, Yin Yoga\, and Yoga for 12 Step Recovery. Areta teaches yoga to inspire and empower physical well-being\, spiritual balance and awakening for everyday life. She is a long-time resident of Lake Forest and a disability advocate and volunteer yoga coach for the Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA).
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/yoga-with-areta-september-8/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T153000
DTSTAMP:20260827T190814Z
CREATED:20260720T190550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260827T190814Z
UID:20007372-1788872400-1788881400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Drawing & Painting with Cheryl Steiger
DESCRIPTION:Discover Your Creative Potential\nCome develop your artistic skills and creativity in the way that works best for you! Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist\, this class offers a flexible and supportive environment to grow. \nTailored Instruction Just for You\nLooking to learn a new technique or improve specific skills? These individualized art classes provide a personalized approach to learning. Cheryl Steiger customizes instruction to your medium\, skill level\, interests\, and learning style. You can choose to work from photos\, a still life\, or your imagination. Please bring your own supplies. \nDrawing and painting do more than build skill—they also support your well-being. Art is therapeutic\, relaxing\, and helps improve fine motor skills\, hand-eye coordination\, problem-solving\, and creative thinking. Moreover\, creative expression boosts mood and may even help slow cognitive decline\, according to some research. \nMeet Your Instructor: Cheryl Steiger\nCheryl Steiger is a Chicago area artist and teacher. Cheryl grew up in Riverwoods\, IL. She studied fine and commercial art at the American Academy of Art in Chicago. In 1979\, she became a freelance illustrator\, also working on commissioned pieces and producing audio-visual shows\, cartooning and fashion illustration. Cheryl has been teaching art for the past 30 years at many Chicago institutions\, including The Art Center of Highland Park\, The Evanston Art Center and Edgebrook Chicago Public School. She shows her fine art locally and around the world. In the summer of 2007\, Cheryl participated in Chicago’s ecologically-themed Public Art Project\, Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet. Her small globe was on exhibit at The United Nations\, NY and The Kennedy Center\, and was purchased by the “Clinton Initiative”. The large globe is still being exhibited internationally.  \n “Creating art is my passion. Bringing my internal vision to the canvas to be shared is my greatest pleasure.”
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/drawing-painting-with-cheryl-steiger-sept-8/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T183000
DTSTAMP:20260904T205433Z
CREATED:20260629T221459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260904T205433Z
UID:20007339-1788885000-1788892200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:The Annual Halloween Character Talent Show
DESCRIPTION:The Annual Halloween Character Talent Show\nA Musical Theater Adventure for Ages 9–14 \nStep behind the curtain and into the hilarious world of The Annual Halloween Character Talent Show! Every year\, Halloween’s most famous characters gather to compete for the title of the year’s biggest Halloween star. While the audience enjoys the show\, the real fun happens backstage. Big personalities clash. Friendly rivalries grow. Plus\, unexpected mishaps keep everyone laughing. \nThroughout this musical theater production\, students will build their acting\, singing\, and dancing skills. They will rehearse from an original script\, create memorable characters\, learn songs and choreography\, and explore comedic acting. Along the way\, they will work together to bring this funny Halloween story to life. Every student will have the chance to shine through featured roles\, solos\, duets\, small-group scenes\, and ensemble numbers. \nPerformance\nThe session ends with a fully staged performance for family and friends. Unlike a Level One Demonstration or Level Two Presentation\, the Level Three Performance focuses on memorization\, strong character work\, storytelling\, and polished stage performance. Throughout the session\, students will rehearse scenes\, songs\, and choreography. Then\, they will perform the complete Halloween-themed musical for a live audience. \nThis class is perfect for students who love to perform and are ready to take on a fun and rewarding musical theater production. \nNOTE: The final performance is on Tuesday\, October 27th at 6:00 pm. \n\nLevel Three: Perform\nAges 9–14\nOPTION #1\n\nTuesdays and Wednesdays | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM\nSeptember 8–October 28\, 2026\n16 Classes | $800\nFinal performance is on Tuesday\, October 27th at 6:00 pm.\n\n\nOPTION #2\n\nTuesdays | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM\nSeptember 8–October 28\, 2026\n8 Classes | $400\nFinal performance is on Tuesday\, October 27th at 6:00 pm.\n\n\nOPTION #3\n\nWednesdays | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM\nSeptember 9–October 28\, 2026\n8 Classes | $400\nFinal performance is on Tuesday\, October 27th at 6:00 pm.\n\n\n\nChoose the schedule that works for you. \nWhether your child attends one day or both\, they will be part of the cast and participate in the final performance. \nThe two-day option simply provides more rehearsal time and more opportunities to develop the show. \nMeet The Gorton Drama Studio Creative Team\n \nJeremy 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  \n  \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-annual-halloween-character-talent-show/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T190000
DTSTAMP:20260806T175730Z
CREATED:20260804T172338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260806T175730Z
UID:20007405-1788886800-1788894000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Felt Owl Keychain Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Create your very own adorable needle-felted owl in this fun\, hands-on workshop! Students will learn the basics of needle felting as they shape soft wool into a charming owl before adding colorful details\, wings\, eyes\, and other finishing touches to bring their creation to life. \nThis beginner-friendly class introduces the art of needle felting using special felting needles. As the workshop involves handling needles\, children should be able to follow instructions carefully. Needle felting also takes a little patience\, but watching your owl come to life is incredibly rewarding and lots of fun! \nEach participant will take home their unique handmade owl\, and all materials are provided. \nAges 9 – 12
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/felt-owl-keychain-workshop/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T193000
DTSTAMP:20260629T141146Z
CREATED:20260622T205051Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T141146Z
UID:20007309-1788890400-1788895800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Art Impact Project: Fantasy Collage
DESCRIPTION:Art Impact Project: fantasy collage explores the concepts of Surrealism\, allowing the subconscious mind to express itself while nurturing our creativity at the same time.  Join Art Impact Project and let your imagination soar as they inspire you to create your own magical art made with just a few simple materials. \nAll supplies provided.  Ages 11+ \n \nThis class is free\, but spaces are limited and participants must pre-register.  \nCelebrating their tenth anniversary\, Art Impact Project is a local 501c(3) with a mission of enhancing emotional wellness through creative expression.  They partner with organizations such as schools\, treatment facilities\, libraries\, and other community spaces throughout Lake County\, to facilitate art programming with a focus on better mental health.  Providing a supportive\, small group setting\, Art Impact Project guides participant step-by-step through the creative process so everyone can experience the benefits of art. \nWant to take this class but can’t make this date? Check out our other Art Impact Classes on Tuesday\, October 13 or Tuesday\, November 10! \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-fantasy-collage-sep-8/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T200000
DTSTAMP:20260908T171206Z
CREATED:20260806T164839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T171206Z
UID:20007419-1788892200-1788897600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Postcard Project: Hey\, There!
DESCRIPTION:THIS WORKSHOP HAS BEEN CANCELLED. PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NEXT ONE ON OCTOBER 13!\nThe Postcard Project is a creative workshop series designed to bring people together for meaningful connection and artistic expression. Over the course of four monthly sessions\, participants will create hand-illustrated and handwritten postcards to send to friends\, family\, or even strangers. Each session explores a different theme\, encouraging reflection\, gratitude\, imagination\, and authentic connection. \nThis project is about stepping away from screens and the fast pace of digital communication—and returning to something tangible\, thoughtful\, and lasting. Whether you’re an artist\, a writer\, or just someone craving deeper connection\, this workshop welcomes all skill levels and backgrounds. \n• All Materials Provided (postcard blanks\, pens\, paints\, stamps)\n• Short Creative Warm-Ups + Guided Prompts\n• Collaborative & Quiet Time to Create\n• Optional Sharing Circle at End \nHey\, there!  Reconnect with someone you’ve lost touch with or want to reach out to. Send them a memory\, a funny moment\, or something you’ve been meaning to say.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/postcard-project-hey-there/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T091500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T101500
DTSTAMP:20260804T180306Z
CREATED:20260804T180248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260804T180306Z
UID:20007411-1788945300-1788948900@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Kindermusik Level 1-2 (15 Months- 3.5 Years)
DESCRIPTION:Sing\, Dance\, and Play with Your Toddler in this Kindermusik Music and Movement Class\nJoin your toddler in a joyful\, energetic Kindermusik class designed just for them! In this engaging music and movement experience\, you’ll support your little one’s growth through music\, rhythm\, and play. Each week\, you and your child will explore a variety of fun activities that spark imagination and build essential early childhood skills. \nFirst\, you’ll move to the beat with lively songs\, joyful dances\, and simple instrument play. From shaking shakers to tapping drums\, your toddler will experience music in exciting\, hands-on ways. As they sing along\, they’ll also strengthen early language and listening skills. \nNext\, through guided group activities\, your child will practice sharing\, taking turns\, and following simple directions. These activities help build social skills and boost confidence in a group setting. Over time\, you’ll notice your child becoming more independent\, curious\, and engaged. Best of all\, you’ll be right there beside them\, sharing in both the fun and the learning. \nMovement and Sensory Play\nIn addition to music and movement\, each Kindermusik class includes story time\, sensory play\, and gentle gross and fine motor activities. Whether clapping hands\, stomping feet\, or snuggling up for a quiet story\, every moment is thoughtfully designed to support your toddler’s development in a playful\, loving environment. \nTo keep each experience fresh and exciting\, new themes are introduced every month. Plus\, with your enrollment\, you’ll receive access to an award-winning app and digital learning materials—so the music\, play\, and learning can continue at home all week long. \nTaught by experienced\, licensed early childhood educators\, this research-based Kindermusik program has inspired families around the world since 1978. Discover how music can bring joy\, growth\, and connection into your daily routine at www.kindermusiknorthshore.com.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/kindermusik-september-9/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Music,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T111500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T121500
DTSTAMP:20260804T181426Z
CREATED:20260804T181318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260804T181426Z
UID:20007412-1788952500-1788956100@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Kindermusik Foundations (Babies to 16 Months)
DESCRIPTION:Music and Movement\nGet ready to laugh\, play\, and connect like never before! In this joyful baby-parent music class\, every moment becomes a memory to treasure. From your baby’s very first giggle to the wide-eyed anticipation of the next bounce\, tickle\, or snuggle\, this class is designed to engage both you and your little one in meaningful\, musical fun. \nEach week\, you and your baby – whether they’re brand new or already taking first steps – will move together through a carefully crafted mix of singing\, dancing\, instrument play\, and sensory exploration. We begin by welcoming everyone with cheerful songs and gentle movement\, helping babies settle in and get excited for what’s to come. Then\, we transition into active play\, where bouncing on laps\, spinning in circles\, and lifting high into the air all help to build strength\, balance\, and coordination. \nFocus on Baby Development\nBut that’s just the beginning. Throughout the session\, we weave in language development through rhythm and rhyme\, encourage tummy and floor time through guided play\, and build your baby’s awareness of the world through touch\, sound\, and movement. You’ll also learn calming massage techniques\, tips for supporting development at home\, and ways to bond even more deeply with your little one. \nIn addition to the weekly in-class experience\, your registration includes access to Kindermusik’s award-winning digital app and online resources. So the music and learning don’t stop when you walk out the door – they continue throughout your week\, wherever you are. \nNew theme-based units keep things fresh every month\, so there’s always something new to discover and enjoy together. Taught by certified early childhood educators using Kindermusik’s trusted\, research-based curriculum\, this class offers more than just fun – it’s an investment in your child’s early growth and in your relationship with them. \nJoin us and let the music move you both! See www.kindermusiknorthshore.com for more information.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/kindermusik-foundations-september-9/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Music,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T182252Z
CREATED:20260818T182252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T182252Z
UID:20007471-1788967800-1788973200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:After School Art with Lezlie
DESCRIPTION:Do you have a budding artist in the family? Give their creativity room to grow in this engaging after-school art class designed specifically for students in Grades 1–4! \nEach class is thoughtfully structured to balance artistic freedom with meaningful learning. We begin with a free-draw session\, allowing students time to warm up\, express themselves\, and get their creative energy flowing. From there\, we dive into the world of art history by introducing an “Artist of the Day”—a renowned or influential figure whose work provides the inspiration for that day’s project. \nStudents will explore various artistic movements\, mediums\, and styles from around the world\, helping them gain a broader understanding of art and its cultural significance. With guidance and encouragement\, they’ll create their own artwork inspired by the featured artist\, putting their personal spin on classic techniques while developing new skills and confidence. \nThe class wraps up with group clean-up\, an age-appropriate art discussion that encourages observation and expression\, and a fun “draw-a-long” activity to reinforce what they’ve learned in a playful and supportive way. \nMore than just an art class\, this is a space where young artists can explore\, reflect\, and connect with the wider world through creativity. It’s a perfect opportunity for self-expression\, experimentation\, and cultivating a lifelong appreciation for the arts and global perspectives.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/after-school-art-with-lezlie-september/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T200000
DTSTAMP:20260820T204422Z
CREATED:20260806T170542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T204422Z
UID:20007424-1788978600-1788984000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Coloring Club
DESCRIPTION:Leave your to-do list behind and make time to create. Coloring Club is a weekly creative escape designed especially for adults. Come relax\, try something new\, and enjoy the simple pleasure of making art by hand. \nEach Coloring Club gathering features a different creative project. You might spend the week coloring\, doodling\, making a collage\, or exploring another relaxing paper craft. Projects are approachable\, playful\, and designed to spark your creativity. You’ll have the chance to experiment with new materials and techniques without pressure to make something perfect. \nNo artistic experience is needed. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to play. We’ll provide all the materials you need to get started. Settle into our beautiful\, inspiring studio space while you create at your own pace. Enjoy music\, conversation\, and plenty of room to follow your imagination. \nColoring Club is also a great way to connect with others. Bring a friend and make something together\, or come on your own and meet new people. The atmosphere is casual\, welcoming\, and supportive. There are no deadlines\, expectations\, or rules about what your finished project should look like. This is your time to slow down and enjoy the process. \nStep away from screens and schedules for a while. Give yourself permission to color outside the lines\, experiment\, and have fun. You’ll leave feeling refreshed\, inspired\, and more connected to your creative side. \nAll materials are provided. BYOB. Come join Coloring Club and add a little more creativity\, color\, and connection to your week.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/coloring-club-september-9/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T120000
DTSTAMP:20260724T161103Z
CREATED:20260724T161103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T161103Z
UID:20007390-1789120800-1789128000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Open Play Mahjong
DESCRIPTION:Please plan to arrive early\, play starts promptly at 10am!\nCalling all Mahjong enthusiasts. Join us for Open Play Mahjong\, a relaxed and social way to enjoy the game you love. These sessions are for intermediate to advanced players who already know the rules. No instruction is offered. \nBring your strategy and a little friendly competition. Connect with other experienced players. Open Play is a great way to practice\, stay sharp\, and enjoy the challenge of Mahjong. \nWe provide all Mahjong sets. Please bring your own Mahjong card. \nPre-registration is required. Drop-ins can’t be accommodated\, so be sure to register early to save your spot. \nWe look forward to seeing you at the table.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/open-play-mahjong-sept-11/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T094500
DTSTAMP:20260709T143327Z
CREATED:20260629T214556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T143327Z
UID:20007336-1789203600-1789206300@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:DOGS & CATS: A Musical Theater Adventure
DESCRIPTION:DOGS & CATS: A Musical Theater Adventure\nBring your love of cats and dogs to this fun musical theater class for kids! Young performers will sing\, act\, dance\, and play while exploring songs from The Aristocats and 101 Dalmatians. They’ll sing favorites like “Everybody Wants to Be a Cat” and a kid-friendly version of “Hound Dog.” \nFirst\, students will play fun theater games and enjoy creative movement. Then\, they’ll use their imaginations to bring playful cat and dog characters to life. Along the way\, they’ll practice acting\, work together as a group\, and learn simple dance moves. They’ll also build confidence every time they step on stage. \nAs the class continues\, students will learn basic musical theater skills in a fun and welcoming space. Step by step\, they’ll improve their singing\, acting\, and movement while making new friends and having fun together. \nFinally\, family and friends are invited to a special end-of-session demonstration. Students will share songs\, games\, and activities from class. They’ll sing and perform simple choreography while showing everything they’ve learned. \nNo experience is needed. Just bring your imagination\, your love of cats and dogs\, and get ready for a fun adventure on stage! \nLevel One: Explore\n \n\nAges 5–8\n\nSaturdays | 9:00–9:45 AM\n\nSeptember 12–October 31\, 2026\n\n8 Classes | $200\n\nGorton Drama Studio proudly teaches foundational acting exercises and acting technique developed by Jeremy Kruse\, author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017) and the author of the upcoming book\, “The Young Actor’s Technique” that are designed to teach students the basics of acting such as stage presence\, projection and creating believable behavior and life skills such as confidence\, active listening and managing stage fright. In partaking in a Jeremy Kruse acting class\, one makes discoveries about oneself\, makes discoveries about the world and learns how to express oneself artistically. \nMeet The Gorton Drama Studio Creative Team\n \nJeremy 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  \n  \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/dogs-cats-a-musical-theater-adventure/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T094500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T104500
DTSTAMP:20260824T191149Z
CREATED:20260824T191149Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T191149Z
UID:20007513-1789206300-1789209900@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tai Chi for Beginners
DESCRIPTION:Tai Chi for Beginners\nDiscover the gentle\, flowing practice of Tai Chi in this beginner-friendly class. Learn simple movements that help you slow down\, focus\, and connect with your body. \nWe’ll start with basic Tai Chi footwork and stances. You’ll learn how to shift your weight\, improve your balance\, and move with greater control. We’ll also practice simple Qigong exercises to encourage mindful breathing and relaxed movement. \nAs you build confidence\, you’ll explore foundational Tai Chi movements. Each movement combines gentle motion with focused breathing and awareness. We’ll also include meditation to help you quiet the mind and create a sense of calm. \nThis class welcomes beginners of all experience levels. Move at your own pace and enjoy a supportive environment as you learn the basics of this ancient practice. \nCome ready to breathe\, move\, and discover a new way to support balance\, focus\, and relaxation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/tai-chi-for-beginners-september-12/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T110000
DTSTAMP:20260709T143308Z
CREATED:20260629T220250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T143308Z
UID:20007338-1789207200-1789210800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:POP STARS & PERFORMERS
DESCRIPTION:POP STARS & PERFORMERS\nStep into the spotlight and perform like a pop star! In this high-energy musical theater class\, students sing\, act\, dance\, and build confidence. Along the way\, they strengthen acting skills\, stage presence\, vocal technique\, and ensemble work in a fun and supportive environment. \nStudents will perform songs and scenes inspired by hit musicals and pop anthems\, including This Is Me\, Shake It Off\, Roar\, Brave\, and selections from High School Musical and The Greatest Showman. First\, instructors introduce a curated list of material. Then\, students help choose which songs and scenes they will rehearse and perform. \nThroughout the session\, students rehearse scenes\, learn group and small-ensemble songs\, and practice simple choreography. As they rehearse\, they will strengthen storytelling skills\, develop memorable characters\, and grow as confident performers. At the same time\, they will build teamwork\, creativity\, and stage confidence. \nPresentation: The session concludes with a presentation for family and friends. This Level Two presentation features scenes and songs that students have rehearsed throughout the session. Students perform in one large group or several small groups and showcase simple choreography. \nThis class is perfect for students who are ready to build stronger performance skills while having fun\, working as a team\, and shining on stage. \n\nLevel Two: Develop\n\nAges 9–14\n\nSaturdays | 10:00–11:00 AM\n\nSeptember 12–October 31\, 2026\n\n8 Classes | $200\n\nGorton Drama Studio proudly teaches foundational acting exercises and acting technique developed by Jeremy Kruse\, author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017) and the author of the upcoming book\, “The Young Actor’s Technique” that are designed to teach students the basics of acting such as stage presence\, projection and creating believable behavior and life skills such as confidence\, active listening and managing stage fright. In partaking in a Jeremy Kruse acting class\, one makes discoveries about oneself\, makes discoveries about the world and learns how to express oneself artistically. \nMeet The Gorton Drama Studio Creative Team\n \nJeremy 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  \n  \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/pop-stars-performers/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Pop-Stars.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T120000
DTSTAMP:20260724T201149Z
CREATED:20260720T195711Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T201149Z
UID:20007378-1789210800-1789214400@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-12/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Beginner-Tai-Chi.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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