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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Gorton Center
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251101T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251101T220000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250328T190236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T193258Z
UID:20006365-1762023600-1762034400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN-A ROCK TRIBUTE by Sons of Chicago ***POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE***
DESCRIPTION:POSTPONDED  UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE\nPlease contact Gary Feracota at 312-953-0912 for ticket refund for the November 1\, 2025 performance.\nThe Sons of Chicago: A Tribute to Springsteen – Live at Gorton Center\nA powerful night of classic rock as legendary 8-piece band Sons of Chicago perform the music of iconic American artist — Bruce Springsteen — in a show that celebrates the dreams\, hopes\, hardship and glory of life in the U.S.A. \n  \nThe band delivers an electrifying\, full-throttle performance of Springsteen’s hit anthems\, ballads and other gems. Springsteen’s masterworks Born to Run\, Rosalita\, Thunder Road\, Glory Days\, Promised Land\, Spirit of the Night\, Badlands\, Tenth Avenue Freezeout\, Bobby Jean\, Nebraska\, The Rising\, Fire and others are delivered with the same emotional energy as the originals. \nEvery lyric is a memory\, and every riff a heartbeat\, keeping the audience rocking\, dancing and singing with the band. \nExpect an unforgettable evening of gritty vocals\, searing sax licks\, soaring guitars\, superb piano and organ\, and the kind of storied lyrics that only Springsteen can inspire — performed by a band of renowned professional musicians that channel their spirit with unmatched energy. \nThis is a feel-good\, do-good evening of rock ‘n’ roll that makes a real difference. The show is part of the Wintrust 20\,000 Meals Tour that provides funding for local food pantries with a series of concerts in Southern Wisconsin\, Chicagoland\, and Northern Indiana. Special thanks to Wintrust Bank\, the Bomher Family Foundation\, and the Pinnacle Foundation and others for their generous support. \n“These concerts are about more than great music — they’re about coming together to fight hunger and support our neighbors.” \n— Matt Gambs\, Chief Community Impact Officer\, Wintrust
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-music-of-bruce-springsteen/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Rental Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Springsteen-11-1-25-Thumbnail-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251026T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251026T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T184121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T205645Z
UID:20006565-1761490800-1761498000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:HAUNTED MANSION
DESCRIPTION:The Story of Gracey Manor\nGabbie (Rosario Dawson)\, a widowed doctor\, is ready for a new chapter. After losing her husband\, she leaves the busy streets of New York behind. With her young son\, Travis\, she heads to New Orleans in search of a fresh start. Their new home is Gracey Manor\, a sprawling old mansion with crumbling walls and plenty of character. Gabbie imagines transforming it into a charming bed and breakfast. At first\, it feels like a dream. But soon\, the dream twists into something far darker. \nStrange noises echo through the halls. Shadows move where no one should be. Doors slam on their own. Gabbie and Travis realize quickly that the house is not only dilapidated – it is haunted. And not by just one ghost. Spirits fill every room. Some are playful. Others are menacing. All of them make life inside the manor nearly impossible. \nDesperate for help\, Gabbie seeks out experts in the paranormal. She gathers an unlikely team. A priest\, a psychic\, a historian\, and a ghost tour guide step into the mansion\, each bringing their own skills. Together\, they face the mysteries inside Gracey Manor. Yet the deeper they look\, the more dangerous the secrets become. \nHatbox Ghost\nAt the center of the haunting stands the Hatbox Ghost\, portrayed through motion capture and voice by Jared Leto. He is eerie\, calculating\, and relentless. His presence is not random. He is tied to a sinister plot involving lost souls and the mansion’s original owner\, William Gracey. Long ago\, Gracey’s grief led him down a path of obsession and rituals. Now\, those choices threaten to bind both the living and the dead in eternal darkness. \nThe group must uncover the truth\, fight back against the Hatbox Ghost\, and free the manor before it consumes them all. Gracey Manor is more than a house – it is a trap. And only courage\, unity\, and quick thinking can break its hold. \nJoin us for this fun-filled story of scares and excitement! \nDirector: Justin Simien\nWriter: Katie Dippold\nStars: LaKeith Stanfield\, Rosario Dawson\, Owen Wilson
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/haunted-mansion/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family,Festivals,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/haunted-manson-horiz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251023T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251023T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T183307Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T205301Z
UID:20006564-1761246000-1761253200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:PSYCHO
DESCRIPTION:A secretary on the run makes a fatal stop at a lonely motel\nMarion Crane (Janet Leigh) is tired of her ordinary life in Phoenix. She longs to marry her boyfriend\, Sam Loomis (John Gavin)\, but money stands in the way. One Friday afternoon\, temptation wins. Marion steals $40\,000 from her employer and hits the road. Her plan is simple: reach Sam\, pay off his debts\, and start fresh. \nBut the journey takes a dark turn. As night falls\, heavy rain pounds the highway. Marion grows anxious\, nervous about the police\, and desperate for rest. She pulls off onto a deserted back road. There\, a flickering neon sign appears through the storm: Bates Motel. \nThe motel looks worn and forgotten. Its owner\, Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins)\, steps out to greet her. He’s shy\, polite\, even boyish. He offers Marion a meal and friendly conversation. Yet something about him feels off. Norman speaks often of his mother\, who lives in the looming house on the hill. His tone shifts from tender to bitter. His smile hides unease. \nOver dinner\, Marion rethinks her choices. She decides to return the money and face the consequences. But she never gets the chance. In the dead of night\, the bathroom curtain rips open\, and Marion’s story ends in a shocking burst of violence. \nFrom here\, the story shifts. A suspicious sister\, a determined boyfriend\, and a curious private detective come looking for answers. Their search circles back to Norman and the suffocating shadow of his mother. \nAlfred Hitchcock directs Psycho with relentless tension. Quick cuts\, stark shadows\, and Bernard Herrmann’s piercing score pull viewers into a world where safety unravels in seconds. Every scene builds dread. Every revelation twists deeper. And the final truth about Norman Bates delivers one of cinema’s most unforgettable shocks. \nWriters: Joseph Stefano\, Robert Bloch\nStars: Anthony Perkins\, Janet Leigh\, Vera Miles
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/psycho/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Classics,Festivals,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Psycho_horiz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T181609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T205014Z
UID:20006563-1760886000-1760893200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:WICKED
DESCRIPTION:Before Dorothy ever lands in Oz\, another story unfolds. The story of Wicked. \nElphaba is smart\, fiery\, and different. Born with green skin\, she grows up mocked and misunderstood. Yet she carries a gift she doesn’t fully understand—power unlike anything seen in Oz. Glinda\, by contrast\, shines in every room. She’s blonde\, charming\, and adored. But behind her glittering smile lies a young woman still searching for purpose. \nTheir worlds collide at Shiz University. At first\, they clash. Glinda thrives on popularity\, while Elphaba prefers to stay in the shadows. But circumstances force them together. Over time\, rivalry turns into respect. Respect grows into friendship. Against all odds\, they become inseparable. \nThen comes the turning point. A meeting with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz promises hope but hides betrayal. Elphaba sees corruption and cruelty. She refuses to stay silent. Glinda\, torn between loyalty and ambition\, chooses a different path. \nFrom that moment\, the friends walk divergent roads. Elphaba embraces her power\, defying the system and the lies of Oz. To the people\, she becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. Glinda\, meanwhile\, learns compassion. She rises as Glinda the Good\, a beacon of light. \nTheir bond remains at the center. Love and heartbreak\, choices and consequences\, twist their fates together even as the world drives them apart. \nWith sweeping songs\, dazzling spectacle\, and deep emotion\, Wicked reimagines the land of Oz. It asks what makes someone “wicked” and what makes someone “good.” And it reveals how even the strongest friendships can change destinies. \nDirector: Jon M. Chu\nWriters: Winnie Holzman\, Dana Fox\, Gregory Maguire\nStars: Cynthia Erivo\, Ariana Grande\, Jeff Goldblum
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/wicked/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family,Festivals,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Wicked-Horiz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251016T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251016T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T180219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T202314Z
UID:20006548-1760641200-1760648400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Hereditary
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a special screening of Hereditary\, the breakout debut from writer-director Ari Aster\, at the Gorton Center. Known for its haunting visuals and deeply unsettling atmosphere\, this modern horror classic explores the dark side of family legacy and the terrifying weight of inheritance. \nWhen Ellen\, the matriarch of the Graham family\, dies\, her daughter’s family struggles to move forward. First\, grief weighs heavily on them. Yet\, as the days pass\, strange events begin to surface. Secrets once buried start to rise. And soon\, every discovery pulls them deeper into darkness. \nThe family unravels one mystery after another. However\, with each answer comes an even more frightening question. Their ancestry hides more than traditions. It hides a sinister inheritance. And this inheritance refuses to be ignored. As the truth emerges\, fear takes over. What begins as mourning quickly turns into a desperate fight for survival. \nStep by step\, their sense of normalcy collapses. First\, they lose trust in what they see. Then\, they lose faith in each other. Finally\, they lose the safety of their own home. No place feels secure. No moment feels calm. And no bond proves strong enough to withstand the terror pressing in from every side. \nThrough stunning imagery and haunting detail\, Aster redefines what a horror film can be. He pushes the genre into chilling new terrain. At the same time\, he offers a portrait of heritage twisted into something terrifying. The result is more than a movie; it is an experience. It is a warning. And\, most of all\, it is a shattering reminder that sometimes the most frightening monsters are the ones we inherit.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/hereditary/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Festivals,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hereditary-poster-featured-image-Horiz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251005T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251005T180000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250915T193542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T210049Z
UID:20006687-1759680000-1759687200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:LAKE FOREST CIVIC ORCHESTRA-Postcards from America
DESCRIPTION:Native New Yorker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuest Conductor: Benjamin Firer\nIn our first “Postcards from America” concert of the 2025-2026 season\, we explore works by New York and New York-influenced composers. Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony and Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” are just two of the iconic works featured in this program. \nGwyneth Walker: America 250!\nThe Lake Forest Civic Orchestra is proud to present the world premiere of Gwyneth Walker’s America 250! – a three-movement suite for orchestra\, composed in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States (1776-2026). Inspiration for this music is taken from songs depicting colorful and adventurous episodes in American history. \nWidely performed throughout the country\, the music of American composer Gwyneth Walker is beloved by performers and audiences alike for its energy\, beauty\, reverence\, drama\, and humor. Dr. Gwyneth Walker (b. 1947) is a graduate of Brown University and the Hartt School of Music. She holds B.A.\, M.M. and D.M.A. degrees in Music Composition. A former faculty member of the Oberlin College Conservatory\, she resigned from academic employment in 1982 in order to pursue a career as a full-time composer. \nFor nearly 30 years\, she lived on a dairy farm in Braintree\, Vermont before returning to live in her childhood hometown of New Canaan\, Connecticut. \nGershwin – Rhapsody in Blue\nMyunghee Chung\, Soloist \nDr. Myunghee Chung\, native of Korea\, holds Bachelor and master of Music degrees from the Juilliard School and Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Manhattan School of Music.  She has been the recipient of numerous awards\, including first prize at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Young Performer’s Competition and the William Kapell International Piano Competition.  Her playing has been described as “clean\, strong…marked by a bell-like quality that never disappeared even under the severest pressure.”  She has performed throughout  North America with orchestras such as the Chicago Symphony orchestra and the Baltimore Symphony orchestra\, as well as in Europe and Asia. \nMyunghee Chung has also been a active chamber musician – member of the Seraphin Piano Trio for 4 years and UW-Whitewater Piano Trio for many years\, and with artists such as David Kim\, David Taylor and Alison Balsom. \nShe had taught at the Missouri Southern State University\, University of New Mexico and University of Wisconsin-Whitewater\, from which she retired in 2022. \nDvořák – Symphony No. 9 in E Minor – “New World”\n\nProgram: G. Walker – World Premiere “America 250!”\, Gershwin – Rhapsody in Blue\, Dvořák – New World Symphony \nTickets: $20 General Admission\nSeniors & Students: $10\nMilitary Admission Complimentary \nRelated Blog Posts: Interview with Gwyneth Walker \nFor more information or tickets: https://www.lakeforestcivicorchestra.org/concerts-tickets/p/nativenewyorker-oct-5-2025 \nBuy Tickets online at www.lakeforestcivicorchestra.org \n \n  \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/lake-forest-civic-orchestra-postcards-from-america/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Rental Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LFCO-Concert-10-5-25.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T213000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T172713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T022014Z
UID:20006559-1759604400-1759613400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 2025
DESCRIPTION:The always-popular compilation of global short films returns to the John & Nancy Hughes Theater at Gorton—come watch and vote for your favorite! Film lovers unite during the same week across six continents to view and judge the work of the next generation of international filmmakers. \nThe ten Finalists will screen simultaneously across the world during a one-week period\, with the Best Film and Best Actor awards determined by ballots cast by the audiences in each participating venue. By virtue of their selection by MANHATTAN SHORT\, each short film is automatically Oscar-qualified. \nThe Ten MANHATTAN SHORT Finalists hail from seven countries with films from Spain\, Irael\, United Kingdom\, Norway\, The Netherlands\, Belgium\, and Mexico\, alongside three films from the USA. “These ten short films bring a much-needed positive energy to the world!” says Nicholas Mason\, founding director of Manhattan Short Film Festival. The program runs 2.5 hours with an 8 minute intermission. \nManhattan Short 2025 Finalists \n\n“Em & Selma Go Griffin Hunting” (USA)\n“Al Fresco” (Spain)\n“Chasing the Party” (USA)\n“Paradise Man” (USA)\n“We Have Sinned Before You” (Israel)\n“I Have My Reasons” (United Kingdom)\n“Ovary-Acting” (Norway)\n“Beyond Silence” (The Netherlands)\n“Zodiak” (Belgium)\n“Passarinho” (Mexico)\n\nFor details about the short films\, visit the Manhattan Short website.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/manhattan-short-film-festival-2025/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251003T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251003T213000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250221T175459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T190135Z
UID:20006329-1759519800-1759527000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:The Garth Experience
DESCRIPTION:THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-garth-experience/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music,Performing Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Cancelled-Garth.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251002T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251002T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T174544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T161159Z
UID:20006560-1759431600-1759438800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:FOOD AND COUNTRY
DESCRIPTION:Worried about the survival of small farmers\, ranchers\, and chefs hobbled by America’s policy of producing cheap food\, trailblazing food writer Ruth Reichl reaches across political and social divides to report on the country’s broken food system and the innovators risking everything to transform it. A Sundance Film Festival premiere. \nDirector: Laura Gabbert\nStars: Grant Achatz\, Reem Assil\, Eric Deeble \nWe are especially grateful to the Sheffield Foundation for sponsoring this screening. Their support allows us to bring these films to Gorton Center\, creating a memorable evening for all who attend.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/food-and-country/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Documentary,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot2023-09-29at11.10.54-AM.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251002T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251002T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T174706Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T144814Z
UID:20006582-1759417200-1759424400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:FOOD AND COUNTRY
DESCRIPTION:Trailblazing food writer Ruth Reichl examines the precarious state of America’s food system. A Sundance Film Festival premiere. \nDirector: Laura Gabbert\nStars: Grant Achatz\, Reem Assil\, Eric Deeble \nWe are especially grateful to the Sheffield Foundation for sponsoring this screening. Their support allows us to bring these films to Gorton Center\, creating a memorable evening for all who attend.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/food-and-country-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Documentary,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot2023-09-29at11.10.54-AM.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250928T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250928T173000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250824T174946Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T021958Z
UID:20006581-1759071600-1759080600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 2025
DESCRIPTION:The always-popular compilation of global short films returns to the John & Nancy Hughes Theater at Gorton—come watch and vote for your favorite! Film lovers unite during the same week across six continents to view and judge the work of the next generation of international filmmakers. \nThe ten Finalists will screen simultaneously across the world during a one-week period\, with the Best Film and Best Actor awards determined by ballots cast by the audiences in each participating venue. By virtue of their selection by MANHATTAN SHORT\, each short film is automatically Oscar-qualified. \nThe Ten MANHATTAN SHORT Finalists hail from seven countries with films from Spain\, Irael\, United Kingdom\, Norway\, The Netherlands\, Belgium\, and Mexico\, alongside three films from the USA. “These ten short films bring a much-needed positive energy to the world!” says Nicholas Mason\, founding director of Manhattan Short Film Festival. The program runs 2.5 hours with an 8 minute intermission. \nManhattan Short 2025 Finalists \n\n“Em & Selma Go Griffin Hunting” (USA)\n“Al Fresco” (Spain)\n“Chasing the Party” (USA)\n“Paradise Man” (USA)\n“We Have Sinned Before You” (Israel)\n“I Have My Reasons” (United Kingdom)\n“Ovary-Acting” (Norway)\n“Beyond Silence” (The Netherlands)\n“Zodiak” (Belgium)\n“Passarinho” (Mexico)\n\nFor details about the short films\, visit the Manhattan Short website.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/manhattan-short-film-festival-2025-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film,Independent
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250915T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250915T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250825T041349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T041349Z
UID:20006580-1757962800-1757970000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Lake County Film Festival Closing Night Feature: SPEAK.
DESCRIPTION:The Lake County Film Festival returns for its milestone 15th edition\, bringing an exciting and diverse slate of films to local audiences from September 4–7 and September 12–15\, 2025. The festival will screen more than 134 films\, including 17 feature-length films and over 120 short films from around the world. \nGorton Center is proud to be hosting the closing night feature film\, “Speak.”!\nABOUT THE FILM \nLOGLINE \nFive top-ranked high school oratory students spend a year crafting spellbinding spoken word performances with the dream of winning one of the world’s largest and most intense public speaking competitions. \nLONG SYNOPSIS \nSPEAK follows five of the nation’s top teenage speech competitors\, capturing the euphoria of victory and the devastation of defeat as they craft and perform original oratories over the course of a 9-month season. Their dream is simple: To win the Super Bowl of public speaking\, the NSDA Nationals. \nWe witness them\, their coaches and their parents as they fight to keep school speech programs alive amid budget cuts\, book bans and censorship efforts that reach a fevered pitch during the 2024 election year. \nThe film begins at the 2023 National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) Championships\, introducing our eclectic orators: Noor\, Noah\, Sam\, Mfaz and Esther\, the two-time reigning national champion in Oratory. We follow them to the 2024 Nationals\, where Esther hopes to beat the record set by SPEAK’s Executive Producer\, Josh Gad\, in 1999. \nSPEAK captures the passion\, joy—and courage—of unforgettable teens using their voices to change hearts and minds. This film is the perfect antidote for these fraught times—intense\, funny\, and most of all\, hopeful. \nDirectorsJennifer Tiexiera\, Guy Mossman\nStars: Esther\, Mfaz\, Noah
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/lake-county-film-festival-closing-night-feature-speak/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film,Independent
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/speak_esther_04.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250914T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250914T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250821T222343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250822T004500Z
UID:20006558-1757862000-1757869200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Lake County Film Festival: GORTON SELECTED SHORTS
DESCRIPTION:The Lake County Film Festival returns for its milestone 15th edition\, bringing an exciting and diverse slate of films to local audiences from September 4–7 and September 12–15\, 2025. The festival will screen more than 134 films\, including 17 feature-length films and over 120 short films from around the world. \nGorton Center is proud to be one of the screening venues and offer a curated selection of short films from the festival catalogue! Some filmmakers will be in attendance for a post-show Q & A!\nCheck Please – Narrative • Action/Comedy • USA • 2025 • 10 Minutes\nTwo headstrong Koreans can’t agree on who’s treating who to dinner\, causing their casual restaurant outing to spiral into a martial arts deathmatch.\nUndeletable – Narrative • Drama/Comedy • UK • 2024 • 7 Minutes\nEmma has to inform her dad’s recently confessed lover that he has died but the painful mistakes she makes whilst recording this answerphone message confronts her with a brutal truth about the remorseless forward nature of time.\nWolf – Narrative • Drama/Comedy • UK • 2024 • 15 Minutes\nHalloween proves to be a time of reflection and change for two long-term friends.\nChips or Crackers – Narrative • Comedy • USA • 2025 • 3 Minutes\nA simple goodbye turns into an awkward predicament.\nMy Last Martini – Narrative • Drama/Comedy • USA • 2024 • 14 Minutes\nOne evening at an elegant cocktail lounge\, a frustrated writer is joined by a mysterious woman who drifts over from the next booth\, looking for a good listener.\nTe Seguire a la Oscuridad –Narrative • Comedy • USA • 2024 • 10 Minutes\nA driven high school student in 2005 obsessively studies Spanish all year so she can test up a level into her crush’s class.\nFear-ish – Narrative • Iran • 2024 • 4 Minutes\nA hungry fish searches for food in its aquarium\, but its world is suddenly disrupted when it is struck by something unexpected.\nFlavor of the Month – Narrative • Comedy/Drama • USA • 2025 • 13 Minutes\nA B-list Chinese actor fears being replaced as “Hollywood’s Asian” while screen testing for a life-changing role.\n\nThe Piano – Narrative • Family-Friendly • USA • 2025 • 8 Minutes\nOne night\, a young girl discovers her father bent over the keys at the piano\, sparking a lifelong bond that resonates far beyond their final note.\nCoconut Girl – Narrative • Drama • USA • 2024 • 12 Minutes\nSwetha\, the young child of Indian immigrants\, struggles to accept her heritage when she gets bullied at school for the coconut oil in her hair.\n\nRetirement Plan – Narrative • Ireland • 2025 • 7 Minutes\nAt apathy with his life\, Ray dreams of the beauty and joy he will find in retirement.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/selected-short-film-festival/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-20-at-5.56.12-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250912T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250912T203000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250827T192401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T192401Z
UID:20006614-1757698200-1757709000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:An Evening with Jessica Willis Fisher
DESCRIPTION:Beacon Place Fundraiser-Strength In Every Story\n\n\n\nJoin us for an unforgettable evening of music\, storytelling\, and community with singer-songwriter Jessica Willis Fisher – benefiting the mission of Beacon Place!\nThrough her powerful lyrics and moving storytelling\, Jessica brings a message of resilience\, hope\, and healing. Her story resonates deeply with the work we do at Beacon Place – helping children and families in Waukegan rise above challenges and build strong\, brighter futures. \nAll proceeds from this special evening will support educational programs\, family support services\, and wellness initiatives that empower families to grow\, thrive\, and dream big. Together\, we can create brighter futures tomorrow-starting today. Enjoy an intimate performance\, connect with others who care deeply about community\, and be part of something truly meaningful. \n\n\n\n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/an-evening-with-jessica-willis-fisher/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events,Rental Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/JWF-Event-Text-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250906T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250906T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250821T221009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250822T001142Z
UID:20006557-1757185200-1757192400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Lake County Film Festival: PAPER MARRIAGE
DESCRIPTION:The Lake County Film Festival returns for its milestone 15th edition\, bringing an exciting and diverse slate of films to local audiences from September 4–7 and September 12–15\, 2025. The festival will screen more than 134 films\, including 17 feature-length films and over 120 short films from around the world. \nGorton Center is proud to be one of the screening venues for “Paper Marriage”! Filmmaker Jeff Man will be in attendance for a post-show Q & A!\nA desperate Chinese immigrant and a wayward American strike a marriage pact\, navigating around each other to grow a connection for a green card. \nDirector: Jeff Man\nWriter: Jeff Man\nStars: Effy Han\, Yosilu Chen\, Will Dowsett
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/paper-marriage/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film,Independent
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PAPER-MARRIAGE.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250904T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250904T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250821T221643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T235135Z
UID:20006549-1757012400-1757019600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Lake County Film Festival Opening Night Feature: COLOR BOOK
DESCRIPTION:The Lake County Film Festival returns for its milestone 15th edition\, bringing an exciting and diverse slate of films to local audiences from September 4–7 and September 12–15\, 2025. The festival will screen more than 134 films\, including 17 feature-length films and over 120 short films from around the world. \nGorton Center and First Thursday Series is proud to be hosting the opening night feature film\, “Color Book”! \nA devoted single father adjusts to life after his wife’s passing while raising his son with Down Syndrome. They embark on a journey through Metro Atlanta to attend their first baseball game. \nDirector: David Fortune\nWriter: David Fortune\nStars: Lynne Ashe\, Joseph Curtis Callender\, William Catlett \nWe are especially grateful to the Sheffield Foundation for sponsoring this screening. Their support allows us to bring this inspiring story to Gorton Center\, creating a memorable evening for all who attend.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/color-book/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film,Independent
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PAPER-MARRIAGE-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250831T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250831T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250625T160047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T193203Z
UID:20006455-1756666800-1756674000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Rumours
DESCRIPTION:Don’t Miss The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute! \nGet ready to experience the magic of Fleetwood Mac like never before. Rumours\, the ultimate tribute band\, brings the legendary sound of Fleetwood Mac to the stage with energy and heart. \nJoin us for a night filled with music\, nostalgia\, and unforgettable moments. From the haunting harmonies of “Rhiannon” to the powerful rhythm of “Go Your Own Way\,” every song is performed with passion and care. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhether you’ve been a fan for years or are hearing their music for the first time\, this show is for you. So\, grab your friends\, mark your calendars\, and come celebrate the music that defined a generation. You won’t want the night to end! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nRumors was formed in Los Angeles\, CA\, in the Summer of 2012. Since then\, they have traveled all of North America and meticulously put together a show that spares no detail. Recreating the band’s legendary persona\, in all it’s youthful glory from 1975-1987. From period-accurate equipment and costumes to spot-on characterizations and musical performances. \n Rumors takes you back to a time when music was still an unbridled cultural experience and bands weren’t afraid to put on a show. Relive the rock and roll magic with Rumors. \n  \n  \n  \nRosati’s food truck will be at Gorton Center under our Port Chere selling there amazing pizza. Please stop by for a slice of Chicago’s Greatest Thin Crust Pizza!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/rumours/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Rumours-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250816T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250816T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250411T200114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250815T141751Z
UID:20006391-1755370800-1755378000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Summer Family Movie Weekend: Ferris Bueller's Day Off!
DESCRIPTION:Enjoy Gorton’s annual Summer family movie featuring Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in our John & Nancy Hughes Theater!\nGet ready for a fun-filled evening at Gorton Center with a screening of the iconic 80s classic\, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off! Directed by the legendary John Hughes\, this timeless teen comedy is the perfect pick for anyone in the mood for laughs\, nostalgia\, and a little bit of rebellion. \nThe film follows Ferris Bueller\, a charming\, brash\, and eternally confident high school senior who’s tired of spending his days cooped up in class. Rather than staying home sick\, Ferris hatches a plan to skip school and take his best friend\, Cameron\, and girlfriend\, Sloane\, on an unforgettable adventure through the streets of Chicago. From high-speed car chases and daring museum escapades to a surprise appearance at a parade\, Ferris leads the crew on a day that’s as exciting as it is unpredictable. \nBut\, of course\, no grand adventure is without its challenges. Enter the ever-determined principal\, Ed Rooney\, who is on a mission to catch Ferris in the act\, adding even more chaos to the day’s mischief. \nFilled with memorable moments\, hilarious one-liners\, and heartwarming scenes\, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is more than just a story about skipping school – it’s a celebration of youth\, freedom\, and the art of living in the moment. \nJoin us for this movie night to relive one of the most beloved comedies of all time. Whether you’ve seen it a dozen times or it’s your first time watching it\, this classic is guaranteed to make you smile\, laugh\, and maybe even skip school… just for a day!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/summer-family-movie-weekend-ferris-buellers-day-off/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Classics,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Ferris-Buellers-Day-Off-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250815T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250815T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T191400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T195425Z
UID:20006390-1755284400-1755291600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Summer Family Movie Weekend: INSIDE OUT 2 - FREE!
DESCRIPTION:Enjoy Gorton’s annual summer family movie weekend and join us for a free showing of Inside Out 2 in the John & Nancy Hughes Theater!\nJoin us at Gorton Center for a free movie night full of laughter\, emotion\, and family fun! We’re showing Inside Out 2\, the exciting new sequel from Pixar. \nROSATI’S will be selling slices of their delicious PIZZA so come early and hungry!\nBring the whole family and return to the colorful world inside Riley’s mind. This time\, Riley is a teenager\, facing big changes\, new experiences\, and—most importantly—brand-new emotions. \nDirected by Kelsey Mann\, Inside Out 2 follows Riley as she navigates the ups and downs of adolescence. Her familiar emotions—Joy\, Sadness\, Anger\, Fear\, and Disgust—must adjust as complex new feelings move in\, sparking chaos inside Headquarters. \nMeanwhile\, Riley struggles to understand who she is becoming. The original emotions worry they’re being pushed aside. Can everyone work together to help her through this important time? \nWith Pixar’s perfect mix of humor\, heart\, and vibrant animation\, Inside Out 2 is a thoughtful yet entertaining film for all ages. Whether you’re a parent\, a teen\, or simply a fan of great storytelling\, you’ll find something to love. \nDon’t miss this special evening! Come early\, grab a seat\, and enjoy a fun\, free night at the movies with friends and family. \nThis free event is co-presented with Lake Bluff Public Library.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/summer-family-movie-weekend-inside-out-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/image-5.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250814T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250814T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T191049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T142752Z
UID:20006389-1755198000-1755205200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Summer Family Movie Weekend: WHAT ABOUT BOB?
DESCRIPTION:Enjoy Gorton’s annual Summer family movie in our John & Nancy Hughes Theater!\nGet ready for a night of laughter and chaos at Gorton Center as we present the comedy classic What About Bob?\, directed by Frank Oz. This film takes the idea of a relaxing family vacation and turns it upside down in the most hilariously unexpected ways. \nThe story follows Dr. Leo Marvin\, a successful and tightly wound psychotherapist who is eagerly looking forward to a peaceful getaway with his family. But his plans go awry when Bob Wiley\, one of his most clingy and neurotic patients\, shows up uninvited at his vacation home. Bob’s eccentric charm and unshakable enthusiasm quickly win over the townspeople—and even Dr. Marvin’s family—leaving the doctor increasingly exasperated and unraveling by the minute. \nFull of outrageous situations\, sharp wit\, and unforgettable moments\, What About Bob? is a masterclass in comedic timing. The film brilliantly explores the clash between order and chaos\, with Bob’s unpredictable behavior pushing Dr. Marvin to the edge. As the summer unfolds\, roles begin to reverse in the most amusing ways. \nThis film is a crowd-pleasing favorite that blends heart\, humor\, and a touch of absurdity\, making it the perfect pick for a community movie night. Whether you’ve seen it before or are experiencing it for the first time\, What About Bob? promises big laughs and classic 90s charm. \nDon’t miss this chance to enjoy a beloved comedy with friends\, family\, and neighbors. Bring your popcorn\, grab a seat\, and settle in for a wildly entertaining evening at Gorton Center!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/summer-family-movie-weekend-what-about-bob/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/What-About-Bob.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250810T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250810T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250703T203302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250724T192922Z
UID:20006476-1754834400-1754845200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:CONCERT OPERA OF GREATER CHICAGO PRESENTS: LA FAVORITA
DESCRIPTION:Concert Opera of Greater Chicago presents G. Donizetti’s Bel Canto masterpiece\, La Favorita.\nOpera in four acts to be performed in concert version\, with projected English supertitles.\nSoloists: Paula Schaefgen\, mezzo-soprano; Alain Arvelo\, tenor; Aaron Wardell\, baritone; Alvaro Ramirez\, bass; Marilyn Maurer\, soprano; Chris Jackson\, tenor. The COGC chorus and orchestra will be conducted by Maestro William Intriligator.\nPerformances on August 8 & 10\, 2025 at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Tickets are $30 and available on our website. \n“La Favorita” is a tragic opera by Gaetano Donizetti set in 14th-century Spain\, focusing on the love triangle between King Alfonso XI\, his mistress Leonora de Guzmán\, and the novice monk Fernando. \nConcert Opera of Greater Chicago presents: La Favorita\nFriday\, August 8\, 2025 at 7 pm \nSunday\, August 10\, 2025 at 2 pm
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/concert-opera-of-greater-chicago-presents-la-favorita-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Performing Arts,Rental Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/IMG_8909.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250809T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250809T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T190626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T201956Z
UID:20006388-1754766000-1754773200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:CHICAGO
DESCRIPTION:Step into the dazzling world of jazz\, crime\, and sensational headlines with a special movie night at Gorton Center featuring the Academy Award-winning musical Chicago! Directed by Rob Marshall and based on the hit Broadway show\, this bold and stylish film delivers high-energy performances\, stunning choreography\, and a sharp take on fame and justice in 1920s America. \nChicago follows the twisted tale of Roxie Hart (Renée Zellweger) and Velma Kelly (Catherine Zeta-Jones)\, two vaudeville performers who find themselves on death row for murder. As both women vie for the spotlight in hopes of escaping the gallows\, they engage in a fierce and glamorous rivalry—competing not just for the public’s attention\, but also for the services of slick\, headline-hungry lawyer Billy Flynn (Richard Gere). \nWith unforgettable musical numbers like “Cell Block Tango\,” “All That Jazz\,” and “Razzle Dazzle\,” this film combines thrilling visuals with humor and satire. Chicago swept the 2003 Oscars with six wins\, including Best Picture\, and remains one of the most iconic musicals in modern cinema. \nWhether you’re a longtime fan or seeing it for the first time\, Chicago promises a night of spectacle\, sass\, and show-stopping entertainment. Grab your friends\, find your seat\, and get ready for a movie experience that’s equal parts glitz and grit.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/chicago/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Classics,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ChicagoMovie.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250808T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250808T220000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250703T203226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250724T192719Z
UID:20006473-1754679600-1754690400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:CONCERT OPERA OF GREATER CHICAGO PRESENTS: LA FAVORITA
DESCRIPTION:Concert Opera of Greater Chicago presents G. Donizetti’s Bel Canto masterpiece\, La Favorita.\nOpera in four acts to be performed in concert version\, with projected English supertitles.\nSoloists: Paula Schaefgen\, mezzo-soprano; Alain Arvelo\, tenor; Aaron Wardell\, baritone; Alvaro Ramirez\, bass; Marilyn Maurer\, soprano; Chris Jackson\, tenor. The COGC chorus and orchestra will be conducted by Maestro William Intriligator.\nPerformances on August 8 & 10\, 2025 at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Tickets are $30 and available on our website. \n“La Favorita” is a tragic opera by Gaetano Donizetti set in 14th-century Spain\, focusing on the love triangle between King Alfonso XI\, his mistress Leonora de Guzmán\, and the novice monk Fernando. \nConcert Opera of Greater Chicago presents: La Favorita\nFriday\, August 8\, 2025 at 7 pm \nSunday\, August 10\, 2025 at 2 pm
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/concert-opera-of-greater-chicago-presents-la-favorita/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Performing Arts,Rental Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/IMG_8909.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250803T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250803T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T190131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250610T190342Z
UID:20006387-1754233200-1754240400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:DOG MAN
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Gorton Center for an exciting and hilarious movie screening featuring Dog Man\, an animated adventure based on the popular graphic novel series by Dav Pilkey\, the creator of Captain Underpants. This movie follows the thrilling adventures of a half-dog\, half-man hero who is always ready to protect and serve. With his canine instincts and human intellect\, Dog Man is dedicated to keeping the city safe from harm. \nIn this action-packed story\, Dog Man faces his biggest challenge yet: the notorious Petey the Cat\, a feline supervillain with an evil plan to take over the world. Petey is back to cause trouble\, and this time\, he’s teamed up with his son\, Li’l Petey\, who’s caught in the middle of his father’s wicked schemes. As Dog Man pursues Petey through a series of hilarious and daring escapades\, he must use his unique abilities to outsmart Petey and save the day. \nThe film is packed with heart-pounding action\, laugh-out-loud moments\, and a dash of wit that will keep both kids and adults entertained. Directed by Peter Hastings\, this movie features a talented voice cast including Pete Davidson\, Poppy Liu\, and Lil Rel Howery. \nBring your whole family for a night filled with adventure\, friendship\, and laughs as Dog Man and his friends work together to stop the villainous Petey and save the day. Don’t miss this tail-wagging\, action-packed movie night!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/dog-man/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dog-Man-.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250726T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250726T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T184411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T145046Z
UID:20006386-1753556400-1753563600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:THE WILD ROBOT
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Gorton Center for a captivating screening of The Wild Robot\, an animated adventure that takes viewers on a journey of survival\, connection\, and self-discovery. After a shipwreck\, an intelligent robot named Roz washes ashore on a remote\, uninhabited island. With no instructions\, Roz must rely on her ingenuity and instincts to navigate the harsh and unfamiliar environment. \nAs Roz tries to understand her new home\, she begins to bond with the island’s animals—learning from them how to adapt\, communicate\, and live in harmony with nature. Her journey takes a touching turn when she discovers an orphaned baby goose\, whom she names Brightbill. Determined to care for the helpless creature\, Roz finds herself experiencing the complexities of emotional growth\, forming a deep bond with Brightbill that challenges her previously logical\, programmed existence. \nAs Roz faces increasingly difficult trials\, from natural disasters to threats from the island’s predators\, her understanding of family\, survival\, and love evolves in ways she never imagined. Her efforts to protect Brightbill and the animals of the island help her discover a purpose far beyond her original programming\, leading to a heartwarming conclusion that celebrates the power of compassion and the importance of connection. \nDirected by Chris Sanders\, The Wild Robot features an all-star voice cast including Lupita Nyong’o as Roz\, Pedro Pascal\, and Kit Connor. With its stunning animation\, rich storytelling\, and emotional depth\, this film is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-wild-robot/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family,Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/The-Wild-Robot.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250725T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250725T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T183932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T195650Z
UID:20006384-1753470000-1753477200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
DESCRIPTION:Movie Night at Gorton: The Theory of Everything \nJoin us at Gorton Center for a powerful screening of The Theory of Everything\, the inspiring biographical drama about Stephen Hawking. This acclaimed film takes you inside the life of one of the greatest scientific minds of our time. \nThe story begins with Hawking’s early days at Cambridge University\, where his brilliance in theoretical physics first emerged. At just 21\, he received a devastating diagnosis—ALS. Despite this\, he chose to live fully\, pushing the limits of science and inspiring millions with his resilience. \nThe film explores more than science. It offers a heartfelt look at Hawking’s relationship with his first wife\, Jane. Her strength and sacrifice supported his journey in both personal and professional realms. Their story reveals the complexity of love\, caregiving\, and long-term commitment. \nDirected by James Marsh and featuring Eddie Redmayne in his Oscar-winning role\, the film also stars Felicity Jones as Jane. Their performances bring emotional depth and authenticity to this unforgettable story. \nDon’t miss this chance to watch a film that blends science\, love\, and perseverance into a truly moving experience.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-theory-of-everything/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/The-Theory-of-Everything.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250720T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250720T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T183540Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T150314Z
UID:20006383-1753023600-1753030800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:SCHOOL OF ROCK
DESCRIPTION:Get ready to rock and roll at Gorton Center’s movie screening featuring the wildly fun and heartwarming comedy School of Rock! Join us for a high-energy evening as we screen this beloved film starring Jack Black as Dewey Finn\, a passionate but down-and-out musician who stumbles into a job as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. When he discovers his students are musically gifted\, he hatches a plan to turn them into a secret rock band and enter them into the local Battle of the Bands—without the school or their parents finding out! \nAs Dewey teaches his students about power chords\, stage presence\, and the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll\, both he and the kids go on a journey of self-discovery\, confidence-building\, and epic guitar solos. Packed with laughs\, unforgettable performances\, and a killer soundtrack\, School of Rock is a feel-good classic that celebrates creativity\, teamwork\, and the power of music to bring people together. Directed by Richard Linklater\, known for his versatile storytelling and character-driven films\, School of Rock showcases his unique ability to blend humor\, heart\, and music into an unforgettable cinematic experience. \nWhether you’re seeing it for the first time or reliving a favorite\, School of Rock is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages. Come early\, bring your favorite movie snacks\, and get ready to rock the night away at Gorton Center!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/school-of-rock/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250711T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250711T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T183047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T145950Z
UID:20006381-1752260400-1752267600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:CONCLAVE
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Gorton Center for a movie night featuring Conclave. Directed by Edward Berger\, this gripping drama takes you inside one of the world’s most secretive events: the election of a new pope. The story follows Cardinal Lawrence\, played by Ralph Fiennes\, who is tasked with leading the conclave of cardinals to select the next pope. \nAs the cardinals gather in the Vatican\, Cardinal Lawrence quickly realizes the process is far more complex than he thought. What should be a sacred and private event becomes tangled with power struggles\, hidden agendas\, and dangerous conspiracies. Lawrence soon finds himself at the center of a web of intrigue that could change the Church forever. \nThe film is a thrilling blend of suspense and drama. Fiennes gives a standout performance as Cardinal Lawrence\, alongside Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow who also deliver strong performances\, adding layers of tension and intrigue to the story. \nConclave goes beyond the surface of the election process. It explores the personal and political challenges faced by the cardinals as they vie for power. The movie reveals the complex world behind the Church’s public image\, showing how ambition and loyalty clash in moments of crisis. \nWith sharp dialogue\, tense scenes\, and stunning visuals\, this film keeps you on the edge of your seat. It asks tough questions about faith\, power\, and the cost of leadership. \nDon’t miss this thrilling movie night at Gorton Center. Come for the drama\, stay for the suspense\, and experience the world of Conclave.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/conclave/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250626T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250626T210000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250617T171855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T194631Z
UID:20006450-1750964400-1750971600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Where Olive Trees Weep
DESCRIPTION:Where Olive Trees Weep offers a searing window into the struggles and resilience of the Palestinian people under Israeli occupation. It explores themes of loss\, trauma\, and the quest for justice. \nWe follow\, among others\, Palestinian journalist and therapist Ashira Darwish\, grassroots activist Ahed Tamimi\, and Israeli journalist Amira Hass. We also witness Dr. Gabor Maté offer trauma-healing work to a group of women who were tortured in Israeli prisons. \nThis emotional journey bares the humanity of the oppressed while grappling with the question: what makes the oppressor so ruthlessly blind to its own cruelty? \nWe will have a Q&A after the movie with a multi denomination panel.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/where-olive-trees-weep/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Rental Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250621T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250621T170000
DTSTAMP:20260621T163756
CREATED:20250410T170633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250610T190332Z
UID:20006380-1750518000-1750525200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:INTO THE WOODS
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Gorton Center for a magical movie screening featuring Into the Woods. Directed by Rob Marshall\, this film brings a fresh twist to classic fairy tales. The story follows a baker and his wife\, who are cursed by a witch. To break the curse\, they must gather magical items from familiar fairy tales. These items will help them undo the curse on their family tree\, but the journey isn’t easy. \nAs they enter the woods\, they meet characters like Cinderella\, Little Red Riding Hood\, Rapunzel\, and Jack. Each of these characters is dealing with their own dreams and struggles. Their paths cross in unexpected ways\, making the journey even more complicated. The couple’s adventure intertwines with the stories of these classic fairy tale characters\, creating a rich\, interconnected world. \nThe music is a standout\, with catchy songs that stay with you long after the movie ends. The film’s stunning visuals and magical moments add to the enchantment\, making it an unforgettable experience. \nInto the Woods is not just a musical adventure. It explores deeper themes of choice\, consequence\, and the complex nature of wishes. It asks questions about what happens when dreams come true and the price that comes with them. \nDon’t miss this exciting movie at Gorton Center. Come for the magical adventure\, stay for the unforgettable songs and fairy tale fun. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/into-the-woods/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family,Film
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