District 214 Community Education

Have you ever said, "I used to love doing theater in high school," or "I miss acting but life got in the way"? Whether you're brand new, returning after a break, or looking to sharpen you skills, this welcoming 8-week class is for you. Led by The Theater Lab Producer, Patrick Zielinski - an actor, director and writer with over 25 years of esperience - This course explores monologues, scene work, subtext, improvisation, and ensemble techniques. All levels are welcome, and no experience is necessary. At The Theater Lab, we believe in collaboration, inclusion and most importantly, fun. Join a supportive community of fellow creatives and rediscover the joy of acting.

Have you taken the Acting Unscripted class? If you would like to continue the fun, this class is for you! Pick-up right where you left off in the fall session exploring more advanced skills and techniques. If you have not taken the beginner class, please reach out to confirm that this class is right for you.

The basics of crochet and knitting will be taught to beginners, while experienced artisans will receive advice and instruction to create projects of their choice. All beginners should bring a skein of 5-8 oz. light-colored worsted weight yarn (#4), a pair of small scissors, a three-ring binder notebook to hold letter size handouts and a pen. Crochet beginners bring an I-9 crochet hook; knitting beginners bring short number 9 knitting needles. Experienced artisans bring their own projects to work on.

This class is for adults who are interested in learning Latin dance styles including salsa, merengue, bachata, cha-cha, and rumba. Beginners as well as experienced dancers will benefit from this variety of Latin dance moves. Singles and couples are welcome.

Line dancing is a great way to meet new people, get some fun exercise, and just have a great time! In this class, we'll cover a number of different well known line dances based on country and pop songs. No prior experience required, singles and couples both welcome.

In this intermediate level class, we’ll build upon what we’ve already learned in the beginning Line Dancing class and take our skills to the next level. Open only to students who have already taken Line Dancing. Singles and couples both welcome.

Come sew with us: This 12-week class is for anyone with prior sewing experience that wants to work on individual projects. Do you have something that you want to make, alter or finish sewing? This class will provide individual sewing and construction guidance as needed. Do you want help altering a pattern for a better fit, or help making a pattern from an existing garment, bring it in! Sewing, construction and patterning techniques will be taught and shared with the entire group based on the projects people are working on. Bernina sewing machines are available in the classroom or you are welcome to bring your own.

Unlock the beauty of watercolor painting in this hands-on class for beginners. You will get familiar with watercolor tools and basic principles, and learn how to sketch a light pencil underdrawing. While exploring several essential watercolor techniques, you will discover how to create light, volume and subtle transitions in color. After completing a series of short studies, the class will culminate withe the creation of one final piece. The cost of the class includes high quality brushes and paints for you to keep, as well as specialty paper and supplies to be used in class.

The sewing machine and sewing supplies will be introduced in this sewing class for beginners. The first section will create a pair of polar fleece knit pajama/lounge pants using the Simplicity pattern S9202. Students will learn the basics of reading and using a commercial pattern; fabric choice, pattern layout, fabric cutting and construction technique will be taught. The second section will focus on bags and pouches. Bernina sewing machines are available in the classroom, or you are welcome to bring your own. In addition to basic sewing supplies, students will be asked to provide fabric and thread for the projects. Students can purchase the Simplicity pattern for themselves, or borrow one to use during class.