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Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

LIbby Ballengee

Enjoy an early evening of folk music with Ellis Paul!

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Enjoy an early evening and intimate performance with the one and only, Ellis Paul at Brightside Music Room this Sunday April 14, 2019. It’s going to be a true Sunday Funday with doors opening at 5pm with food from Twisted Taco food truck, and music from 6-8pm. Cozy, early evening that is perfect for Dayton music fans!

Ellis Paul is a renowned troubadour, singer/songwriter, folky, and storyteller. He’s been inspired by the likes of Woody Guthrie, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and James Taylor, and their spirits seem to occasionally grace his work. With an acoustic guitar in hand, he weaves intimate, provocative, and romantic tales of lives that were obviously witnessed by a most-talented voyeur.

Based in Massachusetts, Paul has been called the quintessential Boston songwriter more than a few times and has garnered the recognition and awards to back up that claim, including a shelf full of Boston Music Awards. Since coming onto the scene in 1993 with his independent debut, Say Something, Paul hasn’t slowed or weakened as a performer or a writer.

Spending two-thirds of most years on the road has helped him perfect both crafts, with a lot of practice on-stage and a lot of people whose stories he retells in song.  Over the years and albums, his songs have gotten more personal. Paul is on tour celebrating his 20th and latest studio album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase.

How to Go?

Sunday April 14 at Brightside Music & Event Venue (903 E 3rd St).

Doors 5pm. Show 6-8pm. Tickets $20 each (available online and at the door).

Rockin’ out to support Ronald McDonald House of Dayton!

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This weekend, April 12-13, 2019, you can rock out to a 2-night music event and fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House. Come for one or both nights of this special event at the new Brightside Music & Event Venue!

Friday night serves as the pre-party for Saturday night’s main event. There you’ll enjoy an extra special Happy Hour, which kicks off at 4:30pm, featuring a tasting from Cutwater Spirits and food available from Godfather’s Pizza. Music starts at 6pm with Last Call Trio, featuring special guest Danny Voris. At 8pm you can witness the 6 year old piano sensation Avett Ray (as seen on CBS News, Good Morning America, People, Inside Edition). At 8:30pm, the Kerry Smith Band rehearses for their big show on Saturday. Tickets are $10 advance, $15 at the door. VIP ticket $30 (includes Saturday night ticket too + reserved seating) More info here.

Saturday night is the main event! Doors open at 6pm. Harvest Mobile Cuisine will be here and have food available for purchase. Avett Ray is back with another performance at 7pm. At 8pm, the Kerry Smith Band takes the stage for this rare reunion show. General admission tickets for Saturday are $15 advance, $20 at the door. VIP ticket $30 (includes Friday night ticket too + reserved seating.) More info here.

This is going to be a fantastic weekend for rock’n’roll fans, and a fabulous way to support Dayton’s Ronald McDonald House!

Celebration of liFe at Blind Bob’s on Saturday

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One of the things I admire most about the Dayton music community, is its ability to bring everyone together and to lift each other up. This Saturday April 13th is no exception with the Celebration of liFe concert at Blind Bob’s Bar.

Organizers explain: “One year ago, our community lost a beacon of light. In memory of our dear friend Fe Meier, please join us for Celebration of liFe. To honor her smile, kindness and memory, all proceeds will be donated to NAMI Montgomery County Ohio. NAMI is dedicated to providing peer support, education and advocacy to individuals and families affected with mental illness.”

The night’s lineup includes local rock bands Abertooth Lincoln, Kelly Renea Hanus, Weathervein, VICE ON VICTORYandSmall Words. The show is $5 at the door, although additional donations are gladly accepted! This is a 21+ event. Doors 9pm. Music till 2am.

Want to donate but can’t attend? Please visit www.nami-mc.org. Want to help but can’t donate? Call a friend or loved one and tell them five amazing things about themselves. Give someone a hug. Make sure that YOU are taking care of your mental health and reaching out to others when you need to. You are never a burden. You are never too much. YOU ARE LOVED.

The Nth Power brings their funky grooves to The Brightside

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The Nth Power, a soulful, funky super group takes the stage at The Brightside on April 9, 2019. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO.

Dayton’s newest music venue, The Brightside Music & Event Venue, officially kicks off it’s concert series on Tuesday April 9, 2019 with The Nth Power, a true super group! They are traveling from Brooklyn to New Orleans for Jazz Fest, and are making a special stop right here in Dayton. The relentlessly funky and soulful band believes in music as a higher power tapping into an energy that is simultaneously sexy and spiritual, with songs that will inspire audiences!

The trio hails from diverse musical backgrounds, races and creeds. Female powerhouse Nikki Glaspie was Beyonce’s world-touring drummer for five years before she joined Ivan Nevilles New Orleans funk outfit, Dumpstaphunk. Bassist Nate Edgar of Groovechild and John Browns Body perfectly compliments singer and guitarist Nick Cassarino who came from the Jennifer Hartswick Band and toured with Big Daddy Kane.
The Brightside is hosting them on a Tuesday evening from 8:30-10pm. We love these early weeknight shows where you can still get home at a decent time on a school night. So what else are you doing on a Tuesday night? We encourage you to support Dayton’s newest music venue and the great national acts they are bringing to town for our enjoyment!
How to Go?
Tuesday April 9, 2019 at The Brightside: 905 E 3rd St Dayton OH 45402
Doors 8pm. Show 8:30pm.
General Admission Pre-sale $12. Day of show $15.
To purchase pre-sale tickets, click here.

Scythian warms up the Celtic Crowd!

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For all those missing Celtic Festival, there’s a fantastic event happening this weekend that’s just for you! One of the beloved annual headliners, Scythian, is making a winter stop in Dayton, to warm up our hearts and souls, and get us in the mood for St Patrick’s Day!

Scythian is crowd pleaser for many reasons, primarily because they are so energetic, and get people literally bouncing on their feet! The other reason is their undeniable talent, and clever interplay between musicians. If you’ve never seen them perform, this is the perfect show to see and hear them up close!

The upcoming March 8th performance is extra special for a couple of reasons. First off, the band is performing at one of Dayton’s newest venues, The Brightside Music & Event Venue. Dayton has been in need of a 400-600 person indoor room where national acts can perform during the colder months especially. Secondly, Scythian is joined by The Hussey Brothers (Indiana) & our beloved Celtic Academy of Irish Dance for this show!

When I spoke with this band about their upcoming show in Dayton, they said: “For every band that tours, there’s always a few cities that have a special place in their heart: places that have opened their doors, their hearts to them and given them the unconditional support to take risks and grow as musicians. For us Dayton is such a place and we can honestly say it feels like a home away from home – an oasis. During this 3,500 mile St. Patrick’s Day tour we’ve all been keeping our eye on March 8th. We’re excited to come home and are looking forward to introducing our Dayton family to the Hussey Brothers an brand new band on the Americana scene that will be turning heads this coming year. So be sure to come out early to hear these Indiana boys play and come ready for a great night of musical entertainment!”

The Hussey Brothers perform with Scythian at the Brightside Music & Event Center on Friday March 8, 2019. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO.

How to Go?

Friday March 8, 2019. Doors 7pm. Show 7:30-10:30pm.

The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St Dayton OH 45402

Tickets $20 – purchase here.

All Ages!

Your Guide to Valentine’s Day (Singles included!)

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Finding something fresh and fun to do on any ole date night can be difficult as is, but Valentine’s Day puts on 10x the pressure. You want to show your affection, your way and on your budget – but where to start? The guide below should be helpful! These tips for relationships of all shapes, sizes and styles – and even singles!

Any night this week

Crafted & Cured, photo by Libby Ballengee

Slip away and pretend you’re in a distant European city at District Provisions, on Wayne Avenue, not far from the Oregon District. This collection of connected spaces in the Dietz Block has become a decadent destination spot for foodies. Any of the three current purveyors would be a perfect place to get food & drink before or after any of the other events and performance listed later this week.

Crafted & Cured is the anchor of District Provisions, boasting a 60 tap system with unique and rare beer, ciders, and meads. The cured element delivers charcuterie boards with truly delectable meats, cheese, oils, vinegars, fruits, vegetables and select seafood to culture your palette. The beautiful Glasz Bleu Oven restaurant features wood-fired dishes created before your eyes. They pride themselves on using the very freshest local, organic ingredients. Jack Lukey’s Oyster Saloon & Caviar Bar is a cozy and elegant little spot. Oysters have a reputation for being an aphrodisiac, so you’ll certainly get in the mood there!

In the same area along Wayne, another decadent spot to check out is the new Van Buren Room. This is an old school, dark swanky bar that’s connected to the Belle of Dayton Distillery. Here is where you can grab a yummy craft cocktail. Ladies, if you forgot a present for your man, smoothly buy a bottle of their vodka, gin or rum along with a custom glass or t-shirt. Another place to grab custom cocktails and the best bourbon, is of course further downtown at the Century Bar. A classic for good reason!

This week you can also catch the touring performance of The King & I, the classic Rogers & Hammerstein musical of an unconventional love story. Nothing like stepping foot in the gorgeous Schuster Center to make your heart swell! Performances: Tuesday-Friday at 8pm, Saturday at 2pm and 8pm, Sunday at 2pm and 7:30pm. Runtime 2 hours 32 min plus 15 min intermission. Tickets start at $26 (Plus service fees. Prices subject to change. Military discount available. Get tickets online at TicketCenterStage.com, at the Box Office, or by phone at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630.

Wednesday February 13th, 2019

Perhaps you’ve recently met someone interesting, but don’t feel it’s serious enough to do a super romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Or maybe you’re old sweethearts, seeking an option that is casual and interesting. Either way, I think you’ll enjoy a short film that is debuting on Wednesday evening. It’s budget friendly too!  “That’s Life” is the creation of an 18 year old Dayon-based filmmaker, Christian Gentry. The trailer for this film is surprisingly mature, centering about an aging, out-of-touch musician who tries to save his dating life with a young woman he meets in the city. Sounds fun for a date night! Film starts at 7:30pm at Neon Movies. $7 tickets in advance. Fun side note: Neon serves both coffee and cocktails, among the other traditional movie theatre munchies.

Before or after the debut, you can grab dinner close by in the Oregon District, at any number of places such as Blind Bob’s, Lucky’s Tap Room, Oregon Express, Dublin Pub, Troll Pub; or a bit more upscale at Roost Modern Italian, Lily’s Bistro, Corner Kitchen, Thai 9, Jay’s Seafood, Wheat Penny around the corner or at the aforementioned locations. Checking ahead and making reservations is always recommended!

Thursday February 14th, 2019

Madam Delluc’s Belgian chocolates. Photo by Libby Ballengee

All right. It’s Valentine’s Day and you don’t have anything for your sweetie. Pop out at lunch and grab flowers at the Second Street Market’s Flower Man. Or stop by the shops in Oakwood, and splurge on a gorgeous box of chocolates at Madame Delluc (2510 Far Hills Ave). This is one of two places in the United States that you can buy true Belgian chocolates from the one and only Royal Warrant Holder. Pop into Arrow Wines or Dorothy Lane Market for bottle of wine, and you’re all set!

Valentine’s Day is a perfect reason to support and enjoy the wonderful arts organizations we have in Dayton! Thursday evening is opening night for the Dayton Ballet’s run of Perspectives. This is a repertory show, which in layman’s terms means not a story ballet. There will be 4 shorts, often more on the modern side, where the music, costumes and styles change with each piece. Makes it perfect for people who are new to dance performances – especially for the romantics out there. Two of these ballets will make their world premieres on the historic Victoria Theatre stage, in keeping with Dayton Ballet’s international acclaim as “The Company of Premieres.”  Love that! The performance starts on Thursday at 7:30pm. Additional performances this week: Friday 8pm; Saturday 8pm; Sunday 3pm.

There are so many new places to grab a bite to eat before or after the show, within walking distance in the Theatre District downtown. Hannah’s (located next to the Arts Garage on Ludlow) is hosting the Dayton Ballet Barre’s pre-performance reception at 6pm on Thursday. Bar Granada has recently opened on Monument, and is perfect for shareable tapas and wines. Carmen’s Deli has recently extended their dining hours, and is quite close by in the Kettering Tower. Or make dinner reservations at the The Racquet Club, Table 33, Mudlick Taphouse or Uno’s Pizza.

Dayton Ballet’s “Perspectives” – photos by Geek with a Lens, Scott Robbins

More of a visual arts and wine aficionado? The Dayton Art Institute invites you to celebrate 100 years of love, service and partnership the museum has provided to the community with a Valentine’s Day wine and chocolate tasting. The Vine & Canvas event includes a guided museum experience focusing on the museum’s centennial. Advance tickets are $35 for museum members, $45 for non-members. All tickets purchased the night of a tasting (as available) are $50. The event runs from 6:30-9pm. Cheers!

Friday February 15th, 2019

Working during the week, and can’t celebrate till the weekend? Never fear – there are even more options! Check the cultural box with Erin Smith-GlennExhibit Closing Show at Mikee Huber’s lovely gallery located at 903 N. Keowee Street from 6-8:30pm. In addition, there will be wine & refreshments, and special offers and giveaways!

Ready to de-stress? Laughing always helps! I checked out Black Box Improv recently, and I could not get over how funny it was! Our cheeks were hurting from laughing so much! On Friday there will be two improvised musicals with Trey Stone & The Black Box Band on both Friday and Saturday nights. Bring your favorite alcoholic beverage and get in the mood! Doors open at 7:30pm, Show at 8pm. $12 tickets at the door or online. First come, first serve, so I find it’s best to reserve ahead.

Single? Well there’s no reason to be depressed this weekend! Head over to The Single Mingle at Hannah’s. They’ve got a DJ lined up, great food, craft cocktails and lots of great connections for those who are ready to meet someone special. Starts at 9pm. Also tip for the singles – any of the next music shows are great places to meet too!

Music fans have a couple great shows on Friday. Over at South Park Tavern, you can get cozy and casual at An Evening with David Payne. The local Americana folk rocker is known from his band The New Old-Fashioned.  Special guest Casey Abbott kicks off the evening of music at 9pm. Best part? No cover charge!

For all my Grateful Dead lovin’ friends out there, you cannot miss Arrows of Neon at Yellow Cab Tavern. They will recreate the classic and fan favorite album “Live/Dead” which was released 50 years ago! Wow! Grateful Dead always puts a smile on my face. Highly recommend those peace loving vibes to those who are single and attached. $10 cover. Music starts at 9pm. 18+

Saturday February 16th, 2019

There is more for music fans on Saturday night with the rescheduled Winterfolk Festival at Yellow Cab Tavern. It’s going to be a non-stop night of music and visual art for all ages. Harvest Mobile Cuisine, with its farm-fresh comfort food, will be on hand to fill your belly. The YC Tavern offers craft beer & cocktails are available to those 21 & up with proper ID. All ages allowed in for the fun and music! Doors 7pm. Show 8pm. Tickets will be cash sale at the door for $15.

Music is also on the menu at the Trolley Stop, where you can boogie with your sweetie to the always entertaining Todd the Fox Trio. Their unique blend of Blues, bluegrass, and old fashioned rock’n’roll is unfrogettable! 9:30pm-1:30am. $5 cover. 21+

Sunday February 17th, 2019

Cap your weekend off with brunch for a very good cause with Savor Your Sundays! Every Sunday in February, you can enjoy a specially curated brunch menu of delicious entrees at CoCo’s Bistro benefitting Stivers School for the Arts! The brunch also features talented performing arts students from the various music magnets. You absolutely must call ahead as this is a limited seating. Call 937.228.COCO (2626) to reserve your spot for this Sunday or the next one. Just 2 left!

Lastly, please remember to check out my weekly live original music run downs here. You can bookmark and check weekly! Also follow my Dayton music and events @thevenuschild on Twitter or @venuschildproductions on Facebook; @venuschild on Instagram.  I have some fun music events coming up you won’t to miss!

Thanks for dating your city!

Libby Ballengee

#DateYourCity #DaytonInspires #DiscoverDayton #DaytonMusic

People from around the world gathering in Dayton to celebrate Blacks in Dance!

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This week, Dayton Ohio has the privilege of hosting the 31st Annual International Association of Blacks in Dance Conference and Festival from January 22 – 27, 2019, in partnership with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. This gathering is the broadest of black dance professionals in the US and internationally, including attendees from 8 Countries – Canada, England, Germany, Ghana, Jamaica, Norway, Senegal, and the United States. The conference hosts 19 hours of dance per day featuring 48 performance groups, 43 teaching artists, 25 dance styles, as well as 21 premiere ballet companies participating in The Equity Project: Increasing the Presence of Blacks in Ballet.

This exciting conference is also a fabulous way to celebrate DCDC’s 50th Anniversary season! There are lots of ways for local Daytonians to get involved, from attending a performance featuring these phenomenal artists, to taking master classes, to volunteering to help out! Keep reading to find out more…

What is the International Association of Blacks in Dance?

The International Association of Blacks in Dance, Inc., (IABD) has a vision for dance, by people of African ancestry or origin, to be revered, respected, and preserved in the consciousness and cultural institutions of all people. The organization offers a full range of services and programs that are dedicated to championing the work of dance artists, educators, leadership, researchers, scholars, students, and supporters. The Association provides a network, formal newsletters, choreographers directory, published papers and is the raison d’être for the annual conference and festival. The Association also responds to and initiates dialogue around issues that impact the black dance community, as well as the dance community at large.

For Volunteers

IABD is currently looking for reliable and dedicated individuals who are interested in being an Ambassador for the City of Dayton and our activities. Volunteer tasks include, but are not limited to: registration, ushers and ticket takers, classroom monitors, production and guest liaisons. Volunteers will be needed for a variety of tasks and at a variety of locations. Please note any disability that would affect where and how we would be able to utilize your time (i.e. must be able to sit, etc.). All volunteers will be given an IABD apron to wear during their volunteer time, please dress business casual (no jeans and t-shirts). You will be notified by our IABD Volunteer Coordinators with more information about days, times, and duties. For more information, please click here.

For Dancers (Youth, Pre-Professional, Professional) and Teachers

Over four days, participants will engage in invaluable professional opportunities. Workshop, panel sessions and master classes will provide examples of successful new and innovative models. Dialogues with legends and next generation artists will inspire new thinking for a vibrant future for Dance. Career pathway workshops, and post career guidance will also be offered.

The Conference and Festival also offers scholarship auditions for summer intensives and university dance programs as well as a multi-dance company auditions for professional dance companies in ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. IABD offers the largest convening of dance directors, programs, and companies that offer persons of color these kinds of opportunities in a central setting.

For an overview of the schedule, please click here.

3 Days of Phenomenal Performances

Thursday, January 24 kicks off three days of performances at the conference, starting off with the youth and collegiate groups, followed on Friday January 25th and Saturday January 26th, with the established, professional dance companies (see schedule below – some performances on available to those attending the conference). For locals, not attending the conference, tickets for both Saturday performances can be purchased via Ticket Center Stage here, with additional details below.

“Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or new to seeing dance, there is an undeniable feeling of wonder and excitement when excellence is placed on stage before you. Imagine, you take your seat, the lights dim, and you hold your breath in excitement and anticipation of the first sight of dancers on stage.” -Denise Saunders Thompson President & CEO, IABD

“I am absolutely thrilled to present this conference in partnership with the International Association of Blacks in Dance! We are dedicated to bringing the best of the best together in this field. Bringing this event to Dayton as DCDC celebrates it’s 50th is amazing. This is a celebration of Black that this community does not want to miss.”
Debbie Blunden-Diggs, Artistic Director of DCDC

SCHEDULE

Youth Members Performance *
Thursday, January 24, 2019 | 2:00 PM
at the Theatre at the Dayton Convention Center

Featuring performances by: Chicago High School for the Arts, Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s Allegro Performing Ensemble, Dance Institute of Washington, Detroit School of the Arts, Divine Dance Institute, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Iibada Dance Company, Inspire 2 Move Dance Company, Lewis Cass Technical High School, Stivers High School, Tri-C Creative Arts Dance Academy

Collegiate Members Performance *
Thursday, January 24, 2019 | 7:30 PM
at the Theatre at the Dayton Convention Center

Featuring performances by: Alabama State University, Howard University, Miami Dade College, Ohio Black Dance, Ohio State University, Seals Dance Project. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Wayne State University, West Las Vegas Arts Center

Established Members Performance *
Friday, January 25, 2019 | 7:30 PM
at the Theatre at the Dayton Convention Center

Featuring performances by: Atlanta Dance Connection, BaKari I. Lindsay, Ballethnic Dance Company, Collage Dance Collective, Cleo II, DBDT: Encore!, DCDC2, Elisa Monte Dance, Eleone Dance Theatre, Joel Hall Dancers, L’Acadco: A United Caribbean Dance Force, Ronnique Murray, Urban Jazz Dance Company

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company “Onyx” Performance with many special guests from the IABD Conference & Festival
Saturday, January 65, 2019 | 2 PM & 8 PM
at The Victoria Theatre. Tickets range from $19-$45

Featuring performances by: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre, Forces of Nature Dance Theatre, Lula Washington Dance Theatre, Philadanco!, The Philadelphia Dance Company, Robert Moses’ KIN, Ronald K. Brown/Evidence, A Dance Company

* Performances only available to full Conference and Festival registrants. Full Conference and Festival registrants will receive tickets to the 8:00 PM show at Victoria Theatre.

 

Muse Machine Presents “Mamma Mia” – plus a Friday Social & Show Special

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Poster image by Desmond Kingston, student at Stivers School for the Arts and Mamma Mia! cast member.

Muse Machine is one of those organizations that you can’t help but support and champion. This regional organization has become one of the nation’s most celebrated arts education organizations, serving nearly 77,000 area students and teachers annually throughout central and southwestern Ohio and Kentucky since 1982.

Muse Machine is a place where imagination and inspiration meet teaching and learning. This organization helps every young person begin a fulfilling lifelong journey as an arts maker, learner, audience and patron; every teacher engaging deeply with artists, arts professionals and artistic work; and every family creating vivid memories of shared arts experiences.

Part of the Muse experience is not only in classroom, or seeing professional artists, but actually creating productions themselves. They pull from all areas of the Miami Valley to produce top quality performances that showcase the best of our upcoming talent!

This January you have the opportunity to see one such production, and help support these rising stars! From Jan 10th-13th, Muse Machine will perform the hit musical Mamma Mia at the Victoria Theatre. There is also a very special Social & Show pre-show on Friday January 11th, that is a very fun way to further support this amazing arts organization (see details below).

The story unfolds on a Greek island paradise. A mother and daughter’s world turns upside down on the eve of a wedding, in this tale of love, laughter and friendship woven around the story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs! Over 60 million people around the globe have fallen in love with the characters, story and music that make Mamma Mia! the ultimate feel-good show!

How To Go?

Thursday January 10th 7pm; Friday January 11th 8pm; Saturday January 12th 3pm and 8pm; and Sunday January 13th 2pm.

All performances take place at the Victoria Theatre

Tickets range from $27-$65 and are on sale now, exclusively through Ticket Center Stage – via box office at the Schuster Center, phone: 937-228-3630, or online here.

Social & Show Special

In an attempt to bring awareness of Muse Machine to a new audience, there will be a Social & Show pre-performance reception from 5:30-7:30pm at Table 33. Please visit www.musemachine.com/social for tickets and information.

 

 

Werksgiving is the biggest party of Thanksgiving weekend!

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The Werks, who started their musical journey right here in Dayton, are always happy to come for the holidays and host their annual “Werksgiving” show. This year is even more exciting, as the band shifts locations to directly downtown, at the newest music venue: the Brightside! For years music lovers have longed for a big room to see music in Dayton, and that time is finally here!

Kicking off this special celebration is a massive group of special guests who are performing with local band Kommunity Service. The featured special guests include:

Johnny K AllDay guitar/vocals
Dino Dimitrouleas bass/vocals
Rob Brockman drums/vocals
Stephen Buttree Sax/keys/samples/vocals
Nathan Springhart keys/vocals
Megan Fitzpatrick fiddle/vocals
Aaron Armstrong percussion
Chris Houser guitar/general awesomeness
Bob Maltby guitar/genius
And many more of your favorite musicians!

This is guaranteed to be the biggest party of Thanksgiving weekend – especially for music lovers!

How to Go?

What: The 11th Annual Werksgiving

When: November 21, 2018 from 8pm-1am

Where: Brightside Music & Event Venue at 905 E 3rd St, Dayton OH

How: Tickets are $12.50 and available for advance purchase here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/werksgiving-the-werks-brightside-dayton-oh-tickets-51051330905

The Brightside Celebrates its Grand Opening

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The renovated Vodvil Ballroom will be revealed at The Brightside’s Grand Opening on October 12, 2018.

The much anticipated grand opening of The Brightside Event & Music Venue is happening this weekend, Friday October 12th, 2018. Lots of love and labor has gone into this once forgotten space near the corner of 3rd & Keowee. Now this renovated industrial event space is ready for parties, weddings, concerts, art shows, and community events, right in the heart of downtown Dayton.

Owners and artists Carli & Hamilton Dixon started this project a decade ago, drastically transforming the space into multiple businesses, The Brightside being the final installment. They are ecstatic to invite the community to celebrate with them as they reveal their finished Vodvil Ballroom, in addition to the cozy bar space that has been open for events the last year. (To learn more about their story, click here)

The grand opening party will kick off with a two-hour VIP party, from 5:30-7:30pm, which requires tickets and will feature a ribbon cutting! Then the space is open to the public from 8pm-12am. Please feel free to drop in to check out this newest multi-use space in downtown Dayton!

HOW TO GO?

Where: The Brightside Music & Event Center, 905 East Third Street Suite B, Dayton, Ohio
When: Friday October 12, 2018. VIP Party 5:30-7:30pm (tickets here). General public 8pm-12am.
More Info: https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/
https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/video-the-brightside-story

Join “Influencers for Action” Launch Party on October 5th

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October 5, 2018 marks the launch of Influencers for Action, an Instagram Influencer-led register to vote project based in Dayton, Ohio. The organization features a team of 80 Influencers, of which approximately 2/3 are from the Dayton-area, who will use their platform on social media to relay useful information about the upcoming voter registration deadlines to their followers.
Cumulatively, the Influencer team possesses an audience of over 200,000 followers. Notable Dayton Influencers include Lauren White, the new executive director of UpDayton, and Libby Ballengee, co-host of Gem City Podcast. Other Influencers from outside of Dayton such as Julianna Van Golen, a high-fashion model who was featured in NYFW, have also joined the project.
To celebrate the start of this unique project, Influencers for Action is hosting a launch party at W.O Wright’s Pub on October 5th. Doors open at 9pm, and is a free event until 11pm. Entry is $5 after 11pm as live music will be provided from two Dayton Influencers, Ty Spacely and Tony Splvsh. Drink specials include $3 draft beers and $2 well shots. To RSVP or get more information, click here.
How to Go?
When: Friday October 5, 2018. 9pm. Live music starts at 11pm.
Where: W.O. Wrights at 3979 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Beavercreek.
Cost: Free 9-11pm. $5 at the door, after 11pm.
Who: 18+

Journey Into Love with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

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Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will kick off their 50th anniversary season with the long-awaited, much anticipated world premiere of The Bench: Journey Into Love. Created & directed by nationally renowned choreographer Kiesha Lalama, (one of Dance Magazine’s “Top 25 to Watch”) and featuring professional singing talent, The Bench – Journey into Love will be sure to be a hit! The work features original music and lyrics.

What do you get when you cross a love story with dance, theatre and song? The world premiere of a full-evening concert, The Bench: Journey into Love, by choreographer Kiesha Lalama. See what happens when a man and woman meet by a park bench, fall in love, have a family, and continue their love into the next life. The Bench – Journey into Love is a whimsical love story told through the influential lens of Fate and Destiny, who unite the charming Antonio and the beautiful Eva through magical serendipity. Emotions run wild as the young couple experience life’s delights and obstacles. This impassioned and passionate theatrical experience weaves together innovative story-driven dance and a gripping jazz musical score to create a timeless tale of love and family.

Choreographer Kiesha Lalama

Kiesha Lalamahas created more than 50 works for stage, film and television. Kiesha choreographed feature films, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” “Sorority Row,” the hit television documentary series “Broadway or Bust” (PBS), and critically acclaimed television series “Outsiders” (WGN). Theatrical credits include The Jimmy Awards (Broadway), and many more. Lalama has created two full-length contemporary dance theater productions: HeartShakes, which premiered with DCDC in 2015 and The Bench.

How to Go?

When: Saturday, October 6 at 7:30 pm
or Sunday, October 7 at 4:00pm 

Where: Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton.

Tickets start at $15.50, available at ticketcenterstage.com or by calling 937-228-3630.

Group Tickets available for groups of 10+.  Student, Veteran & Senior discounts also available.

 

 

 

 

Sound Valley Summer Music Festival at Yellow Cab Tavern

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The inaugural Sound Valley Summer Music Festival is being held over Labor Day weekend, at the Yellow Cab Tavern on Saturday, September 1st. This festival has a dual purpose: one, to showcase talented rock bands from across the Miami Valley, and to raise awareness and funds to help combat the heroin epidemic through the local non-profit, Brigid’s Path.

“Dayton has been considered the heroin capital of the United States. We want to shift the national perspective and reclaim our reputation as a place for innovation, creativity and artistic expression through music,” Zac Pitts, co-owner of Sound Valley said.

With a full day of live music, Sound Valley Summer Music Festival will feature local rock, indie, and alternative bands, including: Life In Idle, Knavery, Beesly, Yardboss, Weathervein, NOVAGOLD, Seth Canan And The Carriers, Crosley Court, Isicle, Flee The Valley, Dave Zup, ThunderTaker, and A Voice of Your Own.

“This event is meant to connect those who want to take Dayton’s music scene to the next level.” Pitts said. “There will be two stages, both indoor and outdoor, and some amazing local food trucks throughout the day to keep hungry fans happy!”

In addition to great music, half of Sound Valley Summer Music Festival’s proceeds will benefit the Dayton organization, Brigid’s Path. This local non-profit provides inpatient medical care for drug-exposed newborns, non-judgmental support for mothers and education services to improve family outcomes. “The heroin epidemic has hit our community hard,” Pitts said. “We want to work alongside those that are taking away the stigma and standing with our neighbors who are struggling.”

Life in Idle is one of the bands set to perform at Sound Valley Music Festival at Yellow Cab Tavern on September 1, 2018.

HOW TO GO?

Sound Valley Summer Music Festival

Saturday, September 1 at 4pm

Yellow Cab Tavern 700 E 4th Street Dayton, OH

$10 in advance / $13 at doors

 

 

 

PorchFest – 40 Mini-Concerts In One Day

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Play Music on The Porch Day started out as an idea…“What if for one day everything stopped…and we all just listened to the music?”

Even though this seems like a simple idea, if it worked, it could produce profound results. So in 2013 the organizers of the first “Play on a Porch Day” decided to share this idea with the world and to their surprise the idea spread even faster than they could have ever imagined.

In 2017 thousands of musicians from at least 40 countries and over 400 cities – including Dayton for the first time – participated and the movement continues to grow every day. Musicians from across the globe, regardless of their differences, are finding common ground through music.

This year Dayton again participates in this growing international music phenomenon as the now annual event known as Dayton Porchfest, a free, family friendly event for all ages. The festivities take place in the historic St. Anne’s Hill neighborhood, just east of downtown. There you will find over 40 live Dayton musical acts performing on home owner’s porches. Not only do you get to listen to music all afternoon, you get to experience one of Dayton’s most charming neighborhoods!

This event celebrates Dayton’s rich and diverse music scene, with musicians and bands covering funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old time muisc that has deep Appalachian roots here. This event also celebrates our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade.

Dayton Porchfest is organized by The Collaboratory, a non-profit incubator for community enterprises and initiatives, located on Courthouse Square. Proceeds from Porchfest go to benefit The Collaboratory. Tips for the musicians are appreciated!

St Anne’s is home to the Fifth Street Brew Pub, who will be open during the festivities. Four food trucks will also be on site, including: McNasty’s, Courtland’s Mobile Grill, Pa’s Pork, Chi-Dogs, and Gary’s Italian Ice. Be sure to scroll below for map and music schedule.

How to Go?

When: Saturday August 25th from 1:30pm – 7pm aka “International Play on the Porch” Day. See schedule below.

Where: Throughout St. Anne’s Hill Historic District located between 4th and Josie St. Please do not park in the neighborhood. Parking is available at the Liederkranz building, Stivers High School, Becker Electric, RSC Graphics, and Miami Valley Gasket. Signs will be present. See map below.

Cost: Free!

Ages: All ages welcome

Remember to bring: Sunscreen, chair, and umbrella (just in case!)

Take photos? Please use #DaytonPorchfest #MusicOnTheHill #DiscoverDayton

Still Time To Register For Breast Wishes 5k for Kelli

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Many women we know and love have been affected by breast cancer, including Kelli James, a young mother and beloved sister, who died in the prime of her life. Her sisters, Elesha Snyder and Mandi Moore, decided to both honor their sister and help other women and families in the same situation. The founded the Breast Wishes Foundation to bring joy to those who are suffering with spa days, restaurant gift cards, yoga retreats, nutrition classes, family vacations and financial assistance for medical bills and holistic treatments that aren’t covered by insurance.
The 6th annual 5k for Kelli Run/Walk is Breast Wishes Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and is coming up this weekend, on August 18th, 2018 at the beautiful Wegerzyn Gardens Metro Park. Since Kelli loved fairies, runners are encourage to dress in their fairy best! No fairy gear? No problem! They will have tutus, wings and flower crowns at the merchandise tent.
This is run / walk 5k, so even if you’re not a runner, you can walk it and support this worthwhile local charity! Foro the competitors out there, awards to the top 3 male and female in each age group and the top 3 male and female overall. Please do consider supporting this fabulous organization!

How to Go?

What: 5k for Kelli Run/Walk

When: August 18, 2018 at 9am 

Where: Wegerzyn Gardens Metro Park at 1301 E. Siebenthaler Avenue. The race will take place on path along the Stillwater River.
Cost: $25-online registration at speedy-feet.com until August 14th. Paper registration at George’s Family Restaurant 5216 North Dixie Drive until the evening of August 17th. On site registration tent opens at 7:30am on race day.
Also – they need volunteers! If you’re interested please contact our volunteer coordinator at [email protected]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=7IdOsIF5Z44

Bellwether Music Festival busts out the best alternative rock!

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There is certainly no shortage of summer music festivals in the greater Miami Valley region, however many of them lean towards jam, folk, bluegrass, and country fans. For the many alternative and indie rock fans, there are far fewer festival options, especially ones with camping.

That’s the gap that Bellwether Music Festival is hoping to fill. Referred to as a “mini-Bonnaroo”- this two-day, two-stage alternative music festival features an impressive lineup of both national and local acts, along with one of the most unique festival grounds anywhere: The Renaissance Park in Waynesville! Last year, my friend mentioned how great it would be to have a music festival there, and low and behold, someone did it!

Not only did organizers nab a prime location, they are pulling in some major acts, including: MGMT, The Flaming Lips, Local Natives, Echo & The Bunnymen, Dr. Dog, The Psychedelic Furs, Whitney, AJ & The Woods, Allah-Las, Japanese Breakfast, Bob Schneider, Erika Wennerstrom (of Heartless Bastards), This Pine Box, Alex Lahey, Dawg Yawp, Speaking Suns, The Cordial Sins, Cherry Lee & The Hot Rod Hounds and Carriers. Full schedule is posted here. Plus there are After Parties in the campground, as well as morning yoga. For the best experience, download the Bellwether app on the App Store or Google Play for map, schedule and info.

These festival organizers are tuned into what festival audiences want, so they put the stages are across from one another and set times don’t overlap. YES! Nothing more frustrating than going to music festival, and you can’t see everyone on the lineup because they are playing at the same time. Organizers say you’ll have time to grab a beer or run to the restroom and catch every band. Plus they have people and performers coming from 45 states and 8 countries. What a great event to meet all kinds of people! Plus, this festival is already committed to year two and will offer special early-bird ticket prices to those who attend this year. They thought of everything!

How To Go?

When: August 10-11, 2018. Campers can load-in starting at noon on Thursday, August 9 and must load-out by 11am on Sunday, August 12. Click here to learn more about camping at Bellwether. Not into camping? That’s cool. Click here to book your hotel room through Hotels for Hope and get the best rate.

Where: The Renaissance Festival grounds in Waynesville. The entrance to the camping grounds and festival is off OH-73. If you are traveling west, you’ll cross OH-52 and then it will be on your right. If you are traveling east, you’ll cross Harveysburg Road and then it will be on your left. They have a big ol’ field with plenty of parking. Buy your parking pass now for only $5. It’s $10 – cash only – at the gate. (see festival map below)

NOTE: Bellwether is a rain or shine event. We monitor the weather and have various protocols based on the severity of the weather. We ask you pay attention to announcements and follow instructions, so we can keep everyone safe and sound.

Who: The Bellwether Festival is a family friendly event. Kids 10 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. The number of free admissions is at the discretion of gate management. IMPORTANT! Kids that enter for free DO NOT have access to the VIP tent. Only VIP wristbands will be admitted.

Tickets: LOTS of ticket options! You can get passes for all weekend, or Friday or Saturday only. There are VIP options plus camping options. Bonus -Complimentary tickets to the Ohio Renaissance Festival when you purchase either Friday or Saturday tickets. Get the full run down of ticket options here: https://www.xorbia.com/e/bellwetherfest/2018

 

Bellwether Map