Students, families, and partners in Ravinia’s Reach Teach Play programs were among those invited to attend the Chicago Festival on July 3, a special event featuring Chicago-area artists that capped off Ravinia’s opening weekend of complimentary performances to thank the invited audiences of essential, frontline, and healthcare workers; first responders; neighborhood partners; and more community members for their efforts and dedication over the past year.
the Reach Teach Play families were excited to be in the park for a concert once again. It was a time for many to reconnect and share this special experience with one another. “I love music! I am a Music Discovery teacher and I love incorporating music into my curriculum. The students love music and enjoy hearing the vast musical genre selections. It was a great outing to get me on track for the new school year!” Music Discovery Program teacher Bernice Hall said.
Not only were students and families in attendance, but Reach Teach Play partners as well, including Bounce Children’s Foundation, an organization that is part of the Opportunity Lawn Pass Program, which provides access to individuals who otherwise would not be able to attend Ravinia concerts.
In fact, three families that came through Bounce had never been to Ravinia before. “By midway through, there were a dozen kids, Bounce Kiddos and Bounce Siblings, from multiple families all playing tag and hide-and-seek behind the trees together – including Kiddos in leg braces and riding wheelchairs,” Bounce CEO Joan Steltmann shared.
The night was filled with performances throughout the park. Mucca Pazza and South Shore Drill Team played throughout the park while the Chicago Jazz Orchestra Sextet performed at Ravinia’s new stage set up in the carousel-styled rotunda on the North Lawn for spectators to enjoy from the Lawn. Headliners The Ides Of March featuring Jim Peterik closed the night.