Gorton Center

Krampus is a darkly festive tale of a yuletide ghoul. It shows a twisted side of the holiday you won’t want to miss.
Young Max (Emjay Anthony) is fed up with his family’s constant fighting. Disillusioned, he turns his back on Christmas. He doesn’t know that his lack of spirit has awakened Krampus – an ancient evil out to punish non-believers.
Soon, holiday icons turn monstrous. The family home becomes a battleground. To survive, they must fight for each other… or be lost to the darkness.
See Krampus on the big screen. Unwrap the terror – one scream at a time.
Director: Michael Dougherty
Writers: Todd Casey, Michael Dougherty, Zach Shields
Stars: Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner

Local Event: Krampus

Lake County

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Illinois

Krampus

Krampus is a darkly festive tale of a yuletide ghoul. It shows a twisted side of the holiday you won’t want to miss.
Young Max...

Celebrate the season with an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and timeless jazz as The Chris White Trio presents their beloved annual tribute to the music of Vince Guaraldi—best known as the genius behind the iconic “Peanuts” Christmas soundtrack.

Local Event: Peanuts Jazz with The Chris White Trio 2025 

Peanuts Jazz with The Chris White Trio 2025 

Celebrate the season with an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and timeless jazz as The Chris White Trio presents their...

White Christmas spins the romantic and humorous tale of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye), two Army buddies who became a top-notch musical comedy team after the war and are now the toast of Broadway. While on the road in Florida, the stars become involved with the aspiring singers, the sister act of Betty and Judy (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen). Despite some romantic complications between the couples, everything ends on a happy note when Christmas Eve brings rave reviews for the show and much-needed snowfall!
Director: Michael Curtiz
Writers: Norman Krasna, Norman Panama, Melvin Frank
Stars: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney

Local Event: White Christmas

White Christmas

White Christmas spins the romantic and humorous tale of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye), two Army...

One Christmas Eve a long time ago, a baby crawled into Santa’s bag of toys… Raised as an elf, Buddy (Will Ferrell) grows into an adult three times larger than the biggest elf–and realizes that he will never truly fit in at the North Pole. This holiday season, Buddy goes looking for his true place in the world–in New York City. Buddy finds his workaholic father (James Caan)–who’s on Santa’s “naughty” list, a new mother (Mary Steenburgen) and a 10-year-old brother who doesn’t believe in Santa Claus or elves. Here, now, Buddy discovers his destiny–to save Christmas for New York and the world!​
Director: Jon Favreau
Stars:Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart

Local Event: Elf

One Christmas Eve a long time ago, a baby crawled into Santa’s bag of toys… Raised as an elf, Buddy (Will Ferrell) grows into...

Don't miss&nbsp;a fun and festive afternoon with the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra at our annual Holly Jolly Family Show—a joyful, family-friendly performance to usher in the spirit of the season. This 50-minute program is filled with festive favorites, including selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, classic holiday songs, and more—perfect for kids and adults alike. 
And of course, Santa Claus will make his much-anticipated annual appearance, delighting kids and grown-ups alike!

Local Event: Holly Jolly Family Show

Holly Jolly Family Show

Don't miss a fun and festive afternoon with the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra at our annual Holly Jolly Family Show—a joyful,...

<h3>Holiday Concert with the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra</h3>
Celebrate the season with a joyful evening of music, community, and cheer! The Lake Forest Civic Orchestra presents its annual Holiday Concert – a festive event for families, music lovers, and holiday enthusiasts alike. This year our concert features a performance by the Evanston Children’s Choir, singing the original music of John Williams’ Home Alone score. Their voices bring heartwarming magic to this already spectacular program.

Local Event: Holly Jolly Concert

Holly Jolly Concert

Holiday Concert with the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra
Celebrate the season with a joyful evening of music, community, and cheer!...

This fall, Warren Miller’s SNO-CIETY brings the global ski and snowboard community back together to celebrate the start of the season for the 76th year. From the Scottish Highlands and the streets of Finland to the back bowls of Whitewater, BC and a local hill-turned-terrain park in downtown Denver, SNO-CIETY celebrates the spirit of winter—wherever you ride and however you connect to the snow and the community around it.

Local Event: 76th Annual Warren Miller Film Tour: Sno-Ciety

76th Annual Warren Miller Film Tour: Sno-Ciety

This fall, Warren Miller’s SNO-CIETY brings the global ski and snowboard community back together to celebrate the start of the...

Join us for one of the Gorton Center’s most loved annual events. The Red Rose Jazz Band is back for 2026! This talented group brings the lively sounds of ragtime, Dixieland, and early jazz to life. Their music is full of charm, rhythm, and heart.
You’ll hear familiar tunes that bring back memories—and maybe even a few surprises. Each performance is full of energy and joy. It’s music that makes you tap your toes and smile.
The concert takes place in our beautiful Stuart Room. It’s warm, welcoming, and easy to access. You’ll enjoy great sound, comfortable seating, and a relaxed setting. Light refreshments will be available.
Looking for a fun afternoon out? This is a wonderful way to enjoy timeless music and connect with others. Bring a friend or come on your own—everyone is welcome.
Don’t miss Red Rose Jazz. Come enjoy the music, the memories, and the moment!
Purchase tickets by clicking the “purchase” link, or call Gorton at 847-234-6060.

Local Event: Red Rose Jazz 2026

Red Rose Jazz 2026

Join us for one of the Gorton Center’s most loved annual events. The Red Rose Jazz Band is back for 2026! This talented group...

James Sanders &amp; Conjunto
January doesn’t stand a chance against this heat. James Sanders &amp; Conjunto are bringing the rhythms of Latin America straight to you, and the result is pure electricity.
Sanders’ violin leads the charge, weaving his classical roots into the pulse of jazz improvisation, all carried by the irresistible grooves of the Caribbean. Think rumba, son, danzón, bolero—music that keeps you swaying in your seat one moment and pulling you to the dance floor the next. Conjunto’s lineup is stacked: Kevin O’Connell on piano, Jean-Christophe Leroy on drums and timbales, Joe Rendon on congas, José Porcayo on bass, and Steve Eisen on reeds. Together, they create a sound that moves between hushed intimacy and explosive joy. It’s Afro-roots, salsa, and jazz colliding in the best possible way.
A painting by artist Anna Lentz: a red and blue background, a blue, white and black checkered surface with a blue pitcher and two plants, each in a colorful pot. 
Anna Lentz – Printmaker
And if the music brings the fire, painter Anna Lentz brings the color. Her canvases burst with bold, saturated hues that grab your attention from across the room, then invite you closer to soak up the detail. Her work vibrates with energy, making it an ideal pairing with Conjunto’s music and the perfect antidote to a gray winter.
Latin rhythms, fearless art, and a night of joy you’ll feel long after it ends. January just got a whole lot hotter.
About Rendezvous Arts
With unwavering passion and boundless creativity, the devoted Board of Directors and staff at Rendezvous Arts lead the charge in fostering a harmonious community, nurturing emerging talent, and inspiring artistic excellence. Together, we strive to be an organization that redefines the boundaries of artistic expression and brings the gift of music and art to all corners of the Chicago area.
We value diversity and inclusion. We do not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Latin Jazz

Rendezvous Arts: Latin Jazz

James Sanders & Conjunto
January doesn’t stand a chance against this heat. James Sanders & Conjunto are bringing the rhythms of...

Experience the Magic of Jeki Yoo!
Prepare to be amazed by Jeki Yoo, often called the “cutest magician of all time.” With his infectious energy, dazzling smile, and mind-blowing talent, Jeki brings an unforgettable mix of sleight of hand, visual illusions, and quick-change magic that will leave you both laughing and gasping in wonder.

Local Event: The Magic of Jeki Yoo

The Magic of Jeki Yoo

Experience the Magic of Jeki Yoo!
Prepare to be amazed by Jeki Yoo, often called the “cutest magician of all time.” With his...

Experience the magic of The Beatles with American English, a top Beatles tribute band. This show covers their greatest hits.
The concert starts with early classics from the Ed Sullivan Show, like Twist and Shout. Next, the band transports you to the psychedelic 1960s, with songs from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The band then performs songs from The White Album and Abbey Road, showcasing their remarkable attention to detail.&nbsp;

Local Event: American English

American English

Experience the magic of The Beatles with American English, a top Beatles tribute band. This show covers their greatest...

Alex Zerbe: The Professional Zaniac A High-Energy, Family-Friendly Comedy Spectacle
Alex Zerbe, aka The Professional Zaniac, bursts onto the stage with the energy of 1,000 suns. He moves like a human rubber band, stretching the limits of comedy, skill, and pure fun. From the moment he appears, Alex launches into a fast-paced mix of beatboxing, juggling, dancing, music, and magic. His show keeps audiences of all ages laughing, gasping, and cheering for more.

Local Event: The Zaniac 

The Zaniac 

Alex Zerbe: The Professional Zaniac A High-Energy, Family-Friendly Comedy Spectacle
Alex Zerbe, aka The Professional Zaniac,...

<h5>Three Treasured Tales</h5>
Don't miss the&nbsp;Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s newest production, Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales, brings a fresh and engaging reimagining of three beloved children’s stories—Goldilocks and the Three Bears, The Three Little Pigs, and The Three Billy Goats Gruff.&nbsp;

Local Event: Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales

Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales

Three Treasured Tales
Don't miss the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s newest production, Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales,...

Kaia String Quartet + Fareed Haque
This Valentine’s week, we are turning up the romance with a concert that feels like a love letter in sound. The Kaia String Quartet joins forces with the brilliant guitarist Fareed Haque for an evening that blends passion, virtuosity, and pure joy.
At the heart of the program is Haque’s own Quintet for Guitar and Strings, Op. 60, a piece that showcases his signature blend of lyricism and fire. The journey continues with music by Latin American icons Ricardo Lorenz and Astor Piazzolla, whose tangos are equal parts smoldering and tender. Eduardo Angulo’s El Alevín (The Minnow) adds playful sparkle to the mix, proof that even the smallest notes can carry big emotion.
fareed haque seated on a cushioned orange chair holding the his guitar and looking at the camera
Margie Criner – Sculptor
The night’s visual counterpart is sculptor Margie Criner. From a distance, her works appear sleek and abstract, but each piece hides a lens portal that reveals an entire miniature world inside. These tiny universes explore themes of waiting, traveling, commuting, and dreaming – moments we all share yet rarely stop to notice. Criner’s art bridges design, play, and discovery, inviting viewers to pause, peer closer, and uncover stories hidden in plain sight.
 
A photo of the inside of a sculpture that has a womens face that is partially obstructed by pieces of paper that have different patterns on them. Above her head is blue glass that gives the illusion she is underwater
Music that speaks in thousands of notes. Art that asks you to look twice and see more. It’s the kind of Valentine you’ll remember long after the last chord fades. 💖
About Rendezvous Arts
With unwavering passion and boundless creativity, the devoted Board of Directors and staff at Rendezvous Arts lead the charge in fostering a harmonious community, nurturing emerging talent, and inspiring artistic excellence. Together, we strive to be an organization that redefines the boundaries of artistic expression and brings the gift of music and art to all corners of the Chicago area.
We value diversity and inclusion. We do not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Kaia String Quartet & Fareed Haque

Rendezvous Arts: Kaia String Quartet & Fareed...

Kaia String Quartet + Fareed Haque
This Valentine’s week, we are turning up the romance with a concert that feels like a love...

Rendezvous Arts: Kaia String Quartet & Fareed Haque

Step into the world of soaring vocals, blazing guitar solos, and unforgettable melodies. Frontiers, the ultimate Journey tribute band, is coming to town – and they’re bringing the magic of classic rock with them. This isn’t just another cover band. These five powerhouse NYC-area musicians recreate the music of Journey with jaw-dropping accuracy. Note for note. Every nuance. Every iconic riff. All the feels.
From the first chord to the final encore, Frontiers takes you on a heart-pounding ride through Journey’s greatest hits. You’ll be transported back to the late ’70s, when the band first burst onto the scene with the legendary Gregg Rolie and Neal Schon. But that’s just the beginning. As the show builds, you’ll relive the anthemic ’80s era – when Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain helped launch Journey into superstardom.
Sing your heart out to timeless classics like “Open Arms,” “Separate Ways,” “Send Her My Love,” “Faithfully,” “Stone in Love,” “Who’s Crying Now,” “Anyway You Want It,” and, of course, the anthem that defined a generation – “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Every song is performed with raw energy, precision, and passion. You’ll swear it’s the real thing.
Whether you’re a lifelong Journey fan or discovering their magic for the first time, this show is pure rock nostalgia. Big sound. Big emotion. Big memories.
So grab your friends, warm up those vocal cords, and get your tickets now. Because Frontiers: The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey isn’t just playing the hits – they’re bringing the spirit of Journey back to life.
Don’t stop believin’—this is one concert you do not want to miss!

Local Event: Frontiers: The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey

Frontiers: The World’s Number One Tribute to...

Step into the world of soaring vocals, blazing guitar solos, and unforgettable melodies. Frontiers, the ultimate Journey...

Frontiers: The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey

<h5>Grammy Nominated Victor Garcia</h5>
Victor Garcia is a powerful force in Latin Jazz. A master of the trumpet, he commands the stage with energy, skill, and soul. His music bursts with rhythm and fire, sweeping audiences into a world of melody, movement, and joy. When Victor plays, the room comes alive.&nbsp;

Local Event: Victor Garcia Latin Jazz Quintet

Victor Garcia Latin Jazz Quintet

Grammy Nominated Victor Garcia
Victor Garcia is a powerful force in Latin Jazz. A master of the trumpet, he commands the stage...

The St. Charles Singers
March brings a first for Rendezvous: a vocal ensemble. Eight extraordinary voices from the St. Charles Singers will fill the stage, led by conductor Jeff Hunt. This internationally touring choir has earned acclaim around the world, yet they remain rooted in the western suburbs. Now, they bring their artistry to Dixon, Lake Forest, and Chicago in a program that promises both power and intimacy.
The music is paired with the live art of Tina Druce-Hoffman, a storyteller at heart whose plein-air paintings are infused with wonder, folktale imagery, and the magic of nature. During these performances, Tina will create in real time, responding to the sound and spirit of what she sees and hears. Her brushwork becomes part of the performance, a visual echo of the music unfolding around her.
 
Tina Druce-Hoffman – Millinery Artist
Tina Druce-Hoffman’s career spans illustration, graphic design, and teaching, with work featured in collectible card games, books, and countless exhibitions. She explores gouache, watercolor, etching, and more, always guided by insatiable curiosity. Whether outdoors capturing landscapes or at her easel crafting whimsical scenes, her art invites us to pause, reflect, and enter an “elsewhere” just beyond the everyday. 

Music that soars. Art that responds in the moment. This is a Rendezvous Arts debut you’ll want to witness.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Members of the St. Charles Singers

Rendezvous Arts: Members of the St. Charles...

The St. Charles Singers
March brings a first for Rendezvous: a vocal ensemble. Eight extraordinary voices from the St. Charles...

Rendezvous Arts: Members of the St. Charles Singers

The Brit Pack’s repertoire spans the greatest decades of British music.
 From the arrival of the British Invasion in the 60’s, through to the Brit Pop of the 80’s and 90’s and beyond.
The Brit Pack brings the best of British rock music to stages across the USA. Formed by two Brits in NYC, they cover the spectrum of the UK’s musical legacy, from the iconic anthems of the sixties to the modern classics of today! The Brit Pack take their audience on a journey through a dynamic blend of British classics known and loved by all, including The Rolling Stones, Queen, The Beatles, David Bowie, Elton John, The Who, Oasis, Tears for Fears, Radiohead, The Police, Amy Winehouse and many more.

Local Event: Brit Pack 

Brit Pack 

The Brit Pack’s repertoire spans the greatest decades of British music.
 From the arrival of the British Invasion in the 60’s,...

Christian Dillingham
Some artists you simply have to bring back. Grammy-winning bassist Christian Dillingham is one of them. A Rendezvous Arts favorite for years, Christian returns to close our sixth season with music from his acclaimed record Cascades alongside brand-new compositions currently in the works. His quartet features a powerhouse lineup: saxophonist Lenard Simpson, guitarist Dave Miller, and drummer Greg Artry. Together, they create music that is both rooted and forward-looking, rich with groove, lyricism, and discovery.
 
Jason Patrick Miller – Photographer
On the visual side, Jason Patrick Miller transforms Chicago through the eye of a pinhole camera. His images, printed on metal and altered through scratching, rust, and texture, reimagine the city as something both raw and timeless. Miller’s work captures the weight of steel and structure, while revealing the beauty of impermanence. The improvisatory spirit of his process mirrors the spontaneity of jazz, making his art a striking companion to Dillingham’s sound.
Armitage Station painting by Jason Patrick Miller- a panoramic view outside of the Armitage train station with the train tracks above, clouds in the sky and ice/snow on the street
Photography etched in metal. Jazz alive with invention. It is the perfect pairing and a powerful finale to Season Six.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Christian Dillingham Jazz Quartet

Rendezvous Arts: Christian Dillingham Jazz Quartet

Christian Dillingham
Some artists you simply have to bring back. Grammy-winning bassist Christian Dillingham is one of them. A...

Don't miss Pete the Cat at Gorton!&nbsp;For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth.

Local Event: Pete the Cat

Pete the Cat

Don't miss Pete the Cat at Gorton! For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy...

Leslie Lord

Rachel Barnes

Chicago Metropolitan Area

IL Patch Team

Vernon Hills

Highland Park

Eric DeGrechie

Deerfield

Amie Schaenzer

Libertyville

Buffalo Grove

Cook County

Northbrook

Grayslake

Winnetka-Glencoe

Lake Zurich

Glenview

Call or text to make a reservation at 847-3229863 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Krampus

DEC

16

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Peanuts Jazz with The Chris White Trio 2025

DEC

18

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

White Christmas

DEC

19

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Elf

DEC

20

3:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Holly Jolly Family Show

DEC

21

1:30 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Holly Jolly Concert

DEC

21

4:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

76th Annual Warren Miller Film Tour: Sno-Ciety

DEC

28

3:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Red Rose Jazz 2026

JAN

11

4:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Rendezvous Arts: Latin Jazz

JAN

16

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

The Magic of Jeki Yoo

JAN

17

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

American English

JAN

24

7:30 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

The Zaniac

JAN

25

2:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales

FEB

7

10:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Rendezvous Arts: Kaia String Quartet & Fareed Haque

FEB

13

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Frontiers: The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey

FEB

28

7:30 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Victor Garcia Latin Jazz Quintet