Dist. 214 Community Education launches community theater, first production at Forest View
District 214 Community Education officially launches The Theater Lab, a creative hub for community members whose passionate about theater and bringing it to life, with its inaugural production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream on Friday, February 12, at 7:30 p.m.
This Shakespeare classic is scheduled to run February 12-14 and February 19-21 with Friday and Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. All performances will be at Forest View Educational Center, 2121 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, IL.
The Theater Lab was created last fall to allow community members to participate and learn about the creative process of the arts. Its mission complements District 214 Community Education's goal of providing lifelong learning opportunities and promoting diversity in its programming by bringing cultural shows, performances and festivals in the community.
The Lab has attracted close to 40 founding members from the area including Prospect High School's John Meyers, Jr. who is serving as creative director. Meyers is joined by Community Education's Cultural & Performing Arts Coordinator Patrick Zielinski and Program Supervisor Nelia Bernabe as producers.
"The Theater Lab is an experiment where we have mixed a variety of different elements together and applied pressure and heat to see what we will get," says Meyers. "We are very excited with the buy-in from our members and the community. Their enthusiasm is inspiring."
Jasmine L., the youngest member, is grateful for the opportunity to perform Shakespeare and learn from the group. Another cast and founding member, Jane H. enjoys being part of the Lab and considers it a break from her day job as an accountant. Retired doctor, George M., is fulfilling a longtime dream of becoming an actor when he signed up to be a founding member. He will play the part of Peter Quince.
"The goal is to create a fun and supportive atmosphere that allows novices, amateurs and professionals the opportunity to learn and grow from each other," says Zielinski.
For tickets, please call the Community Education Box Office at 847-718-7702. Ticket prices are $17 general admission and $12 students and seniors.