Ragdale, the nationally acclaimed artists' retreat in Lake Forest, kicks off the second annual Ragdale Ring Spotlight Series, monthly performances from July through September on Thursdays at 7:00 pm. Each program is curated by a Ragdale resident artist who brings his or her creative colleagues together to create a new and intriguing experience. All performances take place in the Ragdale Ring, the dramatic, open-air performance venue, recently created following an international design competition. Guests are encouraged to bring their family and friends, a beach chair or picnic and enjoy an arts-filled evening on the lawn overlooking the Shaw Prairie at twilight. On September 4th, we are proud to present a short set of improvised scenes featuring Piven Improvisation Ensemble, followed by a scripted work, "The Dream Express" by Len Jenkin described as a "legendary, outlaw lounge act." Curators: Jen Green, Piven Theatre Workshop, and Polly Noonan, actor/director. *In case of rain, the performance will be scheduled one week later on Thursday, September 11th, at 7:00 pm. The Ragdale Ring is located on the west lawn of the Ragdale House. There is limited on-site parking, and off-site parking is available at Lake Forest Municipal Lot, 110 E. Laurel Street (about a 10 minute walk from Ragdale.) Admission is $20 (for adults), $15 (for seniors and students), or free (for children 12 years old and younger). Tickets are available both online (http://ragdale.wix.com/spotlight) and at the door. For further information, call 847-234-1063 or email us at info@ragdale.org.