Musical ‘13 JR.’ by Northbrook Theatre Youth Company on stage Oct. 25-26

The coming-of-age musical “13 JR.” will be presented by Northbrook Theatre Youth Company, a program of the Northbrook Park District, on Oct. 25 and Oct. 26 at Field Middle School in Northbrook.

“13 JR.” is a story that resonates with the cast of 78 community members ages 8 to 15, including a few thoughtful nods to Jewish culture, and allows for a lot of artistic flexibility both onstage and offstage, Northbrook Park District Performing Arts Supervisor Melody DeRogatis said.

“Audiences can expect a fun-filled hour of coming-of-age entertainment, performed by some of the most talented kids on the North Shore,” she said. “This play has a lot of great insight into the heart and mind of a middle-schooler — something that everyone can benefit from seeing!”

Northbrook Theatre Youth Company typically performs at Northbrook Theatre, located inside the former Leisure Center that is undergoing renovations. The building will reopen as the Northbrook Community Center in spring 2026. While construction takes place, theater performances are being held offsite.

The relocation of “13 JR.” performances on Oct. 25 and Oct. 26 to the auditorium of Field Middle School is made possible by a longstanding partnership between the Northbrook Park District and West Northfield School District 31.

The partnership with West Northfield District 31 allows the Northbrook Park District to expand its reach and better serve the community with high-quality programming and facilities, Director of Recreation Eileen Loftus said.

“At a time when our primary location is under renovation, the support from Superintendent Erin K. Murphy, along with the school district’s administration and staff, is instrumental in helping us continue to deliver meaningful experiences,” Loftus said. “Together, we create opportunities for children and families to connect, learn, and recreate whether it is through before/after school programs, summer camps, or performances like ’13 JR.’ at Field Middle School.”

West Northfield School District 31 Superintendent Erin K. Murphy said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a strong, connected community where children and families thrive.

“Whether it’s hosting performances in the Field auditorium or joining together for the recent Field 5K or the after-school program Adventure Campus, these collaborative efforts support our common goals of health and wellness, creativity and lifelong learning,” she said. “Play and physical activity are essential to a child’s development and education, as they enhance social skills, problem-solving abilities and overall well-being. We are proud to work hand in hand with the park district to create enriching experiences that extend beyond the classroom.”

“13 JR.” will be presented by Northbrook Theatre Youth Company on Oct. 25 and Oct. 26 at Field Middle School, 2055 Landwehr Road, Northbrook.

For additional performance information and to purchase tickets, visit nbparks.org/theatre.

Established in 1927, the mission of the Northbrook Park District is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.