Love Barrington encourages youth to explore the arts

• Reprints

Updated: March 3, 2012 8:08AM

For the third consecutive year, the Barrington Cultural Commission will hold its annual Love Barrington event.

“Love Barrington is a very important event in the life of our community,” said Anne Garrette, marketing and events coordinator for the village. “It is a wonderful example of how the Barrington Cultural Commission can educate and promote the arts to some of our youngest residents in a fun, interactive and entertaining way.”

The free event is scheduled for 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 11 at the Langendorf Recreation and Fitness Center, 235 Lions Drive, Barrington. It will begin with DeeDee Gallagher getting the blood pumping with dancing when she leads attendees to “Move to the Groove.” Following dancing, Magician Dennis DeBondt will entertain crowds with a performance for all ages.

The grand finale will be a performance by the Barrington Children’s Choir, followed by a short workshop where the older performers will teach the children a special Valentine song and then everyone will perform for the crowd.

“We have chosen to hold this free event for children around the Valentine’s Day time in February as a means to connect with families and kids during the winter months,” said Linda Hovde, a member of the Barrington Cultural Commission. “We include interactive, fun activities and entertainment for all at the Barrington Park District. The goal is to expose children to cultural events at a young age, close to home and at no cost.”

Past events have showcased a puppet show, interactive theater exercises, dance activities, a clown, guitar sing-a-long and craft table.

“One of the primary objectives of the Barrington Cultural Commission is to create an environment in which arts and humanities can flourish in the village,” Garrette said. “On this day, we are presenting the joy of learning a new dance, the delight of learning a new song and the wonder of magic to a group of children.”