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SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-35/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T211500
DTSTAMP:20260515T060921
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SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-36/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270110T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270110T120000
DTSTAMP:20260515T060921
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SUMMARY:Etiquette: Dining with the Stars
DESCRIPTION:Manners Matter\nGood manners help kids shine. Simple things – like saying “please” or waiting their turn -can lead to big rewards. These small habits build confidence\, respect\, and kindness. They also help children connect with others and feel more comfortable in social settings. \nIn this class\, children ages 5 to 8 will learn the basics of everyday manners. The lessons are fun\, hands-on\, and easy to understand. Through gentle practice and simple routines\, kids will build skills they can use at home\, school\, or anywhere they go. \nGood manners start with respect – for yourself and for others. When children practice polite behavior\, they show they care. They learn to be thoughtful guests\, kind friends\, and helpful family members. \nThis class covers key habits that make mealtimes smoother and conversations easier. Step by step\, students will learn how to behave politely in group settings and around the table. \nTopics include:\n\nSetting the table for a two-course meal using real plates\, cutlery\, and glasses\nPracticing how to use silverware correctly\nTaking turns and being patient while others speak\nSitting tall with good posture and keeping elbows off the table\nListening carefully and making eye contact when someone is talking\nStarting and joining polite conversations during meals\n\nEach skill is taught in a way that’s age-appropriate and fun. Children will practice with their classmates and build habits they can use every day. \nBy the end of class\, your child will feel more confident and capable in social situations. They’ll understand why manners matter – and how to use them to show kindness and respect. \nGive your child a strong start with the lifelong gift of good etiquette. It’s a small investment that brings big results. \nAges Kindergarten – 3rd Grades  — Please note lunch will be served (bread roll\, chicken\, 3 vegetables and dessert)  Notify LIBBY JOHNSON if your child has an allergy we should be aware of. \nThis class is taught by Sarah Berto from Confidence with Etiquette.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/etiquette-dining-with-the-stars-january-10/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Specialty,Wellness,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270110T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270110T143000
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SUMMARY:Etiquette: Pearls and Bowties
DESCRIPTION:Manners Matter \nEtiquette is an important life skill that helps children thrive in any setting. Simple actions – like saying “please\,” listening respectfully\, or waiting their turn – can make a big difference. These habits build confidence\, encourage cooperation\, and show respect for others. \nIn this fun and interactive class\, children will learn the basics of everyday etiquette. They’ll practice polite behavior\, improve their social skills\, and gain tools to handle a variety of situations. The lessons are hands-on and easy to follow. Step by step\, students will grow more comfortable and confident. \nFirst\, we’ll talk about manners at home. Then we’ll move on to social settings. From casual playdates to formal family dinners\, your child will learn what’s expected – and why it matters. \nTopics include: \n\nHow to set the table for a three-course meal\nEtiquette for both casual and formal events\nMaking eye contact and being a good listener\nStarting conversations and knowing what to say\nUsing phones and tablets politely in group settings\n\nAlong the way\, students will learn to think before they speak\, show kindness\, and handle themselves with care. These skills help them feel more prepared\, whether they’re meeting new people or spending time with family. \nMost importantly\, they’ll learn that good etiquette isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being thoughtful\, respectful\, and aware of others. \nBy the end of class\, your child will feel more at ease in many social situations. They’ll understand how etiquette helps them connect with others – and why it matters every day. \nHelp your child build strong habits that last a lifetime. Because when they know how to use good manners\, they’re ready for anything. \nThis is led by Sarah Berto with Confidence with Etiquette  \nAges 9 -13 \n*Please note lunch will be served (bread roll\, minestrone\, chicken\, 3 vegetables & dessert)
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/etiquette-pearls-bowties-january-10/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Specialty,Wellness,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270122T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270122T210000
DTSTAMP:20260515T060921
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LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T183109Z
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SUMMARY:Kellen Erskine
DESCRIPTION:Catch Rising Comedy Star Kellen Erskine Live at Gorton This January\nGet ready for a night of stand-up comedy at Gorton this January. Comedian Kellen Erskine brings sharp wit\, clever observations\, and relatable humor to the stage. As a result\, he’s quickly become one of today’s most talked-about comedians. \nKellen earned national attention as one of TBS’s Top Ten Comics to Watch. Since then\, he has appeared on major platforms like Conan\, Comedy Central\, Jimmy Kimmel Live!\, and America’s Got Talent. In addition\, he starred in Amazon’s Inside Jokes\, showcasing his journey in comedy. \nMoreover\, his Dry Bar Comedy specials\, Negative Comments and Composed\, have gained widespread acclaim. His stand-up clips have reached over 200 million views online. Because of this\, he continues to grow a global fan base. \nEarlier\, Kellen performed in the prestigious “New Faces” showcase at the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal. Today\, he tours nationally and sells out comedy clubs and theaters across the country. \nBeyond the stage\, he hosts The Book Pile podcast. There\, he mixes humor with book reviews and comedian interviews. \nNow\, you can see Kellen Erskine live at Gorton. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his comedy\, this show delivers big laughs from start to finish. So don’t wait – buy your tickets early and enjoy an unforgettable night of live comedy.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/kellen-erskine/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Comedy,Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270220T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270220T110000
DTSTAMP:20260515T060921
CREATED:20260505T161011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T163330Z
UID:20007133-1803117600-1803121200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Ocean Blue
DESCRIPTION:An Immersive\, Awe-Inspiring Journey Through the Wonders of Ocean Life \nDive into a breathtaking theatrical adventure. Icebergs drift. Waves crash. Life moves all around you—above and below the sea. \nFirst\, meet Charlie\, a young crab with big dreams. He stands up to his older brothers and chooses a different path. But suddenly\, danger strikes. A hungry gull snatches him from the shore. Then\, in a twist of fate\, a shark attack sends Charlie falling deep into the ocean. \nNext\, he lands in “The Gully\,” a mysterious trench in the Atlantic. Here\, glowing creatures light the darkness. Northern bottlenose whales dive to incredible depths. In this strange new world\, Charlie’s real journey begins. \nFrom there\, he travels across the Atlantic\, Arctic and Pacific Oceans. Along the way\, he swims beside migrating whales and sea turtles. He faces challenges and adapts. He learns to outsmart predators and navigate the vast underwater world. Most importantly\, he discovers that courage\, kindness and friendship can change everything. \nNow\, Ocean Blue by Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia brings this story to life. Through stunning puppetry\, immersive design and heartfelt storytelling\, the ocean unfolds before your eyes. \nFinally\, this one-hour theatrical experience blends puppetry\, digital projection and original music to create a mesmerizing underwater world. It’s filled with fascinating ocean facts\, playful humor and moments of pure wonder. \nDesigned for children ages 5 and up—and the grown-ups who join them—Ocean Blue sparks curiosity\, inspires imagination and invites everyone along for the adventure. \nGorton Center’s family performing arts shows are partially underwritten by The Grainger Foundation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/ocean-blue/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Family & Kids,Performing Arts
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270228T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270228T151500
DTSTAMP:20260515T060921
CREATED:20260505T170840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T204958Z
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SUMMARY:Petra Sings!
DESCRIPTION:Experience an unforgettable night of jazz with Chicago-based duo Petra van Nuis and Dennis Luxion. Together\, they deliver a sound that is intimate\, expressive\, and deeply engaging. Critics praise their “seamless camaraderie” (Chicago Jazz Magazine). In addition\, their music is described as “hauntingly atmospheric and filled with creative substance” (All About Jazz). \nDennis Luxion brings decades of experience to the stage. He is a “veteran Chicago pianist of impeccable taste and considerable harmonic imagination” (Chicago Tribune). Notably\, he performed and recorded with jazz legend Chet Baker in the 1980s. Since then\, he has toured internationally\, including recent appearances in Southern Africa with Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rhythm Road program. \nMeanwhile\, Petra van Nuis captivates audiences with her voice. DownBeat Magazine calls it “light\, gorgeous\, and fairly delicate\,” with “a gift for melody and plenty of rhythmic confidence.” She is well known in Chicago for her work with the Recession Seven. In addition\, she performs regularly in an intimate duo with guitarist Andy Brown. \nTogether\, Petra and Dennis create something truly special. Their album Because We’re Night People earned 4 stars from DownBeat and was featured in the Best of 2019 issue. Furthermore\, their latest release\, From Me To You\, highlights their long-running residency at Chicago’s Le Piano jazz club. The album was also selected for Scott Yanow’s Best of 2024 list. \nAs a result\, this performance offers more than music. It creates a mood. It tells a story. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of Chicago’s finest jazz duos live.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/petra-sings/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music
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