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Get Inspired to “Get out and Live” at this week’s Adventure Summit

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The Adventure Summit

The Adventure Summit

(from our friends at Five Rivers MetroParks)

When cabin fever hits its apex, Five Rivers MetroParks and Wright State University come to the rescue, co-presenting the biennial Adventure Summit. This year’s event is set for February 10-11 at the Wright State Student Union. Admission and parking are free. There is a full slate of inspirational speakers, engaging hands-on activities, and intense competitions:

Gary Fisher - Trek Bikes

Speakers

This year’s featured speaker is Gary Fisher, noted as the “father of mountain biking” who broke the mold on traditional bicycle racing and took his sport to the hills, riding on bikes he modified to better negotiate the craggy surface of Mt. Tamalpais in California. Fisher is credited with early mountain bike prototypes and now works for Trek, where he participates in designing innovative cycling products as well as racing. Catch Fisher’s presentation, “The Past, Present and Future of Cycling,” at 8:00 p.m. Friday, February 10, in the Apollo Room. Other speakers this weekend include Deia Schlosberg and Gregg Treinish, who will share their experiences on a two-year, 7,800-mile trek of the Andes. Their presentation will be 12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 11. Local speakers also are on tap.

Activities

Once you’ve been inspired by a speaker or classroom presentation, why not try a few activities? Take a kayak for a spin in the pool, get a grip on the climbing wall or participate in a fitness session such as yoga or cycling. There’s something for everyone, and because there’s no cost, you can try it out risk-free.

Bouldering Competition

Bouldering Competition

Competitions

There are several competitions throughout the weekend that are as much fun to watch as they are for those competing. The indoor duathlon includes a 2-mile run/walk, followed by a 6-mile bike ride and concludes with a second 2-mile run/walk. One of the most popular competitions is the bouldering challenge, in which participants (many of whom come from all over the Midwest) face off on the climbing wall. New this year is the Canoe Battleship. Teams compete to try and “sink” the opposition’s canoe while bailing out their own. Rounding out the weekend is a kayak challenge, where slalom racing hits the pool.

Expo

Those who are ready to bring adventure into their lives can do so at the exposition area. Mingle with local, regional and national outdoor-related exhibitors, a variety of outdoor clubs, specialty retail shops, outfitters, resorts, and more organizations that will help you reach your outdoor adventure goals.

Cultural Exhibits

In addition to all things outdoors, Adventure Summit patrons can enjoylive music and craft beer tastings.

This will be a special year for mountain biking enthusiasts. In addition to attending an inspiring presentation from Gary Fisher, the 2012 Adventure Summit will showcase the region’s mountain biking community through inspiring presentations, engaging discussions and appearances by industry leaders. The Great Lakes Mountain Biking roundtable takes place Saturday, February 11. Participants will be able to mingle at the continental breakfast and submit their questions to Gary Fisher, International Mountain Biking Association President and Executive Director Mike Van Abel, national bike manufacturers, regional bike shop owners, state mountain bike club leadership, and IMBA’s new Great Lakes regional director. The focus of the mountain bike-specific tracts will be advocacy.

The Adventure Summit has something for everyone, from the “armchair adventurer” to the hard-core enthusiast. Visit www.theadventuresummit.com  for a complete schedule, competition registration, sponsorship details and more information. For further information, call Outdoor Recreation Special Events and Development Coordinator Tom Helbig at (937) 567-4478.


Mike-Sell’s: A Case For Success

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Countdown to the 2012 updayton Summit! updayton is committed to lighting the entrepreneurial fire of young talent. Over the next three months leading up to the 2012 Summit, updayton will present stories of emerging entrepreneurs and family legacies in business, and why they call Dayton the best place to do business.

Daniel W. Mikesell started a successful business selling dried beef and sausage but when he decided to expand and answered an ad to purchase a potato-cutting machine, he had no idea it would turn into a multi-million dollar enterprise that would span 100 years and counting. Today, Mike-Sell’s, a locally based, privately owned company, has maintained a strong local presence and national distribution in the snack industry. Despite the efforts of large snack companies to dominate the market through buyouts and price slashing, Mike-Sell’s has remained true to its commitment of producing the highest-quality products, allowing it to continue to be a competitive player in the industry.

In the true spirit of a Dayton original, Mikesell maintained his company’s headquarters in Dayton, Ohio as it grew. His legacy has continued with great grandson, Luke Mapp, grandson of Mikesell’s daughter, Mary Mikesell, and her husband Les Mapp, who ran the company until his death in 2005.

The family’s potato chip legacy is now in the hands of a team of industry professionals including President and CEO, David R. Ray and Mapp, who serves as the company’s Director of Marketing.

In a recent interview with Luke Mapp he shares his take on why the family business has survived the recession, the company’s plans for the future, and what today’s entrepreneurs should do to be successful—particularly those wishing to enter the snack industry.

Mapp has been part of the family business for more than a decade. He knows the entire operation from top to bottom. He is also acutely aware of the tremendous competition Mike-Sell’s is up against as one of the few regional potato chip companies that is independent from larger snack suppliers.

“The locals are very loyal to Mike-Sell’s and have been a big part of our success…”

“For many years, every little city across America had it’s own independently owned potato chip companies. Today, we remain with fewer than probably 50 others.” Mapp continued, “Giants like Frito Lay and Wal-Mart have affected how we do business. Frito Lay can offer lower prices that push margins to almost nothing, and Wal-Mart has changed how grocery chains buy product with its centralized buying method. The local retail manager used to have control over what his or her store carried, but now all of those decisions are made at the corporate level. Our relationships have changed tremendously and we’ve had to change our approach.”

The disconnect between local grocery stores and the supplier has made it difficult for Mike-Sell’s to expand at their desired level. On the flip side, it has moved Mike-Sell’s to alter the way it does business and distribute its products. Currently, the company sells two-dozen different chip and snack products. It has distribution centers in Dayton and Columbus, Ohio and Indianapolis, Indiana. The Dayton location is the company’s only manufacturing plant. Along with some cost-cutting measures, this is how Mike-Sell’s has survived through the current and past recessions.

“We have had to cut expenses like everyone else. Fortunately, we have a family-like atmosphere here. Everyone here is very supportive of decisions that have to be made.” As Mapp led a guided behind-the-scenes tour, he stopped along the way to chat with staff and to sample freshly made chips that had rolled off the line into the collection area to be seasoned and packaged.

At the end of the tour, Mapp talked about the company’s plans for the future. Over the years, the company has maintained its foothold in the industry by introducing new products like Honey Barbecue, its highest selling flavor and Groovy Chips, its highest selling non-flavored chip. They also added Kettle Chips to their line and are always considering new products to test with their loyal fans.

“The locals are very loyal to Mike-Sell’s and have been a big part of our success. Going forward the company will look to expand its distribution base nationally and increase its marketing efforts,” Mapp said, speaking optimistically about the future despite the sluggish economy. For example, Mike-Sell’s has begun implementing a new web-based strategy with a Super Bowl promotion offering 15% off online orders.

Luke Mapp

As the conversation came to an end, Mapp offered advice for entrepreneurs entering the snack foods market. “Do your homework. Know your audience. And think niche. Penetrating the snack market on a large scale will be nearly impossible. Instead, build a strong local following and let the retailers come to you. Be prepared to work hard. It takes dedication and perseverance to run any business. It’s not for the faint of heart.”

In a follow-up correspondence, this is what Mapp had to say about Dayton:  “Like, Mike-sell’s, Dayton has a rich history that has made it a successful and nurturing environment for businesses to grow. Dayton is full of reliable and talented people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty and work hard—that’s important to any business. In addition, the Dayton area chamber of commerce and various other business friendly organizations work very hard to attract and retain local businesses and talented people to live, work and stay in Dayton, OH.”

Interesting facts about Mike-Sell’s:

A potato by another name is still a potato, sorta. It takes a lot of potatoes to make those tasty chips—but not just any potato. Mike-Sell’s uses chipping potatoes. These organically grown potatoes are purchased from Florida to Michigan. (Yes, Michigan! Not Idaho, which specializes in baking potatoes.) Most potato chip manufacturers use chipping potatoes because of their round shape and density, which withstands the cutting process.

Waste not; want not. “Recycle, reuse and repurpose” has been the standard at Mike-Sell’s for decades. They do everything from giving potato peels to pig farmers for feed to selling the potato starch to paper mills for paper coating. Mike-Sell’s uses every opportunity to be an environmentally friendly company.

Hands off. The potato’s journey from the truck to the bag is, for the most part, a hands-off venture. Modern technology and machinery allow potatoes to be cleaned, peeled, cut, fried, seasoned, bagged and boxed with little human intervention. This method decreases food contamination and safety issues with workers.

The Big Give Back. Mike-Sell’s has given millions of dollars to support women’s causes, education, and community arts. Mike-Sell’s giving program is overseen by Mikesell’s granddaughter,  Martha Mapp.  Some of those organizations include Clothes That Work, a clothing resource for job seekers, and the Linda Vista Project, a transitional housing program for homeless women and their children.

Sinclair Students Are ‘Theatre Practitioners of the Future’

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A scene from Sinclair's production of "Women of Lockerbie."

One of the greatest strengths of the Theatre program at Sinclair Community College is its focus on the individual student, according to Steven Skiles, chair of Sinclair’s Theatre and Dance Department.

“We want to get to know our students,” Skiles says. “We want to get to know what their goals are. Do you want to go on to a four-year institution? Do you want to go straight to New York? Is it your dream to be an American actor living in London?”

“We try to engage students in those conversations,” he continues, “so that when they’re going through the program here, they also have a larger goal in mind that keeps them moving forward.”

Students in Sinclair’s Theatre program have a choice between three major tracks: performance, technical theatre, and a double major incorporating both. Even students who choose a single emphasis are required to take some courses in the other discipline, however.

“We like to give our students the opportunity to learn about as many different aspects of the theatre as they can,” Skiles says, “so that when they go out into the workforce, they have many different capacities in which they can fill positions.”

Hands-on experience is another major component of the Theatre program, according to Skiles.

“We’re a very practically-oriented program,” he says. “We want our students doing things; we want them involved in productions. On the stage, behind the stage, designing for the stage; we want them to be a very large part of our production season.”

Before graduating, students in both programs must complete a capstone: a portfolio showcasing their work in the case of technical students, and an auditions class for performance majors, which covers such topics as putting together a resume, cultivating and maintaining contacts in the theatre industry, and the various skills needed to put together a good audition.

But the most important responsibility of the program, according to Skiles, is in shaping and educating the theatre professionals of tomorrow.

“We’re not a program that says ‘This is what you have to do’ or ‘This is the approach you have to have as an actor,’” Skiles says. “I don’t want ten million actors out there approaching a role the same way I would. These are the theatre practitioners of the future, man, and we want to create proactive, engaging students who will move the theatre forward in ways that we can’t even imagine.”

The Theatre Department won raves for its production of “Women of Lockerbie” last spring and “The Crucible” this past fall. Upcoming productions include “Almost, Maine,” a romantic comedy by Tony Award-winning actor and playwright John Cariani, and “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged),” currently the longest-running comedy on the London stage. Performances of “Almost, Maine” begin at Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theatre on February 24.

Experiencing the Art of Exhibiting at Sinclair

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One of Terri Perkins' pieces, displayed in Building 13.

Art majors at Sinclair Community College have many opportunities to display their work before taking part in a public exhibition, according to Terri Perkins, 47, a Sinclair graduate and current art student from Fairborn.

“When you’re taking studio classes, you always have critiques,” says Perkins. “At the end of each term, everybody displays their work, and we all go around and evaluate it.”

Art majors also take a Pre-graduation Exhibition course before receiving their degree. At the end of the course, each student selects several pieces that follow a unifying theme, and their work, along with that of other graduates, eventually winds up as part of an exhibition.

“It was a great experience, because I really learned what it takes to put on an exhibit,” says Perkins. “How you display makes a big impression when people come to see your work, and the instructor, Pat McClelland, really helped everyone to learn that process.”

Brandy Driver, a Fine Art major from Greenville, also has experience setting up exhibits. Driver, 26, and three other students helped set up a display showcasing Sinclair’s Art Club in the Hypotenuse Gallery on the third floor of Building 13.

“We were highlighting the work that I and other members have done,” Driver says. “It was easy to do. I love organizing, so it was right up my alley.”

Students have the opportunity to try and profit from their work, as well.

“After the exhibition, you can choose to try and sell your work or keep it for your own,” says Perkins. “If you decide to sell, the school often times will buy it and put it on display.”

Artwork created by students is displayed on walls and in glass cases throughout the campus, often accompanied by a card or plaque identifying the artist. Perkins currently has several sculpted and ceramic pieces on display in Building 13, while Driver recently had ink drawings displayed in the hallway leading to Building 10.

One of Brandy Driver's pieces.

“The class critiques help when you have to take it out there in public,” Perkins says. “It gets you out of that fear factor when it comes to people seeing your work.”

Driver also enjoys having her work put on display.

“It’s always interesting to hear others analyze the ‘meaning’ of my work,” she says. “I love hearing what people think, both good and bad. That’s how you grow as an artist.”

Dayton Opera’s Romeo and Juliet Makes for Perfect Valentine Outing

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It’s the perfect pairing: Shakespeare’s universal love story and February, the month of Cupid.

Dayton Opera is preparing to open Charles Gounod’s supreme opera Romeo and Juliet to be performed during the month of love on Friday, February 24 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, February 26 at 3 p.m. in the Schuster Center.  “Romeo and Juliet” has been adapted into countless films, plays and dance but no medium better expresses the love, longing and ultimate tragedy of this fated pair than Charles Gounod’s stunning opera,” said Thomas Bankston, Dayton Opera’s General and Artistic Opera. “This opera hasn’t been performed in more than 15 years and we are excited to assemble such a talented and beautiful group of singers.”

Acclaimed soprano Joanna Mongiardo, recognized for her effortless coloratura, makes her Dayton Opera debut singing the title role of Juliet. Her recent performance as Rosalina in Giordano’s rarely performed work Il Re with Teatro Gratticielo at the Lincoln Center was chosen in David Shengold’s selections for Das Opernwelt’s “Best of Year” 2011 issue.

Joanna Mongiardo

Joanna Mongiardo

Singing the role of Romeo is tenor Ryan MacPherson, also making his Dayton Opera debut. He is one of the most in-demand young tenors of this generation, well-known for his captivating stage presence and expertise with modern and contemporary music. He performed along with Mongiardo in a recent production of The Rakes’ Progress with Toledo Opera.

Baritone William McGraw, most recently performing in last season’s Fidelio, returns as Count Capulet, and baritone Chad Sloan as Mercutio and bass Nathan Stark as Friar Lawrence make their Dayton Opera debuts. Members of the Gem City Ballet choreographed by Barbara Pontecorvo, and the Dayton Opera Chorus, under the direction of Jeffrey Powell, will also be featured.

Albert Sherman, stage director for New York City Opera, returns to direct his fifth production for Dayton Opera, the most recent being 2009’s The Merry Widow. At the podium will be Patrick Reynolds, Assistant Conductor for the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, who conducted La Traviata in 2009.

Ryan MacPherson

Ryan MacPherson

“$15 Friday Nite Tweet Seats” returns thanks to the sponsorship of Dayton Power and Light. This initiative for young professionals, a first in U.S. opera, received regional and national press coverage and is being adopted by other arts organizations. The Tweet Seats are located in the balcony so the light from smart phones are not distracting to others.

“Yes we are tweeting and facebooking but not so much during – apparently it’s all too riviting. J At the pause between Act I and Act II, the lights of many devices came out like fireflies in the dark. It was great!” posted by Charity F., a Tweet Seat ticket holder at last October’s performance of Dayton Opera’s La Boheme.

Tickets are on sale now at Ticket Center Stage by calling 228-3630 or visiting www.daytonopera.org. Dayton Opera has teamed up with Veleta Wines on a special promotion. While supplies last, purchase two regular priced tickets to Romeo and Juliet and receive a complimentary bottle of Veleta Tempranillo wine at the performance. Use the code “Veleta” when ordering tickets.

Moon Shines Near Hometown to Promote Spring Album

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They get your toes tapping, your fingers snapping and soon they’ve got you hooked on a brave, fun sound heard pulsating throughout the tri-state area. Cincinnati-based band Walk the Moon has impressed indie-rock aficionados with songs like “Anna Sun” and “Lisa Baby” since their first full-length 2010 album “i want! i want!” Now they’re quenching fans’ thirsts for more Moon. In three weeks, they plan to drop a landing near their hometown to promote a new album, set to release sometime in spring.

Walk the Moon

The four-piece band features Eli Maiman’s groovy guitar sounds, Nicholas Petricca’s sweet and heady vocals, Kevin Ray’s seizing bass lines, while Sean Waugaman’s drums punctuate the poppy sound beat by beat. Pounding on keyboards and keytars, the Ohioans have got it down. Walk the Moon has received recognition in mags such as SPIN, Esquire and Nylon, and they’ve filled venues with bands such as Local Natives, GROUPLOVE and Kaiser Chiefs.

Walk the Moon paid a humble but electric visit to The Madison Theater in Covington, Ky., this past Thanksgiving with bands Young Heirlooms and Shadowraptr. At the show — themed “Homecoming Dance” — “Anna Sun Punch” was offered to ticket holders, and colorful cheeks were seen smudged with war paint in reference to the tribal markings in their “Anna Sun” music video.

The trendy, energetic video was filmed in 2010 at The Mockbee, a historic building and stomping ground for Cincinnati natives to see local artists perform in Over the Rhine. The first half of the video is a single shot that follows Petricca as he weaves between dancers throughout the building, until he encounters a free-spirited gang in warrior face paint charging through a field.

In an interview with Carson Daly on his late night talk show “Last Call” last spring, Petricca indicated that the song was “about college, about maintaining that little bit of being a kid.” Well, Walk the Moon followers certainly embrace that philosophy as they’re full of adrenaline, pumping fists, jumping around and proudly calling out lyrics at shows.

The Madison Theater’s doors will open in just a few weeks to welcome eager fans to preview selected songs from Walk the Moon’s currently untitled album.

But if you can’t make the show and need more, don’t worry about the wait — spring is right around the corner. Until then, pick up Walk the Moon’s “Anna Sun EP,” available Feb. 7, on the band’s official website at http://www.walkthemoonband.com or purchase through iTunes.

Walk the Moon and Young the Giant make their stop at The Madison Theater in Covington on Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. It’s an all-ages show, and tickets are $15, available online or when doors open at 7 p.m.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDVW81bXo0s’]

Dayton Theatre Guild Auditions for “Going to St. Ive’s”

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Dayton Theatre GuildThe Dayton Theatre Guild will hold open auditions for Going to St. Ives by Lee Blessing (A Walk in the Woods, Independence) on Monday and Tuesday, February 13 and 14, at 7:00 p.m.  It is directed by Greg Smith and produced by Barbara Jorgensen.  Production dates for Going to St. Ives are March 16 – April 1, 2012.

A renowned English ophthalmologist is visited by the mother of a tyrannical, murderous dictator because she desperately needs surgery on her eyes.  The doctor requests a favor.  The mother has a request of her own that, if granted, will have devastating effects for both women.

Roles are available for two female actors – one white with an English Accent and one African-American with a lilting African accent.  Actors will be asked to read from the script.  Head shots & résumés are not required but are encouraged.

Actors who audition should be comfortable playing anywhere from 32-50 years of age.

The roles:

Cora – white, English, a renowned eye surgeon who currently resides in St. Ives.

Mae – black, the mother of an African dictator, who goes to England for eye surgery.

For more information, you may contact the director at 937.416.9685 or by email at [email protected].  You may also check the Guild website at www.daytontheatreguild.org.

(press release from the Dayton Theatre Guild)

Dayton Playhouse Offers Children and Teen Audition Workshops

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The Dayton Playhouse YouTheatre is offering audition workshops for children and teens on Saturday, February 18.  The workshops are aimed at helping children and teens prepare for theatre auditions, including auditions for The Sound of Music, which will open at the Playhouse in May.

Jennifer Lockwood, director of the recent Dayton Playhouse production of Scrooge, will be leading the workshops.   According to Lockwood, “This is a great opportunity for children of all ages to find out what to expect at an audition and to be prepared to ward off the nervousness and do their best.”

Participants in both workshops will have the chance to learn and perform simple dance movements, be coached through cold-readings from a script, and choose an audition song that is both age and voice appropriate. Teens will also get suggestions for finding monologues for school drama productions and future auditions.

The workshops will be divided by age groups and will each last approximately 90 minutes.  They will both take place on Saturday, February 18, at the Dayton Playhouse,1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave,Dayton,Ohio45414.

Children’s Audition Workshop: Ages 5-12 at 10:00 AM

Teen Audition Workshop: Ages 13-19 at 1:00 PM

Parents are welcome to stay and will receive an orientation package concerning The Sound of Music including rehearsal information, volunteer opportunities, etc.  Members of the Dayton Playhouse board will also be available to answer parent questions and offer tours of the facility.

Registration fee is $10 per participant.  Reservations can be made at www.daytonplayhouse.org, or 937.424.8477.

Dayton Ballet Brings Romance, Passion and Tragic Love to the Victoria Theatre

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The Romance Series, at Victoria Theatre from February 9 – 12, 2012, will feature three ballets in one amazing night. Red Roses, Between Heaven and Earth and The Butterfly Suite.

The first ballet on the evening’s program is the revival of Ballet Austin Artistic Director, Stephen Mills’ Red Roses; a neo-classical ballet, which explores the ecstasy and anger of love through the melodic songs of Edith Piaf.

The second piece is choreographed by Dayton native, Gina Gardner-Walther. Gina makes her Dayton Ballet debut with the world premiere, Between Heaven and Earth. This contemporary ballet explores the feelings of romance that go beyond attraction.

Dayton Ballet’s Artistic Director, Karen Russo Burke, completes the evening with a new world premiere, The Butterfly Suite. This one-act story ballet is loosely based on Puccini’s famous opera, Madame Butterfly. This beautifully choreographed ballet tells a heart wrenching story about clashing cultures, naivety, love, lust and sorrow.

Performances of The Romance Series are at the Victoria Theatre February 9, 10, & 11 at 8:00 pm, and February 11 & 12 at 3:00 pm.  Tickets are on sale now! Call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or (888) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.  Ticket Center Stage hours are Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday Noon-4 p.m. and two hours prior to each performance.

WIN FREE TICKETS

We have a pair of tickets for each of the five shows, courtesy of the Dayton Ballet!  Just fill out the form below and we’ll draw five winners on Monday Feb. 6 at noon.  Good luck!

(Contest Closed)

Congratulations to: Mike Reitz, Holly Joachimi, Jennifer Dean, Patrick Martin and Linda Horenstein! They’ll be seeing Dayton Ballet’s Romance Series, courtesy of Dayton Most Metro and Dayton Ballet!

Habit-Forming “Nunsense” at The Dayton Playhouse

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The hilarious musical comedy, “Nunsense” will open Friday, February 3, at the Dayton Playhouse and will run through February 19. The play is published by Samuel French, with book, music and lyrics by Dan Goggin.

“Nunsense” will be directed by well-known, local director, Greg Smith. Nancy Perrin is musical director for the production with Kristin Sutter serving as choreographer.

“Nunsense” is a hilarious talent show staged by five survivors of the Little Sisters of Hoboken nunnery, the rest of the sisterhood having succumbed to botulism after eating vichyssoise prepared by Sister Julia, Child of God. The remaining sisters parade their talents at a variety show staged to raise funds so that the last four of the dearly departed can be buried. “Nunsense” offers a cornucopia of hilarity for the whole family, proving conclusively that nun rhymes with fun! This warm and funny musical is a great way to take your mind off of the cold winter weather.

The cast is made up of Tina McPhearson, as Mother Superior; Ellen Finch as Sister Mary Hubert; Sherri Sutter, as Sister Mary Amnesia; Amy Askins, as Sister Robert Ann; and Kelli Locker as, Sister Mary Leo.

Performances will be Friday through Sunday, February 3-19. All performances are at 8:00 p.m. except Sundays, which are at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and $10 for students.

(left to right) Sherri Sutter, Kelli Locker and Amy Askins

Tickets can be purchased online at www.daytonplayhouse.com, or through the box office, 937-424-8477, which is staffed Monday, Wednesday and Friday 2:00 -5:00 p.m.. Messages may be left for the box office at any time. The Dayton Playhouse is located at 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414.

A special Dayton Playhouse Benefit Night will take place from 5:00–9:00 p.m., on Sunday, February 19, at bd’s Mongolian Grill, 4488 Glengarry Dr., Beavercreek (directly across from the movie theatre at The Greene). A percentage of all checks, accompanied by a Dayton Playhouse flyer, will go to the theatre’s fundraising efforts. Flyers will be distributed at “Nunsense” performances, on Facebook and at the threatre. Call 937-424-8477 for more information.

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.

 

The Stinky Cheese Man And Other Fairly Stupid Tales

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Based on the award-winning book by author Jon Scieszka, THE STINKY CHEESE MAN AND OTHER FAIRLY STUPID TALES comes to life on the Victoria Theatre stage and features hilarious adventures of well-known characters from tales such as Jack and the Beanstalk, Chicken Little, Princess and the Pea, Little Red Riding Hood and many more. Scieszka’s humorous fairytale parodies create a fun and educational afternoon for children and adults of all ages, and introduce the twists and turns in the lives of character counterparts such as The Stinky Cheese Man (The Gingerbread Man), Chicken Licken (Chicken Little) and The Really Ugly Duckling (The Ugly Duckling).

With the honor of receiving the Caldecott Award from the American Library Association and Best Illustrated Book (illustrator, Lane Smith) from the New York Times, THE STINKY CHEESE MAN AND OTHER FAIRLY STUPID TALES celebrates the book’s 20th anniversary of publication in 2012 by coming to life on stage and captivating audiences through humor and enjoyment.

Tickets for The Stinky Cheese Man are priced at a family-friendly $18 for adults and $16 for children (ages 12 and under).  Tickets are on sale now through Ticket Center Stage, and may be purchased at the Schuster Center box office in downtown Dayton or by phone, at (937) 228-3630 or toll free (888) 228-3630. Ticket Center Stage hours are Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, noon – 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Support for Victoria Theatre Association’s Family Advocacy Program through the PNC Family Series is provided by SoBran, Inc. The official candy of Victoria Theatre Association’s PNC Family Series is Esther Price Candies Corporation. Think TV is the official Media Partner for the PNC Family Series.

For more information about the 2011-2012 PNC Family Series, visit: http://www.victoriatheatre.com/series/2011-2012-family/.

Ticket Contest

We have a family ticket four-pack to give away for this show on Saturday Feb. 4 at 1pm, courtesy of Victoria Theatre Association!  Just fill out the form below and we’ll pick a random winner on Thursday Feb. 2 at noon… Good Luck!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to Rebecca Monce – her name was randomly drawn… enjoy the show!

Cityfolk Bluegrass Doublebill Features Soaring Vocals and Stellar Musicianship

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Very few bands, in any style of tradition-based music, have stirred up the commotion upon making its debut than the bluegrass outfit known as Dailey & Vincent did in 2008. Hailed by theWall Street Journal as “a new dynasty in bluegrass,” Dailey & Vincent released its first album to rapturous acclaim, tore up festival and concert audiences across the country with exciting, high-energy performances and capped its first year by sweeping the 2008 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards, winning seven awards, unprecedented for a new act.

Though Vincent and Dailey had worked in the same musical circles for years, they didn’t really know each other until 2001, when they met for breakfast to discuss working together. Riding home, they began singing in the car. “When we heard that, it was instant,” says Vincent. “We knew it sounded unique, and really tight. Our voices just blend so uniquely together. It blows my mind. Where I’m weak, he’s strong. And where he’s weak, I’m strong. We think alike, and we sing alike. So it works out well.”

The band Dailey & Vincent—which consists of Jamie Dailey (guitar, bass, lead and harmony vocals), Darrin Vincent (mandolin, bass, guitar, lead and harmony vocals), Christian Davis (guitar, harmony vocals), Joe Dean, Jr. (banjo, guitar, harmony vocals), Jeff Parker (mandolin, guitar, harmony vocals) and Jesse Stockman (fiddle)—has recorded five widely acclaimed albums:Dailey & Vincent, Brothers from Different Mothers, Singing from the Heart, Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers and most recently, The Gospel Side of Dailey & Vincent.

Dailey & Vincent’s vocal prowess and versatility have launched the band to the top of the bluegrass world in a few short years. Not together even five years yet, Dailey & Vincent has already won IBMA’s top award, Entertainer of the Year, three times.

The New York Times has called the band “the most celebrated new bluegrass act of the last few years,” and it’s hard to argue with that assessment. Billboard calls Jamie Dailey “the greatest pure tenor singer since Ira Louvin” (that’s high praise indeed), while that same Times review observed that “Dailey’s voice [is] cleansing, a high-pitched tenor that pierces through the band’s nimble, complex arrangements…Stunning.”  

“We do feel like we’re chiseling away at it, and we’re having some success,” says Jamie Dailey of the band’s ascent. “We’re blessed to have the career that we have, but you can never take anything for granted,” adds Darrin Vincent. “We stay humble and keep it in the front of our minds that nothing lasts forever. We were lucky enough to find each other.”

Cityfolk favorites Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers—which includes Joe Mullins (banjo, vocals), Mike Terry (mandolin, vocals), Adam McIntosh (guitar, vocals), Evan McGregor (fiddle, vocals) and Tim Kidd (bass)—was formed in 2006. The hard-working band, nominated for IBMA’s Emerging Artist of the Year Award in 2011, performed in almost 20 states and three Canadian provinces last year and has an even busier year scheduled for 2012. Mullins, the son of the late fiddler and broadcaster Paul “Moon” Mullins, is one of the greatest banjo players in bluegrass.

The band released a pair of outstanding albums in 2010, Rambler’s Call and Hymns from the Hills.  The latter record, which takes its name from a bluegrass and country gospel program Joe’s father Moon Mullins used to host on WPFB in Middletown, is an outstanding all-gospel set that showcases the band’s fine vocal work and features such guests as Ralph Stanley, Doyle Lawson, Larry Sparks and Rhonda Vincent. A nice historical touch is the inclusion of Aubrey Holt’s “We Missed You in Church Last Sunday,” the title song from the 1974 debut album by Paul Mullins, Noah Crase and the Boys from Indiana.

Dailey & Vincent with special guests Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers perform, Saturday, February 11 at 8 PM at the Dayton Masonic Center. Information and tickets are available by calling 937-496-3863 or online at www.cityfolk.org

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Ticket Contest

We have a pair of tickets to see this show – just fill out the form below and we’ll draw a winner on Friday 2/3 at noon.  Good luck!

(Contest Closed)

Congratulations to Lori Kershner, whose name we randomly picked to win the pair of tickets to see Dailey & Vincent – courtesy of Cityfolk!  Enjoy the show!

Oscar-Worthy Books

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Six of the nine Oscar nominated best films began their lives as novels. Considering the vast majority of movies don’t do their literary counterparts justice, it would be fascinating to see if the Oscar nominated books were as riveting as their films.

The Descendants, a novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings

This debut novel regularly receives four stars and kudos for its humor and heartbreaking emotion. The structure of the movie is faithful to the book, with several characters given more dimension in the book. Several scenes and sections of dialogue are taken directly from the book. It can’t hurt to have nominated George Clooney as Best Actor for the movie as well.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, a novel by Jonathan Safran Foer

A sophomore novel by Foer, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close follows Foer’s standout novel and accompanying movie, Everything is Illuminated.

Foer’s books are an acquired taste but they are still given more than four stars by most readers. Some complain of the odd passages, overwritten text, and illustrations but the movie seems to make the story accessible to all. Max Von Sydow is nominated for Best Supporting Actor and doesn’t utter a single word in the movie.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

With another debut novel, Stockett has become the patron saint of thwarted novelists. She famously gave an interview explaining that The Help took five years to write and racked up over 60 rejections before becoming a bestseller and collecting nearly four stars from every review site. Even her husband suggested she abandon the book and move on to something else.

The movie is superbly cast with a trio of fierce actresses, each deserving a nomination. It did gain best actress for Viola Davis (Abilene) and two supporting actress for the stunning Octavia Spencer (Minnie) and Jessica Chastain (Celia). Only Emma Stone was neglected.

Moneyball, novel by Michael Lewis

The only non-fiction book on the list, Moneyball is regularly ranked four stars and above, even by non-sports lovers. The theory heavy book found the heart of the story, replicating the success Lewis had with his other novel turned blockbuster, The Blind Side.

Brad Pitt is nominated for Best Actor, Jonah Hill is nominated for a Best Supporting Actor for his fictional character, Peter Brand, and the movie is nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret, book written and illustrated by Brian Selznick

The children’s book by Selznick is an inventive mix of picture book, children’s novel, graphic novel, and mystery. Hugo, the movie, takes its cues from the cinematic book, delivering a rich ready-made story. It is nominated for both Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay as well.

War Horse, novel by Michael Murpurgo

Another children’s novel, War Horse was first released in 1982. Adapted into a play first and then into a movie, directed by Steven Spielberg, it is both a moving, brief book and a riveting epic movie.

The book, at only 192 pages, regularly ranks four stars and above and can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Of the entire Oscar nominated films, what book do you most want to read?

The Youth Lead the Way with Alivera’s Debut EP

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Well, folks, after a quick holiday break, it’s officially January in Ohio! The weather is cold, the snow is coming, and we’ll soon have to break out the ice skates to get to work. Eventually, there might be a time that the roads get too bad for us to make it out to see our favorite local bands play around town, but fear not! We have something called “technology” which will allow us to listen to our favorite local acts at home! Amazing, I know.

Alivera (Photo by Rick Wait/waitphoto)

The holiday months were busy for the local scene, with a number of bands releasing new albums and EPs. Both bands old and new, more experienced and younger, were busy releasing their newest tracks to their audiences. One of the artists on the newer side, whom I’ve been following for the past couple months, is the band Alivera. With most members on the border of 20, and some of them fresh out of high school, Alivera is one of those bands bringing a refreshing sound to the local rock scene.

This post-hardcore outfit released their debut self-titled EP back in November and is preparing to begin touring around the area in February. With this EP, Alivera brings forth a sound that is a bit more mature than their previous demos, toning down the hardcore edge and bringing forth stronger melodies and harmonies.

Alivera’s new EP is a quick four tracks long, and opens with the track “Aurora’s Winds”. A fade-in guitar leads right into a full force, pop-ish post-hardcore sound, with chord-heavy guitars and echo-effects vocals. The track begins loosening up as it moves on, giving hints at vocalist Chris McGrath’s range as guitarists Tyler Smith and Trevor Johnson begin trading out chords for a more melodic focus.  Overall, this track provides samples of the band’s various ranges and strengths, which are further highlighted in later tracks.

The following track, “The Civic Pt. II”, fades in the drums this time around, before leading into a opening that feels similar to the track beforehand. McGrath uses his vocal shifts a bit more in this track, while drummer Aaron Queener becomes a bit more highlighted, pushing forth the various minor style shifts in the track.

Alivera performs live (Photo by Michael Smart Photography)

The band picks up to something a bit stronger in the next track, “Predecessors”. Guitar gains a stronger focus at the beginning of this track, providing melody right off the bad rather than starting with chords. The vocalist pushes his range higher in this track, and gains a bit of an angry edge at some points. This also marks the first time that the “hardcore” part of the band is really brought out, with a slight breakdown and some screamed vocals during the bridge.

The EP ends with what is, in my opinion, the strongest track: “Planetary Aspect”. This track is the strongest out of the gate, with emotional vocals at the outset, moving right into a strong drum-and-guitar lead to the chorus. The chorus is where McGrath breaks out the top of his range: a high-reaching voice that doesn’t sound forced. Smith, Johnson, and Queener all come together during the verses to provide their best instrumentals on the EP, moving to a breakdown-style bridge and a strong drive to a satisfying ending.

I have met a number of individuals in the area that outright dismiss younger bands, claiming that they don’t have “experience” or something like that. I will never understand why some people hold opinions such as this. I believe that it is the younger bands that are bringing the freshest sounds to the scene, whether with Alivera to the rock scene, or various other acts to the others. Keep an eye on the younger up-and-comers, as they are the ones that are taking the Dayton scene to new heights.

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2011 Best of the Best Beauty Product Winners

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When I sat down to complile the list for this I figured out that I could go on forever. I tried to narrow it down to the things that we use everyday. Most of my product favorites are affordable for the everyday woman and can be found locally at the drugstore, Sephora or Ulta. I love products so much that choosing favorites is never easy for me. Clients ask me daily what my favorites are and I always get that blank look on my face. Like a kid trying to choose her favorite stuffed animal I want to say I love them all but with anything there must be favorites….and here are my winner for 2011.

MAKEUP:

    • Lipstick: Chanel. All of Chanel lipstick formulations are incredible. Their colors are neutral, and classic. If you are looking for the perfect red lipstick you can’t go wrong.
    • Lipgloss: MAC Lipglass: I know everyone loves it but how can you not? It’s the perfect combination of gloss and color
    • Lip Pencils: Smashbox The Nude Lip Pencils: they glide on and go with everything!
    • Lip Balm: LUSH Mint Julips:Use the LUSH lip scrub before applying this gives your lips an instant makeover. You can also use it on cuticles as an added bonus and the flavor takes me right to Derby Day!
    • Cheek Stain: Benetint by Benefit: This stain gives an amazing (and insanely long lasting) flush to the cheeks. Sexy and Sultry perfection!
    • Powder Blush:Tarte Amazonian Clay Blushes:Highly pigmented, large pans, and bright sexy colors.  Blissful, Adorned, and Dollface are three favs….but honestly, they are all perfect.
    • Luminizer:NARS Illuminator: You can wear this light weight formula alone or with your regular makeup to give you an instant glow. I use this on the top of cheekbones, browbones, and the cupids bow right above the lip.
    • Eyeshadow: Dior 5 Color Eyeshadow: this was a tough decision since I am a huge fan of the “Naked” eyeshadows but in the end I had to choose the Dior. No matter which one you choose you can not go wrong with the perfectly pigmented shades.
    • Mascara: Dior Blackout: My favorite mascara ever! The color is rich, and thickens up your lashes to fake proportions and best all it actually washes off when you need it to!
    • Eye Liner: Lancome Artliners:I have the entire line of these liners for my professional kit.  The longevity is superb and they are actually shaped like a felt tipped pen which makes it super easy to apply.
    • Shadow Primer: Clinique Touchbase:I have tried every primer out there but this one that I discover in high school never creases on me and keeps my eyeshadows where they belong. Brightens up the eyes and can be used as nude eyeshadow as well.
    • Brows: Anastasia the Kit for Perfect Brows: This kit is all-in-one perfection. It has everything you need to shape, brighten, color and enhance your brows. Plus it comes in a super cute case.
    • Foundation: SmashBox High Definition:If you want flawless skin in a bottle look no further! Not only does it give you the perfect complexion but it wears up to 16 hours.
    •  Bronzers/Luminizer: SmashBox Fusion Soft Lights: This was one of my favorite finds of 2011!  I have always struggled to find a bronzer that would work for even the palest complexions and this was finally the one! I love this as a blush by itself or all over for an instant beachy glow.
    • Primers: Laura Geller Illuminating Spackle: Don’t let the name scare you. This is a soft focus filter, moisturizing, and glow enhancing potion.  So soft on the skin, and doubles as a light tinted moisturizer.
    • Concealers: Makeup Forever Camo Palette: You cant go wrong with this one. It covers you from you whitest days of winter to your beach glow in the summer. The bonus is it also comes with all the color correcting creams you need after a night out on the town.
    • Best Finishing Spray: Model In a Bottle:  Loved by models and makeup artists alike, this spray helps to keep your makeup in place under the harshest of conditions. I was a little hesitant when a fellow artist recommended it to me but now it is a staple that I don’t want to be without….EVER!

 

                                                                               SKIN CARE:

  • Body Wash: Aveda Rosemary Mint: Im not big on fragrance but I love how clean and soft this is. I can use it everyday and my skin never dries out.
  • Lotions: Bath and Body Work Cashmere: Not only is this a fantastic bargain, but it moisturizes the body like the richest of body butters. The best part is that it sinks into the skin quickly, without leaving a greasy residue.
  • Exfoliants: Dermatologica: This exfoliant saved my life after a serious sunburn. Made with rice powder it is super gentle and if used regularly can clear up some minor sun spots. Most exfoliants are too rough on my skin, but this is gentle yet effective.
  • Facial Cleansers: Loreal Gentle Cleanser: That’s right one of the best cleansers is also a bargain and it comes with a cute little scrubber pad. This takes off even the toughest of makeup, and waterproof mascara.  It is super hydrating, and leaves the skin clean without stripping the skins natural oils.
  • Toners: Prescriptives: This line has amazing skin care and although no longer in stores can be ordered online.
  • Moisturizers: Embryolisse: This is gold in a bottle. Perfect for all skin types (even acne prone), this cream helps with scars, uneven skin tone, and dry patches.  It instantly sinks into the skin, and is perfect for under makeup.
  • Eye Cream:  Crème de La Mer The Eye Balm: Nothing is better for making the eyes firmer, and more radiant.  This eye cream version of the cult moisturizer contains the magic broth, and makes even the most tired of eyes look awake.
  • Masks: Bliss Oxygen Mask:  I absolutely cannot be without this. I use it twice a week after exfoliating and it gives me an instant radiant glow. Honorable mention also goes to LUSH and any of there amazing all natural masks.
  • Sunscreen: Anything by Clarins.  Their sunscreens are the best on the market.
  • Self-Tanners: St. Tropez Bronzing Moose: Nothing compares. This is the only self tanner that I have tried on my pale skin that doesn’t turn me orange.  It gives a natural, brown, golden glow.  I always get compliments when I use this.  The application mitt also makes it easy to apply.

This Syd Wasn’t Vicious. This Syd Was Visionary.

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DPO presents The Music of Pink Floyd with Windborne

At times, genius has been known to border on insanity.

Though some consider that statement a myth, recent research out of Sweden argues  that it could be true. Case in point: Pink Floyd co-founder and rock legend Syd Barrett.

Pink Floyd set the standard for progressive and psychedelic rock. Often times their lyrics were downright thoughtful, the art on their albums inventive, their sound untested, and their live performances sophisticated and intricate. As a result, they achieved worldwide success selling over 200 million albums and earning induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

None of which would have been possible without the innovative genius of Syd Barrett.

In 1965, the four members of the original band (Roger Waters, Nick Mason, Richard Wright, and Syd) were all students. Sid’s drive and leadership led to the release of two singles that made the charts, Arnold Layne and See Emily Play, followed by their first album, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. Guitarist/vocalist David Gilmour joined Pink Floyd in December 1967. Not long after, suffering from failing mental health Syd left the group.

Along with the problems that marked Syd’s changed nature the group had lost the benefit of his genius. For example, he had written two original songs (Butterfly and Lucy Leave) for their first demo tape; played around with lengthy instrumental jaunts and  elementary slide-and-colored-light shows. Syd’s personal moves on stage were high-spirited, improvised, and bordering on inspired madness. Madness that began to have a detrimental effect on the group’s future.

Syd began abusing LSD.

At one concert, guitar around his neck, Syd simply stood still on stage with his arms hanging down. While taping for The Pat Boone Show, Syd mimed a song perfectly in rehearsal then stood perfectly still during the take.

Pink Floyd was at its wits end. It added David Gilmour as its fifth member, hopefully to  cover for Syd’s foul-ups and – as a last resort – keep Syd on solely to write. Frustrated with his new role on the sidelines, Syd started teaching the band a new song, Have You Got It Yet? It couldn’t; whether purposely or not, Syd kept changing the arrangement on each performance, and the group couldn’t learn it.

In March 1968, Syd left Pink Floyd. He had been the creative genius behind the group. Now he couldn’t even remember he had left, turning up for a play date every now and again, bewildered as to what was happening. When Pink Floyd was working on a new album, Syd showed up unannounced and left without saying goodbye. Except for a run-in between Waters and Syd a few years later, none of the group ever saw him again.

In the 35 years since having left the group, Syd had all but disappeared. He dabbled with painting and spent most of his time gardening. On July 7, 2006, 60-year-old Syd Barrett died at his home in Cambridgeshire, England. No Pink Floyd members attended his funeral.

Syd is gone, but his genius remains.

The British national press has praised his contributions to music.

David Bowie has called Syd Barrett a major inspiration.

A teenage The Edge (of U2 fame) bought his first delay pedal after hearing the opening to Animals.

The Pet Shop Boys paid homage to The Wall during a performance in Boston.

Foo Fighters, Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, The Mars Volta, Tool, Queensryche, Scissor Sisters, Rush, Radiohead, Gorillaz, Mudvayne, Nine Inch Nails, Primus and Smashing Pumpkins, some of whom have recorded Pink Floyd covers, have all been influenced by Syd Barrett.

In 1975 even Pink Floyd paid tribute to Syd with the album Wish You Were Here.

Syd is gone, but the genius of his visionary music and concert techniques lives on.

On Thursday, February 9 at 8 pm ­in the Schuster Center, the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will present The Music of Pink Floyd with Windborne, the second concert in the DPO’s Rockin’ Orchestra Series.  (Click for Tickets)

Conductor Brent Havens and rock ensemble Windborne Music will join the DPO and bring the full glory of Pink Floyd’s sound to the Mead stage, deftly melding rock with orchestra in a setting of mesmerizing visual effects.

Syd would have approved.