The Hinsdalean - Community journalism the way it was meant to be

https://www.thecommunityhouse.org

This intermediate-advanced, open-studio-style class will provide independent and group projects, with guidance from the instructor and feedback in group critique sessions. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost: $125. RR

Volunteerism art exhibit

Through February

The Community House

415 W. Eighth St., Hinsdale

(630) 323-7500

Photographer/explorer/storyteller Roxanne Engstrom shares images from her work in the humanitarian sector and the volunteers who fuel the missions of several nonprofit organizations in Chicagoland in "A Wider Family: Images on Volunteerism" is the upstairs LyArts gallery space. Time: 6 to 8 p.m.

'Toy Stories Too'

Through February

Hinsdale Public Library

20 E. Maple St.

(630) 986-1976

https://www.dupageforest.org/pollinators-in-action

The library's winter art exhibit, on display in the Quiet Reading Room, features works by Benedictine monk Kevin Coffey, who combines and arranges different varieties of toys to create unexpected scenarios and situations, revealing timeless qualities in human behavior and relationships. Each painting intermingles the awkward, ironic, cute and surprising with the sometimes harsh and edgier moments in life that have the potential to become surprisingly relevant experiences over time. Library hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

'Pollinators in Action' submissions

Through April 15

Artists are invited to submit artwork for "Pollinators in Action: Flowering Journeys," an art exhibit featuring pollinators that will run May 6-June 29 at Mayslake Peabody Estate at 1717 W. 31st St. in Oak Brook. In addition to eye-catching art, the exhibit will feature fun facts about pollinators to help visitors connect the beauty of pollinators to the critical role they play in our ecosystem. Artists are encouraged to show diversity in their submissions. Find the submission form and guidelines at the website listed above. Questions can be directed to Shannon Burns at sburns@dupageforest.org.

CASTING CALL

'Moana'

Feb. 22

The Community House

415 W. Eighth St., Hinsdale

https://www.stagedoorfinearts.com

Stage Door Fine Arts will hold singing and dance auditions for this production for those in grades two through eight. Those in fifth grade and under will sing a song from the show. Those in sixth grade and up will sing a song of choice in the style of the show (contemporary musical theater/Disney.) An accompaniment track with no vocals must be brought to the audition; a capella singing is not allowed. A dance audition will be taught. Callbacks will be held from 1 to 8 p.m. Feb. 23 if needed. Rehearsals will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays, split into increments, and, starting in April, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Performances are scheduled May 29-June 7. Tuition: $400 plus any costume fees. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

'Urinetown'

Feb. 29

The Community House

415 W. Eighth St., Hinsdale

https://www.stagedoorfinearts.com

Stage Door Fine Arts will hold singing and dance auditions for this spring musical for those in high school and up (eighth-graders doing Moana may also audition). Attendees will sing a song of their choice in the contemporary pop musical theatre style. An accompaniment track with no vocals must be brought to the auditions; a capella singing is not allowed. A dance audition will be taught. Callbacks will be held from 1 to 9 p.m. March 1 if needed. Rehearsals will be from 1 to 7 p.m. Sundays and, beginning in April from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Performances are scheduled for June 11-14. Auditions can be scheduled on the website listed above. Tuition is $400 plus any additional costume fees. Audition hours: 4 to 8 p.m.

CENTRAL TIME

Hinsdale Central Winter Play

Feb. 20-22

Hinsdale Central Auditorium

5500 S. Grant St.

https://www.ticketpeak.co/hcdrama

Hinsdale Central Drama presents two student-directed one-act plays for its winter performance. Senior Brody Melia is directing "Ledge, Ledger and the Legend," a dark comedy that takes a look at the thoughts that might bring a man to the edge - as well as the hope that might bring him back. Senior Sarah Lotsoff is directing "Mind Games," the story of a troubled young man who comes to believe all of his problems - his entire existence - is something he made up, including his therapist. Tickets are available online at the address listed above and at the door. Time: 7 p.m. Feb. 20-21, 5 p.m. Feb. 22. Tickets: $10.

FAITH COMMUNITIES

Gospel and Arts performance

Feb. 23

Christ Church Oak Brook

501 Oak Brook Road

https://www.christchurch.us/concerts

Gospel recording artist Huntley Brown will join Timothy Botts, a master calligrapher and illustrator who has published books containing calligraphic inscriptions of Scripture, in a fusion of sight and sound. Time: 3 p.m.

FAMILY FUN

Farm Life in Winter

Thursdays to Mondays through February

Kline Creek Farm

1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago

(630) 876-5900

https://www.misericordia.com/volunteer/womens-league/

Harvest ice on the lake, watch repairs in the wagon shed, check for new lambs or enjoy a sleigh ride. The daily activities offered are posted at facebook.com/klinecreekfarm. Time: 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Admission: $5 per person suggestion for ages 3 and up.

FOR A CAUSE

Heart of Gold: A Touch of Country

Feb. 28

Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort

3500 Midwest Road

Misericordia Women's League presents this benefit, honoring the 2020 Heart of Gold Recipients - Mary Ryan Buddig, Donna Ryan Coffey, Therese Ryan Rooney and Eileen Ryan Seyfarth - and including a seated dinner, open bar, silent and live auctions and performances by the Misericordia Heartbreakers and the band Strawdawg. Dress is classy country or casual. Time: 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $250.

Luggage for Freedom

Through February

Kaehler Luggage

28 E. First St., Hinsdale

Kaehler's Luggage for Freedom drive supports women transitioning out of domestic violence shelters. The public is encouraged to drop-off a gently used bag at the store and receive a discount coupon toward a new bag from Briggs & Riley. The donated bags will be packed with new towels, new sheets and new toiletries to help women and their children start a new chapter in their lives with pride and dignity. In-store customer purchases during the month will also be entered into a drawing to win a free Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Spinner.

GAME ON

Boys Lacrosse

Sundays, March 1-June 7

Spring Rock Park

4400 Central Ave., Western Springs

(630) 789-7090

Kids ages 5-13 will be introduced to and develop basic skills using fun games and coaching techniques. A soft ball will be used. Players can bring their own stick or use one provided; no other equipment is necessary. Time: 1:30 to 3 p.m. Cost: $325. RR

Chicago Elite Volleyball

Thursdays, March 5-April 23

Clarendon Hills Middle School

301 Chicago Ave.

(630) 789-7090

This developmental program will introduce children to the game of volleyball and help them continue to improve their individual skills in passing, setting, attacking, blocking, serving, defense and movement. Developmentally appropriate equipment and games are used in a fun, exciting and positive environment. Players will be divided according to skill level and age. Time: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for first- through fifth-graders, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. for sixth- through eighth-graders. Cost: $150. RR

GREAT OUTDOORS

Beginner Cross-Country Ski Lessons

Feb. 29 or March 1

Sagawau Environmental Learning Center

12545 West 111th St., Lemont

(630) 257-2045

Learn to ski with a certified Professional Ski Instructor of America. The program will be held only if ski trails are open. Visit the Sagawau Facebook page to check program status. The program is for ages 12 and up. Time: 9:30 a.m. Cost: $20. RR

GREEN THUMB

Native Landscaping: All About Plants

Feb. 23

Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center

3609 Spring Road, Oak Brook

(630) 850-8110

https://www.d86.hinsdale86.org

Learn about the benefits of native plants and their root structures, and get tips and tricks for planting natives at home to attract pollinators and other wildlife. Attendees should bring drawings of their yard showing trees and other garden features. Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Cost: $10. RR

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Legal Marijuana: Now What?

Feb. 27

Hinsdale South High School auditorium

7401 Clarendon Hills Road, Darien

(630) 468.4576

District 86 students, staff, parents/guardians and community members are invited to this presentation entitled "Legal Marijuana: Now What? A Guide to the Law, Vaping and Teen Health." Matt Quinn, a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified alcohol and drug counselor will discuss vaping and its dangers, the history of marijuana law, risks of teen marijuana use, problems with increased potency and decreased perception of harm and suggestions for discussing vaping and marijuana use with teens. Time: 5 to 6 p.m.

Aromatherapy

Feb. 29

Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center

9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs

(708) 839-6897

https://www.fpdcc.com

Various scents can relax and soothe us. Adults 21 and older are invited to learn about natural aromas and their healing affects. Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. RR

Mindful Vinyasa Flow Yoga

Mondays, March 2-April 27

KLM Lodge

5901 S. County Line Road

(630) 789-7090

This beginner-friendly slow flow class links breath to movement to achieve full mind, body and spirit alignment. Learn traditional Sun Salutations and a mix of flowing and holding poses to gain strength and stability. No previous experience is required, and participants will have options for executing poses at their comfort level. Bring a mat and towel for knee support. Time: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Cost: $65. RR

Yoga in the Mansion

Wednesdays, March 4-25

Mayslake Peabody Estate

1717 W. 31st St., Oak Brook

(630) 206-9566

https://www.hinsdalehistory.org/programs-and-events

Start the day with a yoga class in the beautiful historic Mayslake Hall library. All levels are welcome. Time: 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Cost: $40 in advance for all four weeks, $14 per class for drop-ins. RR

HELP WANTED

Mentors needed

(630) 570-8284

krusso@hinsdale86.org

Hinsdale Central's Career Internship Program is looking for mentors to provide students with real-world experience to help inform their future career decisions. The program is seeking unpaid internship placements for the summer and/or the 2020-21 school year in which students will work 40 to 60 hours outside of the school day in their field of choice, including accounting, business, finance, health care, law, marketing, medical research, physical therapy, real estate and veterinary medicine. Students must complete an interview prior to taking a position. For information or to offer an internship, contact Karen Russo using the information listed above.

JUST FOR KIDS

Lunch with the Lincolns

Feb. 22

Immanuel Hall

302 S Grant St., Hinsdale

Meet President Lincoln and the First Lady at this fun and interactive drop-off program for kids in kindergarten through third grade. Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $25. RR, MD

Funtopia trip

Feb. 28

Leave from The Community House

415 W. Eighth St., Hinsdale

(630) 323-7500

https://www.thecommunityhouse.org

Children in kindergarten through eighth grade can spend a fun-filled day at this Naperville attraction, which offers adventurous, entertaining and healthy activities for all ages like rock climbing walls, a rope course, a ninja course and a giant slide. Extended hours are available from 3:30 to 6 p.m. for an additional $29. Time: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost: $70. RR, MD

LISTEN & LEARN

3D Printing for Grown-Ups

Feb. 25

Hinsdale Public Library

20 E. Maple St.

(630) 986-1976

Learn how these printers work, the types of things one can print, where to locate the model files needed and how the library can help turn model files into physical prints. The features to look for in a home 3D printer also will be discussed. Time: 7 to 8:30 p.m. RR

Getting Admitted to a Top-Tier College

March 10

Hinsdale Public Library

20 E. Maple St.

(630) 986-1976

https://www.elmhurst.edu/about/special-events/jazz-festival

This workshop is aimed at parents whose children aspire to attend a top-tier university but are concerned about the cost. Learn academic strategies to increase students' odds of being admitted and little-known financial strategies that can be used to help pay for it. The program is presented by financial experts from My College Planning Team. Time: 7 to 8:45 p.m. RR

NOTEWORTHY

Elmhurst College Jazz Festival

Feb. 20-23

Hammerschmidt Chapel

Elmhurst College

208 W. Alexander Blvd.

(630) 617-5534

The 53rd annual festival features a lineup including The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra directed by Scotty Barnhart, The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Bobby Floyd, Dennis Mackrel, Bobby Shew and Gary Smulyan, along with college and high school groups. Visit the website listed above for a full schedule. Tickets: $100 for the weekend package, $80 for students and seniors, $10-$42 for individual performances.

West Suburban Symphony

March 1

Hinsdale Central High School

5500 S. Grant St.

(630) 887-7464

https://www.westsubsymphony.org

The orchestra and singers will perform music inspired by tales of human temptation, featuring pieces rooted in the legend of Johann Faust's bargain with Satan, including Franz Liszt's "Mephisto Waltz 1 and Waltz 2," the Salve Regina! chorus from Arrigo Boito's opera "Mefistofele," and the Angel Chorus, Kermesse Chorus, Soldiers' Chorus and Waltz Chorus from Charles Gounod's opera "Faust." Also on the program are the Witches' Chorus from Giuseppe Verdi's opera "Macbeth" and selections from Hector Berlioz's "Symphonie Fantastique." Time: 3:30 p.m. Tickets: $25, $23 for seniors, $5 for teens, free for children.

ON SCREEN

'Two Days, One Night'

Feb. 26

McAninch Arts Center

College of DuPage

425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn

(630) 942-4000

https://www.theatrewesternsprings.com

Sandra is a factory worker paid minimum wage who has returned to work after seeking help with depression. Her coworkers will receive a bonus if they vote her out, but Sandra tries to convince them to give up their bonuses so she can keep her job in this drama about working-class people on the fringe of society fighting for their livelihood. The movie, part of the Global Flicks series, is in French with English subtitles. Times: 1:30 & 7:30 p.m.

ON STAGE

'The Great Gatsby'

Feb, 27-March 8

Theatre of Western Springs'

4384 Hampton Ave.

(708) 246-3380

This classic work by F. Scott Fitzgerald, set in 1922 on Long Island during a time of loose morals, jazz, and pretensions, follows fledgling writer Nick Carraway, who has rented a cottage next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire named Jay Gatsby. Across the bay lives Gatsby's cousin, Daisy, and her womanizing husband, Tom Buchanan. Nick is drawn into the world of the super-rich and their loves, illusions and tragic flaws. Times: 8 p.m. Feb. 27-28 and March 5-6, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. March 1, 2:30 and 8 p.m. March 7, 2:30 p.m. March 8. Tickets: $22-$24.

'Scenes from an Execution'

Feb. 27-March 15

McAninch Arts Center

College of DuPage

425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn

(630) 942-4000

https://www.thecommunityhouse.org

Galactia, a Renaissance-era artist is commissioned to create a heroic painting memorializing "The Battle of Lepanto," a famous naval victory of the Venetian government. But her artistic vision highlights the horror, cruelty and suffering of war - not what the government wants to celebrate. Will Galactia choose to pander to the church and state or honor her artistic principles and doom herself? Times: 8 p.m. Thursdays to Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $16, $14 for students.

Hin$dopoly

Feb. 28-29, March 6-7

The Community House

415 W. Eighth St., Hinsdale

(800) 838-3006

The Community Revue is back with its always hilarious send up of Hinsdale happenings and behavior. No one is safe from their biting humor. The show is for ages 21 and up, and tickets include complimentary beer, wine, and hors d'oeuvres prior to the show and complimentary beer, wine, and dessert at intermission. The first 160 people to purchase VIP tickets receive premium seating, a special gift and a chance to participate in the show. Proceeds benefit The Community House programs. Time: 6:45 p.m. cocktail hour, 7:45 p.m. show. Tickets: $125-$150.

The Capitol Steps

Feb. 29

McAninch Arts Center

College of DuPage

425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn

(630) 942-4000

https://www.firstfolio.org

Just in time for primary season, everyone's favorite equal opportunity offenders offer their political parody with plenty of fresh laugh-out-loud songs and original sketches, including a mix of material from their newest album, "The Lyin' Kings." A private, pre-show cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception, along with coffee and dessert at intermission, is available for an additional $30. Times: 4 and 8 p.m. Tickets: $42-$49.

'Jeeves Saves the Day'

Through March 1

Mayslake Peabody Mansion

1717 W. 31st St., Oak Brook

(630) 986-8067

Jeeves and Bertie are back in this world premiere production as Bertie, once again, finds himself suffering the slings and arrows of misfortune at the hands of his relatives. Caught between the magisterial machinations of his fierce Aunt Agatha and the plaintive pleadings of his cousin Egbert, not to mention the imperious Sir Roderick Glossup - who fully expects his daughter Honoria to save Bertie from his ill-advised bachelorhood - and it's another priceless predicament that only the redoubtable Jeeves can overcome. Times: 8 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays; 3 p.m. Thursdays & Sundays; 4 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $34-$44, $29-$39 for seniors and students.

'The Cake'

Through March 1

McAninch Arts Center

College of DuPage

425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn

(630) 942-4000

https://www.drurylanetheatre.com

The Buffalo Theatre Ensemble will perform this Bekah Brunstetter play set in Della's bakery in Winston, N.C. When Jen, the girl Della thinks of as her goddaughter asks Della to make her wedding cake, not for one bride but two, it's hard to follow one of her tried and true recipes as faith, family, food and love meet in the mix. The play, from a writer of NBC's hit "This is Us," contains adult themes and language. Time: 8 p.m. Thursdays to Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $42, $40 for seniors.

An American In Paris

Through March 29

Drury Lane Theatre

100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace

(630) 530-0111

Based on the Academy Award winner for best picture, "An American in Paris" brings to the stage breathtaking moments of dance set to the music of George and Ira Gershwin. Come away with Jerry Mulligan, an American GI doing his best to make it as a painter in the bustling city of Paris following the end of World War II. The storied streets of the City of Lights become the dance floor to a ravishing and passionate voyage into art, friendship, and love. Show times: 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 1:30 and 8 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 3 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $60-$75.

Chinese Readers Theater

Feb. 23

Hinsdale Public Library

20 E. Maple St.

(630) 986-1976

https://www.mortonarb.org

Enjoy this chance to read and act out classic Chinese stories. The first hour will focus on learning and practicing the stories - "Three Little Pigs" and "The Enormous Turnip" - and the second half on performing on stage and enjoying snacks. Advance registrants will receive a character and the story ahead of time. People are also invited to drop in to watch the show. Time: 2 to 4 p.m. RR

SPECIAL EVENTS

Enchanted Railroad

Through Feb. 23

Morton Arboretum

4100 Route 53, Lisle

The popular Enchanted Railroad pulls into the arboretum, where families can experience tiny versions of tree collections from around the world and more than 10 model trains winding through the intricate two-level display. Pick up timed tickets at the visitor center information desk Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. Admission: $15, $13 for seniors 65 and older, $10 for kids 2-17 and free for children under 2. MD

KLM Lodge Vendor Expo

March 5

KLM Lodge

5901 S. County Line Road, Hinsdale

(630) 789-7090

Visitors to this open house are invited to tour the lodge, meet preferred caterers and vendors, and sample foods and beverages. A raffle will be held to win gifts from participating businesses. Hours: 6 to 8 p.m.

STEPPING BACK

Eleanor Roosevelt

March 1

McCormick House

Cantigny Park

1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton

(630) 260-8162

https://www.cantigny.org

Living history actor and scholar Leslie Goddard explores the life of this American First Lady, statesman and humanitarian as part of the Women's History Month observance. The program is suitable for ages 10 and up. Time: 4 p.m. Admission: Free with $5 parking. RR

America's First Women Soldiers

March 5

Visitors Center

Cantigny Park

1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton

https://www.fdmuseum.org

The First Division Museum presents Elizabeth Cobbs, author of "Hello Girls: America's First Women Soldiers" about the women who served in World War I as telephone switchboard operators in France, revealing the challenges in a war zone where male soldiers wooed, mocked and ultimately celebrated them. Time: 7 p.m.

TEENS & TWEENS

Teen Climbing 101

Tuesdays, Feb. 25-April 7

Annerino Community Center

201 Recreation Drive, Bolingbrook

(630) 789-7090

Aspiring climbers ages 12-15 will learn basic knowledge of rock climbing techniques such as three points of contact, footwork and balance. Bouldering also will be introduced along with basic knots, gear and commands. Time: 6 to 6:50 p.m. Cost: $30. RR

WEE ONES

Nature Tots

Second and fourth Fridays through May 22

Lake View Nature Center

17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace

(630) 789-7090