CASTSummer 2020 Canceled

We regret to inform you that we will not be able to have a CASTSummer Arts Institute this year.

As a result of the clear guidance provided by IDPH and Governor Pritzker’s 5As a result of the clear guidance provided by IDPH and Governor Pritzker’s 5 stage “Restore Illinois” plan, District 97 has created safe conditions for summer programming that will likely start too late and be far too restrictive of the kind of CAST experience to which we have become accustomed.

The world of the performing arts has been hard hit by this pandemic. The Julian Auditorium Theatre is just one of many traditional summer venues already overfull with silence. While performances are among the best expressions of community, they are not the only one! In the process of making this difficult decision, we have consulted with some terrific community partners. We encourage you to check out the modified program offerings they are creating, especially over at OPEF and the Park District of Oak Park where they are looking for your input to create uniquely engaging children’s activities for this challenging time.

The District 97 Business Office is intending to have all tuition payments refunded by the end of May, so please contact Kathy Simon if you have not heard from us before then.

The only other time in the last 30 years that CAST did not have a summer camp was related to the construction of a brand-new theatre. While we can’t promise that this time, we are certain CAST will be back with a refined sense of purpose. Whether you are on stage or in the audience, we hope to see you there!

Bill McGlynn
CAST Program Director

Kathy Simon
CAST Program Manager

LeKeya Shearrill
CASTSummer Arts Institute Director