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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260608T090000
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DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260212T160146Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T211422Z
UID:20007027-1780909200-1780930800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cinderella: The Workshop Camp
DESCRIPTION:Cinderella: The Workshop Camp\nThis special session focuses on exploring and testing material for Gorton Drama Studio’s original adaptation of Cinderella. This work will later inform both the Gorton Two-Week Musical Theater Camp and the Four-week Musical Theater Camp later this summer. \nThroughout the week\, students will work closely with experienced teaching artists. Together\, they explore songs\, dialogue\, and choreography. Along the way\, they experiment with character\, storytelling\, and movement. Campers are encouraged to ask questions\, try bold ideas\, and take creative risks. As a result\, they gain insight into how a musical comes to life – from early drafts to performance-ready moments. Most importantly\, the focus stays on process\, creativity\, and ensemble collaboration rather than polish or perfection. \nThen\, at the end of the week\, the camp wraps up with a short\, informal presentation for family and friends. This low-key showing offers a glimpse into what the students have created together. Rather than a fully staged production\, it celebrates experimentation\, growth\, and shared discovery. \nOverall\, this camp is ideal for students who love creative exploration. It’s a great fit for those who want to deepen their performance skills and be a part of developing something new. \nPlease note: Participation in this camp does not affect casting or roles in any other Gorton Drama Studio programs\, including the two-week or four-week camps later in the summer. \nWhat Makes This Camp Special\n\nHands-on\, creative experience for young performers to help shape a brand-new adaptation of “Cinderella.”\nExplore and test material – including songs\, dialogue\, and choreography – that will be used in the Two-Week and Four-Week “Cinderella” Musical Theater Camps later in the summer.\nLow-pressure environment that encourages experimentation\, risk-taking\, and creative exploration.\nDiscover how a musical comes to life\, from first drafts to performance.\nCulminates in a short\, informal presentation for family and friends.\nCelebrates collaboration\, imagination\, and the joy of creating something new.\n\nWhat Campers Will Learn\n\nHow to explore character\, storytelling\, and movement in a musical theater setting.\nThe process of developing songs\, dialogue\, and choreography.\nHow to work collaboratively.\nConfidence in trying bold ideas and problem-solving.\nHow a musical comes together from concept to stage.\n\nCreative Team\n\nJeremy Kruse\, Producer & Playwright\nMadison Kisst\, Director\nMatt Mueller\, Song Writer – Broadway actor\, returning for his second year\, collaborating with Jeremy to create original music for the show\n\nStudents will receive both individual and group guidance throughout the process\, ensuring growth at every level. \nCamp Details:\nProject: “Cinderella”: The Workshop Camp\nPresentation Length: 30 minutes\nAges: 8–14\nPrice: $450\n \nDates: Monday\, June 8 to Friday\, June 12 \nDaily Schedule: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm \nPresentation: Friday\, June 12 \nPerformance in a Professional Theater\nThe presentation will take place in the 309-seat John and Nancy Hughes Theater\, a professional venue. \nThis is a promo video from last year’s production of Peter Pan Now. \nThis is a behind-the-scenes look at what we do at camp. \nThis one-week camp is perfect for curious\, creative young performers who love experimenting and exploring new ideas. It’s playful\, collaborative\, and inspiring—an experience where kids don’t just rehearse a show\, they help bring it to life. \nMeet the Gorton Drama Studio Creative Team\n \nJeremy Kruse\, Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017).The book was published in Korean and Chinese in 2022. Jeremy is a professional actor\, published playwright\, award-winning screenwriter\, and award-winning filmmaker. Some of the classes he taught at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York include Method Acting\, Comedic Improvisation\, Sketch Comedy Writing\, and Acting for Film and TV. He graduated from The Strasberg Institute at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts where he majored in drama. Jeremy also teaches privately\, one on one  www.jeremykruse.com and www.jeremykruseactingtraining.com  \n  \n \nMadison Kisst is a professional actor\, director\, and educator with extensive training in physical and classical theatre\, voice and movement\, and devising. Recently\, she has served as the Fight/Intimacy director for Middle Tennessee State University’s production of Clue: On Stage and Nashville Repertory Theatre’s production of Sister Act. She has her BA in Theatre Arts from California State University Chico and Master of Fine Arts in Performance from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Madison is a member of the performance faculty in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Middle Tennessee State University. \n  \n  \n  \nMatt Mueller is an actor\, musician\, former pirate\, and part-time wizard. Outside GDS his most recent credits include Harry Potter and Cursed Child\, and he’s excited to be back with the wonderful storytellers of Gorton Drama Studio after last summer in Neverland!! \n  \n  \n  \n  \nCarla Garippo\, dance teacher/choreographer\, received her professional dance training from Ruth Page Center for the Arts and was a principal dancer of The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Company of Chicago. She is fluent in Ballet\, Jazz\, Tap\, Hip-Hop\, Modern\, Lyrical\, Contemporary\, Poms\, Pointe\, Musical Theatre\, Stretch/Conditioning and Character. Some of Carla’s credits include: The Chicago Tribune Charities production of “The Nutcracker ” at The Arie Crown Theatre\, Dirty Dancing\, Carnaval at The Victor Hotel\, Dance Chicago\, MTVs Sweet 16\, as well as various music videos and concerts nationwide. Carla teaches dancers of all ages and levels and is excited to be a staff member at Gorton Drama Studio.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cinderella-the-workshop-camp/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Camps,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cinderella-1.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260622T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260622T150000
DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260212T160130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T212205Z
UID:20006799-1782118800-1782140400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cinderella Two Week Musical Theater Camp
DESCRIPTION:Cinderella Two-Week Musical Theater Camp\nStep into the spotlight this summer with Gorton Drama Studio’s two-week musical theater camp. To begin\, young performers jump into a fast-paced\, welcoming experience designed for all skill levels. Right away\, campers feel supported\, included\, and ready to create. \nFrom day one\, campers sing\, act\, move\, and collaborate. As the days build\, they grow more confident\, strengthen friendships\, and learn how to work as a true ensemble. \nThroughout the camp\, students bring Cinderella to life – Gorton Drama Studio’s joyful new take on the classic fairy tale. Along the way\, they explore every magical moment\, from the pumpkin and carriage to the glass slipper\, fairy godmother\, and royal ball. At the same time\, the production delivers plenty of comedy and heart. As a result\, every camper steps into a meaningful role and gets a chance to shine. \nMeanwhile\, experienced teaching artists lead campers through the full creative process. First\, they dive into the script. Next\, they shape scenes\, songs\, and choreography. Then\, ideas turn into confident performances. Finally\, campers take their bows on stage. Ultimately\, whether your child is brand new to theater or already loves performing\, this camp challenges\, supports\, and celebrates every performer. \nWhat Makes This Camp Special\n\nEvery child gets a part. \nThere is no passive ensemble – every camper has lines\, songs\, movement\, and storytelling responsibility.\nNo waiting around. When not rehearsing on stage\, students are actively engaged in theater games\, improv\, singing\, dancing\, and creative exploration.\nAn original adaptation. Campers experience how new work is created\, inspiring curiosity\, imagination\, and confidence in their own voices.\nA supportive\, energetic environment. Students are encouraged to experiment\, take risks\, and grow – together.\n\nWhat Campers Will Learn\n\nActing\, singing\, and dancing fundamentals. \nCharacter development and storytelling skills.\nStage craft basics.\nHow to collaborate.\nHow a show is built—from rehearsal to performance.\n\nCreative Team:\n\nJeremy Kruse\, Producer & Playwright\nMadison Kisst\, Director\nCarla Garippo\, Choreographer\nMatt Mueller\, Song Writer – Broadway actor\, returning for his second year\, collaborating with Jeremy to create original music for the show.\n\nStudents will receive both individual and group guidance throughout the process\, ensuring growth at every level. \nCamp Details:\nPlay: “Cinderella”\nPerformance Length: 30 minutes\nAges: 7–14\nPrice: $900 \nDates: \n\nMonday\, June 22 – Friday\, June 26\nMonday\, June 29 – Thursday\, July 2\n(9 days total)\n\nDaily Schedule: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm\nPerformances: \n\nWednesday\, July 1 at 1:00 pm\nThursday\, July 2 at 1:00 pm\n\nLocation: John and Nancy Hughes Theater \nPerformances in a Professional Theater\nBoth performances take place in the 309-seat John and Nancy Hughes Theater\, a professional venue. \nAs part of camp tuition\, families receive two complimentary tickets to one performance. \nThis two-week camp is perfect for students who love performing and for those trying theater for the first time. It’s joyful\, challenging\, and deeply rewarding—an experience where kids don’t just put on a show\, they become part of the story. \nThis is a promo video from last year’s production of Peter Pan Now. \nThis is a behind-the-scenes look at what we do at camp. \nJoin us this summer and watch your child grow into a confident performer\, supported every step of the way! \nAbout Our Artistic Director:\n \nJeremy Kruse\, Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017).The book was published in Korean and Chinese in 2022. Jeremy is a professional actor\, published playwright\, award-winning screenwriter\, and award-winning filmmaker. Some of the classes he taught at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York include Method Acting\, Comedic Improvisation\, Sketch Comedy Writing\, and Acting for Film and TV. He graduated from The Strasberg Institute at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts where he majored in drama. Jeremy also teaches privately\, one on one  www.jeremykruse.com and www.jeremykruseactingtraining.com  \n  \n  \n  \nMadison Kisst is a professional actor\, director\, and educator with extensive training in physical and classical theatre\, voice and movement\, and devising. Recently\, she has served as the Fight/Intimacy director for Middle Tennessee State University’s production of Clue: On Stage and Nashville Repertory Theatre’s production of Sister Act. She has her BA in Theatre Arts from California State University Chico and Master of Fine Arts in Performance from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Madison is a member of the performance faculty in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Middle Tennessee State University. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nMatt Mueller is an actor\, musician\, former pirate\, and part-time wizard. Outside GDS his most recent credits include Harry Potter and Cursed Child\, and he’s excited to be back with the wonderful storytellers of Gorton Drama Studio after last summer in Neverland!!\n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nCarla Garippo\, dance teacher/choreographer\, received her professional dance training from Ruth Page Center for the Arts and was a principal dancer of The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Company of Chicago. She is fluent in Ballet\, Jazz\, Tap\, Hip-Hop\, Modern\, Lyrical\, Contemporary\, Poms\, Pointe\, Musical Theatre\, Stretch/Conditioning and Character. Some of Carla’s credits include: The Chicago Tribune Charities production of “The Nutcracker ” at The Arie Crown Theatre\, Dirty Dancing\, Carnaval at The Victor Hotel\, Dance Chicago\, MTVs Sweet 16\, as well as various music videos and concerts nationwide. Carla teaches dancers of all ages and levels and is excited to be a staff member at Gorton Drama Studio.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cinderella-two-week-musical-theater-camp/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Camps,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cinderella-1.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260629T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260629T120000
DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260312T170632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T204027Z
UID:20007097-1782727200-1782734400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:The Creativity Hack with Vee Gunn
DESCRIPTION:Does your child love to create\, experiment\, and think outside the box? \n\n\n\nAt Creativity Hack\, young artists jump into a hands-on art camp fueled by imagination. We flip the rules of traditional art and encourage kids to explore bold\, unexpected ideas. \nStudents experiment with paint\, ink\, charcoal\, fabric\, wood\, and canvas. They try new tools and discover fresh ways to combine color\, shape\, and pattern. One day they might paint on unusual surfaces. The next\, they might build layered multimedia pieces. \nEach session introduces new materials and techniques. Kids test ideas\, follow their curiosity\, and develop their own creative style along the way. \nThis camp isn’t about mastering one method. It’s about creative freedom\, playful discovery\, and trying something new. \nBy the end of the camp\, every child will leave with a collection of original artworks—and more confidence in their creativity. \nPerfect for curious minds and imaginative makers\, Creativity Hack invites kids to explore art in unexpected ways and discover the joy of making something uniquely their own. \nAges 8-13
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-creativity-hack/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Camps,Classes,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/The-Creativity-Hack.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T150000
DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260212T160116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T213602Z
UID:20006798-1783328400-1783350000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cinderella Four Week Musical Theater Camp
DESCRIPTION:Cinderella Four-Week Musical Theater Camp\nJoin us for Gorton Drama Studio’s Four-Week Musical Theater Camp\, a rigorous\, immersive training experience designed for advanced young performers ready to take their skills to the next level. Created for highly motivated students\, this program mirrors the pace\, focus\, and collaboration of a professional rehearsal process while working toward a fully staged\, one-hour production of “Cinderella.” \nStudents work closely with experienced teaching artists in a supportive and challenging environment that emphasizes technique\, discipline\, and ensemble storytelling. Rehearsals move quickly and demand commitment\, curiosity\, and teamwork\, allowing performers to grow rapidly while engaging deeply with the material and with one another. \nThroughout the camp\, students rehearse and perform “Cinderella\,” Gorton Drama Studio’s joyful new take on the classic fairy tale – complete with the pumpkin\, the carriage\, the glass slipper\, the fairy godmother\, and the royal ball. Filled with comedy\, magic\, and heart\, the production gives every camper a meaningful role and a chance to shine. \nThis camp is for students who love being challenged\, are excited to work at a high level\, and want to push themselves artistically alongside peers who share their passion for musical theater. \nWhat Makes the Four-Week Camp Unique\n\nRehearsal process modeled on real-world theater production.\nIntensive daily training in acting\, singing\, dancing\, and ensemble performance.\nAn original adaptation\, allowing students to experience how new work is created.\nEvery actor gets individualized attention and a meaningful role.\nSubstantial stage time for all students\, regardless of role size.\nEvery performer is fully engaged throughout the day\, both on stage and in focused workshops that build skill\, confidence\, and artistry.\n\nWhat Campers Will Learn\n\nAdvanced acting\, singing\, and movement training through daily\, focused rehearsals and classes.\nHow to collaborate as part of a professional-style ensemble\, building discipline\, communication\, and trust.\nThe full rehearsal process—from first read-through to fully staged performance—mirroring real-world theater production.\nConfidence\, stamina\, and artistic growth through sustained commitment to a challenging\, fast-paced creative process.\n\nPerformances in a Professional Theater\n\nAll four final performances take place in the 309-seat John and Nancy Hughes Theater\, a professional venue where performances are public events and heavily marketed to the community. Camps and organizations across Chicago’s North Shore regularly attend\, giving students the rare opportunity to perform for large\, enthusiastic audiences in a true theatrical setting. \nCreative Team: \n\nJeremy Kruse\, Producer & Playwright\nMadison Kisst\, Director\nCarla Garippo\, Choreographer\nMatt Mueller\, Song Writer – Broadway actor\, returning for his second year\, collaborating with Jeremy to create original music for the show.\n\nStudents receive both group and individual coaching throughout the rehearsal process to support skill progression and performance readiness. \nCamp Details:\nPlay: “Cinderella”\nPerformance Length: One hour\nAges: 9–16\nPrice: $1350 \nSchedule:\nWeeks 1–3 (Rehearsal & Training): \n\nDAYS: Monday–Friday\nDATES: July 6–10\, July 13–17\, July 20–24\nTIME:  9:00 am–3:00 pm \n\nWeek 4 (Tech & Performances): \n\nMonday\, July 27: 9:00 am–3:00 pm\nTuesday\, July 28 & Wednesday\, July 29:\n\n9:00 am–1:00 pm\n11:00 am performance\n\n\nThursday\, July 30 & Friday\, July 31:\n\n4:00 pm–8:00 pm\n6:00 pm performance\n\n\n\nPerformances: \n\nFour public performances in the John and Nancy Hughes Theater.\n\nAs part of camp tuition\, families receive two complimentary tickets to one performance. \nThis is a promo video from last year’s production of Peter Pan Now. \nThis is a behind-the-scenes look at what we do at camp. \nThis four-week program is ideal for students who are serious about musical theater\, excited by collaboration\, and eager to grow in a challenging\, creative environment. It is not just about putting on a show—it’s about training\, process\, and becoming a stronger\, more confident performer.\n\nJoin us for a transformative summer experience where students train like professionals\, perform with pride\, and leave with skills\, friendships\, and confidence that last beyond the stage. \nAbout Our Artistic Director:\n \nJeremy Kruse\, Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017).The book was published in Korean and Chinese in 2022. Jeremy is a professional actor\, published playwright\, award-winning screenwriter\, and award-winning filmmaker. Some of the classes he taught at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York include Method Acting\, Comedic Improvisation\, Sketch Comedy Writing\, and Acting for Film and TV. He graduated from The Strasberg Institute at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts where he majored in drama. Jeremy also teaches privately\, one on one  www.jeremykruse.com and www.jeremykruseactingtraining.com  \n  \n \n  \nAbout our Creative Team:\nMadison Kisst is a professional actor\, director\, and educator with extensive training in physical and classical theatre\, voice and movement\, and devising. Recently\, she has served as the Fight/Intimacy director for Middle Tennessee State University’s production of Clue: On Stage and Nashville Repertory Theatre’s production of Sister Act. She has her BA in Theatre Arts from California State University Chico and Master of Fine Arts in Performance from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Madison is a member of the performance faculty in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Middle Tennessee State University. \n  \n  \n  \nMatt Mueller is an actor\, musician\, former pirate\, and part-time wizard. Outside GDS his most recent credits include Harry Potter and Cursed Child\, and he’s excited to be back with the wonderful storytellers of Gorton Drama Studio after last summer in Neverland!! \n  \n  \n  \nCarla Garippo\, dance teacher/choreographer\, received her professional dance training from Ruth Page Center for the Arts and was a principal dancer of The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Company of Chicago. She is fluent in Ballet\, Jazz\, Tap\, Hip-Hop\, Modern\, Lyrical\, Contemporary\, Poms\, Pointe\, Musical Theatre\, Stretch/Conditioning and Character. Some of Carla’s credits include: The Chicago Tribune Charities production of “The Nutcracker ” at The Arie Crown Theatre\, Dirty Dancing\, Carnaval at The Victor Hotel\, Dance Chicago\, MTVs Sweet 16\, as well as various music videos and concerts nationwide. Carla teaches dancers of all ages and levels and is excited to be a staff member at Gorton Drama Studio.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/four-week-musical-theater-camp-cinderella/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Camps,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cinderella-1.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T120000
DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260312T172914Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T191737Z
UID:20007099-1783332000-1783339200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Design & Craft with Vee Gunn
DESCRIPTION:What if your child could design their own collection of creations this summer? \nAt Design & Craft\, kids step into the role of young designers. First\, they imagine. Then they experiment. Finally\, they create. Throughout the week\, campers explore creativity through a wide range of hands-on projects that turn ideas into something real. \nTo start\, we introduce a mix of materials and techniques. Kids work with fabric\, paint\, clay\, paper\, and collage. Next\, they learn how everyday materials can transform into something new. One day they might design a custom T-shirt. Another day they might create a board game\, shape a clay sculpture\, or build colorful room décor. Along the way\, they’ll craft key rings\, fridge magnets\, logos\, and other imaginative creations they can wear\, use\, gift\, or display at home. \nAs the session continues\, each project introduces a new creative skill. Campers experiment with color\, pattern\, texture\, and form. They test ideas. They revise designs. Most importantly\, they discover their own creative style. Instead of following a single template\, kids are encouraged to make choices and try something different. \nJust as important\, the process is playful and collaborative. Campers share ideas\, show off their work\, and celebrate each other’s creativity. As confidence grows\, so does curiosity. Soon\, kids begin thinking like real designers – asking questions\, solving problems\, and imagining what they can create next. \nBy the end of the session\, every camper leaves with a collection of original projects and a stronger sense of creative confidence. They’ll head home with handmade pieces they’re proud of – and the excitement of knowing they designed them themselves. \nDesign & Craft is perfect for curious\, imaginative kids who love to build\, design\, and make. This summer\, creativity takes the lead. \nAges 8 – 13
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/design-craft-with-vee-gunn/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Camps,Classes,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Design-Craft.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T150000
DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260312T173844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T203349Z
UID:20007101-1783342800-1783350000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:The Creativity Hack with Vee Gunn
DESCRIPTION:Does your child love to create\, experiment\, and think outside the box? \n\n\n\nAt Creativity Hack\, young artists jump into a hands-on art camp fueled by imagination. We flip the rules of traditional art and encourage kids to explore bold\, unexpected ideas. \nStudents experiment with paint\, ink\, charcoal\, fabric\, wood\, and canvas. They try new tools and discover fresh ways to combine color\, shape\, and pattern. One day they might paint on unusual surfaces. The next\, they might build layered multimedia pieces. \nEach session introduces new materials and techniques. Kids test ideas\, follow their curiosity\, and develop their own creative style along the way. \nThis camp isn’t about mastering one method. It’s about creative freedom\, playful discovery\, and trying something new. \nBy the end of the camp\, every child will leave with a collection of original artworks—and more confidence in their creativity. \nPerfect for curious minds and imaginative makers\, Creativity Hack invites kids to explore art in unexpected ways and discover the joy of making something uniquely their own. \nAges 8-13
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-creativity-hack-vee/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Camps,Classes,Youth
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/The-Creativity-Hack.png
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T160000
DTSTAMP:20260509T081907
CREATED:20260126T222754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T230807Z
UID:20006964-1786451400-1786464000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Safety Town Commanders Camp 2026
DESCRIPTION:Three-Day Interactive Safety Awareness Program\n\nSafety Town Commanders runs Tuesday August 11  through Thursday August 13 \nThis camp is for 8-10 year-olds only. In order to register for this camp\, your child must be between the ages of 8-10 at the time of camp\, with no exceptions.\n Have a 5-7 year old? Register for Safety Town Majors Camp\n\nWhat A Camp Day Looks Like\nOur Safety Town Commanders Camp is modeled after the original Safety Town\, but with a curriculum built for the next level\, ages 8-10. The focus of this camp will include a review of the original Safety Town. We will also go in-depth with experts in areas like fire safety\, internet safety\, self-defense and beyond. Topics will cover many categories pertinent to this age group\, including what to do if your alarm goes off\, gun safety\, walking home alone\, falls\, poison/medicine safety\, bullying/cyberbullying and mindfulness – including yoga. \n\nCamp is dynamic and interactive\, with various what-if scenarios being played out and group discussions moderated by a certified teacher. Children will learn everything from how to use a fire extinguisher to how to navigate safely in today’s cyber world and more! \nWant to be a Safety Town sponsor? Contact Ann Wildman for more information. \nInterested in being a Safety Town Counselor? Sign up here! \n\nWe are proud to have the following experts teaching our camp:\n\n\n\nLake Forest Police Department: LFPD will teach the kids safety awareness and self-defense in a fun/interactive way! They’ll creatively cover topics such as gun safety\, bike and skateboard safety\, what to do when you are home alone and cyber safety/online stranger danger.\n\n\n\n\n\nLake Forest Fire Department:  LFFD will teach kids about everything from fireworks safety to first aid. They will be demonstrating a sprinkler system with a real-live fire in the safe confines of their smokehouse to prompt a discussion about home fire prevention and escape planning. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOperation Lifesaver: Operation Lifesaver is a non-profit public safety education and awareness organization dedicated to reducing collisions\, fatalities and injuries at highway-rail crossings and trespassing on or near railroad tracks. Operation Lifesaver will be providing our kids with rail safety education!\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n \nLFOLA will teach our kids all about outdoor safety\, tick safety\, poisonous plants that are indigenous to our prairies\, and why it is so important to get off our screens and get outdoors! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/safety-town-commanders-camp-2026/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Camps,Classes,Youth
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GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
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