“Mr. V.'s Day Off” – Election Day
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 · 9:00 AM CST · Gorton Center · Lake Forest, IL
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About this event
“Mr. V.’s Day Off” – Election Day Kids ages 4–11, cast your vote for adventure and join Mr. V for an Election Day history experience like no other! First, travel from sea to shining sea as you explore America’s incredible landscapes. Then, visit famous national parks, monuments, and landmarks through music, stories, and hands-on activities. Next, celebrate the 100th birthday of Route 66 as you journey from Chicago to the Pacific Coast. Along the way, take exciting road trips, enjoy river rides, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Meanwhile, Mr. V brings each destination to life with live piano music, engaging stories, and interactive multimedia. As a result, kids will sing, move, learn, and explore while making history fun every step of the way. Choose the full-day camp (9 a.m.–3 p.m., $120) or the half-day camp (9 a.m.–12 p.m., $60). Ages: 4-11 Tuesday, November 3 Full Day ($120) or Half Day ($60) Meet the Gorton Drama Studio Team Bill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure. About Our Artistic Director: Jeremy 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…
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