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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270205T193000
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SUMMARY:Giordano Dance Chicago
DESCRIPTION:Giordano Dance Chicago Returns to Gorton Center\nAmerica’s original jazz dance company is back at Gorton Center. \nJoin us for an exciting evening with Giordano Dance Chicago\, one of the nation’s premier dance companies. This special performance takes place in the intimate John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, giving audiences a rare opportunity to experience world-class dance up close. \nThe program features a vibrant mix of jazz and contemporary dance. Throughout the evening\, audiences will see works by acclaimed choreographers\, including Artistic Director Nan Giordano and Emmy Award-winning choreographer Al Blackstone. From powerful ensemble pieces to moving and expressive moments\, each dance highlights the company’s signature athleticism\, artistry\, and passion. \nFor more than 60 years\, Giordano Dance Chicago has helped define American jazz dance. Today\, the company continues to push the art form forward while honoring its rich legacy. As a result\, every performance feels both timeless and fresh. \nAbout Giordano Dance Chicago\nFounded by dance pioneer Gus Giordano\, Giordano Dance Chicago has been a leader in professional dance for more than six decades. Today\, under the direction of Nan Giordano\, the company is recognized around the world for its innovation\, excellence\, and signature Giordano Technique. \nOver the years\, the company has performed in 28 countries and thousands of cities. Along the way\, it has earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading jazz dance companies. Audiences are drawn to its dynamic choreography\, powerful dancers\, and unforgettable stage presence. \nIn addition\, Giordano continues to inspire new generations through performances that blend technical mastery with emotional storytelling. Whether showcasing breathtaking athleticism\, contemporary creativity\, or pure joy\, the company demonstrates the limitless possibilities of dance. \nDon’t miss this chance to experience Giordano Dance Chicago live at Gorton Center. Above all\, it’s an opportunity to see one of America’s most celebrated dance companies in an intimate theater setting. \n“Giordano is\, and always will be\, American jazz dance royalty” – Chicago Tribune \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/giordano-dance-chicago-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events,Performing Arts
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270206T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270206T120000
DTSTAMP:20260708T144628Z
CREATED:20260512T144828Z
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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:20270206T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270206T143000
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CREATED:20260512T144133Z
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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:20270212T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270212T213000
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SUMMARY:Dancing Queen
DESCRIPTION:It’s a Full-On ABBA Party at Gorton! \nGet ready to dance\, sing\, and celebrate the timeless music of ABBA at Gorton Center this February. Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute brings the energy\, style\, and unforgettable hits of one of the world’s most beloved pop groups to the stage for one exciting night. \nFrom “Mamma Mia” to “Waterloo\,” this high-energy tribute concert delivers all the songs you know and love. Fans of every generation will enjoy powerful vocals\, dazzling costumes\, and nonstop fun. Whether you grew up with ABBA or discovered their music through the movies and musicals\, this show promises a night full of memories and music. \nMoreover\, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute captures the spirit of the original band with incredible attention to detail. The performers recreate the iconic sound and vibrant stage presence that made ABBA a global sensation. As a result\, audiences feel like they are stepping back into the golden age of disco and pop. \n \nWe’ll make the night even more memorable with themed specialty cocktails\, fun photo ops\, and an exciting ABBA-inspired costume contest. Dress in your favorite disco looks\, strike a pose with friends\, and compete for prizes while celebrating the music and style of ABBA. It’s more than a concert — it’s a full night of entertainment and unforgettable fun at Gorton Center. \nDon’t miss your chance to experience the music that continues to inspire audiences around the world. Tickets for Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute are expected to sell quickly\, so reserve your seats today. \nJoin us at Gorton Center this February and dance the night away with the unforgettable songs of ABBA.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/dancing-queen/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music,Performing Arts
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270220T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270220T110000
DTSTAMP:20260505T163330Z
CREATED:20260505T161011Z
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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:20260505T204958Z
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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