InterPlay combines movement, storytelling, voice, and play in a creative and welcoming environment suitable for all ages and abilities. Through simple, easy-to-learn activities, participants explore self-expression, connection, and joy while engaging body, mind, heart, and spirit. No experience is needed, and observation is always welcome. Wear comfortable clothing and be ready to move.

Building on previous discussions of World War II-era dictators, this course examines authoritarian leaders of the postwar world. Explore how modern dictators adapted strategies from earlier regimes while using new technologies and media to gain and maintain power. We’ll also consider why democratic societies often underestimate the methods used to manipulate institutions and consolidate authority.

This class is for adults 18 and older who speak little to no English, but who want to learn! The coursebook (Ventures Basic, from Cambridge University) is included in the class fee. Scholarships covering the class fee may be available. If needed, contact the FLI office.

Mahjong is a fascinating Chinese game of skill, strategy, and calculation often described as a “mind sport.” Learn the basics of the official game, tile recognition, scoring, and winning strategies while enjoying friendly competition. Researchers suggest mentally stimulating games may help support cognitive health. Join us to sharpen your thinking skills and discover the enjoyment of Chinese Mahjong.

Explore modern and contemporary plays through reading, discussion, and performance. Participants will examine playwrights, historical context, and dramatic themes while viewing selected performance clips. Students will read plays in advance, assume character roles during class, and share critiques and insights. The course culminates in a readers’ theater presentation, with a possible field trip to a local production. $2 copy fee included in class cost.

Get moving with this fun, beginner-friendly cardio drumming class. Drum along to upbeat music while enjoying gentle exercise from a seated or standing position. The class emphasizes stretching, arm movement, and participation at your own pace, making it accessible to all fitness levels. Participants should bring a large exercise ball, bucket or basket, and drumsticks or wooden spoons. (No class Oct. 22.)

Meet a naturalist at one of the St. Joseph County Parks on three Fridays in Fall, to discover and observe life’s preparation for winter. Programs begin with an indoor introduction to what’s going on with the plants, animals and insects that share our world. Then head out to look and listen for nature in action. The outdoor portion will be rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Bring binoculars if you have them. We will have loaners available. Sept 18—Bendix Woods Nature Center October 16—Spicer Lake Visitors Center November 20—St. Patrick's Park Brown Barn

The esteemed novelist and historian Shelby Foote once said of the American Civil War: "It was the crossroads of our being, and it was a hell of a crossroads." The war was also a crossroads for the University of Notre Dame as numerous students, and Holy Cross priests, brothers and sisters from neighboring St. Mary's College became immersed in the conflict. In this course we will examine how the war impacted Notre Dame and the many roles members of its community played in the conflict.