Ravinia for kids
By Myrna Petlicki Contributor June 7, 2011 10:58AM
Photo courtesy of Ravinia Festival
Updated: June 10, 2011 9:43AM
Add Ravinia to your list of fun places to take the kids this summer. The season opens with a special event offering free activities for kids. There are eight concerts scheduled especially for young people. Children 15 and younger will have free admission to the lawn for classical concerts this year and there will be a special free family space on the north lawn before selected Chicago Symphony Orchestra concerts.
Children take center stage
The season opens at 7:30 p.m. on June 9 with a performance by the Chicago Children’s Choir, in celebration of Ravinia’s new train underpass. From 5-7:15 p.m., there will be a variety of free activities for children. They can ride an electric kiddie train, color and try musical instruments at an instrument petting zoo. Lawn admission is free for kids 15 and under.
Well “Krafted” series
Eight family-friendly shows are planned for the 2011 Kraft Great Kids Concerts series. Tickets are $10 for reserved seats ($15 for Ralph’s World) and $5 for lawn admission.
Ko-Thi Dance Company (June 11) features dancers trained in African history, mythology and art techniques who captivate audiences with their traditional instruments, authentic costumes and extraordinary music and dancing.
The Dirty Sock Funtime Band (June 19, free lawn seating), a rock band for kids, is often featured on the Noggin television program, “Jack’s Big Music Show.”
Tom Chapin & Friends (July 2) offers music that engages adults and children. Chapin has received five Grammy Award nominations for Best Musical Album for Children.
Ralph’s World (July 3) stars Chicago rocker Ralph Covert who has created nine CDs of music for children.
Justin Roberts & The Not Ready for Naptime Players (July 9) received a 2010 Grammy nomination for Best Musical Album for Children.
The Mariachi Divas (July 30) is an all-female multicultural ensemble that serves as the official mariachis of Disneyland in Anaheim, California.
Highland Park Strings (Aug. 6), which is dedicated to performing family concerts, features top-level soloists, some of whom are members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Momix (Sept. 10) is a modern dance company that uses magical lighting and imagery to transport audiences.
A place of their own
Prior to the July 24, July 31 and Aug. 14 Chicago Symphony Orchestra concerts, a special family space will be set aside on the north lawn from 3-4:45 p.m. There will be free music-related crafts, storytelling and an instrument petting zoo where children can try various instruments.
More perks for kids
A free program book for children, “Ravinia’s Family Fun Guide,” available in kiosks all summer, features coloring pages, information about music, games and program notes designed for younger music lovers.
There’s also a free Ravinia Kids Club for ages 12 and younger. Members can visit a Kids Club booth before any Kraft Great Kids Concert where they will receive a free gift on selected dates. They’ll also receive an official member button, a card with a gift coupon on their birthday, stickers and other benefits.
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