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

Megan Cooper

A Casual Gathering of Friends

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Hundreds of people come through the doors every single day. Seats are always full. There’s security, but no bouncers, and everyone is welcome. Logo


No – it’s not the next big dance club – it’s the House of Bread. Located on the near west side, and nestled in the neighborhood near a park, the river, and other partnering social service agencies, sits the small, welcoming destination. They serve a free, nutritious meal to approximately 230 men, women and children 365 days a year. Eight to 12 volunteers work the front lines everyday, as they help prepare and serve those in need of a meal.


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Ambassador Tony Hall will speak at the 2016 House of Bread Gala

With food insecurity and challenging times for many in our community, House of Bread is a long-time area resource offering a simple, yet vital service – lunch. On Saturday, August 6, you can give back to this organization that has given to so many in our community by attending the House of Bread gala.

While it’s known as “the gala,” the subtitle is a “casual gathering of friends.” Executive Director Melodie Bennett shares, “Just like our mission, we keep our gala simple. We serve dinner buffet style, so our guests continue to enjoy conversation while standing in line for dinner.”


While every year guests learn something knew about the House of Bread and get fabulous deals on generously donated silent auction prizes (trips! packages! tickets! art! more!), this year the House of Bread is pleased to welcome Ambassador Tony Hall as the keynote speaker. Ambassador Hall (bio) has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times, and he is well-respected as a leading authority on programs to serve the poor and hungry, and ways to move people out of homelessness. For an organization that dedicates itself to being open daily and meeting the needs of those who would otherwise go hungry, this is a perfect fit. Knowing what a powerful message he conveys, Bennett says, “I’m very excited that our group of supporters will get to hear Tony Hall speak about his work in preventing hunger!”


HOB2-e1438700520712While the mission is vital for the community, and the event is simple in its approach, there’s certainly great fun to be had. Lisa Stokely volunteers to lead the silent auction committee, and every year works with generous organizations and individuals to put together fabulous packages. Stokely provides some of the highlights of the auction, “Once again, the generosity of our community has reached new heights. We have so many wonderful items that we created sections this year. Bidders can shop through the entertainment section, offering concert tickets, theatre tickets and more. In the sports section there are opportunities to get to all the hottest games in town, including a private suite at Fifth Third Field for 14 guests. In the artwork section we offer original artworks by renowned Dayton artists, including Riverscape artist, Amy Deal, acrylic painter, Ron Rollins, and a sculpture in a series created by famed sculptor, Terry Welker. In our get-away section, one generous donor has given HOB incredible luxury vacation weeks for the high bidders to enjoy the US Virgin Islands, Marriott Grande Vista Resort in Orlando, and a cozy cabin in Branson, Missouri.” There’s truly something for everyone at a great price for a great cause, and I’m told that access to the silent auction itself is well worth the price of admission!


But – if you were looking for a more exclusive, club experience – they’ve got that for you, too! Bennett shares, “We started what we call Club 365, which is a request to our supporters to make a financial gclub 365ift of $365 at our Gala.  It’s the idea of giving $1 a day for us to be open and serving during the next year.” (Note: While Club 365 is a special opportunity, no donations above the price of admission are required at the event.)


All donations from the event – ticket sales, silent auction bids and donations to join Club 365 – support the important mission of House of Bread. Mark your calendar and get your tickets now for this simple event that makes a monumental impact on our community, and will leave a lasting impact on you as well.


HOW TO GO: 

House of Bread Gala… a casual gathering of friends

Saturday, August 6
Sinclair Building 12
6pm-10pm

$75 per person
$600 per table
$2,500 sponsorship level


Appetizers, Music, Silent Auction, Dinner, Cash Bar, Networking  Tony Hall, Keynote Speaker
Supports their mission to serve a hot, nutritious lunchtime meal every day of the year to anyone in need!Tickets available until August 3, 2016. Buy your tickets today!

For the Love of Local Art

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Did you miss the Dayton Visual Art Center (DVAC) Art Auction this year? If so, you missed out.

Billed as “Dayton’s biggest art party of the year,” the number of artists, art pieces, and active art IMG_1934lovers filling the space at the Ponitz Center confirm the hype. While the silent auction allows more tentative bidders (yours truly) to explore fascinating pieces by local artists, and raise the price in $10 increments, the live auction (hosted by Doug Sorrell) is always a treat. This year – especially so – as a beautiful piece from John Emery raised a IMG_1935whopping $6,100 for the cause!

Food, drink, music, fun, great conversation, and competitive art bidding (don’t worry – if $6,100 isn’t in your budget, you can get much more affordable pieces through the silent auction) makes this a night to remember.

But – that was last weekend. You might have missed out! How, dear friend, are you to get your own local art fix? Fear not! You can still support Dayton Visual Arts Center and talented, local artists here in Dayton by purchasing a share of the CSA (Community Supported ART!). For $650, you “buy into” the community and your share acts as seed funding to support six artists as they make fabulous work for you! Take a look at the artists and the type of work you may be able to expect.

 

They’ll Keep the Light on for You

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Into the Ether, the current exhibition featuring contemporary light artists at the Dayton Art Institute, Villareal - Starinvites you to interact with the art. While there are some actual hands-on opportunities, around every corner you’ll engage in a very personal experience. Whether it’s dual holograms that offer a different experience for each viewer based on their own height and distance from the piece or a work where the colors are plugged into a randomizer to guarantee a unique show for each viewer – this exhibit is always changing and created especially for you.

When we visited, a few favorites of our group included:

  • An LED star to welcome you; it’s immediately clear this exhibition is active and alive.
  • An opportunity to put yourself in the middle of the art – and even change the colors of the light reflecting all around you. Texture, light and shape all blend together.image1
  • A large screen with pixels that fall like snow, until you notice that those pixels are clumping into shapes. Eventually, an eery image starts to appear – and it’s the people in the room! (pictured, we went meta by performing our own version of The Scream).

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Surprise bonus: a lot of the more handy (and hands-on) visitors during our tour were able to get up close and explore just how the art and technology blends together. With this innovative blend, it’s the perfect trip for STEM (or – STEAM!) students who want to think about art/technology differently. Or – a perfect night out for the couple with one left-brained partner and one right-brained partner; this offers a little something for everyone. Plus – you get to play with light-up blocks at the end of the tour (and even buy a set in the gift shop if you’re inspired).

Into the Ether continues through June 26.

Want to learn more? Check out these special programs that will help you dive deeper “into the ether”:

  • Thursday, April 14, 5:30 p.m.: Bob Ross Auto Group Jazz & Beyond Series presents the Stivers Jazz Orchestra.The 2016 Bob Ross Auto Group Jazz & Beyond series begins April 14 with the talented young musicians of the Stivers Jazz Orchestra. Click here for more information and tickets.Light Stax
  • Thursday, April 28, 6:30 p.m.: Artist talk with Erwin Redl. Noted contemporary artist Erwin Redl, featured in the special exhibition Into the Ether: Contemporary Light Artists, will be at the museum to speak about his work. Click here for ticket information.
  • Sunday, May 8, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.: Mother’s Day Brunch. Celebrate the Art of Brunch at The Dayton Art Institute in the museum’s Shaw Gothic Cloister. Enjoy a brunch buffet provided by Leo Bistro. For more information and to make reservations, click here.

 

The Ballet invites you to Show the Love!

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I love a good deal. I love downtown. I love our Dayton arts. ShowTheLove

So, I was pretty excited when I saw that the Dayton Ballet is inviting you to SHOW THE LOVE for the February Fantasy performances.

How’s it work? You shop at any downtown business from now until February 14 and bring the receipt to the Ticket Center Stage box office (at the Schuster Center, unless you’re going immediately before the performance). You can get the best possible tickets available (up to a $72 value!) for only $14. Buy your tickets now to get the best seats or go right before the show and get the best that’s still available. The show runs Thursday, February 11 – Sunday, February 14. Any show, any available ticket – only $14 when you show that downtown receipt.

What’s February Fantasy? More information on the show is online at the DPAA web site. With four separate pieces being performed in one night, there’s great diversity and it’ll be a fun introduction to ballet. PLUS, if you’re interested in learning a little something, too – you can attend the pre-show talk that starts 45 minutes before each show.

So – here’s my recommendation for you (no matter who you are):

Do you do the romantic Valentine’s Day celebration? Buy your sweetie something sweet from one of the awesome local downtown shops and then go get tickets. You get extra points for trying something new and being a hip, in-the-know local.

Do you stay away from the saccharine of the pseudo-holiday? Buy yourself something cool (or, y’know, be a pragmatist and just buy lunch) and treat yo self to a great show or plan a friends’ night out (two tix per receipt, so bring more receipts if you have a bigger group).

Do you procrastinate and stay away from making plans in advance? This still works out for you whether you’re planning a date or just looking for something new to do with your group of friends. Head downtown the night of the show, get dinner (or drinks at a local brewery/pub) and wander over the the Victoria right before curtain. Show that receipt and you can STILL get the $14 tickets (best available seat).

This is such a great idea, I reached out to Dave Bukvic from the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance to find out how it came about. He shared, “We’ve got a definite history working together with the Downtown Dayton Partnership. Much of our strategy is in alignment with the vision for growing downtown and showcasing the convenience and quality of all there is to offer. This was a great opportunity to encourage our arts patrons to explore a new restaurant or shop and invite those who are regular visitors to the downtown cafes, stores and pubs to enjoy a performance at the ballet.”

 

Bike the Arts: Exploring Downtown Dayton

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Since my car-less adventure way back in the day, I’ve always believed that one of the best ways to see our beautiful city is on a bike. With all the bike-love happening in Dayton these days – Link Dayton (bike share), recognition of our top ranking for the most off-street paved trails, the RiverScape bike hub, an increased number of bike lanes for commuting, our bronze ranking as a Bicycle-Friendly community and more – it’s no wonder that more cycle tours and races are popping up for community members of every interest level and ability to strap on that helmet and ride.

BikeArtsPostcardUpdate

On Saturday, June 20, there’s a fun, free and unique new addition to the cycling opportunities. Dayton Regional Green and Courteous Mass have teamed up to host Bike the Arts – Downtown Dayton. A total ride of just under 7 miles on a (mostly) flat surface – this event showcases both our bike-friendly environment and our talented arts community. Registration for the ride begins at 10:30 a.m. at RiverScape MetroPark; the ride goes from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00(ish) p.m.

An all-volunteer effort, born out of the Arts and Culture team from Dayton Regional Green and relying upon the experience from the cycling gurus at Courteous Mass, this ride is slow, smooth and filled cool visits to local arts spots.

Jane Black, co-chair of the DRG Livability pillar, is the lead docent on the tour. With oodles of experience as a both a professional artist, educator and administrator – Jane will share exciting insights and behind-the-scenes stories about the public art and spaces; she’ll introduce you to great pieces of art in plain view that you’ll see in a whole new way. Riders will also hear from staff at Dayton Art Institute and K12 Gallery, as well as artists/performers Bing Davis, Suzy Richardt, Ryan McCullough and Justin Howard. How’s it work? Ride a bit, meet an artist, ride again, see a performance, back on the bike to visit a gallery, and keep on going as you enjoy exploring your city!

The ride is escorted by Dayton Police Officer Jeff Brown for everyone’s safety and comfort (this is an on-street ride, we’ll follow all traffic rules). Helmets are recommended.

Bonus! The first 30 registrants receive a FREE 24-hour membership to try Link Dayton, and the first 50 registrants receive a FREE Take Back the Tap water bottle from the City of Dayton. Plus, snacks and water will be provided. Don’t miss your chance to bid to win a beautiful piece of art created by Suzy Richardt in honor of the ride.

No bike? No problem! You can rent one from Five Rivers MetroParks or try Link Dayton (multiple Link Stations are along the route, so you’ll be able to check-in as needed).

This program is part of a larger initiative of Dayton Regional Green. While many of the action teams are working closely with municipalities, organizations and corporations – the Arts and Culture team is working to provide fun and easy ways for individuals to learn more about multi-modal transportation, energy savings and personal steps to environmental sustainability.

The Return of the Story Slamm

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jssaahc-story-slam-2Shelly “Gladgirl” Hulce had an idea. An idea to connect a community. An idea to have some fun. An idea to share some great stories.

A fan of The Moth radio hour, she contacted the national team, but was told Dayton wasn’t quite big enough to bring the show there. So, she started her own storytelling program in 2012.

As Story Slamm was just passing its one year anniversary in Dayton, Hulce shared with Sharon Short, “We’ve become very distant in our culture. We have mass communication and social media, and so we can hear and read each other’s stories, but rarely do we get in the same room, look into the storyteller’s eyes, observe their movements, while hearing a story. For the storyteller, it’s about giving a piece of yourself to the listener. For both storyteller and listener, it’s a deeper connection than reading or hearing the story from a distance.”

In 2013, Gladgirl stepped back from coordinating Story Slamms when other endeavors took priority. Story Slamms lost a bit of momentum, but the idea was always one that sparked a concept of community and fun for Dayton Metro Library Special Collections Manager and local actor Jamie McQuinn. Regarding bringing Story Slamms back to Dayton, McQuinn says, “I missed it. It was always a great time and I hated that it went away. I contacted Shelly and we thought this would be a great way to bring it back and connect people to the Library.”

Story Slamm is a great night that comes with some rules. McQuinn sums it up, “Tell a short story. First person. It happened to you. It should be “true”… It can be funny, or sad, or surprising. Tell your story in ten minutes or less. No notes or props. Don’t have a story to share? Come and listen. It is always entertaining.” (If you want some inspiration – check out some stories here.)

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The crowds come for various reasons. Some people enjoy an expanded, first-person storytelling experience that expands beyond 140 characters. Others are practiced storytellers around the dinner table, and want to bring their favorite family tales to the public. Some just enjoy sitting back and being entertained.  Patrick Hillier is a frequent attendee and fan of Story Slamm. He shares that he loves the event for the blending of the casual environment with the “intimate nature of sharing and learning about each other through tales from our lives.  You get a chance to tell a short but interesting story from your past or sit back or just listen and maybe learn something.”

The final Story Slamm of 2014 will be at the Huber Heights Branch of the Dayton Metro Library on Tuesday, November 18 at 7 p.m. Six-eight presenters will each tell a 10-minute story based around a “Thankfulness” theme. McQuinn hosts.  To fit everyone in, storytellers are asked to register by contacting Jennifer Spillman at 937-496-8611 or jspillman@daytonmetrolibrary.org. If you’d rather just sit back and listen, advance registration is preferred by not required. Judges or a small audience will vote on the best story based on uniqueness and delivery; best story of the evening wins a prize!

Food Summit Celebrates Local, Healthful Eating

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foodThe Montgomery County Food Policy Coalition, the University of Dayton’s Sustainability, Energy, and Environment Program and Growing Power Initiative, and the Partners for the Environment Food Team will host the 4th Annual Montgomery County Food Summit on Friday, November 7, 2014, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the University of Dayton River Campus (Meyer Room), 1700 S. Patterson Blvd., Dayton, Ohio. The food summit is free and open to the public. The consumer demand for locally grown food and local products continues to expand within our region. Commissioner Judy Dodge says, “The demand for locally grown food and local products continues to expand as consumers see the health and economic benefits in our community.  The summit will focus on connecting the Dayton region’s local food producers with local consumers; institutions, retailers, restaurants, and schools.”

The food summit will focus on connecting the Dayton region’s local food producers with local consumers, institutions, retailers, restaurants, and schools. A variety of markets, producers, and retailers will present information about their distribution successes and challenges. A facilitated discussion will be held to explore solutions for developing distribution support for our local farmers and producers. If you’re interested in the growing local food movement – CSAs, market, and more – please RSVP by November 4, 2014 to BradfordE@mcohio.org or call 937-225- 6470.

 

From Farms to Tables: Connecting Producers to Consumers

Commission Dodge shared: Producers will share their stories about the successes, challenges, and economics of smaller farms, and a variety of market models will also be presented.  In the afternoon we will engage in facilitated discussions to seek solutions in developing distribution support for our local farmers and producers.   

WHEN: November 7, 2014,  8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m

WHERE: University of Dayton River Campus, Meyer Room; 1700 S. Patterson Blvd., Dayton, Ohio

What’s on the Schedule?

8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Registration (Exhibit Fair, Networking)

9:00 a.m. – 9:10 a.m. Welcome:

  • Judy Dodge, Montgomery County Commissioner
  • Jim Gross, Health Commissioner, Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County

9:10 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Producer Panel: Successes, Challenges and Community Support

  • Mile Creek Farm – Ben and Emily Jackle
  • Bowman & Landes – Carl Bowman
  • Hungry Toad Farm – Michael Malone
  • Shiloh Market – Zella Cook
  • EBT Connection – Christie Welch, Ohio State University

10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Break (Exhibit Fair,  Networking)

10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Making a Connection to Local Food: Brian Raison, OSU Extension – A Study in Ohio’s Hospitals and Their Use of Local Foods

10:45 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Market Models:

  • 2nd Street Market (Dayton) – Jimmy Harless
  • Findlay Market  (Cincinnati) – Karen Kahle
  • Weinland Park Food District (Columbus) – Brian Williams, MORPC

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Lunch (Exhibit Fair, Networking) & Keynote Speaker  Dan Carmody – The Detroit Eastern Market (Detroit)

12:30 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Dennis Chrisman – Dorothy Lane Market

12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Distribution Models:

  • Patchwork Gardens – CSA model – George Mertz & Erik Vasilauskas
  • Our Harvest Cooperative – Kristin Gangwer
  • Mission of Mary – Stephen Mackell
  • Champaign County Virtual Farmers Market – Pam Bowshier and Mark Runyan

1:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Break (Exhibit Fair, Networking)

2:00 p.m. – 2:10 p.m. Five Rivers MetroParks – Gardening Program

2:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. Facilitated Discussion & Report Out – Bob Steinbach

3:20 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Closing Remarks – Commissioner Judy Dodge

“Night of the Living Dead” turns to Day(ton) for National Premiere

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deadOpening on Halloween, October 31 and running through November 7, The Dayton Playhouse produces the national premiere of George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead Live. The Canadian creators/adapters of the stage play share, “Night Of The Living Dead Live is a theatrical tribute to all of the elements that make this cinematic masterpiece so endearing. More than just a recreation of the story, the play celebrates the history and influence of the movie. Done through a series of multiple endings, the characters are all faced with different issues and challenges desperately trying to survive the night. However, their contrasting personalities and agendas always seem to affect the group from working together which leaves us all wondering could anyone survive a Night of the Living Dead?” The team out of Canada was nominated for Best Comedic Play in 2014, so Dayton audiences can expect to laugh and scream in delight.

I reached out to director Geoff Burkman who leads the team producing the National Premiere right here in Dayton. Geoff has a history with Romero – he was cast as a zombie in Romero’s third film (of the five-film series) – Day of the Dead, and Geoff is an experienced zombie. I asked him a few questions about directing this production — the fun of delving into the show and passing along his zombie experience to the next generation.

What can audiences expect by coming to the show?

I’m hoping that audiences can expect a good time watching a genre classic get deconstructed in the most loving way possible….by dismembering it!

Who is the perfect audience for this – theatre-goers, movie buffs, horror hounds?

I think the “perfect” audience for this show is Romero fans with a sense of humor, but I also think that normal theatergoers will also appreciate the zany theatricality of the piece.  I really don’t want to spoil too much. Admittedly, people who have never seen the original film (do such folks exist?) may have a hard time grasping what we’re doing.  They’ll still have fun, though.
In what ways is the stage play similar to the movie and how is it different?
The similarities between the film and this play reside mostly in the iconic characters and the basic plot line and themes, but as the comedic elements begin to intrude and then overwhelm the story, all that goes out the window. That, and they’re both done in black and white.
BurkmanZombieAny personal thoughts on the movie?
Suffice to say, I consider Night of the Living Dead to be a milestone film that impinged on my consciousness at a milestone point in my life, leading inevitably, inexorably, relentlessly, implacably with singularity of purpose and impetus toward the staging of this unique production.  That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

Why is Dayton the right place for the National Premiere?

Dayton Playhouse has a national reputation for promoting the performing arts, with community theater being no exception, cf. FutureFest.  That said, I ascribe it to karma…

Anything else audiences should know?

There will be blood.

For updated information, visit Dayton Playhouse online or on Facebook. Tickets are available now for this national premiere, but you can win tickets first! Dayton Playhouse is offering a pair of tickets to one lucky Dayton Most Metro reader.  Just fill out the form below and leave us a comment convincing us why you should be our winner.

 

Congrats to Emily!

 

 

Les Miserables Collaboration Creates Big Sound

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LesMizDo you hear the people sing? You will – but it’s this weekend only. Les Miserables is getting a fresh staging and a BIG sound with a collaboration between Dayton Playhouse and Miami Valley  Symphony Orchestra at the Masonic Center for an orchestral and vocal production. The team of Brian Sharp (Director), Erik Strope (Vocal Director), and Ron Kindell (Orchestra Conductor) is working together to bring this show to Dayton. I recently talked to Brian Sharp for some insights into how the production came together and what audiences can expect.

Is Les Mis a personal favorite of yours? Do you remember when you first saw it and how you felt?

I saw Les Mis the first time on Broadway…and loved the music…but was not fond of the original staging, etc.  I always found the music thrilling and emotional.
 Les Mis has been around for a while and is fairly well-known. What makes now the right time for a community theatre to produce it locally in Dayton?

As far as why is this right now…and still appropriate? There is really no way for a community theatre to mount a production this large.  The idea of a partnership was perfect.  It would allow a full symphony and the opportunity to fill the cast with voices from all over the Miami Valley area. The music is timeless…and is much loved!

This is a pretty huge show to tackle. Did you have any concerns with such a big endeavor?

Just the sheer magnitude of the auditions was an undertaking.  We had over 200 people audition and had them scheduled every ten minutes…we auditioned over the course of a week…and then had a follow up chorus audition. There were concerns with rehearsal space because of the size of the cast and orchestra.  Once the auditions were complete…I had no concerns with the voices…these really are the best of the best!

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Brian Sharp

Is this adaptation different than the shows come of our readers may have seen traveling? All the same songs, setting, staging?

This adaptation will be similar to what was seen on the 10th and 25th anniversary shows.  However, there is a twist.  My big concern with this type of version is how do we keep the story clear to the audience. We have worked with a Broadway projection company to use projections that have never been seen anywhere in the Midwest.  It will truly be sensory overload…the visual piece of the costumed actors/singers, the magnificent symphony orchestra and then this visual element is sure to add another amazing element.

Can you tell me about the collaboration between the Playhouse and the MVSO?

The collaboration was just kind of a natural fit. Many of their musicians have played in the pit orchestras for our musicals. This is an opportunity for us to give back.

Does the setting of the Masonic Center add to the drama of the show?

The Masonic Center is grand, and allows us to sell up to 1500 seats per performance, so there are plenty of tickets available. It will definitely add to the performance and they have been fantastic to work with.
Anything else our audiences should know?

I simply hope the community realizes what an opportunity this is for them…we have positioned the orchestra in such a way that the audience will feel up close and personal with the musicians.  This is a production that should not be missed. Tickets are only $20/$18 and that is a bargain for what you will be receiving.

Tickets are available now for the performances Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25 (both at 8 p.m.) and Sunday, October 26 at 2 p.m. They can be purchased online at wordpress.thedaytonplayhouse.com. However, a lucky Dayton Most Metro reader will have the chance to win a pair of tickets to see the show!  Just fill out this form below and tell us in the comments why you should win! [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

ShakesBeer: A Double Dose of Craft

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Question:

What is ShakesBeer?Shakespearecombined_HiRes

A) A casual mix and mingle for downtown residents and employees.

B) A fun way to enjoy Shakespeare’s Othello through a modern (and much shortened!) production.

C) An opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at one of Dayton’s local craft breweries.

Answer:

All of the above!

Dayton Metro Library is hosting a free after-work networking event on Thursday, October 9 at the Main Library (215 E. Third Street, Dayton) with a double dose of craft.

First up: Enjoy the craft of acting from The Human Race Theatre Company as they perform a shortened and modern version of Shakespeare’s Othello (40 minutes of tweets and deceit) at the Main Library in Downtown Dayton. Then: Head across the street to Warped Wing to enjoy craft beer. Take a tour, take home a special pint glass (first 50 attendees), and enjoy locally-brewed beer available for purchase.

Don’t miss this free event for your opportunity to mix and mingle with other downtown residents and employees in a casual and quick ShakesBeerian adventure.

What’s on tap?

4:30 p.m. – Mix and mingle with fellow downtowners at the Library while you peruse the diverse items from the ShakesBeer collection: plays, modern movie remakes, home brew how-tos, great soundtracks, best brewery guides and more.

5 p.m. – Showtime! The Human Race Theatre Company presents their original production #othello. Adapted and directed by Aaron Vega. All the knavery of this classic tragedy fits into a fast-paced 40 minutes.

5:45 p.m. – As the show wraps, actors will be available for questions and comments about how plays translate from the page to the stage, and you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the fine craft of acting.

6 p.m. – We got our Shakes in, now for the Beer. Head across the street as Warped Wing offers a tour of the craft brewery to see behind-the-scenes magic. First 50 attendees to hand in their ticket will take home a free pint glass!

 

 

Banned Book Readers Jailed in Dayton

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”49924″ border_color=”grey” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The last week of September, libraries, booksellers, publishers, writers and readers celebrate free access to ideas and information with Banned Books Week. The Dayton Metro Library joins in the celebration, September 22-25.  Several Dayton Metro Libraries will feature book displays and have activities to commemorate the First Amendment.

The East Branch Library’s “Jail Cell” has become a Banned Books Week tradition.  This is the 8th year participants will step inside a symbolic jail cell inside the Library, located at 2008 Wyoming Street, and read from banned or challenged books. Hear rebels read these banned books aloud by watching the live stream online during regular Library hours.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]“It’s a very powerful talking point with patrons and visitors to the Library, and it’s not just about Banned Books Week,” said Eric Wirick, Reference Assistant at the East Branch Library. “Most people are surprised that the Library will stand up for their rights, and they usually leave feeling very proud of their Library.”

Banned Books Week began in 1982 when the Supreme Court ruled that students’ First Amendment Rights were denied when Slaughterhouse-Five, by Kurt Vonnegut, and eight other titles were removed from junior and senior high school libraries.  Since then, books of all sorts have been challenged in schools and libraries across the country for reasons as varied as “profanity” (Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson), “racially offensive” (Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain), “witchcraft” (the Harry Potter series by JK Rowling), and “grammatically incorrect” (ttyl by Lauren Myracle). Other banned books can be found online.

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Free Summer Party Downtown

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Photo PosterThe Dayton Metro Library is inviting the whole community to a Summer Party.  There will be free entertainment, games, contests and hands-on activities for the whole family on Saturday, August 9, 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Main Library and in Cooper Park, downtown Dayton.
Chuck Duritsch from the Dayton Metro Library says, “We want to celebrate not only our summer readers who worked hard and met their goals, but also have a fun afternoon for everyone!”

 

What’s in store?

 

Visit the Technology Petting Zoo to see the latest gadgets, then pet puppies from the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. Make your own cotton candy, then ride a blender bike and make a smoothie. Time the Rubik’s Cube champ, learn break dancing skills from Deja Kru, and meet a young Yo-Yo Master. Book swaps, henna tattoos, physical challenges, chess games, storytimes, oh my! There’s too much to mention. Suffice it to say there are activities throughout Cooper Park and inside the Main Library as well – plenty for adults and children to have a fun, free afternoon. Food vendors will be on hand for the purchase of food and beverages, but all other activities (from the Active Zone to the Zoot Theatre puppets) are FREE.

 

“This is a chance for families to come together for a fun, free event to celebrate the summer,” said Diane Farrell, Director of External Relations for the Library. The Library invites you to come enjoy an afternoon with your friends, family and neighbors at the Dayton Metro Library as we wrap up a super summer and get ready for a fabulous fall!

 

More details from the Library:

 

The event features:
  • Hands-on activities, crafts and experiments
  • The Kids BookMobile
  • The Batmobile with Batman and Robin
  • Curious George, The Cat in the Hat, Heater and Gem from The Dayton Dragons and costumed Star Wars characters
  • The Zoot Theatre Company puppets
  • Music by DJ Dan Edwards
  • An active zone with hula hoops, jump ropes, Frisbees, bubbles and bikes
  • A Book Swap for all ages, plus more!

 

 Partner organizations and guests include:
  • Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission teaching bike safety
  • Humane Society of Greater Dayton showcasing pet adoptions
  • Boonshoft Museum of Discovery meeting animals up close
  • Muse Machine – leading active story and dance
  • Ohio Virtual Academy and Chaminade Julienne High School – getting hands on with STEM labs and slime
  • Rosewood Arts Center – exploring comic book art
  • ThinkTV – PBS Kids Island
  • Time Warner Cable – science behind cotton candy
  • Dayton Mom-Spot Blog – book and swag bag giveaways
  • Welcome Dayton – language activities
  • Prevent Blindness Ohio – coloring and eye health
  • EarthFare – Sun Safety
  • Yo-Yo demonstrations, break dancing and the national Rubik’s Cube champion

 

Admission and all activities are free.  Food trucks will be on hand for the purchase of food and beverages.  Summer Reading Club participants of all ages can bring their completed folders to the Party for special prizes.
For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s External Relations Department at 937-496-8901.