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Joui’s Cork-Aoke Features Nominated Host!

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Another rainy day is in store this Sunday, April 6. It’s time to get out of the house!!!  Joui Wine is offering a sing-along karaoke brunch like no other! The event, a new kind of karaoke for Dayton, features food from Salt Block and is hosted by Philip Drennen from TheatreLab Dayton. Drennen recently found out his Off-Broadway show ‘Big Gay Jamboree’ has been nominated for ‘Best Musical’ in the Lucille Lortel Awards. The awards are the Tonys for Off-Broadway shows. ‘I am so excited,’ Drennen stated, ‘I am heading to the awards event in May!’
Although Drennen’s hit show took place in NYC, he is committed to his hometown, and looks forward to having some fun this weekend!
The Cork-Aoke brunch starts with a mimosa from Joui and a buffet spread at Salt Block Biscuit Company from 10:30am to 11:30am. Then,  the
musical escapades begin. Drennen, joined by Josh Stucky of area trivia fame, will lead the crowd in group karaoke!!
Performances from TheatreLab will have you singing along as well. Participants can sing a solo, a group number, or just sit back and watch!  You can also meet members of the upcoming Full Monty musical, directed by Drennen.
Throughout the event, the hosts will be giving away tickets and discounts to the show are available.
Karaoke lasts from 11:30 am to 1 pm.
Joui Wine is located at 117 E Third St in Dayton
Proceeds benefit TheatreLab Dayton.
For tickets to the event, click the link below!

TheatreLab’s Popular ‘Merry QUIZMas’ Trivia and SingAlong returns!!

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HO, HO, HO!

How many reindeer paws landed on the roof if all the deer showed up at your house? What is Cindy Who’s middle name? What is the longitude and latitude of the North Pole? Phew!!! You know them all??? Prizes await at the return of TheatreLab Dayton’s ‘Merry Quizmas 2.0!’ The popular sing-along and trivia night is set and ready to go, Tuesday Evening, Dec 17,  6:00 PM – 8:00 PM!!

The night promises to be a fun one, as music fills the air, cookies fill your bellies and a trivia fills your brain! ‘We had such a positive response last year, we knew we had to bring this back.  Similar to last time, we will have our little spread of food, hot chocolate and cookies, and of course, the space will be decorated in a fun and fanciful theme! If you like libations, yep, they will be there as well!’ says David Moyer, who can’t wait for the evening. ‘People love to sing holiday songs and get into the spirit!’

The event features Philip Drennen, TheatreLab’s Executive Director and Josh Stucky, Dayton’s Trivia Queen at the microphones. It is never a dull moment! Brennan Paulin tickles the ivories to keep music in the air! Some of the TheatreLab Company will perform as well!! ‘What makes the night so special is we all gather together and just enjoy an evening of fun! It’s a great kick-off for the holidays and, for trivia buffs, it’s a great way to show your smarts! Prizes are always a fun incentive!’ says Stucky. ‘Last year, one of winners said she planned to give her prize as a gift….so I guess it can be a shopping experience as well???’ he chuckles.

Although most of the trivia revolves around the season, there are Broadway Questions, Dayton trivia and more. The event takes places at the TheatreLab Dayton Studio, 116 North Jefferson St. 45402. Proceeds benefit TheatreLab’s ongoing goal of bringing amazing productions to the area. ALSO OF NOTE…THEATRELAB WILL ANNOUNCE THEIR SEASON AT THE EVENT!!! UH-OH!!

The space is limited, and tickets are moving…so click below and join the holiday fun!!

Tickets:

https://www.simpletix.com/e/merry-quizmas-2-0-holiday-trivia-tickets-196032

TheatreLab’s ‘Not Another Thanksgiving Play’ is just that!!

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TheatreLab is coming off of their community acclaimed ‘Lizzie,’ and switching gears with ‘Not Another Thanksgiving Play’….a sort of rom-com with  honest, heartfelt themes. I was so fortunate to get to sit down with Philip Drennen, who has returned from NYC to direct the show at the TheatreLab Dayton Space. 

937: Welcome home and congrats on the success of ‘Big Gay Jamboree’ in NYC! SO exciting!

PD: Thank you! It’s been fun.

937:  I’m intrigued by NATP!! So, what is the gist of this show?

PD: Not Another Thanksgiving Play follows a group of 20-30 somethings who share a bond through Dungeons and Dragons. And no you don’t have to know anything about D&D to enjoy the show, I sure didn’t before I came on board to direct! The real story is each character coming to terms with their own happiness within their partner and themselves. Most of our characters are part of the LGBTQIA+ community and we see 2 of them go home to their family’s Thanksgiving after years of hiding their identities from their parents.

937: Ummmm, I think I lived that plot-line myself! Tell us why you decided to return home to direct his particular performance?

PD: While this may sound heavy, NATP is mostly a comedy of errors as we watch Daniel and Gemma take home beards (fake girlfriends) home to the parents; one set strict and conservative, the other warm and maybe a little TOO open. The play has a very “rom-com” feel to it and plays as a queer, millennial “Friends” or “Seinfeld”.

937: I know TheatreLab is known for its local casts!! What can you tell us about them this go’round?

PD: The playwright, Marley Masterson, is a local Dayton artist and a big reason we wanted to do this show. TLD prides itself on hiring and giving voice to local talent and all of our actors have been seen on our stages as well as starring in all of the Dayton theaters.

937: I know TheatreLab Dayton has been handling this season with a sense of mystery…can you hint at what’s to come? We know the theme is ‘Taking Back Their Story.’  Any more you can share??

PD: TLD has always been a bit unorthodox and this season is no exception as we slowly roll out our season one show at a time. We’re all about creating art for our community with the members of our community and we’ll do that however we need to!

937: I see what you did there….no hints! UmmmHmmm. What is the audience takeaway for this show in particular? 

PD: A big takeaway from NATP is that family is important and can look different for everyone. For some it’s mom and dad, for others it’s the chosen family we find at work, in school, or through a gaming club. And true happiness comes when we are true to ourselves. It might sound cheesy, but that’s what the holidays are all about!

937: Not cheesy at all….important to remember that! I have to ask you….how is it feeling to be home after your NYC premiere? 

PD: I’m really excited that I get to work on an original piece as my first project back in Dayton. Marley and I have worked together on this show as well as many past TLD productions and I wanted to make sure her voice gets heard. It’s a great way to get back into the Dayton Theater Scene!!

937: Well, congratulations to you, Philip. I know people are also tuning into your Dayton Drama Queens video-podcast. Much success with that as well. You can catch the latest TheatreLab Dayton performance on the dates times below. 

November 21st – 7:30pm.

November 22nd – 8:00pm

November 23rd – 8:00pm

November 24th – 2:00pm

The performances take place at:

TheatreLab Dayton. 116 North Jefferson St. 45402.

Visit theatrelabdayton.org

 

 

New ‘DDQ’ Video Podcast Kicks off with Dayton’s Own STAR!

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If you love ARTS in Dayton…and you love video podcasts…meet DDQ, Dayton’s Drama Queens. This New Video Podcast will feature all things ARTS in Dayton. The stars of the show are Philip Drennen (yes, the one who has a show heading to NYC) and Joshua Stucky (yes, the one who created Dayton’s own RubiGirls.) The premiere features an interview with Drennen, one of the creators of ‘The Big Gay Jamboree‘ which is headed to the Orpheum theater in NYC this September!

You can catch the first episode by using one of the following: daytondramaqueens.com or at YouTube, Amazon, iHeart or wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

 

Luckily, D937 was able to talk with Drennen before he departs for the Big APPLE!

D937: WOW Philip!!  This is amazing news. Congrats. Tell us, what was your part in all of this?

I co-wrote the music and lyrics for The Big Gay Jamboree with Marla Mindelle, one of my best friends from college for over 20 years! We also graduated from CCM with the book writer, Jonathan Parks-Ramage and the director, Connor Gallagher. We all got our degrees in Musical Theatre from Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music.

D937: SO COOL! Where did this crazy idea come from??

The Big Gay Jamboree started as a screenplay for a movie musical about 10 years ago and Margot Robbie was attached. It was written by Mindelle and Parks-Ramage and after Marla’s success in the off-Broadway hit Titanique (where she wrote and stars in the show), got back in touch and they decided to give BGJ another go as a stage musical. They brought me into the mix to write the score about a year and a half ago and we hit the ground running. We got picked up by Wagner Johnson Productions (who just had huge success on Broadway with Stereophonic winning 5 Tonys this year including Best Play) who are co-producing BGJ with LuckyChap, Margot’s production company. This is LuckyChap’s first stage show after years of producing films like Saltburn, Barbie, and my personal favorite, I, Tonya.

D937: I, TONYA! WHAT A HOOT! What has this experience been like….any surprises?

Being granted the time to really workshop a show can be so key to its success. Many Broadway shows can take up to 10 years before it’s debut and we are very lucky to have been fast tracked in this way. But our producers know the importance of workshopping and making sure it’s the best it can be and we’ve learned so much from being in those rooms and experimenting.

D937: In Dayton, we know you from your work with TheatreLab. Has that experience helped??

I have worn a lot of hats with TLD and I’m so grateful to have gotten training in Arts Administration, theater tech, marketing and so much more. There is a need for a group like TLD in Dayton and I hope it’s able to continue to survive in such an arts rich city!

D937: Agreed! So, how do we get to see the BGJ?

Previews begin at the Orpheum Theater off-Broadway on September 14 (open to the public) with our official opening night on October 1. Right now we are scheduled to run through January 31. Ticket info can be found at biggayjamboreethemusical.com.

D937: Sounds like such fun!!

I think right now we all need to laugh and BGJ is basically non-stop laughs!

D937: All of Dayton is proud of you Mister. We wish you all the best!! 

 

 

 

 

 

No Joshin’…Double 18 ‘Trivia for a Cause’ is Back!

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Dayton has a strong trivia community…and its competitive….well, except for Double 18′s version…which relies heavily on having fun and making new friends. Thursday, May 30th, the event which is chockfull of tough questions, fun foods and, of course, cocktails, returns after a much too long hiatus! And, yes, it’s to support a local cause.

‘There are a lot of people who want to win trivia in this town, but nowhere else can the winning team sign the coveted boot! (The boot, a silver knee high whoop-de-doo boot, has become the symbol of champions!) It stands proudly behind the bar for all to see.’ says the trivia host Josh Stucky. ‘I mean, that alone shows you how cut-throat it really is.’ he laughs. This month’s trivia will support the RubiGirls Foundation which supports an additional 90 non-profits in the area.

Double 18 sits above Timothy’s on Brown Street and, although related, the 2 bars couldn’t be more different! Double 18 has one of Dayton’s finest balcon

‘I think what makes this trivia fun is the fact that people are here to hang out on a Thursday, have a couple drinks and just chill. If you end up winning, that’s a bonus for sure…but there’s no stress about it!’ And it’s not all about trivia questions either. Each session has raffle tickets, so even the less-than trivial minded can walk home with a prize! What’s more is it becomes an inclusive group of people looking forward to the next round to help others! (June’s will support CHOICES.)

To join the fun, it’s really, really simple:

    1. You need up to 4 people to make your team.
    2. No reservation is necessary.
    3. Be ready and seated by 6pm for game one.
    4. Be ready to laugh.
    5. And, possibly, walk home a winner! SIGN THAT BOOT!

Details – Double 18 Trivia, hosted by Josh Stucky.  Thursday, May 30th starting at 6pm. 3 rounds. Raffles throughout. Located at 1818 Brown Street, right above Timothy’s. Food and Booze available. See Ya there!!

 

Let the Music PLAY! TheatreLab’s Popular Trivia Returns 4/2/24!!

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You know music? You know singers? You Know Broadway? You know lyrics? Well, if so, you know you’;re going to win Trivia Night at TheatreLab!

The popular event returns on Tuesday 4/2/24 starting at 6:00pm. It will be the usual set-up….beverages, snacks and all you need to play trivia.  What makes this trivia unique is it’s FREE and the theater company merely asks for donations as support. The last trivia event ‘Merry Quizmas‘ was packed to the gills and this one looks no different. The rules are much the same as trivia in the area….no more than 6 to a team, the quizziteer has final say, there will be some sing-along moments, and other mayhem. The trivia night has 3 rounds and will again provide winners with outstanding prizes. (Not sure what they have this time around, but last time there were gift certificates for spa services at Square One Salon, a basket of bottles, complimentary tickets to the next TheatreLab Production and other goodies!)

The idea behind using the space for trivia grows from the fact that theater companies around the country are looking at tougher financial times. Still reeling from COVID and the changes that came from folks choosing to ‘stay in’ vs. supporting local theater, can be felt everywhere. TheatreLab decided to make their space one of fun, where folks can laugh, relax and find ways to connect with audiences in various ways. So far, the approach has been successful!

The trivia night takes place at:

TheatreLab Dayton Studio. 116 North Jefferson Street. Dayton, Ohio 45402. The event is hosted by the ‘Queen‘ of trivia, Josh Stucky. Suggested donation $10, reserve your seat here.

TheatreLab‘s Mission is to be a place where artists come together to cultivate ideas into works of art. Focusing on music-based live theater, The Lab takes an ensemble approach to its process, letting each artist have a voice while the piece grows organically. The Lab prides itself on visually stunning works that examine the experiment of life in a way our audiences have not seen before.

 

Looking at 2024’s Election…through Younger Eyes!

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Here We Go Again!

Curt (names changed for article) is a junior in education at Wright State University. He is part of a class that is learning about Democracy, and just how precious it really is.

‘We are all invested in saving the voice of the people. I say all, but I really mean, the people I talk to!’ Curt is worried…not so much about young people showing up at the polls, but about his future, and his classmates. ‘We are having to vote to reinstate and reinforce what our parents took for granted. That’s a problem. Why are things ticking backward? Where is the country they were living in?’

For Jordin, it’s a bit diferent. ‘This Class (ED2100:Education in a Democracy) has made me mad. I mean, that’s no fault of the Professor (who sits to her left). It’s the fact that it seems like we keep focusing in on old white guys. (Which their professor just happens to be.) Why are we only seeing these guys, and what’s worse, seeing them AGAIN! I mean, of all the people in this country and we have these 2 to choose from? Again? Time to evolve America!’

There are 18 students in the class, and weekly, topics that bring about the fundamentals of a Democracy are discussed. The professor likes to make sure that each week, a current event or issue is talked through.

‘We talk about it all. Feminism, LGBTQ, Guns, Drugs, Capitalism, Hate Speech, Religion….and so much more. These students have strong, educated opinions. They are engaged and have brains like sponges! They want information…’

Jodin interjects ‘But NOT misinformation! People think we look at TikTok and say ‘that’s reality…’ We are not stupid. We know when we are being led astray,’

Using Their Voice!

Sharnice jumps in, ‘And we can figure out what the media, no matter which side it is leaning into, is trying to sell. We grew up knowing that news is biased. Our parents didn’t. It was 2 or 3 stations and they gave out the headlines. Period. Now it’s some crazy-ass giving their opinion for 60 minutes at a time.’ She scoots back in her chair and raises her hand in a ‘ok, I’m done,’ fashion.

The Professor smiles and nods. ‘I want them to research that in particular. We spend time looking into reliable sources. Misinformation is a cancer. It’s nearly impossible to overcome. And, extremists on both sides, are allowing it to divide us very deeply.ON thing I stress ie Republicans and Democrats are Americans…that should be the tie that binds!’

‘At first, I was like, I’m not voting this time around…’ Curt adds. ‘Now, after having a chance to talk about stuff, I will always vote. And with a passion for it. Our professor pushes us…he tells us things that are balanced and fair. He defends both sides…’

Topics to Discuss!

‘Or doesn’t defend either side. This is how America should be talking! Like we do in class. Openly, and unafraid, We are watching our leaders act like fools. I mean, they don’t do their job. Why the hell aren’t they fired?’ Sharnice goes in hard…’Watching them go at each other, or fighting  about WOKE, or calling names, or bitching about gas prices, when they have it all!! They literally have everything they need. I told our prof, why is it the ones complaining the loudest have everything? Money, big house, golf course? And they show up on tv…acting like somebody took something from them! Turn your attention to the U.S.A. We need shit!’

The group laughs, but feels the pain she feels. Sharnice shared she is barely able to afford school but she wants to teach kids and will find a way!

Ellie, finally, chimes in. ‘Everyone knows I’m one of the more conservative members of class. I do want to state I do believe in a woman’s right to choose, so don’t start in on me Jordin…’ they all laugh…’I grew up in a very religious household and those values carried me through a lot. I’m empathetic…and I try to be compassionate as much as I am able. I just think we have to protect our streets, We need to have great jobs. We need a strong economy. I feel like families are struggling. They will all tell you that I find a lot of liberal ideas are not well thought out. They are not tried. It’s like, ok that didn’t work, so now let’s spend a bunch of money on this. That seems dangerous at times. I think it’s unfair to hard-working people.’

You can feel a little tension in the room. Curt breaks the silence. ‘I hear what you are saying Ell, I do. I respect your strong opinion.’

WSU Students Talk It out!

To their professor, the class is working well when they get to this point. They are developing a way to ‘agree to disagree.’

Sharnice wraps up the conversation in a pretty little bow….’We have break in 6 minutes. Here’s what’s really cool. We all go together and get coffee at ReyRey and come back ready to talk so more! Look, who knows who will be our next leader. We just know it’s best to support each other!’

More to come as we head into the election of 2024…..

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(title of show) Getting Raves at TheatreLab Dayton!

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The cast of (title of show.)

Theater in Dayton continues to provide high quality programming for the area…and TheatreLab‘s (title of show) is one outstanding example. Two of TL’s directors, Phillip Drennen and Mackensie King gave us a look at the show, and what’s driving the new energy that is TheatreLab Dayton!

D9: The town is a-buzz with (tos). Mackensie, what makes this show a must-see in your opinion?

MK: This show is spectacular because it truly feels like watching a group of people write a musical in real time. We rarely get the opportunity to see that side of the creation process. All of the performers are letting themselves into each of the characters and allowing truly sincere moments that will bring you to tears while also having you split your sides open with laughter. The harmonies and vocals are SO tight you will question if you are listening to recordings!

D9: Philip, this show takes place in the TheatreLab space, which I hear is going through some changes. Why do this performance there?

PD: Presenting the show in the TheatreLab space is a perfect way to make this show feel even more immersive and really let the audience into the action. The show is mostly a comedy and the score is very intricate so our performers really had to have the chops to pull it off. The acoustics in the TLD space really highlight the complicated and beautiful harmonies in the show. We are finding new ways to bring people into the TheatreLab space as well. Our recent Holiday Trivia party was a huge hit, too. It’s intimate and it brings a whole new energy! More to come with our space, for sure.

Mackensie King

D9: And Mackensie, what do you feel the TL space affords for a patron?

MK: They can  expect a very close-knit performance. We have less than 60 seats and the action happens right in their face! We have a donation bar and snacks available as well.

PD: Right. I feel like this is  a launching pad for what people can expect more of from TLD going forward. Evocative and authentic pieces of theater told in an intimate setting. By the end of the show, you will feel like you’re just one of our friends, rooting just as hard to get our show to Broadway!

D9: I know there has been much chatter around TheatreLab’s new vision for their part in the Dayton Area Theater scene. With a ‘grassroots group’ of performers and pals, a new path is being forged! Tell us about that!

PD: Yes, we have some very dedicated folks…a group of volunteers made up of performers and friends that are putting their time and resources into all things TheatreLab!  It feels very genuine and heartfelt! So thankful for their energy!

MK: With that, we want to continue to offer intimate and unique staging of unknown shows and familiar shows. We truly want to bring Theatre into Dayton by producing shows in unconventional spaces and partnerships with local companies.

D9: When can folks still catch (title of show?)

PD: [title of show] runs for one more week, Thursday, Jan 24 – Sunday Jan 28, 7:30pm on Wednesday and Thursday, 8p on Friday and Saturday, and 2p on Sunday. Tickets range from $10-25 and our Wednesday performance is pay what you can!

D9: Congratulations to you both….and to the entire cast and crew of (title of show.) Looking forward to more from TheatreLab Dayton!

For More Information Visit:

www.theatrelabdayton.org

BAN THIS! The RubiGirls ready for the 26th ‘Show Must Go On!’

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RubiGirls Getting Ready for the BIG SHOW!

There is a lot of talk these days about drag shows…ban them, see them, boycott them, applaud them. In Dayton, none compare to the powerhouse of the RubiGirls’ ‘The Show Must Go On!’ The stage is being set for this tradition, and even in these strange times for drag, the RubiGirls stand united.

Bringing their 26th Annual Holiday Show to Dayton’s Arcade, the RubiGirls look to provide funds for charities here, there and everywhere…and beyond that, educate people on the power of Drag Shows! It’s very easy to stand on the sidelines and decide what is and isn’t good about drag….but when it comes to what drag can do for a community, the Girls have it in the bag!

We were lucky enough to catch up with 3 of the famed ladies  (Minnie Skirt, Alex; Fonda Peters, Tim; and Dana Sintell, Josh)…fresh from rehearsal in their studio.

                    Fonda Peters.

D9: The 3 of you are icons in the RubiGirls. What does ‘The Show Must Go On’ Mean to you?

DS: For me, especially now, it means no matter the obstacles, we have a job to do…drag bans, HIV, COVID…raising funds for groups and folks who need it happens no matter what. We have to move forward…regardless.

MS: Knowing why we call it ‘The Show Must Go On’ is important. Rubi was born at a time of death…the AIDS crisis was taking lives left and right and many were friends of the original four members. When they aligned themselves charitably to see an end to HIV/AIDS, that was a saying that stuck

                Minne Skirt.

D9: It’s been around a long time. Next year is year 40 for you ladies as an organization….to what do you attribute the longevity?

FP: We keep it relevant as well as we aren’t afraid to make fun of ourselves and each other as well as never losing focus on what matters.

MS: Right Fonda….and so much is serious and we just wish to make people laugh! ‘Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion!’ Dolly Parton.

D9: What drag numbers define ‘The Show Must Go On?’

FP:  The one from ‘Rent’ definitely.

DS: Yep, ‘Seasons of Love.’ People sign our banners during that number. Those remain in our Clubhouse forever. We have signatures dating back to ‘To Care is to Cure’ which was the predecessor to the ‘Show Must Go On’….mid-90s.

MS: And ‘The Year in Review’ is an absolute must and is different every year because we poke fun at all the events that have happened. Taj and Dana do a fantastic mocking Entertainment Tonight and every segment is of course based in humor!

                         Dana Sintell.

D9: Your work assisted 70 Non-profits last year. WOW girls…wow! What about this year?

DS: Maybe a few more…like 75 or so. We are having a huge sponsorship year! That helps us help those organizations.

MS: The amazing thing is that while it is work it doesn’t truly feel as if it is. It’s natural to our group to want to continue to add to our portfolio of recipients as long as it aligns with our mission statement and bettering our community.

D9: And your scholarships? After 3 years you got the fund to perpetuity?? Ummmmm, that’s amazing as well.

FP: I believe in the butterfly effect so I am not sure we can ever know what the effect of these scholarships can have on the people’s lives that have received them or the lives of the people that they touch through the education they have received.

MS: We solidified our place even further in the Dayton community as a group who cares about education and the recipients who are part of the queer community.  Showing that kindness love and respect truly paid off. People love that piece.

D9: Next year is 40 years…..and in the anniversary world, that is Ruby!  RUBY! How cool! What will the year hold for all of you!!

MS: Red everywhere darling…RED!!! The fun part of it is being the Ruby Anniversary of Rubi and being in the Gem City the titles of shows is basically written for us. I hope we have a show that rivals all shows, at the Victoria, to sold out fans…a gal can dream. But think of it really…we started in bedsheets and now we are here 40 years later, assisting in raising over 2 million, let’s just pull the machine and keep struttin’.

DS: Minnie, I Love It. And I’m working on the Victoria! I will say, nothing lasts 40 years anymore….so we have to to make this more than just an anniversary….more of an homage to all we have lost, all we gained and ALL WE HAVE to be thankful for. Everyone, gay , straight, bi, trans, Republican must be acutely aware that we are ALL in this together….and 40 years later, much has changed, but much has not!

D9: So true. Proud of all of you, you are great Daytonians! Any parting words?

FP: I just want all the present and past Rubi Girls to know how much of an honor it is and pleasure to be a part of this amazing family.

MS: Ditto.

DS: Yep!!

INFO: tickets at therubigirls.com

The RubiGirls in “The Show Must Go On: A Night To Remember.” 

Saturday, November 25,  at the beautiful Dayton Arcade. Show Starts at 8pm.

Merchandise is available on-site. The show is a RubiGirl show, and is recommended for adults.

You can always SPONSOR the GIRLS at therubigirls.com.

 

 

 

 

Theater Is Back….and CABARET Delivers the GOODS!

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Vanae Pate scores as LuLu!

The cast is gathered together, talking, giving ideas to their director, Dayton Native, Philip Drennen. He likes to hear from his actors and dancers, and he welcomes their ideas. ‘The strength of this cast,’ Drennen says ‘is they genuinely like each other and build each other up. That makes their on-stage performance cohesive and electric.’ Drennen chose CABARET, one of Broadways’ truly iconic shows, because ‘it is relevant even today. It’s balance of dark and light is historic and yet, contemporary!’

Charity Farrell brings Bowles to LIFE!

As the music begins in their 3rd practice venue, the Cannery, the cast takes a deep breath knowing once it starts, its full-on CABARET! Charity Farrell, who shines as Sally Bowles, the show’s broken, scarred female lead, puts every inch of her soul into the role. ‘I understand Sally. ADHD, the struggles, her demons….yet she controls the room!’ Farrell’s MAYBE THIS TIME is goosebump worthy. ‘I have been in many, many shows, but I can feel the support of this company. They are so generous and giving as a cast!’

Midway through practice, they EMCEE, brought to ‘bigger-than-life status by 6’4″ newcomer, Alex Everett, belts out one of his many tunes with wonderfully eerie tones and strange physicality. Lights change, music fades and we are back in a 1930’s apartment building awaiting the ‘play within a play’ transition.

Although the show has songs we all know, many times people forget the backdrop….the beginning of the Rise of the Nazis. ‘You forget what complacency does,’ says Amy Askins, who brings her character, Fraulein Kost, a delicious, slutty energy. ‘The shows begs us to pay attention to what’s happening around us. For my character, it’s about survival.  She tries to make the best of things in a world about to turn upside-down. She gives us a glimpse into her heart, and we see how some people must sell their soul to get by.’

The cast, uniquely diverse, is well suited for the political drama. ‘The storyline is so important. Our cast is made up of so many minorities and it highlights the idea of hatred and ignorance in the script.’ says Naman Clark, a Dayton Theater staple. ‘You see why we have to stand up for what is right.’

The lights are on as rehearsals start at D2D!

CABARET has had many revivals, many versions of the same tale. Drennen looked to make his version pertinent to today, without losing sight of its roots. Take the cherished character of Fraulein Schneider. ‘I knew I wanted to use this moment to open peoples’ eyes to all kinds of ways of life. I called Josh Stucky and said, ‘What if you play Schneider?’ Stucky, a well-known drag queen in the Dayton Area,  jumped at the opportunity.

Winters, Stucky and Everett ready themselves for Cabaret!

‘First of all, I love Schneider. She’s the backbone in CABARET in many ways. And I feel playing her gives all of us a voice….men, women, trans, whatever! She doesn’t need to be any one thing, but rather every kind of thing. I hope to do her justice!’ Stucky’s turn at the tune ‘So What?’ is sweet and endearing, which can also be said for Schneider’s love interest, Dayton theater Patriarch Saul Caplan (Herr Schultz.)

For first-timer Scott Winters, who plays Bobby, his eyes were open to community theater. ‘It is so amazing to see how the pieces fall together and a really great show happens!’ Winters character, a homosexual longing to reunite with the male lead Cliff, dances, sings, and delights as one of the famous Kit Kat Club kids. Dancing is integral in CABARET, and it’s fun, phrenetic and forceful throughout the show…and yes, the Gorilla makes an appearance!

As rehearsal winds down, and Garrett Young’s Clifford Bradshaw leads the cast through the hauntingly unsettled ending, the ensemble sits in an awkward silence. ‘You can feel the broken world we live in in that moment.’ says Young. ‘Each of us trying to figure ourselves out. This leads to the understanding the story is still important today as it was in the 40’s, 60’s 80’s….There is a great cost in doing nothing.’

Theater is back. And so is this importance of story-telling.

Life Is a CABARET and thank GOD this one is open for business!

Show runs 10/13-10/16 at the PNC Art Annex, for 5 shows. There are tickets available at https://www.daytonlive.org/events/cabaret/

The show is sponsored by the RubiGirls and SquareOne Salons.