The Fine Arts Department at Maine East High School invites local 4th through 8th grade students to explore their creativity at the upcoming Encore Explorers: Imagination Palette & Performance workshop. The half-day event takes place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Maine East High School (2601 W. Dempster St., Park Ridge, IL 60068).
Designed to spark imagination and build confidence across various artistic disciplines, attendees can customize their morning by choosing four hands-on workshops in theatre, music, broadcasting, and visual arts among the six choices.
Interactive Workshop Offerings Include:
- Step Into the Spotlight: Live TV & Radio: Direct, produce and perform in a live television broadcast, plus get interviewed live on Maine East’s radio station, WMTH 90.5 FM
- Show Your Talent (Audition Workshop): Learn how to introduce a monologue, build stage confidence and receive personalized coaching from Maine East’s Theatre Director
- Improv-a-Palooza: Master the fundamentals of improvisation through high-energy group games that build quick thinking and performance skills
- Monster Makers (3D Sculpture): Learn fundamental sculpting techniques in the Visual Arts Suite to craft a custom, one-of-a-kind spooky creature to take home
- Painting Workshop: Experiment with color, texture and composition on canvas under the guidance of experienced instructors
- Prop Building: Discover the art of designing and crafting stage props, learning essential techniques to turn everyday materials into theatrical magic
“Encore Explorers allows younger students to experience the joy of performing and creating in a supportive, hands-on environment,” explained Maine East Fine Arts Department Chair Sarah Djordjevic. “Students get to work with our high school students and teachers to learn about the different types of arts experiences that we have in our community.”
The workshop is open to all 4th through 8th grade students. The registration fee is $5 per student and advance online registration is required as space is limited. Those interested can register online by selecting the “Sign Up for a Class” option at bit.ly/MEBoxOffice.