The Classroom Was Never Enough; Emmy Nominee
Created for Forging Opportunities for Refugees in America (FORA), this Emmy-nominated PSA highlights the life-changing work of FORA’s Family-School Partnership program, which helps refugee parents understand, navigate, and take part in their children’s education. Through trusted advocates, volunteers, language support, and culturally informed guidance, FORA helps families move from confusion and isolation to confidence and connection. The PSA presents how one organization is helping refugee families overcome barriers, advocate for their children, and find their voice within the American school system, and will serve to better inform the public about an organization most are not familiar with.
The Making of a New Musical: Final Dress
Step inside the Underground Theater at Loyola University Chicago and experience the final countdown to opening night of "The Pleasures of Heartbreak and Bloodshed: The True and Musical Story of Julie d'Aubigny". This short documentary follows student playwright and director Megan Parent as she brings the extraordinary true story of Julie d’Aubigny, a legendary 17th-century swordswoman, opera singer, and queer historical icon, to the stage. Filmed during dress rehearsal and the day of performance, "One Night Only: Inside the Making of Julie d'Aubigny" reveals how a student production evolves under pressure, from sword choreography and complex staging to last-minute adjustments, costume challenges, and creative problem-solving.
The documentary also highlights the costume design process inspired by 1690s France, the intensity of backstage preparation, and the emotional shift that happens when a creator hands the show over to the actors. Through intimate interviews with the director, cast, designers, and crew, the film captures the collaborative energy, nerves, community, and artistry that define college theatre.
Loyola Architecture Featured in Open House Chicago
Step inside one of Chicago’s hidden gems during Open House Chicago 2025: Mundelein Center for the Fine and Performing Arts at Loyola University Chicago.
Go behind the scenes of this historic Art Deco skyscraper, built in 1930 as part of Mundelein College, one of the first women’s colleges in the nation. Learn how this Chicago landmark continues to tell the story of women’s education, architecture, and community history.
The annual Open House Chicago Festival, hosted by the Chicago Architecture Center, gives visitors free access to more than 200 iconic sites across 25 neighborhoods. From theaters and churches to distilleries and skyscrapers, the event celebrates the city’s incredible architectural diversity.