Gorton Center

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
2024-04-29 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Volunteer to give blood at Gorton! Drives happen monthly, sign up here.

PLEASE NOTE, PRE-REGISTRATION IS MANDATORY. THIS CAN BE DONE BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW. THIS PROCESS TAKES ONLY A FEW MINUTES.
If you want to donate blood, make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink an extra 16 oz. of water and fluids before the donation.
Also, bring a photo ID, your blood donor card, or two other forms of ID. You can save up to 15 minutes when you donate blood by using RapidPass! Visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass for more information (note: RapidPass can only be completed on the day of your donation).
Gorton thanks you for donating blood and helping to save lives!

Brooklyn Charmers
2024-04-27 19:30 - 21:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Experience the perfect harmony of live music, delectable food trucks, and craft brews at our concerts – where every note hits the right flavor! Arrive early to savor the full experience, and bring the party into the theater with you.
Brooklyn Charmers is a Steely Dan tribute band comprised of some of Chicago’s top players. With masterful precision and an obsessive dedication to the music, Brooklyn Charmers injects new energy into the beloved catalogue; bridging the gap between new and lifelong fans alike.
Steely Dan’s blend of rock and jazz, along with their infectious hooks and poignant lyrics, put them in another league in the eyes of critics and fans. Their prolific and consistent output throughout the 1970’s cements them as classic rock royalty. Brooklyn Charmers carries the torch into the new generation.

Mamma Mia pizza truck will be on site prior to the show
We’ll have high-top tables and heaters under our porteco-the perfect place to party
Lake Bluff Brewery will be selling craft brew, beer, wine and non-alcoholic beer throughout the night

Mr. V's Musical Theater Class - "Joe Creek"
2024-04-27 13:00 - 15:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Every child shines at Mr. V’s Spring Musical Theater Class! Under the guidance of the esteemed children’s music educator and composer, Bill Vaananen, and the experienced instructor and director at Gorton Drama Studio, Madison Kisst, each student secures a role in the captivating original production “Joe Creek,” a spellbinding tale that celebrates the sound of birdsong, the scent of wildflowers, and the view of a winding stream. Whether you’re stepping onto the stage for the first time or you’re a seasoned theater enthusiast, there’s a place for everyone in this class. The class culminates with a fun and low-pressure performance of “Joe Creek” at Gorton’s intimate black box theater. Don’t miss this opportunity to shine alongside Mr. V, Madison, and Gorton Drama Studio! Grades K – 3rd
Public Performance on May 11 at 2 pm
Joe Creek – You Are Nature’s Guest, Written and directed by Bill Vaananen, Mr. V.
Check out footage from Mr. V’s class this spring.

Bill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure.

Instructor Madison Kisst: Madison is an actor, director and theatre teacher. She has taught for professional theater companies across the country and for the undergraduate acting program at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Madison has extensive training in physical and classical theatre, voice and movement, and devising. She has her BA in Theatre Arts and Masters of Fine Arts in Performance.

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

LWV-Lake Michigan Region & Tom Skilling!
2024-04-27 10:00 - 16:30 | Gorton Center – Stuart Community Room
The League of Women Voters Lake Michigan Region invites members and the public to attend its 2024 Lake Michigan Region Earth Month Environmental Conference “Lake Michigan & the Great Lakes: Environmental Developments, Challenges and Opportunities” on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT at Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois. Lake Forest, Illinois. In Person or On-Line, the event is followed by Dinner at The Gallery, 202 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Lake Forest, Illinois.
Conference registration includes breakfast and lunch. Continental Breakfast Buffet Opens at 9:00 a.m. Dinner registration is separate.
Come hear Tom Skilling, Chief Meteorologist Emeritus for WGN-TV, and a distinguished line-up of experts and policy makers discuss recent developments in climate change and water science, law and policy as well as the future of climate change, water resources and Great Lakes strategy, including:
Seth Darling, Chief Science & Technology Officer for the Energy and Global Security Directorate at Argonne National Laboratory
Todd Nettesheim, U.S Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Region V, Deputy Director of the Great Lakes National Program Office.
Donald J. Wuebbles, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Atmospheric Science and Presidential Fellow at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana and Coordinating Lead Author on several international climate assessments led by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) that resulted in IPCC being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
The next day, on Sunday afternoon, April 28, 2024, from 11:45 a.m.-2:30 a.m. please join us for our Lake Michigan “Cruise for a Cause” Brunch, departing from Navy Pier. Enjoy a delightful brunch cruise on Lake Michigan, while learning about and supporting the preservation and protection of the Lake Michigan watershed.
Registration is open to the public
Scholarships available. For more information email us at; lwvlakemichigan@nullgmail.com.

Kaia String Quartet
2024-04-26 19:00 - 20:45 | Gorton Center – Stuart Community Room
Kaia String Quartet:
From the tango of the Rio de la Plata to the string quartets of Silvestre Revueltas, the KAIA String Quartet is an ensemble devoted to promoting the rich and colorful music of Latin America.
The Quartet plays an active role in Chicago’s music scene and has performed at the Chicago Latino Music Festival, the Ear Taxi Festival, and Chamber Music on the Fox. In 2017, KAIA was the first ensemble in residence at Chicago’s classical radio station, WFMT.
Celebrated by Downbeat magazine for its ability to “beautifully blur the lines between jazz, classical, Latin and world music” KAIA’s album collaboration with Fareed Haque was chosen by Chicago Tribune’s Howard Reich as one of the top ten classical recordings of 2018. Their album, Sureño, explores the music and relationship of Argentinian composers Astor Piazzolla and José Bragato. The latest recording project released in 2020 includes a collaboration with jazz pianist Ryan Cohan in his work Originations.
KAIA is deeply devoted to music education. They are teaching artists for Ravinia’s Reach*Teach*Play program and for the International Music Foundation’s Live Music Now program. KAIA founded DePaul University’s Community Music Division chamber program where they inspire the next generation of performers.
Friday night concert timeline / Concessions for sale, including beer & wine
7:00-8:15 PM concert (no intermission)
8:15-8:45 PM conversation with artists
Painter by: Ken Reif
“The truth will set you free.” For me that truth is in my artwork. Turning two dimensional surfaces into compositions that evoke emotion. Painting and the instruction I have received has changed the way I view the world. I am set free every time I stand at the easel. I am set free when I look through the Artist eye. I am set free to create.
At an early age I formed a deep respect for nature, a respect I transfer to canvas. I am also a musician and my love of music compels me to paint portraits of musicians too. I begin the process with priming the surface black then using an impressionist palette I create my work. Capturing through the Artist eye vibrant colors which evokes emotion, causing the viewer to pause, to think and to enjoy in the now.
I consider my work to be “Renewable Energy”. The viewer is renewed with each viewing, much like listening to your favorite music.

This is part of the Rendezvous Arts Series

We Are the Leaders We Have Been Looking For
2024-04-26 12:30 - 14:00 | University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, 969 E. 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States
We are more than the circumstances of our lives, and what we do matters. In We Are the Leaders We Have Been Looking For, Eddie S. Glaude Jr., Ph.D., one of the nation’s preeminent scholars and a New York Times bestselling author, makes the case that the hard work of becoming a better person should be a critical feature of Black politics. Through virtuoso interpretations of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and Ella Baker, Dr. Glaude shows how ordinary people have the capacity to be the heroes that our democracy so desperately requires, rather than outsourcing their needs to leaders who purportedly represent them.
The book begins with Dr. Glaude’s unease with the Obama years. He felt then, and does even more urgently now, that the excitement around the Obama presidency had become a disciplining tool to narrow legitimate forms of Black political dissent. This narrowing continues to undermine the well-being of Black communities. In response, Dr. Glaude guides us away from enthusiastic reliance on elected leaders and full surrender to a belief in unchanging political structures. He weaves anecdotes about his own evolving views on Black politics together with the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson, John Dewey, Sheldon Wolin, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and Ralph Ellison.
Dr. Glaude (FAN ’20) is the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor at Princeton University and the author of several books, including Democracy in Black and the New York Times bestseller Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own, winner of the Harriet Beecher Stowe Book Prize.
Dr. Glaude will be in conversation with Lisa L. Moore, Ph.D., LICSW, Senior Lecturer and Director of the Master’s Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. She has worked in higher education for over 25 years as an administrator and faculty member.

The Big Chill
2024-04-24 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-04-24 15:00 - 17:00 | Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
A once close-knit gang of friends — including an actor (JoBeth Williams), a doctor (Glenn Close) and her husband (Kevin Kline), a Vietnam veteran (William Hurt), and a journalist (Tom Berenger) — meets for a weekend after the funeral of their much-envied friend Alex, who committed suicide. The friends spend the weekend confronting the personal truths, sacrifices and betrayals that have left them disenchanted. Each must contend with unresolved issues they have with Alex, and with one another.
Director: Lawrence Kasdan
Stars: Tom Berenger, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, Kevin Kline, William Hurt

RoboThink Robo-Encore
2024-04-24 16:00 - 17:30 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
You want more? You’ve got more! Join us for one more round of RoboThink classes before the school year ends! In this exciting encore, every robot is one of our greatest hits! Your child will build some of the RoboThink classics, like the Go Kart, Mini-Tank and Knightbot. They’ll also have the opportunity to design the next potential set of robot instructions, and get a sneak peek at some new robots! Ages 7 – 12

Somehow: Thoughts on Love
2024-04-23 19:00 - 20:30 | Loyola Academy Performing Arts Center, 1100 Laramie Ave, Wilmette, IL, 60091, United States
In Somehow: Thoughts on Love, beloved bestselling author Anne Lamott explores the transformative power that love has in our lives: how it surprises us, forces us to confront uncomfortable truths, reminds us of our humanity, and guides us forward. “Love just won’t be pinned down,” she says. “It is in our very atmosphere” and lies at the heart of who we are. We are, Lamott says, creatures of love.
In each chapter of Somehow, Lamott refracts all the colors of the spectrum. She explores the unexpected love for a partner later in life. The bruised (and bruising) love for a child who disappoints, even frightens. The sustaining love among a group of sinners, for a community in transition, in the wider world. The lessons she underscores are that love enlightens as it educates, comforts as it energizes, sustains as it surprises.
Lamott is the author of multiple New York Times bestsellers, including Dusk, Night, Dawn; Almost Everything; Hallelujah Anyway; Small Victories; Stitches; Help, Thanks, Wow; Some Assembly Required; Grace (Eventually); Plan B; and Traveling Mercies, as well as several novels. She is a past recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship and an inductee to the California Hall of Fame.
Lamott will be in conversation with Heidi Stevens, Director of External Affairs for the University of Chicago’s TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health, and creative director for Parent Nation, an initiative of the TMW Center. Prior to joining TMW, Stevens worked at the Chicago Tribune for 23 years, where she wrote a daily column called “Balancing Act.” She maintains a weekly nationally syndicated column. Stevens also serves as a FAN board member.
This event is suitable for youth 12+. It will be recorded but not live streamed and will be available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
BONUS BOOK GIVEAWAY of Somehow: Thoughts on Love at the event, while supplies last. No registration required.

Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better
2024-04-22 19:00 - 20:00 | On Zoom
How we can recognize, attack, and eliminate workplace injustice―and transform our careers and organizations in the process? We―all of us―consistently exclude, underestimate, and underutilize huge numbers of people in the workforce even as we include, overestimate, and promote others, often beyond their level of competence. Not only is this immoral and unjust, but it’s also bad for business. Radical Respect is the solution.
Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better is Kim Scott’s new book, revealing a practical framework for both respecting everyone’s individuality and collaborating effectively. This is the essential guide leaders and their employees need to create more just workplaces and establish new norms of collaboration and respect.
Scott is the co-founder of Radical Candor, a company to help leaders build more radically candid organizations. She is the author of the New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity. She was a CEO coach at Dropbox, Qualtrics, Twitter, and other tech companies. She was a member of the faculty at Apple University and before that led AdSense, YouTube, and DoubleClick teams at Google.
Scott will be in conversation with Heidi Stevens, Director of External Affairs for the University of Chicago’s TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health, and creative director for Parent Nation, an initiative of the TMW Center. Prior to joining TMW, Stevens worked at the Chicago Tribune for 23 years, where she wrote a daily column called “Balancing Act.” She maintains a weekly nationally syndicated column. Stevens also serves as a FAN board member.
This event suitable for youth 12+. It will be recorded and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.

A Gorton Spring Sing with Mr. V
2024-04-21 13:00 - 14:30 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Join award-winning children’s music educator and composer Bill Vaananen for “A Gorton Spring Sing:” a multi-generational family event celebrating Gorton’s 50th Anniversary. Incorporating classic folk songs such as “This Land Is Your Land” and “Country Roads” as well as many of his own unique compositions, “Mr. V.” and a chorus of Gorton area children will lead the multi-generational audience through a cultural experience weaving together song, story, and shared values that bring all of us together as one big Gorton family.

Bill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, NEA-IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure.

3D Printing Workshop (Kids!)
2024-04-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
This fun workshop is designed to help students get hands-on with 3D printers. They will get an in-depth introduction and usage experience with 3D printing. They will get to design basic shapes using Tinkercad, learn to use slicing software, upload to a printer, and print the shapes they design. Ages 8 – 12 years old.
STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED (BUT NOT REQUIRED) TO BRING THEIR OWN LAPTOP OR IPAD!
This 2-day workshop runs on Saturday, April 20 and 27, 9am – 12pm
Dr. Jayant Joshi holds a PhD in Materials Science and has been a passionate proponent of the 3D printing industry. He has been working with 3D printers and printing toys and art objects for over 3 years. He has spent close to 17 years in healthcare related research and product development. As a materials scientist and professional researcher, he loves to educate and mentor students and budding entrepreneurs in various areas of science and technology.

Jason Bishop
2024-04-19 19:30 - 21:00 | Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
America’s Hottest Illusionist is coming to Gorton! One second Jason is reading your mind, the next he’s making goldfish appear!
Growing up in the foster care system, Jason discovered his love of magic at a very young age. In his early years he frequented libraries devouring every book he could on magic and illusion. Now, he is one of the top magic and illusion personalities in the country. Having one of the largest touring shows in the country, Jason was handpicked by LiveNation to perform with Ke$ha, Matt & Kim, Paramore, Weezer, Drake, and many other celebrities at multiple Bamboozle Festivals. His status as a top celebrity magician has resulted in tours around the world from LA to New York City to Europe, Mexico and beyond,
Jason has performed privately for celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Bam Margera, who’ve heralded him the “best they’ve ever seen.” Bishop’s combination of modern music, fast paced magic, sleight of hand and audience participation makes for one of the most dynamic and proactive illusion shows you will ever witness.
“There’s real elegance and even wit in the precision of his gestures, the agility of each finger.” – The New York Times
“Mr. Bishop’s quick wit and a sharp humor will keep the adults amused and the children will ohh and ahh over his masterful talent. In a world that seems devoid of innocents and wonder, we could all use a little magic and Jason Bishop is sure to enchant.” – Suzanna Bowling, Times Square Chronicles

Lady Bird
2024-04-18 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-04-18 15:00 - 16:30 | Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
An intrepid High Schooler in Sacramento undergoes the trials of love, family and self-discovery as she dreams of escaping to college on the East Coast.

Director/Writer: Greta Gerwig
Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts

Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child
2024-04-18 19:00 - 20:00 | On Zoom
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a baby is born with a birth defect every 4½ minutes. One of those children was Kelley Coleman’s son, born with a rare (and still undiagnosed) genetic syndrome. Feeling equal parts terrified and alone, she soon learned that no one tells parents how to do any of this. In her new book, Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential System, Services, and Supports, Coleman, a feature film development executive turned author and passionate advocate for parent caregivers and individuals with disabilities, turns her hard-earned expertise into the much needed “You Are Here” on the map of this unexpected journey.
Presented with empathy and humor, the book gives parents the tools to navigate the complex medical, educational, and social service systems necessary for disabled children to thrive. This is “been there, tried that” insider information about diagnosis, working with your medical team, insurance, school, financial and future planning, disability rights, and advocacy.
Coleman will be in conversation with Lindsay Crain, head of Content and Community at Undivided, an organization with a mission to support and empower parents raising children with disabilities. As the parent of a teenager with cerebral palsy, Crain is driven to build and reinforce systems and practices that create a more inclusive culture. She is currently serving as a Community Representative on the CA State Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Intervention.
This event suitable for youth 12+. It will be recorded and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
BONUS AFTER-HOURS EVENT: Attendees who purchase a copy of Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child from FAN’s partner bookseller The Book Stall are invited to attend an AFTER-HOURS event hosted by Ms. Coleman that will start immediately after the webinar. Details on the webinar registration page.

Organize Your Family's Printed Photo Collection
2024-04-17 19:00 - 20:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Do you have lots of printed photos? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure what to do with them? Attend this class and learn how to curate and organize them with certified photo organizer Bonnie Hillman Shay.

Bonnie Hillman Shay is a Certified Photo Organizer and founder of Mariposa Photo Organizing based in Highland Park, IL. Bonnie helps her clients organize, edit, and back up their printed and digital photo and video collections as well as create photo books, online photo galleries and other ways of sharing their photos. She wants her clients to have access to their family photo treasures so that they can enjoy them, manage them and share them with generations to come. Bonnie has been featured in numerous publications and presents for live audiences, on teleseminars, and on webinars. Bonnie is a member of The Photo Managers.

City of Lake Forest Ward 1 Meeting
2024-04-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
City of Lake Forest Ward 1 Meeting
Join your Aldermen to learn what’s new in your neighborhood and what’s happening in Lake Forest!
Ward 1 Meeting: Tuesday, April 16, 7 pm
Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Road
Aldermen Nancy P. Novit and Joseph R. Waldeck
Wondering what Ward you live in? Find your Ward, Aldermen, and other property information in the Community Portal.

Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides
2024-04-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Adlai E. Stevenson High School, Little Theater
We live in enormously divisive times. Divisions based on ​​class, politics, race, religion, gender, and nationality are erupting around the globe. The consequences of not having a sense of belonging range from political strife to illness to underperformance at work and in the classroom. Americans have become disconnected from their communities, and about one in five Americans suffers from chronic loneliness, especially young adults. Why is our sense of belonging so undermined? What if there were a set of science-backed techniques for navigating modern social life that could help us overcome our differences, create empathy, and forge lasting connections across divides?
Geoffrey L. Cohen, Ph.D. (FAN ’22), Professor of Psychology and the James G. March Professor of Organizational Studies in Education and Business at Stanford University, answers these questions and more in his extraordinary 2022 book Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides. As Prof. Cohen explains, often inadvertently, we behave in ways that threaten others’ sense of belonging. Yet small acts that establish connection, brief activities such as reflecting on our core values, and a wealth of practices that he refers to under the general rubric of “situation-crafting” have been shown to lessen polarization in our politics, improve motivation and performance in school and work, combat racism in our communities, enhance health and well-being, and unleash the potential in ourselves and our relationships. The book’s research is essential for managers, educators, parents, administrators, caregivers, and everyone who wants those around them to thrive.
Prof. Cohen will be in conversation with LeViis Haney, Ed.D., the Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Adlai E. Stevenson High School. Dr. Haney also teaches principal preparation courses as an adjunct professor at Northeastern Illinois University and Loyola University Chicago, and is a facilitator for the Kaleidoscope Group, a DEI firm based in Chicago.
This event is suitable for youth 12+. It will be recorded but not live streamed and will be available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.

Stress Better®: An Introduction to Breathing for Health and Performance
2024-04-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
“Breathwork” has emerged as a popular strategy for improving our relationship with stress. Drawing from the latest research, this interactive, two-part presentation will explore the connection between breathing and emotion and highlight the safest and most effective breathing practices for stress optimization.
A two-part series where attendees will learn how to assess their own breathing habits and how to enhance their health and performance through mindful breathing practices.

Matthew Dewar, Ed.D., is a professional educator, speaker, and author. For fifteen years, he has researched the impact of mindfulness and emotion regulation practices on teaching, learning, and leadership in schools. More recently, he has focused on enhancing health and performance through breathing behavior analysis and heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback training.
Dr. Dewar is also the founder of Matt Dewar, LLC, and the creator of the Stress Better® Framework, which he has shared with collegiate and professional athletes, Fortune 500 executives, colleges and universities, first responders, and military personnel. Dr. Dewar authored Education and Well-Being: An Ontological Inquiry, The Mindful Breathing Workbook for Teens, and Breathing in Balance (forthcoming). His work has been featured on TEDx, NPR, Thrive Global, the National Wellness Institute, and many podcasts.

Spring & Summer Wine Tasting Series: Exploring the Spectrum of Style
2024-04-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Experience the exceptional wine tasting journey offered by Boisset Collection, a globally acclaimed family-owned wine company. Delight in exploring wines from sustainable vineyards across iconic French and Californian wine regions, many rated 90 points or higher. Explore diverse wine styles, from sparkling whites to bold reds, while discovering the intricacies of flavor and aroma profiles. Embrace the art of categorizing wines by sensory traits rather than just grape variety or origin.
This tasting experience marks the beginning of our three-part ‘Spring & Summer Wine Tasting Series,’ taking place starting in April to June 2024 at the Gorton Center. Join us for Part 1 of this exciting journey as this tasting event is perfect for wine lovers of all levels, from beginners to experts.
Class includes: Guided experience & materials.
Upcoming in the Series:

Spring & Summr Wine Tasting Series: Alchemy of the Senses, May 8, 7pm
Spring & Summer Wine Tasting Series: The Nature of Wine & Food Harmonies, June 26

There’s Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension
2024-04-11 19:00 - 20:00 | On Zoom
There’s Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension is award-winning poet, essayist, and cultural critic Hanif Abdurraqib’s poignant, personal reflection on basketball, talent, and allegiance, and of course, LeBron James. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio in the 1990s, Abdurraqib witnessed a golden era of basketball, one in which legends like LeBron were forged, and countless others weren’t. His lifelong love of the game leads Abdurraqib into a lyrical, historical, and emotionally rich exploration of what it means to make it, who we think deserves success, the tensions between excellence and expectation, and the very notion of role models, all of which he expertly weaves together with intimate, personal storytelling. “Here is where I would like to tell you about the form on my father’s jump shot,” Abdurraqib writes. “The truth, though, is that I saw my father shoot a basketball only one time.”
There’s Always This Year is a triumph, brimming with joy, pain, solidarity, comfort, outrage, and hope. No matter the subject of his keen focus – whether it’s basketball, music, or performance — Abdurraqib’s exquisite writing is always poetry, always profound, and always a clarion call to radically reimagine how we think about our culture, our country, and ourselves.
Abdurraqib (FAN ’21) will be in conversation with Ross Gay, Ph.D. (FAN ’23), the New York Times bestselling author of the essay collections The Book of (More) Delights, The Book of Delights, and Inciting Joy and four books of poetry. His Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude won the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award and was a finalist for the National Book Award; and Be Holding won the 2021 PEN America Jean Stein Book Award.
This event suitable for youth 12+. It will be recorded and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
BONUS BOOK GIVEAWAY! We are giving away copies of There’s Always This Year to randomly selected Zoom attendees. Details on the webinar registration page.

Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
2024-04-10 19:15 - 21:15 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
DNS always takes place the second Wednesday of the month (except February) – Walk-ins are welcome!
Do Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room in the Gorton Center, Lake Forest. It is a monthly storytelling open mic in an enthusiastic, supportive environment free from pressure, judgment, or scoring. No experience is necessary to participate. All are welcome to speak or simply listen. Arrive at 7:15 to sign up for a spot, and when your name is called, participants will have up to 7 minutes to tell/read/tap dance any personal story/fiction/essay on proper flossing they’d like. All language and content is acceptable except for hate speech. No cover charge. Beer, wine and non alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Hosted by Elizabeth Brown, Mary Lou Gilliam, and Sarita Miller and Jasmin Rodriguez

About Your Hosts

As a pathologist, Elizabeth Brown spent hundreds of hours hunched over either a microscope or a dead body. She then worked as a consultant to the medical device industry writing technical reports, all dry as dust and utterly humerous. Original thoughts were few, as all statements had to be referenced. Spreading her wings to creative non-fiction has been a liberating joy. Elizabeth has performed at story telling events in Highwood, Arlington Heights, Evanston and Chicago, but is delighted to be hosting an open mic in her home town of Lake Forest.

Mary Lou Gilliam is retired from two careers: English teaching and educational publishing. She has been on the stage since she was 10 doing dramatic readings, singing, or some combination thereof. An English major with a theater minor, she found that teaching extended the performance world when she began writing first person narratives to model both writing and speaking for her students. Because she was born and raised in a small Swedish farm town in western Illinois, think Garrison Keillor for thematic content. About ten years ago, while considering retirement, she took her stories on the road, so to speak, by joining Short Story Theatre in the Northshore suburbs. She has also performed at Story Lab Chicago, Truth Be Told, and Backyard Stories. Having lived quite a few decades by now, her narratives include both the travails and thrills of a long (and possibly over-examined) life. She keeps busy with volunteer work, private tutoring, international travel, and as much time with her four grandchildren as she can.

Sarita Miller is a retired English/language arts teacher and the mother of two fine adults, a lovely daughter-in-law, and one adorable pup. Presently, Sarita tutors reading, writing, and grammar, something she greatly enjoys. During her days as a middle school teacher, Sarita was known for telling stories during lessons. Although her students thought they were pulling one over on her and getting her “off task” when they asked for a story, she explains that doing so was her plan from the beginning. To Sarita, life is simply stories. She has shared several of hers with audiences at Short Story Theater in Highland Park and Story Lab in Chicago.

Jasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over 9 years of stage, commercial, film, storytelling experience. Most recently she completed commercial’s for Malman Law and Spirit Juice. She has worked in several independent films, such as “Faithful Disappointment’s”, Market Value” and the TV true crime series “American Greed”. She completed her training at Second City, Vagabond, Sarantos Studios, Wheaton Drama, and Gorton Drama Studio. Jasmin is a dedicated actress and hard worker who is constantly looking to improve her talents. She is currently in development for producing and acting in an independent short film about human connection. She enjoys nature walks by the lake, bike riding, yoga and travels to Europe.

Fly Fishing Film Tour 2024
2024-04-07 13:00 - 19:00 | Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
The 18th annual (and 7th year at Gorton) FLY FISHING FILM TOUR (F3T) is back on the road with a top notch selection of short films that are sure to get you fired up for the season ahead!
This year there will be films that take you into the science of the Costa Marlin Project, to the deep depths of the jungle for the massive Peacock Bass, and will have a Steelhead story with characters as rare as the fish itself + many, many more.
The local chapter of Trout Unlimited will be on hand – try your hand at casting and learn how to perfect your knot tying skills – and learn about their work and their summer camp!
The F3T is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind and we are proud to be an annual community event for all anglers. Come for the action and stay for the giveaways and camaraderie that will feed your fishing addiction.
For more updates go to flyfilmtour.com or follow on social at @flyfishingfilmtour.
The F3T is proudly presented by Costa & Skawla. The tour is also supported by the following national tour partners:
NRS – Drift Boats
Sawyers – Oars
Orvis – Official Rod Partner
Greys – Reels
Scientific Anglers – Fly Line
Daichii – Hooks
YETI – Flasks & Cools
Monster – Energy Drinks
RAM – Vehicle
Riversmith – Rod Rack
Dale’s by Oskar Blues Brewery – Beer
All Hands – RTD
Turtlebox – Speakers
Hareline – Fly Material
Captains for Cleanwater – Conservation

Screening both at 1 PM & 4 PM.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Gorton’s Director of Film Programs, Josh Wolff (Josh@nullgortoncenter.org) with any questions. We’ll see you at the movies!
Fly Fishing Film Tour is co-presented by Gorton and Lake Forest Open Lands and sponsored by Maddie Dugan

Rattle & Roll With Mr. V!
2024-04-06 15:00 - 16:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Join award-winning childrens’ music educator and composer Bill Vaananen for music classes that delight the ear and stimulate the senses. Through his original songs, vibrant slide shows, and energetic movement, “Mr. V” leads his young audiences through topics of nature, history, culture, and geography – all rolled into a funtastic, one-of-a-kind musical experience for kids! The classes will culminate with a “Spring Sing” Family Concert held on April 21st celebrating Gorton’s 50th Anniversary. Ages K – 4 Grades

Bill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, NEA-IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure.

Rattle & Roll with Mr. V!
2024-04-06 14:00 - 14:50 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
This class is sold out. Please contact Libby Johnson to be put on the waitlist – Libby@nullgortoncenter.org

Join award-winning childrens’ music educator and composer Bill Vaananen for music classes that delight the ear and stimulate the senses. Through his original songs, vibrant slide shows, and energetic movement, “Mr. V” leads his young audiences through topics of nature, history, culture, and geography – all rolled into a funtastic, one-of-a-kind musical experience for kids! The classes will culminate with a “Spring Sing” Family Concert held on April 21st celebrating Gorton’s 50th Anniversary. Grades 2 – 4

Bill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, NEA-IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure.

Rattle & Roll with Mr V!
2024-04-06 13:00 - 13:50 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Join award-winning childrens’ music educator and composer Bill Vaananen for music classes that delight the ear and stimulate the senses. Through his original songs, vibrant slide shows, and energetic movement, “Mr. V” leads his young audiences through topics of nature, history, culture, and geography – all rolled into a funtastic, one-of-a-kind musical experience for kids! The classes will culminate with a “Spring Sing” Family Concert held on April 21st celebrating Gorton’s 50th Anniversary. Ages K – 2 Grades

Bill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, NEA-IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure.

Kanin Wren's Taylor Swift Experience
2024-04-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT!
CALLING ALL SWIFTIES!
Join us for the Taylor Swift Experience! Featuring the powerful voice of Kanin Wren, backed by a group of dynamite musicians, enjoy a 90-minute journey through Taylor Swift’s discography and immerse yourself in the experience as Kanin guides you through the Eras!
Playing all of the greatest hits from You Belong with Me to Midnights, the Taylor Swift Experience is packing dance floors and creating timeless once-in-a-lifetime memories across the country. With fun choreography, multiple costume changes, and spot-on musical delivery, Kanin’s tribute to the genius of Taylor Swift is a must-see act.
The Taylor Swift Experience continues to sell-out shows across the country, each filled with unforgettable moments, showcasing Kanin’s versatility and talent as she flawlessly navigates Taylor Swift’s extensive catalog, incorporating her own unique interpretations. The show’s energetic atmosphere reflects Taylor Swift’s iconic stage presence creating a vibrant and immersive musical journey for the audience, and keeps anyone who has seen it talking long after the last encore is played.
This show is family-friendly and attracts fans of all ages who share a love of Taylor Swift’s music, with a long set list including hits from every album. We’re bringing the communal experience of celebrating Taylor’s music in a live setting to all Swifties-come sing your hearts out and show up in your Taylor-inspired attire for an unforgettable night! To ensure your spot at this all-ages performance, purchase your tickets well in advance.
Confetti concessions will include glitter popcorn, fetti mocktails and cocktails and more!
VIP Tickets include:

Pre-performance acoustic show and meet & greet with Kanin in the Stuart Room

5:30 doors open
6pm acoustic show
FOOD TRUCKS! Mamma Mia Pizza, La Plancha Tacos, Culinary Gangster, and Kung Fu Tea

Complimentary poster and tote bag included with each ticket purchase
Premium seating in theater-showtime 7pm

River
2024-04-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
A cinematic musical odyssey across six continents, showcasing rivers on scales and from perspectives never seen before. This film is a stunning exploration of the timeless relationship between human civilization and Earth’s rivers, in all their majesty and fragility.
Directors: Jennifer Peedom, Joseph Nizeti
Narrated by Willem Dafoe
The First Thursday Series at Gorton is sponsored by the Sheffield Foundation
