Dayton Most Metro

Actors Needed for “FutureFest”

May 24, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Dayton Playhouse will hold auditions for it’s annual “FutureFest” new play festival on the following dates: Sunday, June 3 at 2 p.m. (all plays, except Provenance), Monday, June 4 at 7 p.m. (all fully staged plays), and Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. (all staged readings).

FutureFest is a festival of previously unproduced plays, which have been submitted from playwrights across the United States. Hundreds of submissions are read and the top six are selected to be performed at the festival. Playwrights of these plays will attend the festival, as will five adjudicators from across the country. Three plays will be performed as staged readings and three will be fully staged over the 3-day festival. Feedback will be given by adjudicators and audience members and a festival winner will be selected. This year marks the 22^nd “FutureFest,” which is the largest new play festival in the country sponsored by a community theatre.

The finalists in this year’s “FutureFest” include:

A Political Woman, Directed by Cynthia Karns (fully staged)

Provenance, directed by David Shough (staged reading)

Nureyev’s Eyes, directed by Annie Pesch (staged reading)

Curve, directed by Jim Lockwood (fully staged)

Excavation, directed by Nancy Campbell (staged reading)

This Rough Magic, directed by Gayle Smith (fully staged)

Auditions will consist of cold readings from the scripts. Full cast information is available at www.daytonplayhouse.org.

Auditions will be held at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414. Those auditioning should bring a list of any scheduling conflicts through July 29. Rehearsals are typically in the evening, or on weekends.

FutureFest performances will be July 27-29. To purchase tickets to the festival visit www.daytonplayhouse.org, or call the Dayton Playhouse box office Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 2–5 p.m. Weekend passes are $95 to see all shows and go on sale June 4. Individual show tickets will go on sale July 2^nd.

The Dayton Playhouse is a community theatre providing outstanding theatrical productions to Miami Valley audiences of all ages for more than fifty years. The Playhouse is nationally recognized for “FutureFest,” a festival of new plays.

Occupy Dayton hosts area premiere of Aaron Calafato’s ‘For Profit’

May 23, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 2 Comments

The provocative new solo-play ‘For Profit’ by Aaron Calafato, hosted by Occupy Dayton, will be presented June 1, 2, and 3 at the Occupy Dayton Community Space at 2720 E 3rd Street, Dayton, OH 45403.

For Profit examines the exploitation of the American student through the eyes of an unwilling admissions adviser at a for-profit college. A Q&A session will be held after each performance. The play’s main character, Aaron, is a recent college graduate with large student loan payments to make. He takes a position as a college recruiter but finds the job is really a high pressure sales position – one that requires him to lure people into indebtedness for education that offers them little chance at success.

Daniel Luzer of the Washington Monthly wrote: “The question Calafato asks is perhaps central to how this whole system functions. Calafato was willing to work as a recruiter for a proprietary college—peddling expensive programs to people who might not be able to service their student loans with the degrees they might obtain—after all, because he himself had student loans, from his time at Bowling Green State University, to pay off. This is what debt does to people.”

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlLE9dihT0A’]

The Occupy movement sees similarities in the way that secondary education is financed and the sub-prime mortgage problems. Many believe that student debt presents a similar risk to the economy, and Occupy Student Debt was formed to focus specifically on this issue. Aaron Calafato is an actor, writer, and storyteller. He is a recent recipient of a 2012 Emerging Artist Grant from the Puffin Foundation. He has been featured on NPR (WCPN), RT American, The Chronicle for Higher Education, Campus Progress, WEWS Channel 5, The Fiscal Times, The Hill, and Washington Monthly, and FSLD.com He’s also a contributing writer for Pluck Online Magazine and Occupy Student Debt FOR PROFIT previewed in Cleveland, Ohio and made its New York City premiere in March at the Seeing Place Theater. The show is currently on a year-long multi-city tour.

Friday and Saturday performances will be at 7:30, and Sunday’s matinee is scheduled for 4:30. A donation of $9.99 per ticket is suggested for all performances. Advance tickets available at:
Ghostlight Coffee, 1201 Wayne Ave. Dayton
The Reiki Room of Dayton, 848-B E. Franklin St. Centerville
Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St. Dayton.

(submitted by For Profit in Dayton Team)

Dayton History Heritage Festival

May 22, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Join Dayton History at Carillon Park this Memorial Day weekend and celebrate Dayton’s history from its founding in 1796 through present day during a one-day community festival – the Dayton Heritage Festival.

Features:

All 30 historic buildings and structures open – with demos & hands-on activities at 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Kids Zone -inflatable’s, crafts, face painting activities at 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Time Warner Cable’s CaMM Passport Program activities at 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Dayton Carousel of Innovation at 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. ($1.00 fee)
Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society small-scale trains operating 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. ($1.00 fee)
The Clodbusters (vintage base ball team) demonstrations all day
Americana-style food and beverage for sale at 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Live entertainment all day:
Classic Jazz Stompers at 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Hey There Morgan at 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
DPO rehearsal at 2:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Special performance by the Carillon Park Concert Band at 6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Feature performance by the DPO at 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Feature performance by the Dayton Ballet
Deeds Carillon’s spectacular fireworks finale presented by Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC at 9:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Date: Sunday, May 27th (Rain date – May 28th)

Park Opens: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE ($5 per car for parking) Parking available at Carillon Park and Welcome Stadium with RTA trolley shuttle service provided.

** No carried-in food or beverage permitted. **

For additional information, call 937-293-2841 or visit www.daytonhistory.org

Encore Theater Company – Audition Announcement

May 21, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Encore Theater Company announces open auditions for TWO upcoming productions –35MM (a new musical in development as part of The Human Race Theatre Company’s Festival of New Musicals – August 2012) and the regional premiere of BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON (Fall 2012). Both productions will take place Downtown Dayton.

“ETC is pleased to once again join forces with The Human Race with 35mm with music by Ryan Scott Oliver – one of the most exciting new voices in musical theatre.,” says David Brush, ETC artistic director.

AUDITION: Video Audition Submission submitted electronically
DEADLINE for video submission: JUNE 1, Midnight

CALLBACKS: June 12, 7PM (Callback if needed)

REGISTRATION:
Email [email protected] with the following info & attachments
1) Name (as you would wish it to appear in print),

Age, Sex, preferred Phone & Email Address, Title of audition selections.

2) Current Performance Resume (attachment)
3) a Digital Video File Audition as described below, or a link to the video

uploaded on a hosting website (YouTube, Facebook, etc ).

VIDEO MUST CONTAIN:

1) At the beginnning of the video, please slate (“Hello, my name is … & I will

be performing …”)

2) Sing a 32-bar/2-minute selection from contemporary musical theatre or a

current pop/rock song. While a cappella performances are acceptable,

preference is for live or vocals-free pre-recorded accompaninment.

3) An approximate 1-minute monologue from a contemporary theatre piece.

No Shakespeare.

SHOW INFO/CASTING

35mm: A Musical Exhibition
Songs by Ryan Scott Oliver * Based on the photography of Matthew Murphy

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words, but what about a song? Can one picture inspire a song? How about fifteen photos? In 35MM, each photo creates a different song completely disconnected from the other creating fifteen different and unique moments frozen in time; a glimmer of a life unfolding, a glimpse of something happening. This stunning new multimedia musical explores a groundbreaking new concept in musical theatre. With music and lyrics by Ryan Scott Oliver (Composer of Disney Theatricals’ upcoming stage musical Freaky Friday) and the contemporary photography of Matthew Murphy, this intricately woven collection of stories told through song re-imagines what the modern American musical can be.

AUGUST 3-4, 2012 – The Loft Theatre
(Rehearsals – Evenings, July 2012)
Seeking 3 men (baritone and tenor) and 2 women (alto, belty mezzo) – pop rock voices

Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson
Music and Lyrics by Michael Friedman * Book by Alex Timbers

BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON tells the story of America’s first political maverick. A.J. kicked British butt, shafted the Indians and smacked down the Spaniards all in the name of these United States–who cares if he didn’t have permission? An exhilarating and white-knuckled look at one of our nation’s founding rock stars, BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON recreates and reinvents the life of “Old Hickory,” from his humble beginnings on the Tennessee frontier to his days as our seventh Commander-in-Chief. ETC is pleased to present this premiere FRESH from Broadway and perfect for election year!

October/November 2012 – Location TBD
(Rehearsals – September/October 2012)

Character Breakdown

ANDREW JACKSON

A roguish, man’s president. Deeply charming and sexy, so much so that you somehow don’t mind he’s a violent, arrogant, bigoted idiot. Fights passionately for what he believes in. Personifies “strong but wrong.” Ages throughout the show so should be able to play young. Must be adept at deadpan comedy. Guitar-playing a plus.

20s-Early 30s Up to a G belt High baritone rock

BANDLEADER

Dark and dangerous.

Late teens – 20s.

BLACK FOX

Native American chief. Intelligent, somber, with a hint of danger. Used to work alongside Jackson, an alliance that led him to tricking and betraying other tribes for Jackson. By the end of the show, he’s forced to beg his friend for mercy. Doubles as other roles, usually with Clay or Calhoun. Mid 20s-Mid 30s

FEMALE SOLOIST

Sings “Ten Little Indians”; Self-confident, attractive singer with powerful, emotive indie rock voice. Dark, mysterious, hip vibe. Doubles as other roles. Think Dresden Dolls, not musical theater. 20s Up to Bb Alto

HENRY CLAY

A backwoods version of Calhoun’s villainous senator. Think Crispin Glover. Greasy hair. Wears weasel pelts. Over-the-top and vivacious. Transparent in his villainy and revels in it. Tall, cadaverous. Doubles as other roles, usually with Black Fox. Late 20s-Mid 30s Baritone

JAMES MONROE

President of the United States. Old school American aristocracy. Foppish and overwhelmed. Exasperated by Jackson’s overreaching as well as by the idiocy of his advisors. Doubles as other roles.

Early-mid30s

JOHN C. CALHOUN

Gentlemen senator from the South. Sinister, good-looking, charming, and brilliant. A vain mastermind. Wears the finest clothes. The most restrained of the cabal. Tall, thin. Doubles as other roles, usually with Andrew Sr. Late 20s-Mid 30s Baritone

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS

Former President’s son. Whiny, spoiled, demanding. All grown up, has joined the Calhoun-Clay cabal. Really, really wants to be President. Like, right now. Think Bud Frump. Doubles as other roles. Early 20s-Early 30s Baritone

LYNCOYA

Adopted Native American son of Andrew Jackson. Sweet disposition with a wild streak.

MALE SOLOIST

Brooding, intense rocker with powerful, emotive indie rock voice. Angsty, good-looking, young, hip. Doubles as other roles. Think The Killers or Blink-182, not musical theater.

Late teens – Mid 20s rock Baritone

MARTIN VAN BUREN

Jackson’s right hand man. In over his head. A buffoon, well-intentioned and utterly lovable. Think Nicely-Nicely. Doubles as other roles. 20s-Mid 30s

RACHEL JACKSON

Jackson’s wife. Deeply religious and devoted, even maternal, to Jackson. Good if older than Jackson. Strangely alluring, not overtly sexual. Amy Sedaris-type. Doubles as other roles.

Mid 20s-Mid 30s

THE STORYTELLER

Milquetoast, oppressively good-natured narrator. Wears a Puff the Magic Dragon-style sweater, thick glasses, and her hair in a bun. Loves history, loves Jackson, and loves telling the audience about both. Being in this show might be the most exciting moment in her life. If played by a younger actress, can double with other roles.

Late 30s-late 60s

VARIOUS FRONTIERSMEN, INDIANS, and SOLDIERS

20s-30s Male and Female. Double as other roles. Very strong pop voices.

Movie Night: ‘Raise the Red Lantern’ @ DAI – TICKET CONTEST

May 21, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

A Music Review of Dayton’s Urban Nights Event

May 19, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

HeyThereMorgan

This past Friday night, Dayton hosted the annual Urban Nights. Urban Nights is an event that twice a year (one time in the spring, and one time in the fall) Dayton highlights downtown with music, art, dining, retail, and urban living. More than 100 places were showcased during the evening. As being a music junkie, I had to go around and see all the local music that was filling the Dayton skies.

I brought a couple of friends of mine, and we decided to start at the Main Stage on Courthouse Square. There, we saw that HeyThere Morgan was beginning to start their set. HeyThere Morgan is a three-piece band that played cover songs from classic rock to modern hits. Some cover bands don’t do the justice and respect that the originals are destined to have. Some cover bands try too hard to spin it to make the songs their own. By doing that, the cover band becomes a band that loses its flare. HeyThere Morgan wasn’t one of those cover bands. They smoothly transitioned between each song. The band claims to be able to tailor their shows to the crowd, and they were true. Having never seen the band before, and seeing a number of cover bands, HeyThere Morgan were entertaining and fun to watch.

Dan Raridan (Photo by Gary Mitchell)

Next up, we walked over to the Yellow Cab Company building over on East Fourth Street. The building hosted ‘The Sideshow Lucky No. 7’. The festival featured 50 local artists that included paintings, photography, and sculptures. All the art had the feel of freedom of expression. The artists who did the work seemed to let the creativity run wild. Truly some of the most mind-blowing artwork I have ever seen.

The band that we saw while at The Sideshow was Dan Raridan & The Calientes. Having heard about them thru people in and around Dayton for the past couple of months, I was looking forward to seeing what they were going to bring to the show. While most of the bands were alternative, Raridan and crew brought their own sound to the mix. The guitars were rich in sound. The vocals had soul. So many different variations and influences soared out of the band. Imagine Blues and Punk unified together. Raridan &The Calientes did it with ease. All the talk surrounding the band previously before seeing them was comforting. The crowd and the band gained an appreciation to one another. It was a very tranquil moment.

Ape the Ghost

Two bands in the books, we decided to head to the Oregon District to see the action there. The sun had settled into the sky, and moved over to let the moon have its moment. When we arrived to the Oregon District, we were lucky enough to see Ape the Ghost starting their set at Trolley Stop.

Remember that time when you first heard a song or a band that you just knew it would change your view of music? That sound coming from the instruments. That hunger for wanting more. ATG’s soft folk sound, mixed with dreamy lyrics made the large crowd feel that way. It was delightful to see throughout the set the crowd grew more and more. People stopped and marveled at what they were being witness to. If their influences were standing there at that time, smiles from them would go cheek to cheek. Incredible. Ape the Ghost’s set will go down as one of the top sets ever in Urban Nights history. If you miss it, I am truly sorry you did. If you did see it, I know you feel the same as I do.

Urban Nights provided everyone the sense of pride in the town’s music scene. It also showed everyone just how good we have it here in the Gem City. We have so many options for music. Folk, alternative, rock. Bands that play songs that take you back to the good old days. All these, and so much more.

Ladies and gentlemen-Urban Nights was a night that I will soon never forget…

Taste of Miamisburg Friday Night

May 17, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

This Friday Night the city of Miamisburg kicks off their annual Spring Fling with The Taste of Miamisburg. From 5-9pm at Riverfront Park ( 3 N. Main Street) enjoy tastes from 15 area eateries that range from $2 – $10.

You’ll be able to dine to the music of Larry Goodwin at 6:00 followed by the trio AQK at 7:00 and The Rockosonics will be taking the stage around 8-8:30.

The Rockosonics

Scheduled Participants include:

Ron’s Pizza
One Bistro and m. cakes
Giuliano’s
Star City Cafe
Pappa’s Pizza
Coldstone Creamery
Full Moon Bar-b-que
Bessi’s Noodles
Mr. Freshy
Peas & Carrots Catering
Bullwinkle’s
Louisiana Grill
Mandy’s Funnel Cakes
American Legion
Hamburger Wagon

There’s also always entertainment for the kids–the Fit & Fun Gymbus will be on site!

On Saturday the Spring Fling Parade steps off at 9:45am down Mound Avenue to First Street and north on Central Avenue and proceeding East past Library Park. There will be a Carnival in the parking lot behind Library Park until 10pm along with an arts and crafts festival. Then fun continues on Sunday from noon to 5pm

Volunteers at The Heart Of Cityfolk Festival

May 17, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

On June 29 – July 1, The Cityfolk Festival, returns to RiverScape MetroPark. It takes thousands of hours of volunteer time to pull together the three-day celebration of music, dance, culture and the City of Dayton Fireworks. Volunteer leadership has already worked months to get the festival ready from a production standpoint. Organizers are now looking to sign up volunteers for three- or four-hour shifts during the festival as well as during set-up and tear-down. People interested in helping out can visit the Cityfolk website or call (937) 223-3655, ext. 4006. The performance schedule will be available in late May, if you want to schedule your volunteer shifts around your favorite performers.

Many volunteers have such a good time that they return year after year. Elvita Harris has been volunteering with her now-grown children for almost a decade. “Volunteering is part of community service,” she said. “It gives us a sense of belonging and giving back. Plus, they’re exposed to different cultures, different foods – they’re broadening their horizons.”

Volunteer opportunities for the festival range from helping the Green Team encourage festival patrons to recycle, to serving soda and beer, to selling t-shirts and CDs, to helping monitor stage areas for handicap accessibility. A full list of positions is listed at www.cityfolk.org.

Long-time volunteer Judy McCormick says, “The Cityfolk Festival is one event where our city truly comes together. And it simply doesn’t happen without volunteer participation. You can have fun, meet old friends, make new ones and play a part in what is a one-of-a-kind celebration for our community.”

GO W/ THE FLOW with Ben Rivet and Tori Reynolds

May 14, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Ben & Tori do their thing on Fifth Street during Urban Nights

Ben Rivet (known as BJSR in the local music community) has not stopped creating since his days as a student at the University of Dayton just a few years ago. After a bit of traveling that included performing on a cruise ship, Ben returned to Dayton and got noticed quickly with his iPhone-shot video that became a bit of a YouTube hit. After that came the release of his popular debut album Axe and Vox that showcased Ben as not only a talented musician but an able producer and songwriter. These days, Ben has returned back to something he discovered while at UD – yoga – and quickly became a well known member at Practice Yoga – a popular yoga studio on Fifth Street in the Oregon District. Late last year he took his passion for yoga to the next level and began yoga teacher training, which is how he connected with PY instructor Tori Reynolds…

Tori discovered yoga while studying psychology at Wright State, and took it to the next level by signing up to get certified in Live Love Teach training and eventually becaming an instructor at Practice Yoga. Through that program and with the support of her Practice Yoga community, she was inspired to get creative and explore new ways of practicing her craft. The connection she made with Ben eventually led to the creation of a new concept called GO W/ THE FLOW – a unique rhythmic fusion of Ben’s beatboxing and acoustic guitar along with Tori’s yoga sequencing.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l3ZU-gFAGY’]

I spoke with Ben recently about the journey he has taken that has blended his passions for music and yoga…

DMM: How did the GO W/ THE FLOW concept come about?

Ben: I had been working on completing my yoga teacher certification at Practice Yoga from September to April of this past year, and spending a LOT of time at Practice Yoga. I had played for a couple classes before and had fun doing it. Tori was just starting to teach a class or two at the studio and I asked her if she wanted me to play one of her classes. I think because we are close in age (24/26), have similar tastes in music, and similar ideas about a yoga practice – we complimented each other well right from the start. We got a great response and decided to cultivate it a little more.
I recorded one of the classes we held and posted it online for free to share with yogi friends, titling the track “GO W/ THE FLOW” because it was all very improvised based on the environment, mood and experience level of that class. Once it was online, word began to spread and we realized we had something worth focusing on. With the contacts Tori had through her teacher training we started making contacts and setting up classes along side my tour to SXSW music fest in Austin and the rest is history. The blog pretty much takes it from there…

DMM: What kind of feedback have you gotten from participants?

Ben: We are almost overwhelmed with how tremendous the response has been from GWTF. Not only from our friends and family, but from Yogis, instructors and fitness enthusiasts around the country. When we started, we were just trying to provide the best class we could for the yogis at Practice. But the more we worked on it, the more we realized that the music makes the class very accessible for first-timers as well as deeply beneficial for even an experienced practitioner. Tori’s goal is to teach a class that is fun and challenging for THAT group of people, my goal is to give her the best possible soundtrack to do that to. Participants walk away feeling invigorated limber and eager to do more yoga, which is the point.

DMM: What are your hopes for the future of GWTF? Do you see this as something you’ll do for a while and then move on to other things, or something you want to stick with and grow?

Ben: For as much planning as it feels like Tori and I have been doing preparing for this summer tour, we are both trying to enjoy where we are RIGHT NOW… If we stick to our guns regarding the philosophy about GWTF, we will constantly be learning and growing from the practice as we grow ourselves as yogis, instructors and musicians, and hopefully we will never get “bored” with it. We’ve always thought that GWTF was a unique experience and not something that should replace a normal yoga practice, therefore we think that it could always be something that is sprinkled into our teaching and practice in future. Tori and I also really liking traveling, so it makes sense for us to get out and do this for as many people as possible right now. I still plan on cultivating my BJSR work and Tori will continue teaching in Dayton, but hopefully GWTF will always be apart of it. It does as much for our well-being as it does for our classes.

DMM: What is your message about GWTF to those who have never done yoga before but might want to try GWTF? To those who are experienced with yoga?

Ben: Yoga can definitely be intimidating for those who’ve never tried it or only done it via a DVD or gym experience. What we’re hoping is that the music and environment that we work to create will entice people to give it a try and have some fun. Tori’s teaching is encouraging and playful and my music keeps you moving and sweating. We’ve never had anyone leave unhappy and, in fact, many of our friends who tried yoga for the first time are now adding yoga classes into their regular workout routine. There is really nothing to lose by trying… other some sweat.

For the more experienced practitioners, the classe is a power Vinyasa class that is influenced by the Baptiste and ashtanga method. It moves a lot but the real focus is on the breath! We’ve found that music really helps guide the breathing throughout the class to give everyone the best opportunity to move fully through the practice with support and energy. The steady tempo acts as a subtle reminder under Tori’s cuing to keep you focused and motivated.

On Monday May 14 at 6:30pm, Ben and Tori will be at the RiverScape pavillion helping MetroParks kick off Bike Week 2012 with their GO W/ THE FLOW “Power Vinyasa” yoga which is also the start of their two-month bike tour in conjunction with BikeBot, an Austin, Texas-based “pro-pedal movement” they connected with at the SXSW Festival earlier this year. Power Vinyasa yoga is geared for all experience levels and builds whole-body strength, flexibility and mental focus.

Bring a mat if possible; Practice Yoga will provide a limited number of “loaners.” Another independent downtown business, basho apparel, will screen-print GWTF shirts live on-site.

My Mother…Myself Part 3

May 13, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Thank you to Kristi and Mary for sharing their stories. Both of these ladies are very special to me. Kristi has become one of my biggest supporters and is the sweetest woman you can meet not to mention a true beauty 🙂 Mary and I go way back to junior high. I was lucky enough to spend alot of time with both her and her mother especially on one very fun vacation to Alabama! I can attest that her mother is trully beautiful and is one lady that I have never forgotten.

Mary

I remember my mother as being a bit of a hippie when I was a young child. I don’t remember her spending more than 5 minutes putting make-up on, or spending time putting outfits together, or obsessing over how her hair looked before she went into public. I actually can only remember her owning 2 pairs of shoes at that time, a white pair of knock-off Keds and a pair of flip-flops. And yet, I remember thinking how beautiful she was and how I wanted to be just like her when I grew up. Then, at the beginning of my teen years, she took a job at a cosmetic counter of all places. I remember her asking me for my magazines so she could get tips on how to put make-up on and even had me showing her how I did it. She became a natural over the years at both selling and applying cosmetics. Throughout high school my friends and I would take full advantage of the free makeovers for our school dances, and then as we got older, for their weddings too. Yet still, even as I saw my mom embrace this new world of aesthetic merchandising, I still always thought she was such a beautiful woman no matter what and how lucky I was to even resemble her.

Now at 30, I realize exactly why my mother was always so beautiful no matter what she did and why she continues to be even more so to this day, and that is because she exudes it from within. Her heart is bigger than the universe and her love fills it to the brim. Everyone that knows her or has known her can’t help but to fall in love with her. My mother taught me by example that whether you exude beauty naturally or you do the things that all of us women do to ourselves to portray that beauty that we all have and feel from within, it is the heart of a woman that is truly beautiful. Thank you Mama for teaching and showing me by example the true meaning of beauty, I will be a lucky girl to become half the truly beautiful woman that you are.

Kristi

I have been blessed in this life to have the love and support of both my beautiful mom and her mother, my grandma. They both taught me and still teach me daily about true beauty.
From my mom I have learned most importantly to be kind and considerate to others, which really makes a person beautiful from the inside out. As far as physical appearances, she taught me the art of shopping LONG ago! We would drive 3 hours just to go “school shopping,” (my small home town had and still has no mall to speak of!) We had to make our trips count and she taught me the fine art of “mixing and matching,” wearing, for example, one nice sweater in a variety of ways, from casual to more dressy…a skill I have to this day.

Her mom, my grandmother has always been one of my most favorite people in the world. Ironically, we lost her yesterday so when Michelle asked me to write a few paragraphs about Mother’s Day and beauty, I had to include my grandmother. She taught me to always wear a smile, which is the best accessory ever. She also taught be to love others and never hold a grudge against anyone, true beauty. I miss you Grandma and flying to Seattle in just a few hours and not having you there waiting for me just makes me miss you even more.

I hope I can carry onwhat these 2 ladies continue to teach me about “beauty.”

An Album Release with Jasper the Colossal

May 12, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 2 Comments

Joan Jett, Janis Joplin, Heart. Their sound, tough personas, stage presence, and command for respect has paved the way for women all around the world to get into music scene, which for numerous years has been dominated by males. And the same holds true in the city of Dayton. Throughout the city, a significant number of bands don’t have a single woman in their lineup. However, there is a band that’s changing that.

The band is Jasper the Colossal. Paige, Moriah, Nicki, and Sarah are four women that are on their way to making waves in the Gem City with their raw and distinct rock and roll sound. On June 22^nd, Jasper the Colossal will be releasing their first full-length album, Liar. During a sit down with the band recently, the group explained that the album contains everything that people love in a great rock and roll album-some soft ballads mixed with some hard rock, catchy hooks, songs that you can sing after hearing it over and over. Jasper the Colossal have spent most of the year writing for Liar, while it took only a week to record.

The band has big ambitions with the album. With the goal of setting up a tour later in the year to play around the US, they also plan on releasing 1,000 copies of Liar. In order to achieve these goals, the women decided to take a different path to get the album out. Their approach is a revolutionary move that most bands are starting to lend to release music independently, and also get closer to their fans. They went to the internet, and set up a pledge on Kickstarter.com, a website that allows people to set up an all or nothing fundraiser. The band
set up an amount that they wanted to meet, which would help pay for the manufacturing cost of the album. When you make a donation of a certain dollar amount, you get you a reward (could be anything from a free EP, to dinner with the band. Now, the only way that all of this could become a reality is if the band actually made the goal. Within the first couple of days the fundraiser was set up, the band not only met their goal, but exceeded it. A feat that the band themselves never thought would happen in such a brief period of time.

Jasper the Colossal shouldn’t be shocked, though. The fan support for this 4-piece girl band has been growing ever since its current lineup, which has been together for four years now. Their live shows are full of raw emotion. When they take the stage, their energy flies out and into the crowd, seizing their grasp of their viewers. They aren’t out there to look cute. They’re out there to fulfill their passion. Each girl mentioned that this is their life. Each chord strung on the guitars. Each crack of the drumstick on the drums. Each word sang into the microphone. Its poetry. This is how music is meant to be. That is why they have a rabid fan base that has grown more and more each show.

Many people around Dayton will mention to you that Jasper the Colossal is one of the hardest working bands in the local circuit. And the claims are true. The band has played shows in California, Kentucky, Indiana, Texas, Tennessee, and West Virginia. With the extra money being donated thru the Kickstarter website fund, the band plans to use the extra money that’s used to getting transportation to go on a tour.

Jasper the Colossal aren’t going out and showing that girls can play instruments also. Jasper the Colossal is out to prove that they are a band that is ready to take on the world one show at a time. To want to prove that are just like the women pioneers before them-no matter what sex you are, rock and roll is here to tear the walls down.

To help the band by making a donation, go to their Kickstarter page. Also, the band will be playing at South Park Tavern on May 12^th . They will be taking the stage with Ghosts and Paper Hearts, and The Worthmores. Cover charge is $5, and the show is for all ages. (view all of Jasper the Colossal’s upcoming local shows on the DMM Music Calendar)

My Mother….Myself Part 2

May 12, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

In this multi part series I will be posting local women’s stories about how they have been inspired by their Mother’s beauty advice. Thank you to all the ladies who sent in submissions. I am so excited and honored to share these beautiful stories.

Ashley

When I think back to my earliest memories of my Mom, I always remember how glamorous she was (and still is by the way!) She and my Dad had date night every week and it was clear she loved the process of getting “pretty” almost as much as going out! She would spend 2 hours taking a long bath, putting on her make-up, doing her hair, and picking out the perfect outfit. I remember very fondly watching at her make-up counter as she would meticulously apply Chanel make-up to her face, thinking “Wow, I can’t wait to do that one day too!”. Sometimes she would put a little on me and I used to think I was a movie star!

Today, I’ve inherited this same ritual (unfortunately for my husband, a love for Chanel came along…), but it wasn’t just about watching my Mom make herself more beautiful on the outside that made these memories so fond. It was here, at this make-up counter, that she would teach me big life lessons: what it means to be a good person, how to pick and choose your battles, how to deal with heartbreak, how to problem solve and think critically…..and the list goes on and on.

Her make-up counter was my classroom for life and for beauty! I, one day, hope to do the same with my daughter! We no longer live in the same state so I, unfortunately, can’t sit next to her every time she does her make-up and ask inquisitive question about life. I can, however, call my Mom while we both do our make-up and pick up right where we left off! 25 years later, and I’m still learning big lessons from my Mom…..and I wouldn’t’ have it any other way! I love you Mom. Happy Mother’s day!

Lea

What I learned from my mom was to see & appreciate beauty in life. She’s an early childhood expert and my favorite activity she teaches is to get paint sample cards for preschoolers and have them compare colors to their skin so they aren’t black or white but are beautiful colors like creamy hazelnut or sunset peach, encouraging everyone to appreciate their own skin. She constantly read us poetry and encouraged us to appreciate the beauty of the words and to learn to use our own vocabularies to create beautiful descriptions of our feelings. My mother is an accomplished world traveler; I have tried to follow in her footsteps despite my many irrational fears of airplanes and being more than 10 minutes from a Target; but, I have seen some of the most beautiful places like the rain forests in Costa Rica and the endless sand dunes under a star lit sky in Dubai thanks to her encouragement to appreciate the beauty of the world.

She taught me that my own beauty will shine through when I feel most fulfilled and happy. She taught me that if I love and respect myself, other will love and respect me. She taught me that beauty is so much more than looking pretty, but that it is being able to laugh at myself, being generous to a fault, helping others without judgment or expecting anything in return, and always appreciating what I have been given.

I have never felt more beautiful than on my wedding day. Yes, I was perfectly glammed up and had done more crunches the preceding months that I ever thought possible, but I felt beautiful because I was facing the man I am going to spend forever with, and I knew that even if I never shaved my legs again, or stopped wearing mascara, he would still love me unconditionally for the rest of my life. Without my mom’s teaching I never would have felt such confidence in my own beauty to find such wonderful love.

Want to read more? My Mother…Myself Part 3

Hunks in Heels Race for a Good Cause

May 11, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Photo by Andy Snow

Clothes That Work presents its fifth annual “Hunks In Heels” fundraising event on Saturday, May 12, at The Greene Town Center in Beavercreek. Nearly 100 men will become “Hunks” as they don a pair of high heels and race around The Greene in support of the women in their lives.

“Hunk” racers will participate as individuals and teams. There will be approximately 10 Racing Heats. Each Heat winner will participate in the Final race in a heated competition to be named Hunks In Heels Race Champion.

In addition to Racers, the winner and runners-up of the Hunks in Heels, Best Legs Online Competition will be revealed. In this contest, local men slipped on heels, had their photos taken and then pranced around the Wine Loft to garner voters at a Kick-Off Party in April. Since then, their photos have been posted on the Clothes That Work website where they have been campaigning for votes of $5 each which will also raise money for the organization.

Clothes That Work, Executive Director, Lindsay Ackley says about the event, “I have so much respect for the men in our community who are willing to step into a pair of heels to honor a woman in their life and help a job seeker put their best foot forward. Hunks In Heels participants raise awareness for Clothes That Work programs and generate funds that provide area job seekers with interview appropriate clothing and image coaching. What an amazing gift to give to a man, woman or teen who is hoping to make their one and only first impression count!”

Event festivities start Saturday at 1:00 as the “ hunks” select their running heels. Races begin at 2:00 with the award ceremony starting around 3:15. There is still time to become a Hunk; men can register onsite for a $100 donation. A team of 5 men can register for a $400 donation and a team of 10 for $700. All fees are fully tax deductible.

Event emcees are Jim Bucher of WDTN, and Hunks in Heels Committee Member Lisa Grigsby of Dayton Most Metro & ARC Ohio. DMM publisher Bill Pote will also be running in his second year!

For more information about the event or to cast a last minute vote for a Best Legs Hunk, visit: www.clothesthatwork.org. Voting for the Best Legs Competition closes at Midnight tonight!

(Submitted by Clothes that Work)

My Mother…..Myself

May 11, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Michelle Drake Richardson

Admiration may be the perfect word to describe how I feel about my mom. She’s beautiful despite everything she has been through with her health and personal life. She never lets things get her down and can move forward and overcome the odds. My mom is not just beautiful physically but she is beautiful as a person. She is always there when I need a shoulder to cry on or when I have a life situation I don’t know how to handle. She is the first person to tell me that I am beautiful and the first one to say what did you do to your hair? The lessons that my mom has taught me are infinite and even though we may not see each other as much as we would like my mom is still the most beautiful woman I know inside and out. I can never replace what she has taught me about myself and what beauty means. It’s not all about fancy clothes and perfect makeup. Beauty comes from within and until you can be happy with yourself your true beauty will not shine through.

One of my favorite stories from my mom was about Calgon. When I was little we always had it in our house and I loved turning my bath water into a pretty blue, pink or green. My mom always told me you need three things to make a perfect night, a bath, new pajamas and clean sheets on your bed. Calgon was something very simple that meant a lot to my mom and now to me. When she was in her early twenties she was married and had a son. It turned out not to be a picture perfect marriage and after barely escaping the situation she moved out with an infant on her own. She barely had any money to buy food but when she had a little extra she always treated herself to a Calgon bath. It was something so simple yet so meaningful to her that it has stayed in my brain to this day. My mom taught me from the beginning that you have to treat yourself even if it’s the littlest thing. You have to put yourself first every now and again even if it’s for a thirty minute bath.

I learned a lot of life lessons through my mom not only about beauty but how being yourself makes you beautiful. Being yourself and not letting others bring you down can be one of the best beauty secrets. My mom and I were on our own for most of my childhood and adolescence. After my parents divorced it was just her and I and we became the best of friends. I can remember going out and getting new pajamas and sheets then coming home climbing into her bed and fall asleep watching a movie. It was a simple thing but at the time she was a single parent going to college full time. Our time together was limited but we always made the best of it. No matter how hard things got my mom always looked picture perfect and did everything she could to make me happy.

I remember watching my mom get ready for dates with my dad and she would always be meticulous with the perfect outfit, hair and makeup. She always had her own style from piles of cowboy boots to little black dresses. She kept it simple and minimal but always classy and ladylike. She always said to be a lady no matter what situation you are in. Cross your legs, sit up straight and chew with your mouth closed even if you are at a bar. Although my mom was very ladylike she always knew how to have a good time. She loved parties, music and most of all dancing. My mom taught me to have a good time, look like a lady and always smile because no one likes a raincloud.

It’s funny when I sat down to write this article the memories and ideas flooded through my head about my mom and beauty. I thought I would write about us doing each other’s makeup or when she would crimp my hair for hours. When writing this it occurred to me that my mom taught me so much more about beauty than just the physical product of makeup. Beauty is about so much more than what mascara to buy. Beauty is something that we should all feel no matter who we are. You can have all the bags, lipsticks and concealer in the world but when you truly feel beautiful for who you are; that is the greatest life lesson my mom could have taught me.

Love you mom Happy Mother’s Day!!! xoxo

If you enjoyed this article, check out My Mother…Myself Part 2

The Invisible Becomes Visible – This American Life Hits the Big Screen

May 8, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Radio Spectacular Comes To The Big Screen Via This American Life Live!

On May 10 the ultimate “shared experience” will be simulcast in over 550 theaters between the US and Canada as PRI’s award winning show, This American Life (TAL) brings radio to the big screen for the third time! TAL host and executive producer (and public radio rockstar) Ira Glass, serves as ring master for the cinematic event broadcasting live from NYU’s Skirball Center for the Performing Arts in NYC. The Invisible Made Visible is the theme for this production, starring a veritable “whose who” of the public radio culture!

For starters, there are feature stories from Ira Glass himself, as well as regular contributors David Sedaris and David Rakoff and yet another regular, Mike Birbiglia, throws in a short film into the mix. Also joining these TAL all stars is the host of NPR’s Snap Judgment, Glynn Washington, as well as comic Tig Notaro, author Ryan Knighton (to the delight of Canadian TAL fans) and live music with audience interactive Android / iPhone App performance by the band OK Go. Original animation and projected illustrations will be sprinkled throughout the show plus special surprise guests!

BUT WAIT! There’s MORE! What, you may be asking yourself, would a radio show be without dance? The Monica Bill Barnes & Company of New York is not only featured in this performance, but was the motivation behind bringing This American Life back into the cinema! In a recent interview, Glass recounts how inspired he was while attending a live performance of Monica Bill Barnes & Company for the first time…

“There was something about they way they did their performance that reminded me of our radio show. There was something about the personality of it and the way the dances unfolded. They were just very good actors. The pieces seemed to be about moments of awkwardness and anxiety and the thought flashed in my head.” Glass went on to say that, “Our audience would really be into this, it’s just like our radio show…but it’s entirely visual, maybe we should think about doing another cinema event.”

I asked him how long it took from the actual moment of inspiration to the concrete production of this live show. He was surprisingly specific…

“I saw the dance show (I’m pulling it up on my calendar as we speak) June 4th, 2011, but we didn’t really decide to do it until September.” He cites being in ‘infinite editing mode’ on a Birbiglia film during the Fall of 2011 and preparing for the January 2012 Sundance Film Festival, for putting this live event momentarily on the back burner.

Yet, this moment of inspiration led Glass into a parallel universe to produce The Invisible Made Visible. For the better part of the last year, while continuing to work on the radio show, Glass found himself in “the weirdest period of my life” approving drafts from Disney animators, attending dance rehearsals, as well as working with the band OK Go in developing an interactive iPhone & Android app. To heighten the shared experience, the vision for the music app is to include 50,000 audience members in a musical performance with OK Go, similar to the bands 2012 interactive music video, Needing/Getting which aired as a Chevrolet commercial during the Superbowl.

“We basically tried to invent things that you could never do on the radio.” – Ira Glass

This production is not the only cinematic venture in the life of Ira Glass. In the summer of 2011 he co-wrote and shot a feature film with humorist and author Mike Birbiglia titled Sleepwalk With Me, which is based on Birbiglia’s This American Life piece of the same name which, in turn, was developed into a book and one man show. In January of this year Sleepwalk With Me received an audience award at Sundance Film Festival and will be go into general release August 24, 2012.

When asked what his thoughts were pertaining to the Invisible Made Visible project, he laughingly said, “I wished for a multi media adventure and I got my wish!”

When I asked Ira if fans could look forward to these cinematic/multimedia events on a regular basis, say every two years or so, he gave an enthusiastic nervous laugh, saying, “I have no idea if we’ll ever do it again! It is such an ambitious sort of undertaking that with all the animations and movies and things like that, it’s either going to be the most AMAZING thing that we have ever put on, or, it’s going to be a complete train wreck! There’s no middle ground! It’s going to be the greatest triumph of the shows history OR we will always look back on this day as the WORST thing that we ever attempted. Nothing in between is possible!” (more nervous laughter) “That is my promise to the audience!”

Judging from the success of the radio show, the brief stint of This American Life on Showtime and the last two cinema events, Glass doesn’t have much to worry about. The financial weight of this, the third, live show is much less daunting than the previous one in 2009. That entire production was funded from the pockets of TAL and was an extreme business risk.

“This time we’re doing it for the purest of reasons. It seemed like it would be fun for the audience and fun for us.” – Ira Glass

Even with the hefty price tag of such a production for a cinematic event like this, the thought of the possible higher revenue from Pay Per View is not as attractive to Glass as one might think. The impetus for taking on such a huge endeavor such as this may be explained by something Glass had been witness to in the past. As a huge fan of Howard Stern, Ira recalled how magical it felt to be in a theater with other fans and the moment of sharing the standing “O” when Stern entered the theater.

“One of the big advantages to doing it in a movie theater is, I know that when we’ve done our show live on stage, it’s exciting for people who are fans of a radio show to get together with a group of people who are fans of the same show.” Glass said.

Glass respects the intelligence of the audience of This American Life, and leaves it up them to discern the difference between journalism and story telling. Briefly touching on the recent controversial Mike Daisey episode, Mr. Daisey Goes to the Apple Factory and the following retraction show in March 2012, Glass spoke to issues of fact checking and the responsibility of shows that deliver a mix of off beat news through entertainment.

Pertaining to the pitfalls that can occur with a show such as TAL, Glass said, “Truthfully, I would like to believe that the audience is sophisticated enough that they can tell the difference and that we don’t have to cue them.”

Even in light of his high regard for the audience, technical concerns and complicated timing during this live show is nerve wracking.

“I feel confidence in the material but, it’s a very complicated tech thing to pull off and so I feel very nervous about that.” Glass expounded on that thought by saying, “I feel confident or I wouldn’t be doing a show…but I go into it very, very worried. It’s also the excitement of doing things you’ve never done. Hopefully, with fear comes enjoyment.”

With all the anxiety that comes with producing such an ambitious event, Glass is equally excited about the format. He loves the energy and reaction of a live audience versus being in a sound proof production booth.

“It’s exciting to be on stage in front of people, especially with material that you’re excited to present! Maybe this is a bad thing to say because we have all these people collaborating, but I am most excited about my own part of the show.” Glass went on, saying, “I’m most excited about the parts I get to perform! There’s a story I get to tell at the top of the show and there’s another one in the middle of the show and their both going to be really fun to perform!” Taking on a giddy tone, his inner geek came out while talking about mixing music, quotes and cues live with an iPad. “It’s really fun to do!”

“I feel like we’ve been doing promos on the air and try to express to the audience, ‘No, no! I know I’ve promoted other things but this one is really unusual and special!’ and I don’t know how to wave my arms around enough and say, ‘We’re pulling all the stops out here! Even stops we didn’t know existed!’” Glass added, “I want to communicate to the audience, ‘We’re not kidding this time! You’re not going to want to miss this one!’ The stuff we’re making for the show is so exciting! The animation and the movie that Mike Birbiglia did…they’re so exciting that it’s really hard not to just show (it to) those to people and say, ‘See what we’re talking about?!?’…but then we don’t want to spoil it.”

Dayton, Ohio witnessed this “live” mix in the flesh last May (2011) when Ira performed his solo act at Victoria Theater, in support of WYSO. I was fortunate enough to be in the first class of WYSO’s Community Voices as a producer training. Ira conducted our last class the afternoon before his show. He had a lot of great stories and practical advice. One thing that stands out with me even today was his advice on finding stories, which was pretty simple actually: “Do stories on things that amuse you.”

This American Life has always had its finger on the pulse of what amuses people. Whether it’s tragic or comical, it draws us in. They have done what radio of the past has done; given a shared experience using only sound. This live show is the rare event to bring us the sight that goes with it.

Things you should know before attending the show:

~ Dayton showings are at Regal Hollywood 20 at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek, Dayton South 16 (near Dayton Mall), and Huber Heights 16. Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased in advance here: http://www.fathomevents.com/originals/event/thisamericanlife2012.aspx

~ If you have an iPhone or Android and would like to participate in the live interactive “OK Go” performance, (imagine being encouraged to loudly use your phone in a theater), you need to get the App before going to the theater. Cell phone reception is poor in theaters for a reason, so don’t wait to download your App in the theater. You can get it via iTunes or the App store or for easier linkage, go here: http://www.thisamericanlife.org/blog/2012/04/download-the-live-show-app

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=RKePFF3zUlE’]

Dayton Circus Sideshow Lucky 7

May 8, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Laurana Wong performs at Sideshow I

In 2006, local artist Laurana Wong had a vision to “expose the burgeoning underground art scene and interconnect it with the more established art community while bringing attention to Downtown Dayton through a grand-scaled and highly public display of the art that is so ripe in this town. The event will be free of charge and open to as wide of a population as we can reach. The guests will be at least as diverse as the involved…” And that year in a vacant space in the Cannery, Sideshow was born.

This was (and still is) the quintessential do-it-yourself grassroots independent local art show in the region. Artists and volunteers came together to prepare a vacant space that had collected decades debris and dirt. A stage was built, walls for hanging art were added, a dumpster was filled – and through it all, tight bonds were formed between dozens of local artists all coming together to organize an awesome event. That night on June 24th, over 60 artists and performers (including Laurana herself) put on an amazing show that had people mesmerized and speechless, with many shaking their heads in disbelief that they were “still in Dayton” – a phrase uttered at each of the following Sideshows that speaks both to how strong our independent arts community is, and how many in the region are still unaware. After that first wildly successful Sideshow, The Dayton Circus Creative Collective was born, with a simple mission: “The Circus is dedicated to building a nourishing environment that will encourage community interaction, artistic collaboration, and the empowerment of the individual. We offer a place to create, perform, and share freely in the experience of living.”

Leesa Haapapuro - "Pot Luck"

Sideshow has moved around to different locations over the years, with one of the most popular venues being The Merc on Third Street across and down from The Cannery. Next was the old Unicorn Bar at Third and Jefferson, then The Armory in the OD – and finally now at the permanent home to the Dayton Circus – The Yellow Cab Building across and down from Garden Station at 700 E. Fourth St. This 7,300 square foot space was built in 1964 and has a mix of spaces including a large garage area, artist studios, community meeting rooms and event spaces.

This year on Friday, May 11 (Urban Nights), and Saturday, May 12 the Dayton Circus Creative Collective will present its annual multimedia extravaganza, Sideshow 7 – which will feature work by more than 50 artists and more than 20 acts by performers and bands. In addition, there will also be performance art on Friday, and a fashion show and fire spinners on Saturday evening. Admission is free, but donations will accepted to support The Sideshow and the Circus.

I talked to this year’s co-organizer Kate Ervin about Sideshow 7…

DMM: What will make this Sideshow different from past Sideshows?

Kate: All our Sideshows vary year to year based on the tastes of the organizers and locations. Since this our second year in our semi-permanent home at the Yellow Cab, we’ve been able to settle in a bit and make the space more comfortable, rather than working with a completely abandoned shell of a building. In recent years, I’ve wondered if the general public associated The Sideshow with Dayton’s very large dark/goth/horror scene, however we truly don’t intend to highlight any one subculture. Therefore I’ve made it my mission to fill the building with nothing but fun this year, with rainbow color, cartoons, and good luck symbols for our seventh year!

DMM: Why do YOU think people across the region should check out Sideshow?

Kate: As a community-based arts festival, you’re likely to experience the creativity of your friends and neighbors. Even more, YOU are invited to participate in any manner you see fit, whether or not you are an “artist”–we welcome the contributions of everyone (shameless plug for volunteering – click here!)

DMM: What are you personally looking forward most to seeing?

Kate: I’m especially proud of the artists who have taken up my call to “go big” and make interactive installations to transform the space. A trio of street artists–ETCH, Nate Harrah, and Neal Chaney–have been working long nights on a giant Rube Goldbergy/Plinko machine that will predict your future. Kat Keller, an MFA student at OSU, created an outdoor “sensory experience” room with lighting, sound, and visuals. Leesa Haapapuro stepped up to build and cater our food table this year, making it a beautifully-designed carnival game.

Dayton Most Metro is proud to be the Media Sponsor this year!!!