Gorton Center

About Us

Gorton Center is a hub for arts & culture located in Lake Forest, IL. Housing the John & Nancy Hughes Theater, a state-of-the-art performing arts venue, Gorton provides in-demand events for all ages, including live music, comedy, children’s programs, film festivals, performing arts and community programs. Gorton also offers classes for youth and adults on a variety of topics, as well as summer camps.

Gorton houses Gorton Drama Studio, a multifaceted theater education program, offering training and performance opportunities for all ages, with weekly classes, intensive performance seminars, summer camps, private instruction and more. Gorton also houses the Children’s Learning Center which provides flexible, quality, nurturing educational care for children from 6 weeks through 5 years.

Gorton provides collaborative space for local nonprofits to work and thrive, as well as rents space for life’s important events. Weddings, baby showers, birthdays, fundraisers, corporate meetings and more happen at Gorton every day.

As a private nonprofit organization, Gorton is thankful for and relies on the generosity of area residents and businesses for support. There is something for everyone at Gorton, and we look forward to seeing you soon.