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Visual Arts

Raue Center Announces 4th Annual 6×6 Project Arts Fundraiser

Raue Center’s 6×6 PROJECT  fundraiser and online art auction/exhibition celebrates its fourth year of supporting arts with Art!  All proceeds benefit Raue Center’s fine arts education programs, Mission Imagination and Raue Center School For The Arts, which have been enriching the lives of over 20,000 kids a year in the local community since 2001.

Artists of all ages and abilities are invited to participate by creating original works of art, in a variety of mediums, on 6×6” canvases.  Since our inaugural event in 2019, 6×6 Project has raised over $45,000 for MI and RCSA with canvases coming from around the nation!

All artwork submitted to the 6×6 PROJECT will be available for viewing and bidding online at Auctria.com starting June 6, 2022. Artists and the public are cordially invited to our Reception on June 25, 2022, from 5:30-8 pm to mix, mingle and bid on your favorite pieces!

Create a mini-masterpiece and support the arts in your community!

Purchase a canvas for $5 at one of the locations listed below. (No more than two (2) canvases submissions per artist, please) Create an original piece of art on your canvas. All mediums are allowed (i.e., paint, ink, photography, mixed media, clay, etc.). Return your completed canvas to Raue Center or one of the other participating locations by the drop-off deadline on May 9, 2022.

Your work of art will be included in our online auction and exhibition. Public and Artists are invited to attend the Reception on June 25, 2022, to mix, mingle and Bid on your favorite pieces before the auction closes at 8p!

PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS:
Artists can purchase a canvas or drop off completed canvases at any of the locations listed below.
(Please check each participating locations’ hours of operations as they may differ.)

Out of the Box – 71 N. Williams Street | Crystal Lake, IL | (815) 444-7446

Brush Studio – 121 W. Main Street | Cary, IL | (847) 516-3880

Creative Arts Inc. – 400 Highland Avenue | Crystal Lake, IL | (815) 219-9243

Material Things – 103 E. Van Buren | Woodstock, IL | (815) 575-9710

Piano Trends – 35 Berkshire Dr | Crystal Lake, IL | (815) 477-4266

Raue Center For The Arts – 26 N. Williams St | Crystal Lake, IL | (815) 356-9212 | Tues – Fri from 2 to 4 pm

For more information visit rauecenter.org/6×6-project

Community Theatre

Creative Differences

Fostering community through the arts.

by Maribeth Ling, box office lead at Raue Center For The Arts

Patrons have flocked to the Theater since as early as the fifth century, looking for a supportive and immersive experience. To be transported out of their own lives and into those on stage. It’s one of the things I love about the Theater: a passion my family helped instill in me.

One of the first live performances that I can recall seeing was my Uncle performing in 1776 at the Shady Lane Theater in Marengo. That performance steered me to want to try acting for myself. so my twin sister and I joined a production of Oliver Twist shortly after. It was an experience that led me to realize that I didn’t like being on stage. I enjoyed being behind the scenes much more than being in the spotlight. My sister, on the other hand, loved being onstage.

David M. Rubenstein once said that “The Performing Arts tend to unify people in a way nothing else does.” That is the beauty of the Theater. No matter who you are, there will be something that speaks to you—Introverts versus Extroverts, Music people versus Orators, Dramas versus Comedies. There is room for everyone at the Theater, whether they want to be in the spotlight or behind the scenes. My sister and I are a lot alike in many ways, but the theater gave us a place to express our differences and still share in a common experience.

I first came to Raue Center For The Arts in High School. My choir performed on its stage every year during the second semester. When we arrived, the first thing we took note of was its beauty. You can’t help but look around in awe at the Spanish-style décor. The lobby’s tile flooring and ironwork are not found in many areas. We couldn’t wait to perform on the stage, under the starlit sky. It’s a beautiful but relaxed environment.

Later on, I came to see the Whirling Dervishes, movie screenings, several WSR shows, and even a comedian or two. It wasn’t until I started to work here, however, that I understood what Raue Center for the Arts means to the Community. The Theater has a part in community events such as the Bob Blazier Run, the Johnny Appleseed Festival, and the 6×6 project. They provide space to different Dance studios and host their educational programs and shows. Marshall McLuhan once said, “Anyone who tries to make a distinction between education and entertainment doesn’t know the first thing about either.” Through Education, they allow students to come into their own, developing their interests and help create their sense of community that will carry on for years to come.

I have never seen a more peer encouraged, supportive group of children than the students at Raue Center School For The Arts. The variety that is offered allows everyone to get involved in the Arts.

One of the best parts of my job is hearing about how the Raue has affected its patrons. We have had patrons come in with their families to share their memories in the building. Recently, a patron talked with me about how they used to work in the building when it was a movie theater. It was fun to listen to his memories of what the building looked like. I’ve overheard patrons talking about how they lived in the upstairs apartments, currently our 26N Lounge space. Another patron talked about how participating in the 6×6 project reignited their passion for art. Raue Center for the Arts is enriching lives for the best through the power of Performing Arts; I had no idea how much it was needed until I became a part of it.

Photo by Todd Heintz Photography.

Visual Arts

RAUE CENTER WELCOMES PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN

Raue Center is excited to announce the addition of photography intern, Molly Devine, to its team. The photography internship runs through August of 2022 and will include event and headshot photography as well as support for the marketing department.

“Raue Center is very excited to welcome Molly to the team,” says marketing and institutional advancement director Meredith Schaefer. “ We strive to create an environment for her internship that is both educational and experimental, allowing her room to grow artistically.”

Molly is a senior at Prairie Ridge High School and plans to continue her education and photography career at Loyola University in Chicago in the fall. Her focus thus far has been portrait, fashion, event, sport, and candid photography.

“I never hesitate to explore past my boundaries with my artwork. I have always seen the art of photography as our way to capture those most precious, vulnerable moments in life,” explains Molly. “Photography has led me to a road of endless ways to express, communicate, and evoke emotions in the viewer. Not only has it helped define who I am as an artist, but it has brought some of the most influential people in my life. I am very excited to be working with the Raue Center and I can’t wait for the great opportunities it will provide for me!”

For more information visit rauecenter.org/covid/ For questions or concerns, please contact our Box Office at 815-356-9212. Raue Center now requires masks for all patrons 2+ and proof of vaccination or negative covid test within 72 hours to attend Raue Center shows and events.

About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter.

High School MUSICALS Theatre

Prairie Ridge Presents “Into the Woods”

Prairie Ridge Presents “Into the Woods”
KARI FIRAK JAN 21 2022 8:36 AM
Prairie Ridge Theatre presents “Into the Woods” for this year’s spring musical. Tickets are $10, get them while they last!

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Performance Dates & Times:

Feb 25 – 7 p.m.
Feb 26 – 7 p.m.
March 3 – 7 p.m.
March 4 – 7 p.m.
March 5 – 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.

The Brothers Grimm hit the stage with an epic fairytale about wishes, family, and the choices we make. James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece… and a rare modern classic. The Tony-winning show’s story follows a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.

More info at https://pr.d155.org/about/prhs-news

High School MUSICALS

CLS Theatre Presents: Mamma Mia!

Crystal Lake South Theatre presents “Mamma Mia!” for this year’s spring musical. Tickets are $10, and go on sale Friday, February 4, at 6:00 p.m.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Performance Dates & Times:

February 18, 19, 25 – 7:00 p.m.
February 26 – 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.

The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast of non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a guaranteed smash hit for any theatre. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!

More info at https://cls.d155.org/about/school-news

Visual Arts

D155 Celebrates Student Artists in SPARK Show at the Dole

SPARK was truly a standout show! This annual all-district art show showcased artwork from a talented group of CLC, CLS, Cary-Grove, Prairie Ridge, and Haber Oaks students. D155 art educators Aaron Cummins, Lindsey DiLeo, Wendy Guss, Bob Hewett, Michelle Kidd, Rigel Nelson, Kerry Parrish, Judd Shutt, Taylor Smith, and Zachary Wisser curated this remarkable show at the Dole. The closing was celebrated in a gathering of students, families, staff, and community to the background beat of the CG jazz ensemble.

For more information visit https://www.d155.org/about/district-news/all-d155-news

Community

NORGE SKI CLUBS 117th ANNUAL WINTER FESTIVAL

Raue Center sits down with John Jacobsen, principal of Glacier Ridge Elementary School and board member of Raue Center, to learn more about a cool annual event in McHenry County…the Norge Ski Jump.

How long have you been an emcee and why do you do it?

I have been announcing for 19 years. I started because Connor, my son, was jumping and they were needing someone to help with music and announcing at tournaments.

 

How was this year’s crowd compared to last year?  What made it such a success?

The crowd was huge this year. Last year was small mostly due to COVID, but this year we had about 3-4,000 0n Saturday and Sunday. It helped that this year is an Olympic year.

 

How old is Norge?

The club started in 1905. The original members were Norwegian immigrants that traveled to Fox River Grove from Chicago. The meeting minutes are all in Norwegian for the first 20-30 years.

 

You are the VP at the Raue and they just sponsored the event. Do you think it’s a good fit?

It’s absolutely a great fit. Both the theater and the ski jump club have deep historical roots in McHenry County.

 

Who are the jumpers to look for in the future?  Anyone in the Olympics from Norge?

This year, three of the four USA Ski Jumping team members that are going to the Olympics are from Norge. Kevin Bickner and Casey Larson are going to their second games and Patrick Gasienica will be in his first. There are a handful of Norge jumpers to watch that are on track to being future Olympians.

Take a look at this year’s Norge Jump!

Community EVENTS

Norge Ski Jump’s 117th Winter Tournament – January 29th & 30th

See Olympians from around the world compete in Olympic caliber Ski Jumping at the oldest operating Ski Jump in the country! Norge Ski Club’s International Winter Tournament 2022 is January 29th & 30th. Check out the details below and get your entry button today.
When:
Saturday Jan 29th Noon – 4:00PM
[ Gates Open at 11:00AM ]
Sunday Jan 30th Noon – 4:00PM
[Gates Open at 11:00AM]
What:
Junior Competition K70 – US Cup Five Hills Tournament
[International Ski Jumping Teams will compete head to head with U.S. Jumpers both days]
K70 Competition Long – Standing Competition
[No Bars Jumping- As far as they can go!]
Norge is a Weekend of Fun for the Entire Family!
Brats, Hot Dogs, Pizza, Popcorn, Pop, Beer, Wine, Jägermeister
No Snow, No Problem – They make their own!
Admission – Buttons are required and good for Sat. & Sun.
$15.00 each at local merchants – starting in January
$20.00 entrance buttons purchased at gate
Buttons are non-refundable
Free admission for children 12 & under
Bring blankets & lawn chairs
No carry-ins allowed
No dogs allowed
FREE SHUTTLE BUSSES TO NORGE SKI CLUB TOURNAMENT ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
-Free Shuttle Busses will run from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm for spectators attending the International Annual Winter 2022 Ski Jump Tournament on Saturday and Sunday.
Shuttle Bus stops will be made at the METRA Train Station in Fox River Grove as well as the Stonehill Shopping Center Parking Lot at the intersection of Northwest Highway (Rt 14) and Route 22.
Comedy Sketch/Improv

How Improv Comedy Can Train You to be a Better Person 

By Jess Smith 

Many people view improv like a magic trick— an exciting spectacle that they could never replicate themselves. It’s not true though! Everyone is smarter and funnier than they give themselves credit for. Some of the key tenets of improv are the same guidelines for being a reliable and thoughtful person in life. 

So, regardless of your experience with improv comedy, let’s dig past the jargon to reveal 3 little nuggets that improv teaches us about being a better person. 

#1 – Yes, And 

Known as the number one rule of improv, “yes, and” refers to 1) accepting/agreeing to your circumstances and 2) adding to them. In improv, a performer wants to say “yes” as often as possible in order to propel a story forward. If you and I are in a scene together and you say, “Grandma, Happy birthday; I baked you this cake!” The worst thing I can do is to say “no” and 

deny you. “I’m not your grandma! I’m your twin sister! And it’s not our birthday!” Ew. I’ve basically communicated that I didn’t like any of your ideas and mine were better. That’s no way to begin a scene, let alone a conversation, relationship, etc. We always want to be accepting of our circumstances. Maybe I had a fun idea with that twin storyline, but if I’m going to be a scene partner that puts the scene we’re building before my own interests, I’m going to listen to what you’ve provided, agree to it, and add to it. 

I should give more information about our relationship, our location, the cake. “Junior, you always make me feel so special; I’m so glad you threw my party at a McDonald’s play place even after your embarrassing incident in the ball pit last year.” 

Ahhh. Much better. We’re in agreement of who we are, what’s happening, and I’ve set you up with some information so you can easily “yes, and” me back. 

#2 – Speak After Listening (or, avoid “Cookie Monstering”) 

It’s important to listen with the goal of understanding. From there, even though you might have a plethora of ideas that you can’t wait to unload, only some of them will work for the situation at hand. What solution is really warranted? What original thought is being summoned for this exact moment? We have to be discerning in what we share because if we spew all of our ideas at once, we’ve muddied the delivery of our best idea. Similarly, we’re not appropriately responding to an issue if we give solutions to problems that don’t exist and don’t acknowledge the ones that do. 

The alternative is called “Cookie Monstering” which refers to what happens when improvisers get comfortable onstage and have too many ideas at once. They’re thrilled to have gotten the “yes, and” down and now want to show off how many fun, thoughtful ideas they have to drive a

scene forward. However, what typically happens is the performer doesn’t know when or how to include this information so they include it all at once, while other performers are also trying frantically to drive the scene forward. What results is loud, unlistening chaos. It’s like how Cookie Monster eats all of the cookies and draws attention, these performers are also just creating a cyclone of attention-grabbing bedlam. Nothing of value can be built from that starting point. 

Things can only move forward if we’re listening and understanding. 

#3 – Mistakes are Gifts! 

There is no such thing as a mistake in improv. This idea completely reframes how we deal with missteps. In an improv scene, I truly get giddy whenever I misspeak or misremember a scene element. It’s an opportunity for my scene partner to lovingly poke fun at and justify the error. It’s not wrong, it’s an opportunity. Those moments onstage are magical. For instance, if a scene partner calls me by the wrong name- both names are now correct. I now have a ridiculously complicated name which has just created another fun dimension to the scene. This impulse teaches us that our mistakes are not the embarrassing, insurmountable defeats we’ve been led to believe that they are. They are opportunities that allow us to better connect and support one another. 

Start trying out these improv axioms in your daily life. Once you make a habit of “yes, and”ing others, listening with the purpose of understanding and giving yourself grace and space to make mistakes, you’ll find that improv has reframed your brain. Happy improvising!

Photography Visual Arts

Raue Center For The Arts Announces 2022 Photography Fellow

Todd Heintz, of Todd Heintz Photography, joins the Raue Center team for the inaugural Photography Fellowship program.

Raue Center is excited to welcome Todd Heintz as the inaugural Fellow. This year-long role will give him the opportunity to explore his photography as art along with capturing Raue events and performances for promotional and archival purposes. 

As Raue Center Photography Fellow, Todd will capture images from our unique and culturally diverse shows and events. This year-long fellowship strives to approach each event as an individual assignment, capturing the voice, personality, and/or feeling of the performance. Upon completion, this program culminates with an exhibition in our historic theater.

View Todd’s work here!

Todd Heintz is a photographer, a videographer, a coffee lover, and a dad joke aficionado. His photography style is a blend of photojournalism and a touch of fine art. He loves not only documenting that moment in time but strives to capture what it feels like to be in that moment. Photography is emotional for Todd. He hopes his work evokes an emotion for the viewer.

You May Have Missed

Pedal Into the Night with Raue Center’s Night Owl Bike Ride on Aug 2nd, 2025

Mix and Mingle at Raue Center’s 7th Annual 6X6 PROJECT, June 14th

Beyond the Curtain: How Raue Center Helps Drive Crystal Lake’s Downtown Economy

A Brighter Tomorrow Begins With Creativity Today.

Musical Theatre Masterclass with Broadway Star Emily Kristen Morris