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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T191500
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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-33/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101054
CREATED:20260303T200729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T222323Z
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SUMMARY:Mike & Joe
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for a true rock show.  Outside! \nMike & Joe deliver one of the tightest modern rock cover performances in the country. First\, they pull you in with familiar riffs. Then\, they keep you there with nonstop energy. Their setlist spans the 60s\, 70s\, 80s and 90s – plus today’s biggest hits. In other words\, if you love it\, they play it. \nBut they don’t just perform songs. They recreate the concert experience. You’ll sing\, dance\, and feel like you’re front row at the original artist’s show. \nWith more than 4\,000 performances worldwide\, they’ve played everywhere from Chicago arenas and Boston conference centers to Florida beaches\, Hollywood film sets\, Lake Michigan cruises and international resorts in Costa Rica and Mexico. They’ve rocked Super Bowl events\, historic landmarks and private celebrations for NFL\, MLB and NHL teams. \nNo matter the stage\, they bring the same thing – big sound\, real interaction and a crowd that becomes part of the show. \nJoin us. Feel the energy. \nSome Artists Mike & Joe cover: \nMaroon 5 • Morgan Wallen • Goo Goo Dolls • U2 • Blink 182 • Fleetwood Mac • Justin Timberlake • Third Eye Blind • The Killers • Sublime • Dave Matthews Band  • Eric Church  • Keith Urban • The Eagles • Jimmy Eat World • Foo Fighters • The Cure • Tears For Fears • Fallout Boy • Pearl Jam • and more! \nThis concert will take place rain or shine.  Rain venue is The John & Nancy Hughes Theater
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/mike-joe/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260916T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260916T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260309T224909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T142233Z
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SUMMARY:The High School Transition with Gail Gamrath
DESCRIPTION:Help Your Teen Start High School with Confidence\nThe transition to high school is a major milestone for students and families. It can also bring stress and uncertainty. New social dynamics\, tougher coursework\, and greater independence often leave even confident students feeling overwhelmed. \nIn this informative presentation\, parents and caregivers will learn what the high school transition really requires. We’ll explore the academic\, social\, and emotional changes students face. Then we’ll share practical ways to support them. \nDrawing on expertise in adolescent development\, executive function\, and academic skills\, Gail offers clear\, realistic strategies. Parents will learn how to build confidence\, reduce anxiety\, and encourage independence. As a result\, students can start high school feeling prepared and supported. \n \n  \nAttendees will leave with: \n\n\nA clearer understanding of the emotional and academic challenges of the high school transition \n\n\nPractical tools to support organization\, studying and time management \n\n\nStrategies that reduce anxiety while encouraging independence \n\n\nConfidence in knowing when and how to seek help \n\n\nA roadmap for partnering with their student – and the school – during this exciting stage of growth \n\n\nAbout Gail Gamrath\, M.Ed.\nGail Gamrath is a professional speaker\, life coach and parent education consultant with more than 30 years of experience in public education\, including two decades leading student services at a large suburban Chicago high school. \nGail helps families to work together to support struggling students and foster healthy\, resilient teens. Known for her warmth\, humor\, and practical strategies\, she delivers presentations that inspire and equip audiences to take meaningful action at home and in the school community. \nA mom to three\, she brings empathy\, real-life perspective\, and a student-centered approach that helps families and learners feel confident and supported.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-high-school-transition-with-gail-gamrath/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Speakers
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T180000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260422T162157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T131850Z
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SUMMARY:Learn To Make Cannoli
DESCRIPTION:Learn to Make Cannoli from Scratch\nStep into the kitchen and learn how to make delicious\, homemade cannoli! \nIn this fun and interactive class\, you’ll discover the secrets behind creating perfectly crisp shells and luscious\, creamy ricotta filling. Guided by Tony Volpentesta\, you’ll roll dough\, fry shells to golden perfection\, and master classic and creative flavor variations. \nTony “Cannoli” Volpentesta learned the art of dessert-making in the heart of his Italian grandmother’s kitchen\, where flour dusted the air and tradition was the secret ingredient in every bite. Driven by a lifelong passion and a relentless pursuit of perfection\, Tony has dedicated himself to crafting the perfect cannoli shell – each one a golden\, crispy vessel for his luscious\, creamy fillings. \nAt Tony Cannoli\, he combines old-world techniques with modern creativity. The result? A fun variety of cannoli-inspired treats that go beyond the classic. Try the bite-sized Cannoli Bites. Scoop into his signature Cannoli Chips ‘n Dip. Or celebrate with a rich\, decadent Cannoli Cake. Each one is a playful twist on the timeless Italian dessert. \nLocated in the heart of downtown Mundelein\, Tony’s dessert shop is a must-visit for anyone craving a sweet escape. Whether you’re a lifelong cannoli lover or just discovering them for the first time\, there’s something for everyone. \nCome hungry and ready to roll – sweet satisfaction guaranteed! \nAges: 7 and up – because it’s never too early (or too late) to fall in love with cannoli!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/learn-to-make-cannoli-september/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Cooking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260918T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260918T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260415T155759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T155822Z
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SUMMARY:Line it Up Line Dancing
DESCRIPTION:Grab Your Boots and Get Ready to Line Dance!\nKick the dust off those boots. Pop on that cowboy hat. Slide into your favorite jeans. It’s time for line dancing! \nNever tried it before? Perfect. Want to brush up on your moves? Even better. This class is built for beginners – and for anyone who just wants to have fun. \nWe’ll start slow. Easy steps. Clear breakdowns. No pressure\, no partner\, no problem. Just laughs\, music\, and movement. \nThen\, the real fun begins. We’ll groove through country classics. We’ll jam to high-energy pop hits. These are the dances you’ll see at weddings\, parties\, and dance halls all over. And now\, you’ll know them too. \nCome solo. Come with friends. Either way\, you’ll walk out smiling\, sweaty\, and ready to show off your new moves. \nSo grab your boots\, grab your crew\, and let’s do some line dancing! \nLesley has been dancing her whole life. She’s been classically trained in Ballet and Jazz. She’s been teaching dance for 40 years. She currently works at Lake Forest Health and Fitness and Life Time Fitness in Vernon Hills. Her super power is making everyone feel successful. 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/line-it-up-line-dancing-september-18/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Music
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260919T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260919T153000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20251015T181427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T200232Z
UID:20006449-1789826400-1789831800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Buckets N Boards
DESCRIPTION:An Evening of Percussion and (Clean) Comedy!\n\n\n\n\nGet ready for a night of nonstop laughter\, music\, and pure entertainment! The Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show is a fast-paced\, high-energy performance that combines outrageous comedy with mind-blowing musical talent. From the first beat to the final bow\, this show keeps audiences laughing\, clapping\, and fully engaged. \nTo begin with\, Matthew Levingston and Gareth Sever – the talented duo behind Buckets N Boards – bring unmatched charisma and chemistry to the stage. Their shared passion for rhythm\, music\, and comedy forms the heart of the show. However\, what truly sets them apart is their ability to connect with the audience. Through hilarious improvisation and spontaneous crowd interaction\, every performance becomes a unique experience. \nMoreover\, the show features an exciting mix of percussion\, tap dancing\, inventive instruments\, and cleverly written songs. One moment\, you’ll be watching a jaw-dropping drumming routine\, and the next\, you’ll be laughing at a ridiculous song or dance. In other words\, it’s unpredictable\, unforgettable\, and unbelievably fun. \n \nA Family Favorite\nIn addition to their on-stage talent\, Buckets N Boards has earned international recognition. They are one of the top-requested headline acts on Disney Cruise Lines\, entertaining audiences from around the world. Furthermore\, they’ve performed twice with the Kansas City Symphony\, blending classical music with their signature humor and flair. As they head into their 14th award-winning season in Branson\, Missouri\, it’s clear their appeal only continues to grow. \nAbove all\, Buckets N Boards offers a comedy experience that’s clean\, family-friendly\, and absolutely hilarious. Their upbeat personalities\, musical genius\, and creative approach to performance make this show a perfect outing for all ages. \nSo\, if you’re looking for a fun-filled night with your family\, don’t miss your chance to see the Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show live at Gorton. Come for the music\, stay for the laughs—and leave with memories that will last for years!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/buckets-n-boards/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Family & Kids,Performing Arts
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260923T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260923T104500
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260310T163208Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T171417Z
UID:20007088-1790155800-1790160300@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Parenting Book Discussion Series
DESCRIPTION:Today’s high school students face intense academic\, social\, and college admissions pressure. Many feel they must excel at everything to be “enough\,” and parents often find it difficult to support their child through the high school years. This four-session parent discussion series uses Never Enough as a framework to explore how achievement culture impacts our children’s mental health\, motivation\, and identity – and how we\, as parents\, can respond in healthier\, more intentional ways. The discussions will create a supportive space for reflection\, conversation\, and practical strategies to help families redefine success during the high school years. \n*This will be a small group\, limited to 12 participants \n \nGail Gamrath is a warm\, experienced education professional and life coach with over 30 years in local public schools and a strong background in student services. Skilled in partnering with families\, supporting the transition to high school\, and strengthening agency in both students and their parents. A mom to three\, she brings empathy\, real-life perspective\, and a student-centered approach that helps families feel confident and supported.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/parenting-book-discussion-series/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Specialty,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T163000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260218T212835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T215948Z
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SUMMARY:Mutts Gone Nuts
DESCRIPTION:We’re unleashing a high-energy\, laugh-out-loud experience that audiences of all ages love. Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed brings together a dozen of the world’s most talented four-legged performers for a comedy-packed show that’s smart\, surprising\, and wildly entertaining. \nFrom the first leap to the final bow\, these dogs deliver nonstop action. They dance and prance. They flip\, fly\, skip\, and sprint across the stage with jaw-dropping athleticism and perfect comedic timing. And yes\, every moment feels bigger\, bolder\, and funnier than the last. \nThis all-star canine cast includes a Guinness World Record holder\, an America’s Got Talent fan favorite\, and a heart-melting lineup of incredible rescue dogs. Each performer brings a unique personality and skill set. Together\, they create a fast-paced show that blends physical comedy\, clever choreography\, and plenty of tail-wagging charm. \n \nBut this isn’t just about tricks. It’s about connection. These dogs don’t just perform – they engage and interact with the audience. They invite laughter and before you know it\, they’ve raced straight into your heart. \nThe result is a feel-good experience that keeps the energy high and the smiles coming. It’s perfect for families. It’s a hit with dog lovers. And it’s just as delightful for anyone who loves smart comedy and unforgettable live performance. \nCritics agree. The Washington Post calls Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed “a must see.” \nSo grab your seats\, settle in\, and get ready for a show that’s equal parts heart\, humor\, and happy chaos. Best in Show? Absolutely. \nYou belong here.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/mutts-gone-nuts/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Comedy,Events,Family & Kids
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261014T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261014T211500
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20251223T212046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155745Z
UID:20006879-1792005300-1792012500@gortoncenter.org
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-34/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260314T033054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260314T033054Z
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SUMMARY:Peach Jam
DESCRIPTION:Peach Jam: A Night of Allman Brothers Magic\nGet ready to turn it up and settle in for a night of legendary sound. Peach Jam brings the spirit of the Allman Brothers Band to Gorton on Friday\, October 16 | 7:30 pm. And from the first note\, you’ll feel the groove. \nPeach Jam is a collective of some of the best musicians Chicago has to offer. Formed in 2022\, the band celebrates the music of the iconic Allman Brothers Band with passion\, precision and plenty of improvisation. In other words\, this isn’t just a tribute show. It’s a full-on jam experience. \nFirst\, the sound. Then the energy. And finally the feeling that you’ve stepped straight into a classic night at the Fillmore East. \nThe band brings together members of Chicago favorites Cornmeal\, Terrapin Flyer\, Old Shoe\, Helping Phriendly Orchestra and the Brooklyn Charmers. Together they create a cosmic gumbo of hot jams\, tight grooves\, soaring vocal harmonies and down-home blues. The result is rich\, soulful and built to move a room. \nExpect extended guitar solos and deep grooves. Expect the kind of musical chemistry that only happens when great players share a stage. \nAnd of course\, expect the classics. The songs that helped define Southern rock. The melodies that fans have loved for decades. Plus the improvisational spirit that made the Allman Brothers Band legendary in the first place. \nSo grab a friend. Or bring the whole crew. Either way\, settle in and let the music take over. \nAs Peach Jam likes to say\, “People can you feel it? Love is everywhere!” And on this night at Gorton\, you just might feel it too. \nJoin us for an evening of unforgettable music\, great company and timeless sound.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/peach-jam/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260330T141510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T181736Z
UID:20006945-1792870200-1792875600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Emily Catalano
DESCRIPTION:Sharp\, Smart Stand-Up with Emily Catalano\nEmily Catalano brings her smart\, dry\, and quietly devastating stand-up to Gorton for a night of comedy that sneaks up on you\, then hits twice as hard. She’s a Los Angeles–based comedian who made her late-night debut on CONAN. Since then\, she’s built a devoted following through viral clips that showcase her distinct voice and unhurried delivery. \nEmily finds the humor in the details. She takes her time. She draws you in. Then she flips everyday moments into sharp\, unexpected punchlines. Her jokes don’t chase laughs. They build\, simmer\, and surprise. That approach has earned her recognition from Time Out LA as a “Comic to Watch” and praise from Vulture\, which noted\, “They hit especially hard because they surprise you twice.” \nShe explores social norms\, small annoyances\, and the quiet absurdities of modern life. Her comedy feels observant and personal. It’s like hearing someone say exactly what you’ve been thinking. She’s clever without being flashy and confident without being loud. \nWe’re excited to welcome Emily to our stage for a night of thoughtful\, sharply written stand-up. If you love subtle humor and smart comedy\, this one’s for you. Grab a seat\, settle in\, and enjoy a performance where timing makes all the difference. \nKate Kindcaid- Opener Kate Kincaid is a Chicago-based comedian with a bold\, high-energy style. Her writing is sharp and her perspective is playful. She’s performed at clubs and festivals across the country. She also regularly opens for top touring comedians. Kate brings quick wit and an engaging presence to every show.\nThis show is for mature audiences.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/emily-catalano/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Comedy,Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T123000
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20260403T161739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T152240Z
UID:20007135-1794049200-1794054600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:GOLDEN: A K-Pop Kids Party!
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for a kids rave your whole family will love! Designed for ages 3–10\, this high-energy\, family-friendly experience invites youngsters into a fun\, welcoming space where they can move\, play and shine. \nFrom the moment you arrive\, you’ll hear music your family already knows and loves! Remixes are inspired by favorite movie soundtracks with kid-friendly K-pop hits and upbeat pop anthems\, so the energy stays lively\, engaging and just right for younger dancers. \nOnce the music starts\, kids can jump right in or ease into the fun at their own pace. Either way\, little ravers will find their groove while building confidence\, trying new moves and connecting with friends. \nHave a favorite song? Submit requests ahead of time\, and we’ll feature a limited number during the party to keep this kids rave fresh and exciting. \nCostumes make it even more fun. Your child can dress as a favorite pop star or movie character – the brighter and more creative\, the better. It’s all about self-expression and joyful moments. \nThroughout the event\, we keep things playful\, inclusive and easy for families to enjoy together. No dance experience needed. Just bring your energy and your imagination. \nSo\, grab your crew and join us. Let’s make memories together! \nSave $10 when you purchase 4 tickets with code GOLDEN! \nBrought to you by @thekawaiirave and VNK Entertainment.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/golden-a-k-pop-kids-party/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Family & Kids
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T211500
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20251223T212337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155738Z
UID:20006880-1794424500-1794431700@gortoncenter.org
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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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T211500
DTSTAMP:20260430T101055
CREATED:20251223T212519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155730Z
UID:20006881-1796843700-1796850900@gortoncenter.org
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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