Dayton937

Arts and Entertainment on a Budget – Feb. 4th Edition

February 4, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The ice is finally melting, so cure that cabin fever and check out these wallet-friendly entertainment options:

The Super Bowl is sure to be a weekend highlight for many, but if football isn’t your thing, go see “9 to 5: The Musical” this Sunday instead! Get 4 tickets for just $90 or 2 tickets for just $50! Call 228-3630 or visit http://ticketcenterstage.com and use the code FOOTBALL.

Join JumpstART on Feb. 10th for Jump Into Theatre. This young-professional branch of Culture Works is offering half-price tickets to “Twelfth Night,” plus a backstage tour. Tickets are going fast, so reserve yours now!

Riverscape Ice Rink offers free skating on Tuesdays and Wednesdays ($3 to rent skates), and only costs $5 (including skate rental) the rest of the week. You can even celebrate Valentine’s Day early at the Saturday Night Sweetheart Skate from 7 to 10 p.m. on February 12.; the first 100 couples will receive a free flower from the Flowerman!

Encore Theater Company will host the New York bound musical “Hot Mess in Manhattan” on Saturday, Feb. 12 at 8 pm at Sinclair Community College, Building 8. Tickets will be $18 at the door, but reserve your table of 4 now and pay only $12.15 per person! Visit http://www.encoretheatercompany.com/ to order your tickets; just select “reserved table of 4” and enter the code “hotmess” to receive the discount.

Student and community theatre productions always make a great date night at a great price. The University of Dayton Theatre Program is presenting Sam Shepard’s “True West” Feb. 4-6 and 10-12; tickets are only $12. Centerville High School will present “Crimes of the Heart” on Feb. 11 and 12; admission is free, but donations will benefit the CHS Drama Club. These are just a few of the upcoming (and affordable) theatre performances in Dayton; visit onStageDayton for many more.

Don’t forget to start your night out off right with a great meal! Dayton Dining offers lots of tips and discounts for local restaurants; just “like” their Facebook page for the inside scoop.

Finally, buy your tickets now for “The Drowsy Chaperone,” and save 35%! This Broadway Series production will be at the Victoria Theatre from March 8-20. Visit http://ticketcenterstage.com before Feb. 18th and use the code JANET.

Calling “Dolly”: behind the scenes as a stage manager

February 2, 2011 By Dayton937 7 Comments

Jessica Hickling as Dolly Levi (Photo Credit Beth Porter)

HELLO, DOLLY

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

Win tickets to this show! Read on…

5:17 pm

Balancing my prompt book and score, yellow legal pad, and Chai tea, I dart between two ladders (bearing paint-splattered shop workers, detailing the archway) to stand on the stage. Our first dress rehearsal begins soon, and the DeVries Theatre is busy. Properties supervisors cross the stage with a tray of tiered glasses and a stack of suitcases; our technical director oversees crew members counterweighting the chandelier at the flyrail; show director, Bob Clements, is deep in conversation with a designer.

I’m the Stage Manager for this production of Hello, Dolly! at Cedarville University, where I’m a senior theatre performance major. I applied and was selected as SM last spring, and have been thinking about or working with the show in some capacity since; the time has both passed slowly and flown by.

The rehearsal sign-in I posted earlier tells me that so far, cast members have arrived on time. Failure to do so results in fines – ordinarily $1/minute, but twice that during tech week. Although the program here is small, the professors work hard and creatively to instill professionalism in us.

I visit dressing and makeup rooms, greeting people and checking progress, before heading back upstairs. The couple of hours before rehearsal begins have a strange pacing, a mixture of urgent and quiet. The theatre is busy as people hurry to finish tasks, yet the pace is controlled, and these few moments are calm. In a little while, I’ll start calling the time until costume checks, go over the lighting effects with the designer, and ensure everything is ready; but for now, I drink my tea and review the opening sequence of cues.

7:24 pm

CU: Hello, Dolly (photo credit Beth Porter)

Ensemble (photo credit Beth Porter)

We’re a little late starting costume checks, but that is understandable for first dress, and I work to keep everyone moving. The costumers have done an amazing job with each of the thirty-eight cast members: the women are gorgeous in long, jewel-toned dresses and ornate hats; the men dashingly sport white tailed suits.

Student wardrobe manager, Amanda, a measuring tape draped over her shoulder, takes notes; I catch a glimpse of her spreadsheet, orderly and extremely detailed. Don, our eclectic and beloved design supervisor, surveys the actors individually, commenting on details many wouldn’t even know to notice. Pushing up his round glasses, he crosses his arms. “Where are his spats? He’ll need spats,” he says, and immediately a crew member rushes downstairs to pull some.

8:35 pm

“Are the actors in place?” I inquire over our intercom headsets. After receiving confirmation, I prepare everyone for our initial cues. After delaying start time to accommodate for costumes and tech, we’re finally ready to begin. “Standby follow-spot… Mrs. Porter and F1, go.”

The musical director appears from the archway, a spotlight illuminating her walk into the pit; she bows before our imaginary audience, raises her hands, and at her cue the overture begins. I breathe and mentally run through the cues: Take follow spot out and narrow lights on ramp. Transitional lights. Curtain up…

9:59 pm

The makeup room is busy, though not overwhelming, during intermission. Ben greys his hair, Charlee attaches facial hair, and Jessica adjusts her hatpins. “Ten minutes,” I announce, receiving a chorusing, “Thank you, ten!” from those in earshot. After refilling my water bottle, I return to the light board, put on my headset, and open my score to the entr’acte. Five minutes to end of intermission…

“Kate?” The light board operator gets my attention. “We’re using the chandelier here for the first time tonight, and I need to check the programming.”

Hello, Dolly! cast (Photo Credit Scott Huck)

“I’ll get the designer,” I offer, and call into com, “Carolyn, we have a lighting question. Could you run up please?” A moment later, she appears in her ornate costume and hat; Carolyn is also an ensemble member. Multiple interests and skills are common to the dedicated majors of our department. Jessica plays Dolly and designed the hair/makeup; Denise is an ensemble member, scene shop employee, and dramaturg; beside stage managing, I’m an electrician and student box office manager. Our program is conducive to educating those with multifaceted aspirations; many of us take both upper-level design and performance classes. Professor (and Dolly director) Mr. Clements stresses that we never know where we’ll have the opportunity for employment, so should be versatile and marketable, and always “do the ordinary extraordinarily,” no matter what that “ordinary” may be.

10:39 pm

Listening both to the show’s dialogue and com headset’s hum, I call the lighting cue an instant before the waiters dance onto stage bearing silver trays. I say, “Standby for L53…” Stanley enters. “L53, go.”

“Standby for Follow Spot 26…” Dolly is going to arrive at the Harmonia Gardens restaurant; the waiters and cooks scramble into place. Stanley breathes his line and I see the tip of the feather from Jessica’s headdress behind the backdrop. “F26, go.” Jessica, in a sparkling sapphire gown and with a gaze that intermingles flirty and reminiscent, enters as Dolly into the light. She is beautiful, and the waiters see it, their eyes on her every movement.

“Hello, Harry, well, hello, Louie, it’s so nice to be back home where I belong…”

The men unite for their verse of the song. “Standby for L54.” Dolly crosses back to the stairs, t urns her head slightly, and looks out wistfully just as I call, “go,” and the lights shift with her thought…

Rehearsing for the Harmonia Gardens

11:52 pm

“Let’s go ahead and get started with the production meeting,” I say, and begin to ask each team member for their feedback and discussion items. “From my perspective, I felt the show went well. We have a few things we need to adjust, but otherwise, cues and scene changes went well, and the show ran smoothly…”

A few remaining actors, just out of hair and makeup, shuffle through the theatre on their way home. During the next forty-five minutes, we discuss aspects of the show from costume design to dramaturgy, handling issues that arose and coordinating our work; when I dismiss the meeting, only a few are able to head home, but the majority of technicians stand and go to continue working.

1:05 am

As I go to the design lab to email our rehearsal log, I pass Amanda laying out snacks on a chair by the props table. “This is for the props crew,” she explains, “although you can have some, too.” She continues explaining that several of the students are each setting food out for a crew, to show their and the cast’s appreciation. Our department, in many ways, is like a family, and we look out for each other. The properties supervisors, exhausted but surprised, come over to take a moment’s break as I again towards turn the lab to get ready for tomorrow’s rehearsal.

Before the Parade Passes By…

Performance Information

The Story: Dolly Levi, adored by all (especially the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant) is a self-termed meddler, but this time, she’s scheming to arrange her own marriage, to the well-known and rich Horace Vandergelder. In this optimistic and fun musical, Dolly charms (and meddles) her way into his heart, setting up a few other matches along the way.
Dates: February 3 – 5, 10 – 12; curtains at 8:00 pm, with additional Saturday performances at 2:00 pm.
Tickets: Cedarville University: Tickets
More Information: Cedarville University: Theatre Season

Win Free Tickets!

The Cedarville University Theatre & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to HELLO, DOLLY! We will be giving away up to TWO pairs of tickets for the second weekend of the show! (February 10-12) All you need to do is:

Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page.
Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
Leave a comment, answering the following question…Dolly Levi is a matchmaker…Have you ever had someone set you up on a blind date? What’s your worst/funniest blind date story? (no names, please…to protect the innocent/guilt)
The deadline to enter is 9AM on FRIDAY, February 4th.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Contest Closed

A complicated love affair with Dayton – Then and Now

February 2, 2011 By Dayton937 14 Comments

Dear Dayton,

OK ― I admit it. You win.

Not that I didn’t put up a valiant battle. I’ve fought with you most of my 40 years. Oh, the hours I spent dreaming about the day I would leave you! The images of myself ― happy, carefree ― in a place bursting with hipness and cool! My life would be evocative and weighty once I left you in my dust.

Humph.

So this fall, when the time finally came for this long-awaited breakup ― the kid graduated from high school, my career at a crossroads ― what gives? I made a decision. A bona fide choice. I will stay with you. I realize I’ve come to genuinely love the way you smell and how comfortable you make me feel. Besides, the thought of packing boxes makes me twitch, and the idea of leaving my friends makes me hollow and still.

My epiphany came in a rather mundane moment: I was walking from a boxing class at Drake’s Downtown Gym through RiverScape MetroPark. It was an early fall day, and the plants were still blooming in the park. The sun was setting over the Great Miami River, and one of my favorite songs was playing on my iPod. I was on my way to meet good friends ― fun, interesting, dynamic people ― for a $2 glass at The Wine Gallery.

I realize, Dayton, it is not you who isn’t cool enough. It isn’t you who is lacking.

Dayton: 1. Kristen: 0.

XOXOXO

Your gal

Reprinted from the Feb. 14-20, 2002, issue of Impact Weekly newspaper:

Hometown Crush

A complicated love affair with Dayton

By Kristen Wicker

Tuesday nights are one reason I’ve come to love Dayton.

They go like this: I pick up my 10-year-old son, Kier, from the bustling Five Oaks house of my neighbor and after-school babysitter, a stay-at-home dad with five kids. There are always some quick jokes and, if I’m lucky, a chocolate chip cookie. Kier and I swing by Flying Pizza downtown and grab a couple slices of cheese before hitting Hauer Music on Patterson for Kier’s clarinet lesson. Sometimes, we swing by the downtown library to grab some books and CDs.

For me, those evenings embody all that is worthy about this often-ridiculed city: Cool and interesting neighbors, big-city urban kicks in a friendly, small-town package.

Don’t get me wrong: My relationship with the Miami Valley hasn’t always been so great. The day I moved to Arizona in 1990, I rolled down the window of my red Chevette, stuck out my arm and flipped this town the bird as I drove south ― fast ― on I-75. Moving back here in ’94, I felt trapped in a dank, hopeless swamp. I sent my friends in the vast and sunny West a mixed tape I’d labeled, “FROM THE ARMPIT OF THE UNIVERSE!!!”

Even today, Dayton is a town I love to hate. The city is, after all, an easy target: The summers can be too muggy and the winters bitingly cold. Hip and unusual enterprises ― art hops in the Santa Clara Arts District, the Serendipity theater ensemble performing original plays in a grubby warehouse ― are often short-lived in the Gem City. Other cultural innovations ― loft apartments, urban farmers’ markets ― prosper in bigger cities for eons before breaking into this corner of the Midwest.

So it was with an immense amount of reluctance that I finally admitted it is possible to find, of all things, happiness in this town. It was a realization that came about slowly, like a rising tide ― during a walk along the Great Miami River, eating burgers at a neighborhood block party, dancing at the Reggae and Cityfolk festivals, watching my son finish a painting at K12 Gallery for Young People, hanging out with friends and a pitcher of brew at Tank’s.

One moment, I remember in particular. It was a late summer evening, and I packed my son and four of my neighbors’ kids into my car for a trip to RiverScape. The Dayton Jazz Orchestra played in the background as I read a book and the kids ran through the fountain, putting on what they called a “cute show” for the grown-ups. Then came the sunset: A flaming, widespread affair in an intense band of oranges. “This,” I thought, “isn’t so bad.”

There are, of course, less esoteric and more practical reasons to dig this town. My family lives nearby, along with a crew of friends, some of whom I’ve known since high school. Despite what anyone thinks about Dayton Public Schools, my son and I have been downright delighted with Franklin Montessori and Stivers School for the Arts. Plus, I can actually afford, on a pretty limited income, an expansive house with original wood floors and crown molding, antique lighting fixtures, and four stained-glass windows. If you want to live amongst people who are not like you, diverse Dayton easily fits the bill. And from Dragons games to independent films at The Neon, from homegrown rock bands taking the stage at Canal Street Tavern to Broadway shows at Victoria Theatre, it’s a rare occasion when I cannot find anything to do.

Indeed, my life is full here ― but still relatively quiet. I think, sometimes, of moving to a bigger, more “exciting” city, but I wonder if I would be able to pry open any more cracks of time to fit in all that additional bustle.

I think of a recent trip I made with my mom and sister to New York City. I’d never really been to the Big Apple and, just as I’d been warned, something was going on at all times and in every direction. We spent the bulk of our time waiting in line or worming our way through crowds. There was no such thing as cheap.

Take my sister’s haircut at a fancy, celebrity-infused salon at the Park Plaza Hotel. It cost $130. However, while the hotshot stylist was snipping her hair, he looked at me: “Your sister has a good haircut,” he said.

“Thank you,” I replied, puffing myself up. “$30. Dayton, Ohio.”

I liked New York, but I surprised myself by breathing a sigh of relief when our plane hit ground in good ol’ Vandalia. I don’t think I could live in the gigantic NYC. I’ll live here, in this little city ― although I can only do it begrudgingly, if only for old time’s sake.

I have just unearthed this article from a stack of old newspapers stashed in my attic. Truth is, I doubt this is the last time I will write two love letters to my hometown with eerily similar thoughts ― even the same flash of clarity down by the river. Dayton is a city that needs to be constantly reassured of your love.

True, the Santa Clara is now a drug-addled hot mess. Serendipity theater ensemble? I barely remember ye. But like shark’s teeth, when one thing falls another equally creative, inspiring endeavor rises to take its place. Dayton, with its grungy patina of self-loathing, is the One. True. DIY. Town. And I have been One. Lucky. Girl. to call this city home base during a life full of adventures that have taken me across the country and, indeed, the globe.

Which brings me to right here, right now. It is my intention in this column to tell the stories of those adventures ― some taking place in Dayton, others in faraway places ― but all of them written in my cluttered little office here in this, my home town, by me, a Dayton native. I look forward to sharing them with you and to hearing your stories in turn.

Photo Credit: “Dayton Sunset” by listentilithz, on Flickr

Jane’s Best Bets (2/2 – 2/6)

February 1, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Hello February…and hello icky weather! If you’re reading this, that means you still have power, which is a great thing! I hope you also have the power to get up off the couch and enjoy some of these events!

On Groundhog Day (a.k.a. Wednesday), eat lunch at Smokey Bones for their $5 Lunch Special. Over at the Schuster Center, check out the Visual Voices Art Exhibit: Dayton Skyscrapers 2011, which celebrates “women and men who stand tall as role models in the Dayton African-American community.” There will be a sea of food at Dorothy Lane Market as part of their Oyster Bar Happy Hour, as well as at Bonefish Grill for their Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesday. If you are a fan of environmental causes and would like to know more about the lives affected by the water industry as well as public water rights, then you will want to attend the Environmental Film Series: Tapped at Cox Arboretum. Enjoy an adult beverage at The Wine Loft for their Happy Hour, The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting, or Bruning’s Wine Cellar for their Taste the Wines of Frog’s Leap event. If you’re downtown, head to the Schuster Center to see 9 to 5: The Musical (I’m looking forward to it after my 9 to 5 job!) or to The Loft Theatre to see Twelfth Night. Over at Clark State Performing Arts Center, watch Fiddler On The Roof…I’m hoping he doesn’t fall down with it being icy! And finally, support the UD Flyers as they play St. Bonaventure at UD Arena…and hopefully get a victory!

On Thursday, celebrate the Chinese New Year with dinner specials at both The Nanking Inn and Kabuki. Have you always wanted to dance, but keep putting it off? If so, boogie your way to Michael Solomon Pavillion for International Folk Dance Lessons. Over at the Dayton Racquet Club, attend the Go Red for Women/American Heart Month Kickoff. At The Neon, check out Pecha Kucha Night Dayton, Volume 6, in which there will be several short presentations by noteworthy people around the city about their creative endeavors. The presentations will be followed by a screening of the documentary DIVE, which is based on the topic of food waste at L.A. supermarkets. For more information about Pecha Kucha, click here. If you like meeting new people, head to Cedarville University to meet Dolly… be sure to tell her Hello, Dolly! Also, at the Schuster Center, you will be able to see 9 TO 5: The Musical, and at The Loft Theatre, you can catch Twelfth Night.

On Friday, after you get out of the shower, be sure to put on your red for the National Wear Red Day, in honor of the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” Movement. If you wish, you can continue to celebrate the Chinese New Year at China Dynasty, The Nanking Inn, or Kabuki. Get out your dancing shoes and head to the Michael Solomon Pavilion for the Contra Dance Party – Cityfolk. If you love a good fish fry, head to either the Ascension or the St. Mary Fish Fry. All you art lovers will want to participate in First Friday, the fabulous art hop which happens the first Friday of each month downtown. There will also be many wonderful shows going on in our great region, including 9 to 5: The Musical (Schuster Center), The Octette Bridge Club (Beavercreek Community Theatre), The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee (Dayton Playhouse), Twelfth Night (Loft Theatre), The Berenstain Bears Onstage; A Bear Country Musical! (Town Hall Theatre), and True West (University of Dayton-Kennedy Union Boll Theatre). And finally, listen to The Rocket Man, The Eagles, Diana Ross, and The Beatles as you skate at RiverScape for their event, Peace, Love, and Skate: 60s and 70s.

On Saturday, bring your Valentine and go to the wonderful El Meson for their Cooking Class for Lovers. For all you techies, head to the Dayton Diode Open House which has been called a “YMCA for nerds”…perhaps I should go then! When tragedy strikes, it is important for a community to join together. Over at St. John’s Lutheran Church, bring your friends and participate in the Dodgeball Tournamnet to benefit the Suzanne Waughtel Hopper fund. In the evening, there are opportunities to support other great causes. You can attend the 21st Annual Artemis Center Gala ‘Be a Star, a Purple Carpet Event’ at Sinclair or Sing your Heart Out For A Good Cause (the American Heart Association) at The Wine Loft. All you “pasghetti” lovers (as many kids call it!) will want to go to the American Legion Post 598 for Franco’s FAMOUS Spaghetti. Over at RiverScape, participate in the Star-Late Skate. Also on Saturday, there will be a plethora of theatre options, including 9 to 5: The Musical, The Berenstain Bears Onstage; A Bear Country Musical, The Octette Bridge Club, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee, Twelfth Night, and True West.

On Sunday, consider going to Alex’s for their Jazz Brunch. Or you can Savor Your Sunday & Support Stivers at Coco’s Bistro. If it’s not too cold, perhaps you’ll want to learn the Fundamentals of Skating at RiverScape. Sundays are a great day for the arts, so consider checking out the Wright State University 2011 Faculty Exhibition, Visual Voices Art Exhibit; Dayton Skyscrapers 2011 at the Schuster Center, Folk Art from the Collection of Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP at The Dayton Art Institute, or A Student of People Exhibit at Troy-Hayner Cultural Center. Or check out one of the many theatre productions going on around town. If you still haven’t done so, be sure to check out DMM’s onStageDayton, where Shane, Katherine, and Russell keep you up to date on the Dayton theatre scene!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

How many pessimists does it take to change a lightbulb?

Nevermind. Nobody would get the joke anyway.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar. There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today! Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE! And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 01/27 – 02/09

January 28, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

WSU: Jekyll and Hyde (Photo Credit Wright State University)

Thursday, January 27 – Wednesday, February 9, 2011

It seems like it’s the beginning of that time of year when hours pass too slowly and days even more so. There’s been snow on the ground for the majority of several months, but its melting seems too far in the future to even consider. The excitement of the holidays has been over for a month, and there aren’t any special events or vacations to which to look forward for quite a while. However, the plays that are up in Dayton over the next two weeks are perfect distractions from those winter doldrums, and whether you’re in the mood for a fun musical spectacle (Hello, Dolly!) or a tale of intense inner torment (Jekyll & Hyde), there’s a show for you. So… what do you plan on seeing?

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

Twelfth Night

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: After being shipwrecked, Viola pretends to be her drowned brother. When she falls in love with her employer, for whom she’s delivering love notes to the Lady Olivia, the result is a classic love triangle in this hilarious Shakespearean comedy of mistaken (and disguised) identities. HRTC sets this production in 1927 America, complete with speakeasies, tights, and all the music of the Roaring Twenties!
Dates: January 27 – February 13.
Tickets: Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Human Race Theatre Company: Twelfth Night

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

David Thomas as Leaf Coneybear (Photo Credit John Gebhardt)

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Six eclectic students in the throes of puberty compete (along with some volunteer audience members) in pursuit of spelling bee fame; the adults and hosts aren’t so far from childhood themselves! In this fun and interactive musical, the students learn where they can stand out and fit in all at the same time.
Dates: January 28 through February 13; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm.
Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse, call the box office at (937) 424-8477, or win some free through my DMM feature, s-y-n-e-r-g-y and spelling .

The Octette Bridge Club

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Story: Eight sisters in a small Rhode Island town meet twice a month for bridge and gossip; in this play set in the context of the World Wars, we see them grow closer and apart, and how their selves, relationships, and world change between 1934 and 1944.
Dates: January 27 – February 6, 2011
Tickets and More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre

Hello, Dolly!

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

The Story: Dolly Levi, adored by all (especially the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant) is a self-termed meddler, but this time, she’s scheming to arrange her own marriage, to the well-known and rich Horace Vandergelder. In this optimistic and fun musical, Dolly charms (and meddles) her way into his heart, setting up a few other matches along the way.
Dates: February 3 – 5, 10 – 12; curtains at 8:00 pm, with additional Saturday performances at 2:00 pm. Call for info on additional student and senior citizen matinees.
Tickets: Cedarville University: Tickets
More Information: Cedarville University: Theatre Season and watch for a behind-the-scenes preview article here next week!

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

I Hate Hamlet

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: In this dramatic comedy, television actor Andrew Rally is struggling in his professional and private lives, attempting to play the role of Hamlet (which he hates) and deal with his girlfriend’s unrelenting chasteness. The dilemma deepens when the ghost of John Barrymore appears to try to convince Andrew to persevere in the role… while an old deal-making friend suddenly offers Andrew the chance at a new television deal.
Dates: January 21 – 23, 28 – 29, 2011
Tickets: 888-262-3792
More Information: Playhouse South

Jekyll & Hyde

WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

The Story: Dr. Henry Jekyll studies what he perceives to be a dichotomous nature in humans, comprising good and evil; when he attempts to separate them, “he unwittingly unleashes his dark, inner self: the murderous Edward Hyde” (WSU). In this intense and thrilling musical, he battles that self and the destructiveness Hyde unleashes.
Dates: continues through Sunday, January 30.
Tickets: (937) 775-2500 (good luck getting them, but it’s worth trying)
More Information: (937) 775-3072 or DMM Review

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Beyond Therapy, by Christopher Durang

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Auditions: February 1 & 2, 7:00 pm
Performances: March 11 – 20, 2011
The Story: Manhattanites Prudence and Bruce, both seeking stable romantic relationships with their psychiatrists’ help, place personal ads. After a disastrous meeting, the two flee back to their respective therapists, who may just be more troubled than their patients. Although Prudence and Bruce overcome their mutual loathing, in true Durang fashion, the chaos doesn’t end.
Directed by Kim Warrick
More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

ONE SHORT DAY

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Cait Doyle’s Hot Mess in Manhattan

ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

The Story: Carrie Bradshaw is a Lie. In this stylistically encompassing new musical, we journey through the wilds of New York City life in an honest, hilarious, contemporary, and touching look at one woman’s interaction with the city that never sleeps. Encore Theater Company is pleased to be the host theatre for the out-of-town tryout of this New York bound musical.

Date: Saturday, February 12, 8pm at Sinclair Community College (Building 8)

Tickets: http://brushfire.e-vent.info/Events/Sinclair/Start.aspx

More Information: Encore Theater Company

s-y-n-e-r-g-y and spelling

January 26, 2011 By Dayton937 9 Comments

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

"Spelling Bee" cast. Photo credit: John Gebhardt

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Win Tickets to this show…Read on!

“Trespass. T – R – E – S…” Nine years old and fourth speller left, I paused. Were there one or two s’s in the middle? I guessed two, and with the disheartening ding of the buzzer, my chance at spelling stardom disappeared. Since then, I’ve never forgotten how to spell ‘trespass,’ or been in another bee. However, in Dayton Playhouse’s upcoming production of The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, we can all relive those childhood competitions… some of us, even onstage with the actors.

s-y-n-o-p-s-i-s

According to the show’s official website, this “hilarious tale of overachievers’ angst chronicles the experiences of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime.” Each student is eclectic and unique, from the youngest but politically aware Logainne SchwartzandGrubenniere (overseen by her overbearing, gay fathers), to the linguistic, obsessively confident, not-allowed-to-cry Marcy Park (Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, anyone?) to the pubescent (inopportunely so…) Chip Tolentino.

Bobby Mitchum as Chip Tolentino; photo credit John Gebhardt

p-r-e-c-o-c-i-o-u-s

The adults in charge are equally diverse and have barely managed to escape childhood themselves. The result is a quirky and hilarious story “filled with jubilant music, humor, and heart.”

Cast member Corinne Derusha, who plays host Rona Lisa Peretti, observed,

“Spelling Bee isn’t meant to be performed by kids [it’s aimed to be performed by adults portraying children] but with the range of ages and experiences [of our cast], it takes the audience away from that one aspect and focuses more on the characters we have created.”

d-i-d-a-c-t-i-c

This unique portrayal of children by adults is, according to director Natalie Houliston, “very revealing, [bringing] a new life and light to the struggle of the human condition.”

"Spelling Bee" cast; photo credit John Gebhardt

The characters are not the only spellers in this fictitious bee. Prior to the show, audience members can sign up with Vice Principle Panch and Rona to be considered for one of four audience speller roles. Don’t let this b-e-l-e-a-g-u-e-r you, though – these spellers don’t have to be amazing, merely willing to sit onstage and try their best!

p-a-r-t-i-c-i-p-a-n-t

The cast members have enjoyed working on this production. Derusha in particular loves the music: “[it] is brilliant. And singing it every day has been a treat. I’m going to be sad when it’s over.” Each of the cast members with which I spoke also praised the show’s direction as both professional and familial.

Charity Farrell, who plays Marcy, said,

“Natalie has been incredible to work with… she is completely open to any ideas we might have – in fact, every single suggestion that anyone has thrown out from the beginning has been answered with, ‘I’d be willing to see that!’”

Especially for a show about a student experience, that spirit of collaboration is perfect. But, this attitude has not come at the expense of quality and a clear vision, but rather alongside and promoting them.

Charity Farrell as Marcy Park; photo credit John Gebhardt

r-a-p-p-o-r-t

The cast shares this perspective : Errik Hood, vocal director and Vice-President Panch, said, “The entire cast showed up to the first rehearsal with great voices, but the truly special thing about each of them was their willingness and ability to try new ideas, experiment with new vocal colors and approaches, and to dramatically motivate each musical choice– making the singing an organic manifestation of the character instead of a superimposed or conflicting idea.”

That combination of synergy, creativity, and leadership, along with a s-t-e-l-l-a-r cast of s-p-e-l-l-e-r-s, makes Dayton Playhouse’s production of The 25^th Annual Spelling Bee a show Dayton audiences shouldn’t miss.

Performance Information

p-a-i-d-e-i-a (a compendium of general education)

Who: Complete cast – Corinne Derusha, Errik M. Hood, Lindsay Sherman, Charity Farrell, Bobby Mitchum, Matthew Smith, David Thomas, David Stone, and Hannah Berry. Directed by Natalie Houliston, with musical and vocal direction from Joe Whatley and Errik Hood, choreography by Erica Hamilton, lights by John Findley, sound by Tony Fende, costumes by Eric Winslow, and stage management by Cami Brewer.

When: January 28 through February 13; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm.

Where: 1301 Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton.

Warning: Parents strongly cautioned: “…Spelling Bee” contains strong language, adult jokes, and mature themes. Not recommended for children under 13.

To purchase tickets, visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.org or call the box office at (937) 424-8477.

Win Free Tickets!

The Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to Spelling Bee! We will be giving away up to FOUR pairs of tickets for the show! All you need to do is:

Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page (We’ll give away one pair of tickets for every TEN FB/Twitter Shares).
Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
Leave a comment, answering the following question…WHAT COMMONLY USED WORD ALWAYS TRIPS YOU UP WHEN YOU TYPE IT? You know…”D-E-S-S-E-R-T or D-E-S-E-R-T?”
The deadline to enter is NOON on FRIDAY, January 28th.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Contest Closed 1/28/2011 at Noon

Jane’s Best Bets (1/26 – 1/30)

January 25, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

It’s that time of year when many of us have already failed on our New Year’s resolutions. If you fall into this category, then perhaps you’ve already been sampling some different foods as part of Restaurant Week, one of the many events going on in the Miami Valley!

On Wednesday, if you can’t find something you’d like to eat as part of the 2011 Winter Restaurant Week (which would mean you are too picky!), there are also other food specials, such as Oyster Bar Happy Hour at Dorothy Lane Market, Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesday at Bonefish Grill, and All You Can Eat-Ribs, Chicken or Pork at Bullwinkle’s. If you would rather consume your calories through drinking, participate in the Wine Tasting at Bruning’s Wine Cellar, the Weekly Wine Tasting at The Wine Gallery, or Wine Down Weekdays at Savona Restaurant & Wine Bar. Or check out Green Drinks Dayton at Norton’s, where the environmental manager for the City of Dayton will be speaking. If you’re feeling overloaded with all that paperwork on the job (I know I do a lot of the time!), attend/view the online webinar, Take charge of your paperwork in 2011! And for all you adventure movie lovers, be sure to check out the movie Ride the Divide at The Neon.

On Thursday, make a trip to PNC 2^nd Street Market for their Soup Sampling and Recipes. Attend Lunch and Learn: Incredible Edibles at Cox Arboretum to find out techniques for building a vegetable garden. After all, spring is right around the corner. Sorry, that was a lie, but let us at least think that! If your New Year’s resolution involves improving your finances, attend the Dayton Metro Library’s Financial Literacy Class. And in case you were wondering if that event would fit into your budget, you’ll be glad to know that it is free! Enjoy happy hour and do some Networking with Dayton’s Marketing Professionals at Fox and Hound. Hear poets and vocalists perform as part of Chris Wiley: Poetry in Motion at De’Lish. I’m not sure if they’re talking about tape or liquor, but if you like scotch, then attend the Scotch Tasting/Class at Boston’s Bistro. And for a couple theater options…at Wright State, you can see Jekyll & Hyde or you can go to The Loft Theatre for Twelfth Night, which is actually taking place on the 27^th night of the month.

On Friday, join fellow young professionals for the Gen D 4th Friday Lunch Speaker Series, in which former Governor Taft will be talking about Education and Innovation. In the evening, go out to dinner with friends or that special someone as part of 2011 Winter Restaurant Week. If you’re on a budget but still want to try some good food, many restaurants are offering two dinners for the price of one! After dinner, catch one of the many shows going on in town, including The Berenstain Bears Onstage: A Bear Country Musical (which was one of my favorite book series growing up!) at Town Hall Theatre, the Dayton Opera’s Fidelio at the Schuster Center, I Hate Hamlet at Playhouse South, Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State, Twelfth Night at The Loft Theatre, or The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee at Dayton Playhouse. I’ve always heard that Bridge is for old people, so if you’re old, check out The Octette Bridge Club at Beavercreek Community Theatre. If you’re young though, don’t worry…I don’t think they card! Over at Alex’s on 725, get your dancing shoes ready as the band Off the Hook will be performing. If you love Dayton music, make your way to Canal Street Tavern for Dayton Does Dayton! And if you’re a Rascal Flatts fan like me, be sure to get tickets to see them perform at the Nutter Center as part of their “Nothing Like This” Tour!

On Saturday, if you don’t mind being super cold, help support the Special Olympics by participating in Freezin’ For A Reason- 2011 Polar Plunge at Caesar’s Creek. Again for some theater/musical performances, check out The Berenstain Bears Onstage at Town Hall Theatre, Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State, The Octette Bridge Club at the Beavercreek Community Theatre, I Hate Hamlet at The Playhouse South, Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State University, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee at Dayton Playhouse, or Twelfth Night at The Loft Theatre. If you want to drink wine but want to help counteract the killing of your brain cells, head to the Boonshoft Museum for the Science of Wine. Over at the Dayton Masonic Center, join the wonderful jumpstART with their Jump into Bluegrass for discounted tickets to see bluegrass superstar Ricky Skaggs! Or if you want to be a cowboy baby, “moooo”ve over to the Nutter Center to see Kid Rock. If you have some “spare” time and would like to “strike” up a conversation with some other young professionals, come to Woodman Lanes for Generation Dayton Goes Bowling! After you “split”, head to the St. Helen’s Fish Fry or to the Christopher Club for the Knights of Columbus 4022 Fish Fry.

On Sunday, take it easy with Gentle Yoga at the Sri Yoga Center. If you still don’t know how to skate (don’t worry, I’m in that bunch too!), attend Fundamentals of Skating at RiverScape. Again, there will be a multitude of shows to see, including Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State University, The Berenstain Bears Onstage at Town Hall Theatre, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee at Dayton Playhouse, Twelfth Night at The Loft Theatre, the Dayton Opera’s Beethoven’s Fidelio at the Schuster Center, and The Octette Bridge Club at Beavercreek Community Theatre. And finally, for a “purr-fectly” good time, help support the Humane Society of Greater Dayton by coming to the Cat Walk 2011: Diva Las Vegas, in which Dayton’s top hair salons compete on the catwalk! There will be music, drinks, food, dancing, and live entertainment!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Why is a moon rock tastier than an earth rock?

Because it’s a little meteor.

Have a great week Dayton!

Search for New Executive Director Narrowed to 2 Finalists

January 25, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

After 2009’s successful levy campaign and funding for the MetroParks secure for another decade, Executive Director Charlie Shoemaker announced his retirement. Charlie’s last day with the MetroParks will be Feb. 28, ending his nine-year tenure as director of the park system and a 33-year career with MetroParks.

Charlie Shoemaker will retire from his position as executive director by Feb. 28, 2011.

Some highlights of his career include overseeing the expansion MetroParks’ protected lands to over 15,000 acres, increasing the ratio of protected conservation areas to publically accessed spaces from 80:20 to 90:10. Five Rivers MetroParks is one of the few park districts in the state and even the nation to boast such numbers. In this writer’s opinion, one of the most enduring aspects of Charlie’s legacy will be his contribution to outdoor recreation. Under Charlie’s command, additional recreational facilities were created. The 22-mile Twin Valley Trail offers a backcountry backpacking experience stretched between Germantown and Twin Creek MetroParks. There’s also the popular MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA) located at Huffman MetroPark. Both were introduced in 2008. Facilities such as these provide people with opportunities to enjoy a personal connection with nature while instilling healthy habits close to home. Active outdoor lifestyles not only promote public health, they can help attract and retain a talented workforce to the region, and the businesses who need them.

Another progressive activity MetroParks has undertaken under Charlie’s direction is the work being done on the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan. Five Rivers MetroParks is contributing to the riverfront, cycling amenities and active lifestyle features that make Dayton an attractive place to live, work and play.

Charlie is leaving some big shoes to fill, but we are fortunate to have a pair of highly qualified candidates to take his place. Rebecca A. “Becky” Benná, director of parks and recreation for the city of Glendale, Ariz., and Stephen Madewell, Lake Metroparks director in Lake County, Ohio. Both individuals have extensive backgrounds in land stewardship and advocating outdoor lifestyles, and your chance to meet them is coming up. Sign up for one of two open house sessions taking place this Friday, Jan. 28:

• Cox Arboretum MetroPark

o Madewell: 9 -9:40 a.m.

o Benná: 9:50-10:30 a.m.

• Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark

o Madewell: 10:30- 11:10 a.m.

o Benná: 11:20 a.m. to noon

Five Rivers MetroParks is committed to bringing families opportunities to create personal connections with nature today and for generations to come.

Change can be difficult and can leave a lot of questions. The State of Ohio continues to reel from changes after the midterm elections, but we have the advantage in this instance of knowing that regardless of who takes the helm after Charlie retires, certain aspects of Five Rivers MetroParks and its mission to the region will remain consistent:

We promise to protect our natural heritage. Five Rivers MetroParks was founded in 1963 to preserve our natural spaces. We will continue this tradition, managing wildlife and this region’s natural habitats using the most practical and ecological methods available to ensure long-term health and survival. Five Rivers MetroParks will continue to protect land and waterways, nurture partnerships for local land conservation and habitat restoration, and support conservation-based educational programs and volunteer opportunities.

We promise to connect people to nature. Whether it’s through updating park areas to improve visitor experiences, teaching you the skills you need to get out doors—to go kayaking or bird watching, mountain biking or gardening—or developing nature play areas for children, Five Rivers MetroParks is committed to creating an independent outdoor lifestyle for our fellow residents and delivering a personal, long-lasting natural experience with every park visit.

We promise to enrich this region’s vitality. Five Rivers MetroParks will continue to collaborate with community partners to promote the region and showcase outdoor opportunities that advance Greater Dayton’s image and vibrancy. We will also continue to offer rewarding volunteer opportunities that foster learning and hands on application in a variety of MetroParks’ settings and disciplines.

We promise to respect your trust and continue as a model of public fiscal responsibility and integrity, giving good return on your tax investment. Five Rivers MetroParks will, where appropriate, aggressively seek alternate funding sources to stretch local tax dollars and keep spending focused on our strategic priorities while maintaining flexibility to respond to the ever changing community environment.

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to working with our new executive director as we continue to serve this population with opportunities to make a personal connection with nature.

Arts and Entertainment on a Budget

January 24, 2011 By Dayton937 3 Comments

Marsha Pippenger said it best in her article about supporting the Dayton arts scene: just go. Yet despite the plethora of arts and entertainment options in Dayton, we all have our excuses, and money is certainly a legitimate one. The arts aren’t cheap to produce, and while the high quality productions are usually worth every penny, many of us can’t afford to drop that kind of cash every weekend. That being said, my motto for 2011 is “No Excuses.” So fear not – there are plenty of discounts and freebies to go around. Here are just a few:

Oscar season is upon us, and “The King’s Speech” is certain to appear on the list of nominees. Check it out at The Neon this week; on Tuesdays, tickets are only $5! Even full-price tickets at The Neon ($8.50 for evening screenings) are a few dollars cheaper than the big-box movie theatres.

This Wednesday (1/26), preview the Human Race’s “Twelfth Night” for the price of a canned good. Ticket distribution begins at 5:30 pm (first-come, first-served); performance begins at 7 pm. If you can’t make it to Wednesday’s Pay What You Can performance, then join JumpstART on Feb. 10th for Jump Into Theatre. This young-professional branch of Culture Works is offering half-price tickets to “Twelfth Night,” plus a backstage tour.

Are you a fan of bluegrass? JumpstART is also offering discounted tickets to the Ricky Skaggs concert on Jan. 29th, presented by Cityfolk.

If jazz is more your style, then don’t miss the Eddie Brookshire Quintet on Monday, Jan. 31st at the University of Dayton. This concert is free! Learn more about this high energy ensemble at http://www.eddiebrookshiremusic.com.

Forbidden Broadway: Dances with the Stars will hit the Victoria Theatre stage on February 19th; buy your ticket online before January 28th and get 35% off. Just visit http://www.ticketcenterstage.com and use the code “DWTS”.

Dayton’s Best Kept Secret…Sounds FISHy to Me! 2011 Fish Fry Events

January 20, 2011 By Dayton937 7 Comments

Click here for the 2013 List

Dayton has a lot of great things, of which you are probably already aware. However, I’d like to fill you in on a little known secret about a special season that goes on each year here. Yes, you’re aware of our holiday seasons, as well as the four seasons of the year. To most of you, the season I am talking about might sound a little fishy. It actually started last Friday at Holy Angels Church. Have you guessed it? If you haven’t, I’m just going to flat out tell you – Dayton has the best “Fish Fry Season” around!When you hear “fish fry”, the words “boring” or “dull” may come to mind. Well let me tell you something…Dayton fish fries are nothing of the sort! Traditionally, fish fries were held on Fridays during the season of Lent as we Catholics don’t eat meat on those days. However, with the many Catholic parishes/schools and other organizations out there, and the amazing popularity of fish fries, they have expanded to Fridays outside of Lent as well. At a typical fish fry, you will be able to experience an amazing evening full of fish, chips (fries really), beer, silent auctions, black jack, poker, and much more! Plus, the cost you pay is significantly less than the amount you would spend on a night out on the town…and it supports a good cause! So, regardless of whether you are Catholic or not, definitely make a point to “catch” at least one or more of these great fish fries this season.

January 21 – St. Albert

January 22 (Saturday) – St. Christopher

January 29 (Saturday) – Knights of Columbus 4022

January 29 (Saturday) – St. Helen

February 4 – Ascension

February 4 – St. Mary

February 11 – St. Henry/Bishop Leibold

February 12 (Saturday) – St. Peter

February 25 – Alter High School

March 11 – Carroll High School

March 11 – Incarnation

March 18 – St. Anthony

March 19 (Saturday) – Chaminade Julienne High School

March 25 – St. Charles

My Friend Amy and I at a Past St. Albert Fish Fry

The details for some of these fish fries are not yet available. However, I will post them on the DMM event calendar as I get more information, so please be sure to check there if you are interested! Also, if you know of another fish fry going on, please be sure to share it in the comments section below!

Oh…and how could I leave without sharing a dumb joke?

What did the fish say when it swam into the wall? Dam!

Happy Fish Fryin’!

Jane’s Best Bets (1/19 – 1/23)

January 18, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

I have to be honest…writing this column each week has been a bit overwhelming, and this week is no exception! As I have been researching events to share with you, I have realized that there are just TOO MANY great things going on in Dayton from which to choose! In an effort to reduce the time it would take you to read about all the events going on this week, I have narrowed them down to a hopefully more manageable number!

On Wednesday, you can yell “checkmate” as part of the Chess Club at the East Branch of the Dayton Metro Library…or perhaps you better whisper it since you’ll be at the library. Test your dance moves with Zumba at the East End Community Center. Since you worked out, you can head over to Nick’s Restaurant for their Kahlua Tasting (you can’t go wrong with kahlua!), The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting, The Caroline for their Eel River Brewing Company Beer Tasting, or Savona Restaurant & Wine Bar for their Wine Down Weekdays! Or check out the movie Bill Monroe: Father of Bluegrass Music at The (Fabulous) Neon.

On Thursday, if you don’t know much about twitter, be sure to check out How To Use Twitter for Business. When I gave up Facebook for Lent last year (except on Sundays, which was still incredibly difficult!), I created a Twitter account to “replace” it. However, to this day, I still don’t know how to use it, so I could definitely benefit from this workshop! If you think ice skating is a breeze, learn some additional skills at RiverScape as part of So You Think You Can Skate? I definitely wouldn’t be able to cut it for that one, but perhaps you are much more talented than I am! Over at the Dayton Art Institute, check out the Dayton Philharmonic’s The King’s Theme: Bach’s A Musical Offering…who could turn down beautiful music in a beautiful environment? While you’re there, be sure to take advantage of their Free Third Thursdays, as you will get free admission to two of their exhibits! And finally, whether you’re good or bad, check out Jekyll & Hyde, which will be performed at Wright State.

On Friday, learn the basics of Bread Baking at the PNC 2^nd Street Market. Some music options are the Dayton Philharmonic’s ‘Bach: A Musical Offering’ at the Schuster Center, Betty Buckley – Broadway by Request at the Clark State Performing Arts Center, and Bruce Jordan with Sinclair Jazz Ensemble at Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theater. I Hate Hamlet. Sorry to all the English teachers I have had in the past. Actually, this is the name of a dramatic comedy you can see at The Playhouse South. You can also catch Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State and Ravenscroft at the Dayton Theatre Guild. And no matter your religious affiliation, if you missed the kick-off to fish fry season this past weekend at Holy Angels, be sure to head to St. Albert the Great for their Fish Fry!

On Saturday, get some tips on taking care of plants over the winter with the Plant Doctors at the PNC 2^nd Street Market. If you’ve never tried yoga and you’re wondering what all the hype is about, head to the Sri Yoga Open House at Sri Yoga Center, where you will be able to participate in FREE yoga classes! Bring the whole family to Victoria Theatre for The Gizmo Guys – Comedic Juggling Duo. If you have an ear for music, head to Aullwood Audubon Center & Farm for the Moon over Aullwood Musical Performance, Gilly’s for the Dayton Blues Society Winter Blues Showcase, or to Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theater for the Community Wind Symphony Concert. Or if you’re like me and are a fan of music by THE Eagles (I can’t remember if any of them are bald), then head to the Schuster Center for ‘One of These Nights: Music of the Eagles’. To catch some theater, purchase tickets to Ravenscroft at Dayton Theatre Guild, I Hate Hamlet at The Playhouse South, Seth Rudetsky’s Big Fat Broadway Show at Clark State Performing Arts Center, or Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State University. For a thrill, check out AMA Arenacross- Professional Racing at the Nutter Center. Plus, be sure to get the DaytonMostMetro.com discount for Saturday’s show ($4 off your ticket) by entering the promo code MMETRO! And finally, although it was a tough loss to Xavier, hopefully the Flyers will get a victory when they take on Fordham at the UD Arena…and hopefully you’ll be there to cheer them on!

On Sunday, you will be able to attend one of the events you may have missed earlier in the weekend, such as the AMA Arenacross- Amateur Racing at the Nutter Center, The Gizmo Guys – Comedic Juggling Duo at Victoria Theatre, I Hate Hamlet at The Playhouse South, Jekyll & Hyde at Wright State, or Ravenscroft at Dayton Theatre Guild. If you like art, you can catch the Wright State University 2011 Faculty Exhibition. And for all you social justice activists out there, head to the Dayton International Peace Museum for their exhibit, Under Our Noses: Modern Day Slavery and What You Can Do About It.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

How do you identify a bald eagle?

All his feathers are combed over to one side.

Have a great week Dayton!

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre – 01/13 – 01/26

January 13, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Muse Machine: Into the Woods / Photo Credit: Muse Machine

Thursday, January 13, 2011 – Wednesday, January 26, 2011

At tonight’s rehearsal for the show I’m stage managing, we ran Act I in its entirety for the first time. Sitting with my prompt book and taking notes, I couldn’t help but feel hopeful at the way this collection of scenes and songs we’ve been working on since November, in some small way at least, is becoming a show. It’s exciting, but also intimidating. Somehow it’s 2011 already, time to start meeting those resolutions and accomplishing things. The holidays are over and things we began last year, when 2011 seemed some part of the future, are now part of the present. Some days I feel like life is moving too quickly, and it’s all I can do just to keep up.

But, the shows in Dayton these next few weeks seem perfect for how I’ve been feeling already. From the comedy to the mystery, I think the theatres have hit the vast spread of emotions that come with the new year, and that’s true for other people and situations. So, you should join me in catching one of these shows over the next two weeks – or, if you’re in the mood for a little something more, audition for one of them yourself.

ANOTHER OPENIN’, ANOTHER SHOW

…Shows Opening Soon

I Hate Hamlet

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Dates: January 21 – 23, 28 – 29, 2011

Tickets: 888-262-3792

More Information: Playhouse South

…Shows Closing Soon

Into the Woods

Students rehearse for Into the Woods (photo credit Muse Machine).

MUSE MACHINE

The Story: After a Witch curses a Baker and his wife with childlessness, the couple embarks on a quest for special objects from classic fairy tales to break the spell, stealing from and lying to Cinderella, Little Red, Rapunzel, and Jack (of beanstalk fame). But the characters didn’t count on the consequences of their actions or the disasters that would ensue…

Dates: January 13 – 16, 2011

Tickets:(937) 228-3630 or Ticket Center Stage: Muse Machine

More Information: Muse Machine: Into the Woods, DMM Feature, DMM Event

Ravenscroft

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: In this comedy about deception and the nature of truth, when Inspector Ruffing is called to a remote English county manor house to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke, he becomes involved in the lives of five alluring and dangerous women who lead him through an evening of contradictory versions of Patrick’s demise, including ghosts, skeletons, and much more than he bargained for. (DTG)

Dates: January 7 – 23, 2011

Tickets: 937-278-5993 or DTG Box Office

More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild: Ravenscroft, DMM Review, DMM Event

PART OF IT ALL

…Auditions and Casting Calls

Titus Andronicus

SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

William Shakespeare

Auditions: January 17 & 18, 2011, 7:00 pm

Performances: April 14 – 23, 2011

The Story: In this intense Shakespearean classic, Roman war general Titus Andronicus has just returned from battle to find all but four of his twenty sons dead; his ritual sacrifice of the sons of Tamora, Queen of the Goths, earns him her despise and promise of revenge. What follows is an insane struggle of power and betrayal in this gritty tragedy.

Directed by Larry Coressel

More Information: Springfield StageWorks: Auditions

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Auditions: January 24 & 25, 2011; callbacks January 26

Performances: March 25 – April 9, 2011

The Story: This musical, the first collaboration between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, explores the Biblical saga of Joseph through an exciting variety of musical styles. The prophetic Joseph is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, where he “endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged” as he struggles to survive in a new land and move past his brothers’ betrayal.

Directed by Jennifer Skudlarek

More Information: Playhouse South

ONE SHORT DAY

…Special Events for the Theatrically Minded

3 Mo’ Divas

3 Mo' Divas (Photo Credit Douglas Brown, 2008)

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION – SCHUSTER CENTER

The Basics: According to VTA, “Delivering ten musical styles spanning 200 years in one evening, these three ladies–all classically trained vocalists–will raise the roof with their class, sass and style! 3 Mo’ Divas is a one-night-only concert that delivers some stupendous genre-jumping feats, from opera to R&B, from Broadway to blues, from soul to gospel and more.”

Date: January 16, 2011

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage

More information: Victoria Theatre Association: 3 Mo’ Divas , 3 Mo’ Divas official website, DMM Event

Jane’s Best Bets (1/12 – 1/16)

January 11, 2011 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

I’m ready for another great week…and the official kick-off to “Fish Fry Season” this Friday! If you don’t like fish, don’t worry, as there are plenty of other options as well!

On Wednesday, head to The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting. Wear your Flyer gear and head to the UD Arena to watch UD play St. Joseph’s. If you like live music, watch Frozen Feet (which is probably pretty accurate this time of year) at Oregon Express or check out the Old Time Acoustic Jam at The Trolley Stop. Oh…and if you’re like me and kill every plant you come in contact with, get some good plant advice at Cox Arboretum for Lunch and Learn: Fool Proof Plants.

On Thursday, be one of the first 50 customers at PNC 2^nd Street Market for their Customer Appreciation Days in order to receive a gift. While there, enjoy musical entertainment and also participate in their Winter Flower Arranging. Help out 4 Paws for Ability, a wonderful charity that helps people with disabilities by attending their Charity Quarter Auction at the American Legion. If you love acoustic music, head to Dublin Pub to see Nick Mitchell perform. It’s cold outside so go INTO Victoria Theatre for Into the Woods. And finally, I’d love to see you at The Wine Loft for Generation Dayton’s Thirsty Thursday! Plus, you’ll have a chance to win a Wine Loft gift card!

On Friday, again head to PNC 2^nd Street Market for one of their Customer Appreciation Days and their Winter Flower Arranging. I know this is DaytonMostMetro.com, but if you’re feeling like doing a little traveling, I’ll give you the okay just this once to go to Cincinnati for The 53rd Annual Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show. If you are in the advertising industry, head to Brixx for their Hermes Call for Entries & Happy Hour. While you’re downtown, brave the elements by attending the Star-Late Skate at RiverScape. Or attend At the Movies with Rodgers & Hammerstein at the Schuster Center, Into the Woods presented by Muse Machine at Victoria Theatre, or Ravenscroft at Dayton Theatre Guild. And finally, help kick-off fish fry season by attending the Holy Angels Fish Fry and Silent Auction!

On Saturday, head to Spinoza’s for their Yeti Beer Breakfast!, where they will also have live jazz music. What a great way to start your Saturday! You can continue the eating out tradition for the day by attending the Wine Luncheon at Jay’s Seafood…which is absolutely delicious! Up in Yellow Springs, head to their Winter Farmer’s Market. Over at another kind of market, the PNC 2^nd Street Market, bring the kids and participate in their Winter Family Fun Day. If you really should be working on that next house project, head to the Miami Valley Home Improvement Show for some great ideas! Give your skating skills a try as part of Ice Skating with Generation Dayton. Don’t worry, if you fall…I mean when you fall…you’ll be in great company! For some theater action, get tickets to see Into the Woods at Victoria Theatre, Ravenscroft at Dayton Theatre Guild, At the Movies with Rodgers & Hammerstein at the Schuster Center, or Justin & Ryan: A Night of Improv, which is also at the Schuster Center. Help the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation by attending the Let it Breathe Wine Opener at Taj Ma Garaj. Or head over to Blind Bob’s for the North Main Flower Man Benefit, which will feature several bands. Why not party AND support a good cause?!?!

On Sunday, head over to Books & Co. for their Second Sunday Free Writers’ Workshop. If you’re feeling like life is a little too hectic and would like to hit the pause button, just head over to Pause to Ponder at Gallery St. John to see photographs of scenes from Dayton. Or see A Student of People Exhibit, which is an exhibit featuring people from different walks of life. If you still haven’t made it to the Miami Valley Home Improvement Show, make your way there to get some fantastic ideas for your home. Love prime rib? Treat yourself and perhaps someone else (if you’re really nice) by heading over to Fleming’s for their Prime Rib Dinner, which is featured at the special price of $29.95. If you would like to catch a show, see Into the Woods at the Victoria Theatre or Ravenscroft at the Dayton Theatre Guild. And if your taste in music is rather eclectic, definitely check out 3 Mo’ Divas at the Schuster Center…which sounds like it will be a great performance!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Why couldn’t the pony talk?

He was a little horse.

“These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar. There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today! Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE! And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Speaker Series Brings Adventure to You

January 11, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Winter’s got us in its icy grips, and as cabin fever sets in, I’d like to point out you have alternatives to more extreme amusement options, such as cat fashion shows or Lifetime movie marathons. Instead, you could get inspired with the Adventure Speaker Series.

Head to WSU Feb. 8 for Allison Gannett's Global Cooling Adventure Show

Four daring presentations lead up to the apex of the series—the Global Cooling Adventure Show. World champion extreme free skier and actor Alison Gannett has dedicated her life to saving our snow, water, and ecosystems from the devastating effects of climate change. Named an Outside Magazine Green All-Star of the Year, she has designed and built a straw house, converted the world’s first solar-powered 100 MPG SUV, and has led ski expeditions to document glacial recession around the world. Now you can take part in a free presentation at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 in the Wright State University Student Union.

Part of the Presidential Lecture Series, Gannett’s presentation takes you along on her journey to save the world. From straight-lining vertical faces in Alaska to first ascents in Pakistan, Gannett has spent most of her life working on solutions to Global Warming. She has led ski expeditions to document global warming in Bolivia, Argentina, Bhutan, India, South Africa, Pakistan, France, Switzerland, Canada and the US. She also travels the world as a global cooling consultant.

Join local adventurers as they share their stories: http://www.metroparks.org/adventuresummit

Check out all the upcoming presentations, including this Wednesday’s feature of local explorer Andy Niecamp, who will share his stories of hiking the 2,200-mile-long Appalachian Trail.

The Adventure Speaker Series debuted this year as the biennial rotation with The Adventure Summit, a weekend-long outdoor exploration expo, which will return in 2012. You can learn more about the Adventure Speaker Series at www.metroparks.org/adventuresummit.

Jane’s Best Bets (1/5 – 1/9)

January 5, 2011 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope that 2011 has many great things in store for all of you! Hopefully some of these events can help to make it that way!

On Wednesday, for a tasty dinner at a reasonable price, head to the Bonefish Grill for Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesdays, Sammy’s El Pueblo for their Fajita Dinner for 2 for $19.99, or Champps for their 9.99 Fajitas. If you really wanted to eat fajitas and save money, you should go to Champps since you could get two fajita dinners for a whole penny cheaper…just sayin’. Help promote the Five Rivers MetroParks’ Outdoor Recreation Department by attending their Volunteer: Street Tream Training. And if you are environmentally conscious, attend the Environmental Film Series: End of the Line at Cox Arboretum…which is absolutely free!

On Thursday, enjoy a glass or two of wine along with your dinner at the delicious Coco’s Bistro where they have 1/2 Price Wine Bottles. If you are in downtown Miamisburg, head to TJ Chumps for their Three Course Thursday-All Day and/or A Taste of Wine (which is right across the street) for their Wine Tasting. Sorry, I may not be helping your New Year’s resolution to lose weight. And in the evening, all you Dancing with the Stars fans will want to see Mark Ballas as he performs at McGuffy’s.

On Friday, after perhaps your first full week of working in a little while, head downtown for the First Friday Art Hop! If someone asks you about the Riverscape ice rink, say “I’ll be there” so that you can enjoy the thrill of ice skating as part of the King of Pop Skate. For a different style of music, join the Dayton Philharmonic as they perform ‘Titanic Brahms, Vibrant Liebermann’ at the Schuster Center. Over at the Dayton Theatre Guild, see the show Ravenscroft. And finally, up in Yellow Springs, head to Emporium Wines/Underdog Café for a Wine Tasting accompanied by live music.

On Saturday, head to the Yellow Springs Winter Farmer’s Market – just don’t tell any secrets because remember…a corn has ears! While you’re there, bring some items that will help you de-clutter your house, items you would like to share with others, or an unwanted Christmas gift as part of the Really Really Free Market at Emporium Wines/Underdog Café in Yellow Springs. I have never participated in anything like this, but it sounds like an awesome idea! For more info, check out this link. If you got engaged over the holidays and are trying to navigate your ways through all the wedding planning, head to the Dayton Bridal Expo at the Dayton Convention Center. With the amount of food allergies on the rise, consider attending Dorothy Lane Market’s Gluten-Free Food Lovers’ Club: How to eat your way throughout the year. And in the evening if you are downtown, head to RiverScape for their Star-Late Skate, the Dayton Theatre Guild for Ravenscroft, or the Schuster Center for ‘Titanic Brahms, Vibrant Liebermann’. And if you decide to head over to McGuffy’s, you’ll be swinging, sliding, and perhaps doing a little bit of monkey barring as the 90s band Marcy Playground performs.

On Sunday, chase those winter blues away by heading to the Mu Crew Pool Party at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall. Over at the Dayton Art Institute, participate in the two T’s – Tour and Tea. If you love to write, get a little help by heading over to Books & Co. for their Second Sunday Free Writers’ Workshop. And finally, over at the Dayton Theatre Guild, if you haven’t already done so, be sure to check out Ravenscroft.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

“Doctor! Something’s wrong! I’m shrinking!”

“Take it easy, sir. You’ll just have to be a little patient.”

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (12/29 – 1/2)

December 29, 2010 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

With Christmas shopping finished, Christmas decorations put away until next year (if you’re an overachiever), and 75% off Christmas sales, it’s time to say goodbye to Christmas and hello to a brand spanking new year!

On New Year’s Eve Eve Eve (Wednesday), enjoy some good food at Champps for their 9.99 Fajitas or go to the Bonefish Grill for their Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesdays. “EVE”n though it’s not officially New Year’s Eve, drink some bubbly as part of the Champagne Tasting at Arrow Wine or the Special Sparkling Tasting at Chin’s Ginger Grill. You may not need to get a cab for this “cab”aret show, but perhaps you may take a trip to Canal Street Tavern for Believe It Or Not It’s Just Me. And finally, I do believe that the Flyers are going to pull off a win as they play George Mason at UD Arena.

On New Year’s Eve Eve (Thursday), if your New Year’s resolution is to cook more, attend the Couples Cooking Class at Culinary Company. If it is to cook less, then practice by eating out at Rue Dumaine as part of their $25 Prix Fixe Menu. I’m glad I just have to write about it and not talk about it because I’m sure I’d butcher that name. Which reminds me of the butcher who backed into his meat grinder and got a little behind in his work. Sorry…I couldn’t pass up that one! Moving on…if you like live music, head to the Oregon District for The Original Acoustic Revival Open Mic Stage at The Trolley Stop or the Blues Jam at Oregon Express. And for those of you with kids, take them to the Kids’ New Year’s Eve at the Boonshoft for a fun time!

On New Year’s Eve (Friday), you can leave your kids at the babysitter’s. But first, you might want to take them to see the Harlem Globetrotters at the Nutter Center. I remember my dad taking me to see them as a kid and they were amazing! He says that every kid should see them at least once, so if you have the opportunity, get tickets! Afterwards, go out for a fabulous dinner at one of the many restaurants celebrating New Year’s Eve with special meals, including Amelia’s Bistro, El Meson, The Melting Pot, Meadowlark Restaurant, or Rue Dumaine. Or, do a little “pre-gaming” at the Beer Tasting at Arrow Wine. Even if you’re not Italian, attending the Dayton Philharmonic’s ‘New Year’s Eve Concert: Viva Italia!’ at the Schuster Center is a good option! And for all you hockey lovers, watch the Dayton Gems take on the Evansville Icemen at Hara Arena as part of the Biggest Family New Year’s Eve Party in Dayton. If you’re not heading off to a party, there are a variety of places around town to ring in the new year, including the New Year’s Eve Skateat RiverScape, the Black and White Ball at Bar Louie, The big NYE Party at El Meson, and the New Year’s Eve Party at Wiley’s. And like I’ve said before, please drink responsibly. Free cab rides are being offered to Montgomery County residents so be sure to take advantage! Just remember…449-9999!

On New Year’s Day (Saturday), for Pete’s sake, please sleep in…and perhaps take the day easy by watching some football on the couch! If you do venture out, head over to RiverScape for their New Year’s Day Skate. You will still be able to see Virginia Kettering’s Holiday Train Display at Kettering Tower. After a crazy busy few weeks, attend Candlelight Yoga & Meditation at Practice Yoga on Fifth for a little relaxation. And finally, watch some UD basketball action as the Flyers take on New Mexico at UD Arena.

On post-New Year’s Day (Sunday), again I hope you find some time to relax and watch some football since it’s the last day of the regular season! If you don’t have a place to watch the games, head to The Dock for 79 Cent Draft Beer Football Happy Hour. If you’re not a football fan, head to Little Art Theatre for Brunch and a movie. Or head to the Dayton Art Institute to see 100 Years of African-American Art: The Arthur Primas Collection, Marking the Past/Shaping the Present: The Art of Willis ‘Bing’ Davis, or the Max May Memorial Holocaust Art Exhibition.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week (well actually a couple one-liners!). Drum roll please…

A New Year’s resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other.

When everything is coming your way, you’re in the wrong lane.

Have a great week Dayton…and Happy New Year!