APRIL 1-4, 2025
What is Focus?
Focus on the Arts is a biennial, world-class arts festival held at Highland Park High School (HPHS) in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park, IL. Over the course of two days and three nights, Focus presents more than 300 workshops, masterclasses, and performances for the students and three community events featuring music, theater, art, and dance. Hundreds of professional artists grace the stages at Focus, providing an unprecedented opportunity for the students and community members of Highland Park, Highwood, and Fort Sheridan.
Our Mission
Focus on the Arts is dedicated to sparking innovation and creating new ways of thinking and viewing the world for HPHS students and our broader community. This multi-day festival prioritizes hands-on creative experiences, allowing students to work beside and learn from acclaimed professional artists across multiple disciplines.
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Focus on the Arts is proud to have inspired thousands of students and community members since its inception in 1964 and has helped create the next generation of artists and creative thinkers who can help shape the future.
STUDENTS
ARTISTS
WORLDWIDE
Focus on the Arts is committed to showcasing mid-career professional artists with diverse backgrounds and rich stories. Approximately one-third of our artists are HPHS alumni who have gone on to successful careers in all aspects of the arts and entertainment industries. Participating artists find joy in mentoring the next generation, sharing their talents with our grateful community, and interacting with other artists in our famous hospitality suite!
ARTISTS
ARTISTS
WORLDWIDE
Students at Focus have the unique opportunity to take two days off of school and register for their choices of over 300 art workshops, performances, and masterclasses! Students work alongside professional artists, learning not only their craft but also the qualities of those who pursue their dreams with a sense of purpose. Student committee members play an important role in helping plan and curate Focus workshops.
STUDENTS
ARTISTS
WORLDWIDE
Not only does our community generously fund the majority of our programming, but over 200 parent volunteers assist in the planning and execution of the event each year. After nearly 60 years, Focus has become a renowned tradition for those who live here generation after generation and enjoy our community programs and performances.