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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.

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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.

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ Review – Cedarville University – Prolonged Exodus

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Fiddler on the Roof

Robert Rhodes as Tevye in Cedarville University’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof”

Cedarville University’s production of Joseph Stein, Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick’s classic 1964 musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, is deflated by awkward, inadequate musicality.

Barring technical difficulties, there’s no reason in the world why anybody’s staging of “Fiddler” should produce an Act 1 heading toward two hours. But this is exactly what’s happened at Cedarville due to weak music direction by conductor Carlos Elias who hasn’t mastered the timing within Bock and Harnick’s score, superbly accenting an endearing story of a poor Jewish family coping with change in their tiny Russian village of Anatevka in 1905.

In Elias’ hands, the waltzes are startlingly slow (“Sunrise, Sunset” is particularly painful) and the sprightly sentiments (“If I Were a Rich Man,” “To Life,” snippets of “Tevye’s Dream”) lack vigor. The only number that truly resonates in terms of musicianship is “Do You Love Me?,” an Act 2 gem containing an engaging, conversational essence (akin to “I Remember It Well” from “Gigi”) that constantly flows thereby avoiding any sense of derailment.

Thankfully, “Do You Love Me?” is also a signature moment because of the wonderful rapport and lyric-driven astuteness of Robert Rhodes and Anna Caroline Porter as Tevye and Golde. Throughout the tune, which finds Tevye and Golde tenderly reminiscing about their marriage, Rhodes and Porter beautifully connect with humor, depth and a mutual understanding that their love will survive no matter what the future holds. Excellent portrayals under the direction of Diane Conrad Merchant extend to the sharp, witty David Widder-Varhegyi as humble tailor Motel and a marvelously firm Madison Hart as the daring Chava who defies her family with dramatic results.

Choreographer Carrie Anthony’s commendable routines bursting with personality and colorful exchanges, Robert Clements’ first-rate scenic and lighting design, and Debbie Hamrick’s attractive period costumes are additional assets of this presentation still in search of its musical pulse.

“Fiddler on the Roof” continues through Feb. 8 in the DeVries Theatre of the Stevens Student Center at Cedarville University, 251 N. Main St., Cedarville. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. Act One: 1 hour and 45 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $12-$15. For tickets or more information, call (937) 766-7787 or visit www.cedarville.edu

Countdown to DCDC’s return to the Victoria Theatre stage **Ticket Contest**

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Donald ByrdIn two weeks Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will return to the Victoria Theatre for what promises to be a highlight of the arts season. How often do we get to pay homage to the perseverance and relevancy of a modern dance company that has been in existence for forty five years. The significance can honestly never be overstated. DCDC bucks the trend of dance companies that fold once the visionary artistic leadership departs this mortal coil. This company has roared back with a renewed sense of artistic vitality.

Several reviews past, I intimated that Dayton audiences needed to do their homework and investigate the people, concepts and histories that inform and are the fabric of the artistic endeavors being presented. So I have decided to highlight every day this week one choreographer presenting work on February 8th & 9th.

The first choreographer being highlighted is the masterful Donald Byrd.

Donald Byrd is one the leading and seminal figures in Modern Dance, his biography highlights an artist who has created works all over the globe. His work has been performed by Alvin Ailey, Pacific Northwest Ballet, San Francisco Opera, Seattle Opera and New York City Opera. In 2010 his company appeared in New York in a new interpretation of a John Zorn composition as part of the Guggenheim Museum’s Works & Progress series. This prolific and vital choreographer has set his latest work “Geography of the Cotton Fields” on the upcoming Dayton Contemporary Dance Company concert.

I have selected a couple of youtube clips that are wonderful examples of Mr. Byrd’s prodigious choreographic talents:
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You’ll also want to check out this Youtube video.  This gives you a point of entry to the choreographer his aesthetics and movement vocabulary. Brave the weather forecasts and get tickets to what promises to be must see art event.

ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 3:00pm

Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
For tickets to ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled please contact Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630 or www.ticketcenterstage.com.

DMM want to send a couple of our readers to see the DCDC Show.  To enter our random drawing, like this article and fill out the form below.  Feel free to comment below on why you should win.  Good Luck! [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Special Holiday Dec. 6 First Friday

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ff_logoDowntown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 pm  Friday, Dec. 6. During this special holiday edition of the event, visitors can shop for unique and one-of-kind items, view festive window displays that are part of the first Downtown Holiday Decorating Contest, enjoy live entertainment and take advantage of discounts and special deals.

Roaming performers — drummer Joseph Glenn, choir Girls Inc. and juggler Tony Steinbach — will entertain throughout downtown, while performers on stilts and dressed as candy canes and holiday trees will walk through the streets. A stage area also will be set up next door to the Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St. The schedule for those performances is:

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Viva La Strings

6 to 7 p.m.:         Viva La Strings

7 to 8 p.m.:         Miami Valley Music Men

8 to 9 p.m.:         String orchestra FPAC

Listed below are the 20 businesses participating in the inaugural Downtown Holiday Decorating Contest.  The winning business will be selected the week of Dec. 2 and announced during First Friday.

510 Gallery Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.

All Pilates, 27 S. St. Clair St.

American Pi, 41 S. St. Clair St.

Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.

Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.

Boston Stoker, 34 W. Second St.

Brim, 464 E. Fifth St.

CADC Art Gallery, 45 S. St. Clair St.377587_147596848673606_1375447039_n

Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.

Derailed: A Hair Salon, 506 1/2 E. Fifth St.

The Flying Pizza, 223 N. Main St.

Green Baby, 31 S. St. Clair St.

Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.

Price Stores, 52 S. Jefferson St.

Riff Raff on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.

Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.

Sherwood  Florist, 444 E. Third St.

Spice Paradise, 16 Brown St.

Valeria’s Beauty Center and Day Spa, 21 W. First St.

The Wine Gallery, 5 W. Monument Ave.

“The holidays are a special time downtown, and this event is designed to make our center city even more festive,” said Sandy Gudorf, Downtown Dayton Partnership president. “With so many locally owned businesses located in our downtown, it’s the perfect destination to find unique gifts, enjoy dinner or drinks at a local restaurant, and so much more.”

Dec. 6 First Friday Events

Art & Shopping

• CADC, 45 S. St. Clair St.: Hosting its annual Art Box gift gallery, featuring handmade and one-of-a-kind gift items. Call 313-9883.

• Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.: Have your photo taken with Santa and his elves. Call 241-9434.

• Color of Energy, 16 Brown St.:  (Open until 8 p.m.) Exhibiting new art by Mike Elsass and live painting. Call 266-3491.

• Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North: (Open until 8 p.m.) Showing the exhibits Object of Devotion and A Buckeye Abroad: Frank Wilcox in Paris. Call for cost. 223-4278.

• Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Hosting a reception for DSPS New Member Invitational. Light refreshments will be served. Call 228-4532.

• Dayton Visual Arts Center 118 N. Jefferson St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Exhbiting Close to the Edge: Vera Scekic and this year’s ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery. Both will be open through Dec. 21. Call 224-3822.

• Gallery 510 Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.: Bring in your receipt from any other Oregon District business and receive 20 percent off any Gallery 510 Fine Art pashmina/scarf. Free gift wrapping. Call 672-6717.

 

Retail Stores

• American Pi, 41 S. St.Clair St.: Featuring work by artist ColorBash, a local family business that produces furniture and home accents made from salvaged wood. Also featuring its 12-Hour Annual Sale from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 6 (excludes artist/consignment items). Call 938-7890.

• Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.: Free makeup lessons and holiday-themed refreshments. Call 903-3165.

• Brim, 464 E. Fifth St.: Featuring gift baskets that include items from local businesses and store gift registries and certificates. Also offering complimentary tea from Ghostlight Coffee and candy canes. Call 222-4287.

• Green Baby, 31 S. St. Clair: Hosting a toy exchange at 6:30 p.m. and accepting donations for Hannah’s Treasure Chest. For every $25 spent on gift cards, receive an additional $5 or for every $50, receive an additional $10. Call 469-8665.

• Found Treasures 4 You, 502 Wayne Ave.: Offering 20 percent off everything in the store. Call 580-8803.

• Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St.: Bring in a receipt from any Oregon District business and receive 10 percent off your total purchase. Call 275-9949.

• ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St.: Sale on select items, including new and used instruments, other music-related items, and original artwork. Call 321-3517.

• Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.: Featuring $1 scrap bags, button bags and vintage patterns, as well as half-off all vintage fabrics. Call 234-7398.

• The Yellow Cab, 700 E. Fourth St. Hosting the annual Handmade Holiday show featuring more than 30 vendors selling art, crafts and other original, handmade items. Mugshots Studios will be set for fun holiday pictures. Alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase.

• Sherwood Florist 444 E. Third St.: Offering 10 percent off all holiday pre-orders and all in-store items. Call 298-3655.

 

Entertainment

• Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.: The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. This month will be a glow-ride. Dress up your bike with lights, wear glow bracelets or necklaces — anything to make you glow. All tours are free and welcome any skill level.

• Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C: (Open until 8 p.m.) Featuring artist-of-the-month John Todd, along with activities for families and light refreshments. Call 723-6747

• Salon J Ladner, 37 S. St. Clair St.: Downtown’s newest salon will host the special event “Light Up The Night,” its first after-hours “glow in the dark” styling party focused on giving back to a Dayton charity. The event, held from 6 to 10 p.m., features $10 women’s styling and $5 men’s style or edge up. All proceeds go to AIDS Resource Center Ohio. In addition, Salon J Ladner will offer 20 percent off throughout the month of December to all new customers.
• The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St.: Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

• RiverScape MetroPark, MetroParks Ice Rink, 111 E. Monument Ave: Skate under the stars by the Great Miami River at downtown’s outdoor rink. $7 includes admission and skate rental. The park’s concession will be open to purchase hot chocolate and other snacks. Call 278-2607.

• Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St.: Featuring comedian Thai Rivera. Show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Call 224-5653.

 

Food and Drink

• Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St.: $2 tastings of select wines. Call 225-9463.

• Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, 824 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 222-0204.

• Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.: Offering complimentary holiday cookies to all customers. For every $50 spent on gift cards, receive $5 free. Call 723-7637.

• Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St.: Dinner specials and tapping of a firkin of craft beer. Call 222-6800.

• Riff Raff Tavern on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.: Drink specials offered throughout the night. Call 361-3131.

• Salar, 400 E. Fifth St.: DJ in the lounge, cigars on the back patio and drink specials starting at 10 p.m. Call 203-3999.

• Smokin’ Bar-B-Que, 200 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 586-9790.

• Thai 9, 11 Brown St.: 15 percent off food. Call 222-3227.

• Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St.: 10 percent off food. Call 910-8000.

•The Wine Gallery, 5 W. Monument Ave.: Offering wine and appetizer specials and a $10 chair massage from 6 to 9 p.m. Call 224-9463.

 

Music

• Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m., $2.50 well drinks, 75 cents off bourbon and other drink specials and live music. Call 938-6405.

• De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St.: Featuring happy hour from 5 to 10 p.m. and live music during a mix and mingle with downtown business professionals. Call 461-2233.

• Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave.:  Featuring happy hour until 6 p.m., a performance by the Miami Valley Pipe and Drum group starting at 6 p.m., and live music starting at 9 p.m. Call 224-7822.

• Gilly’s, 132 S. Jefferson St.: Old Skool Groove Night from 8 p.m. to midnight. Call 228-8414.

• Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.: Live music by Puzzle of Light at 9 p.m. Call 222-2892.

• Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St.: Featuring half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m., Linda Prevo and Friends from 5-8 p.m., and the Eric Jerardi Band starting at 9:30 p.m. Call 223-9205.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

Downtown Dayton Will Come Alive (While Celebrating the Day of the Dead) During the Nov. 1 First Friday

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The Dia de los Muertos parade was such a hit last year, organizers are again hosting the event during this year’s Nov. 1 First Friday.

By the time Dayton’s next free First Friday event hits the streets of downtown, Halloween will be over — but lots of people will still be costuming up. That’s because the Nov. 1 First Friday, which will take place from 5 to 10 p.m., includes the second annual Dia de los Muertos Parade. The event is based on the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead, during which friends and family gather to celebrate loved ones who have passed.

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. on the corner of Jefferson and Fifth streets. The parade includes life-size puppets, dancers, music and more. The public is invited to dress up and join the parade, which will proceed east on Fifth Street. In addition, the monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. at Don Crawford Plaza (220 N. Patterson Blvd.) and will join the parade. Synergy Kitchen Incubators will host a pre-parade food truck rally at 200 S. Jefferson St. before the parade, which will end at the Missing Peace Art Space (234 S. Dutoit St.) with a reception and artwork created by local students.

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The Dayton Visual Arts Center will celebrate the opening of this year’s ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery during the Nov. 1 First Friday.

But that is not all: As always, First Friday will include art exhibits, special events, live music and more throughout downtown. The Nov. 1 First Friday also will be an excellent time to start holiday shopping: For example, the Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) will celebrate the opening of its annual ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery, a great place to find a unique gift for anyone on your list. DVAC is open until 8 p.m. Call 224-3822.

A complete list of activities taking place during the Nov. 1 First Friday is available online. Many restaurants, taverns and retailers offer special discounts, host live music and offer other special activities during the event. Other highlights include:

Sew Dayton (261 Wayne Ave.), in collaboration with Telephone Weekly, will host a live T-shirt screen printing of exclusive “Sew Dayton” shirts. Each shirt is $20 and includes a free T-shirt re-design sewing class. The free sewing class is only offered to the first 40 T-shirt purchasers.  Call 234-7398.

Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.) will feature artwork by John Knabe with live music from Matt Freeman and Mike Guidone. Visitors can browse pre-owned and vintage clothes in a lively atmosphere. Call 241-9434.

Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center (400 E. Fifth St., Suite C) will host a “khafla” — a small gathering centered on food and belly dance. Works by artist-of-the-month Ron Rollins will be on view to enjoy.  Activities for families will be available, along with a free introduction to massage therapy and Reiki and light refreshments. Open until 8 p.m. Call 723-6747.

Artist Mike Elsass will be painting live at Color of Energy (16 Brown St.) New artwork by Elsass, including large-scale pieces, will be on display. Call 266-3491.

To celebrate its 75th anniversary, the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors (48 High St.) will feature the work of some of its most dedicated members. Light refreshments will be served as guests browse artwork on view. Open until 8 p.m. Call 228-4532.

Live music and artwork by Doug McLarty will be featured at CADC (45 S. St. Clair St.). Call 313-9883.

New artwork and gifts will be on view and for sale at Gallery 510 Fine Art (508 E. Fifth St.). Call 672-6717.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

Oct. 4 Event to Feature Art Exhibits, Live Music, Shopping, Discounts

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SMAGmare once again will be a highlight of the October First Friday. SMAG Dance Collective, Deniz with Caravan Workshops and Funk Lab Dance Center will star in this ghoulish performance at 8 p.m. at 530 E. Fifth St. (next door to the Trolley Stop).

Dayton, Sept 30, 2013– What is a better way to kick-off the Halloween season than downtown Dayton’s free First Friday event on Oct 4, from 5 to 10 p.m? To put everyone in a ‘creepy’ mood, dancers from the SMAG Dance Collective  will roam the streets as ghouls, witches and other characters before the performance of SMAGmare at 8 p.m. at 530 E. Fifth St. (next door to the Trolley Stop). Deniz with Caravan Workshops and Funk Lab Dance Center also will be part of the performance.

Two Oregon District stores will be celebrating openings: Pop-up Shop Spice Paradise (16 Brown St.) will celebrate its grand opening while Sew Dayton (261 Wayne Ave.) will open its doors in a new, larger retail space.

Steel drummer Joseph Glenn, guitar player Todd the Fox and fire dancers Soul Fire Tribe will provide entertainment as they roam downtown.

As an encore performance from this past Urban Nights event, CADC (45 S. St. Clairwicker2 St.) will offer visitors another chance to try out Paint Boxing. Anyone is invited to create a unique piece of art or T-shirt at one of the Paint Boxing stations for $20. Call 313-9883.

Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.) will feature artists Erica Blackstock, Craig Galentine, Josh Hydler, Liz Dearth and Robert Walker. This store will also offer 20 percent off all costumes. Call 241-9434.

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for one ride at 5:30 p.m. at Don Crawford Plaza (220 N. Patterson Blvd). This route will take riders on a 10-mile journey to the Midwest Outdoor Experience and back. Riders may choose to stay at the Experience. All tours are free and welcome any skill level.

Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) will continue its exhibit Music for Teacups: Colagiovanni and Haviland, a selection of video, artist books and original prints by two artists from Athens, Ohio. Showing through Oct 19. Open until 8 p.m. Call 224-3822.

Stainless steel artwork by Ryan Struve will be on display at Gallery 510 Fine Art (508 E. Fifth St.). Call 672-6717.

All are welcomed to Garden Station’s (509 E. Fourth St.) beginner’s cheesemaking class at 6 p.m. and a course on soaking and sprouting grains followed by live music at 8 p.m. by Stillwater Riverband. The Urban Farmer’s Market beings at 5:30 p.m. Call 610-3845.

Synergy Incubators hosts the First Friday Food Truck Rally, featuring many popular local food trucks at 200 S. Jefferson St.

Junkyard Dojo will be playing at The Yellow Cab, (700 E. Fourth St.) The completed works created during the live Urban Nights “Works in Progress” show will be showcased along with the creepy but intriguing exhibit “Squick.” Call 203-8175.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

Smash, Snap and Splash are the Sounds of This Fall’s Urban Nights

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Art galleries, retailers and other businesses will host special exhibits and other events during Urban Nights.

NOTE: Giant tents will cover downtown streets; more than 100 indoor venues participating in downtown Dayton’s Urban Nights, which takes place today (Sept. 20) rain or shine from 5 to 10 p.m. Follow Urban Nights on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UrbanNightsDayton for regular updates and any last-minute cancellations due to inclement weather.

Tents will cover the three Urban Nights Hotspots (listed below) and activity will take place as planned.

  • • International Street, Second Street between Main and Jefferson streets: Second Street will be closed to make way for dance performances from a variety of troupes, beer truck featuring import brews and a variety of food vendors.
  • • Arts Corner, St. Clair and Fourth streets: Fourth Street will be closed to make way for Paint Boxing, presented by CADC Art Gallery and Drake’s Downtown Gym — Home of Jab City Boxing. At 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., see boxing demonstrations in a ring in the middle of the street. Then, watch boxers dip their gloves in brightly colored paint and jab and punch a huge canvas to create a piece of art. In addition, enjoy a range of entertainment hosted by nearby businesses, including live entertainment, art exhibits and special sales.

• Live on Five, corner of Fifth and Pine streets in the Oregon District: Check out live music by some of Dayton’s best bands and a fashion show from Sew Dayton and Brim while enjoying a brew from the beer truck.

A map of participating venues and a complete list of their events and specials is available online at www.downtowndayton.org, at info tents located throughout the event area and at participating venues.

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Downtown is going to be a lively and noisy (in a good way!) place with all the events going on during Urban Nights from 5-10 p.m. on Friday, Sept 20. More than 100 businesses are participating to make this the best Urban Nights yet. With three hotspots scattered throughout downtown, the streets of our center city are going to be one big party.

Visitors who come to the Arts Corner hotspot on Fourth and St. Clair streets will see boxers fighting in the middle of the street — with a canvas, that is. CADC Art Gallery and Drake’s Downtown Gym—Home of Jab City Boxing  are partnering to put on an unusual performing arts event called Paint Boxing. Boxers will dip their gloves into brightly colored paint then “smash” it into a large canvas to create a one-of-a-kind artwork. Onlookers also will be invited to learn basic boxing techniques at Drake’s Gym or paint box a T-Shirt at CADC.

The cameras of many photographers went “snap” to capture fantastic photos of Dayton for the annual Downtown in Focus photo contest. The winners have been chosen, and all photos entries will be on display in the lobby of the Kettering Tower, including the best-in-show winners and the Dayton mayor’s pick for “Dayton Original.” Find out if your top picks match what the judges decided.

Some “splashes” will be heard at the Mini-Midwest Outdoors Experience in Courthouse Square. This event, presented by Five Rivers MetroParks , gives a taste of outdoors experiences offered in Dayton. Visitors can try stand-up paddleboating in the Square’s fountain and slacklining and a mountain bike course in the Square. Over the Edge, sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Miami Valley, also will be taking place in the Square. Brave adventurers will be rappelling over the side of the 27-story KeyBank Tower to raise money for the organization. Courthouse Square activities will run until 8 p.m.

Three hotspots will be located throughout downtown. Art vendors, live music, henna art and a special performance of select excerpts from Spamalot by Sinclair’s music and theater departments can be found at Arts Corner. International Street will feature cuisine and dance performances from around the world. Live on Five in the Oregon District will be the live music hub for the night, and downtown stores Brim and Sew Dayton will present a fashion show in between musical acts to celebrate their mutual one-year anniversaries. (A complete schedule for the hotspots is below.)

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Check out some of Dayton’s best bands and a fashion show by Brim and Sew Dayton at the hotspot Live on Five in the Oregon District.

More than 30,000 people come downtown to experience Urban Nights, a free event when more than 100 establishments showcase downtown’s numerous offerings. The best way to see as much as possible during Urban Nights is to walk, and Greater Dayton RTA also will provide free event busses to help visitors get around.

A map of participating venues and a complete performance schedule, including a listing of all participating locations’ events and specials, is available online. Follow Urban Nights on Facebook for regular updates and more information.

SEPT. 20 URBAN NIGHTS HOTSPOTS

International Street

Sponsored by Miller-Valentine Group: Celebrating 50 Years

Second Street between Main and Jefferson streets

Enjoy dance performances while you grab an import brew to go along with chow from one of many food vendors.

Dancing in the Street Stage Schedule

5-5:25 p.m.:        The Circle Nerdz

5:30-5:55 p.m.:  The Beseda Dancers

6-6:25 p.m.:        South Dayton Dance Theatre

6:30-6:55 p.m.:  Troupe Roja

7-7:25 p.m.:        McGovern Ceili Dancers

7:30-7:55 p.m.:  Vivian Zumba

8-10 p.m.:            Son del Caribe

 

Arts Corner

Sponsored by Sinclair Community College and DP&L

St. Clair and Fourth streets

Paint Boxing:

Fourth Street will be closed between St. Clair Street and Patterson Boulevard for this special activity, hosted by CADC Art Gallery and Drake’s Downtown Gym—Home of Jab City Boxing and funded by the DDP’s Urban Nights Grant. At 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., boxing demonstrations will be performed in the street.

Arts Corner Entertainment

Enjoy a range of entertainment hosted by nearby businesses, including live music, art exhibits, henna art and special sales.


Live on Five

Sponsored by Miami-Jacobs Career College, with media sponsor WYSO 91.3-FM

Corner of Fifth and Pine streets in the Oregon District

Grab a draft brew from the beer truck and rock out to a variety of live bands.

Entertainment Schedule:

5-5:40 p.m.:        Yvette “Diva” Williams, featuring Premium Blend

5:40 p.m.:            Molotov: Stupid Human Tricks

6- 6:40 p.m.:       Seefari

6:40 p.m.:            Molotov: Stupid Human Tricks

7-7:40 p.m.:        The Eric Jerardi Band

7:40-8 p.m.:        Fashion show from Brim and Sew Dayton celebrating both stores’ one-year anniversaries

8-10 p.m.:            Meghna & the Majority

Special Events Indoors and Out Part of Sept. 6 First Friday in Downtown Dayton

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CACD is one of many locations that will display artwork during First Friday.

Warm up for Urban Nights by attending downtown Dayton’s next First Friday, held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6. Art exhibits, live music, dinner and drink specials, retail sales, and special events will be featured at a variety of downtown venues.

A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website. Highlights include:

Internationally known artist Robert Walker will display work at Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.).

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. This month’s route will go through the heart of downtown and tour part of East Dayton.

The Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) will be exhbiting Music for Teacups: Colagiovanni and Haviland, a selection of video, artist books and original prints by two artists from Athens, Ohio. The gallery will be open until 8 p.m.

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Several restaurants, including Lily’s Bistro pictured here, will offer dining specials and a food truck rally also will be held during First Friday.

Garden Station (509 E. Fourth St.) will be offering an introduction to herbal remedies class at 6 p.m., a compassionate communication workshop at 7 p.m. and live music by Meghna & the Majority at 8 p.m. The Urban Farmer’s Market begins at 5:30 p.m.

The Great Dayton Flood Walk will start at 7 p.m. View vintage photos of the flood, visit buildings that made it through the flood, see high-water marks from 1913 and more. $10 per person. Call 937-274-4749 or email [email protected] for required reservations and meeting location.

Synergy Incubators hosts a food truck rally at 200 S. Jefferson St., featuring many popular local food trucks, music, children’s activities, Hope Foundation Motorcycle Raffle, Inside Out 11M Photobooth and a local artisan marketplace.

The Yellow Cab (700 E. Fourth St.) will feature exhibit “The Art of Music,” with artwork created by musicians and inspired by music. University of Dayton professor Al Carrillo will read his poetry, and an open mic will be available for anyone who wants to perform.

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Steel drummer Joseph Glenn, pictured here with saxophonist Tyrone Martin, will again perform on the street during First Friday.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

Experience the Best of Downtown During the Aug. 2 First Friday

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Roaming performers, saxophonist Tyrone Martin and steel drum player Joseph Glenn, entertain the crowd during the July First Friday.

Art. Music. Shopping. Food. Fun. First Friday in downtown Dayton is about all of these things.

This free event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2, throughout downtown. The August First Friday is always one of the year’s largest, and this year promises to be the same with the range of activities taking place. Roaming performers — the McGovern Ceili Dancers, acoustic duo Pourover and juggler Tony Steinbach — will provide entertainment throughout downtown.

If you plan to enter the Downtown in Focus photo contest, be sure to bring your camera along. From 8 to 11 p.m., most of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture city nightscapes to enter in the competition.

Just a few events taking place during the Aug. 2 First Friday are listed below:

Are you ready to rock? Canal Street Tavern (308 E. First St.) is presenting a tribute show by American Pink Floyd. The show starts at 9 p.m. and tickets are $12. Call 937-461-9343.

In honor of the second anniversary of Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.), the store will throw a party to celebrate with all its customers. Entertainment will be provided by DJs Mike Wishnewski and Matt Freeman and henna artist Lily Whitehead. Boston Bistro will cater, and a $2 sidewalk sale will be held. Work by artist Robert Walker also will be featured. Call 937-241-9434.

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. Rides are free of charge and all skill levels are welcome. This month’s route will go past the downtown dog park, hit spots in Old North Dayton and surrounding areas (DATV, Mike Sell’s Potato Chips, Charlie’s Deli and Whitewater Warehouse) and head down the Mad River bike path back.

Synergy Incubators  will produce their fourth  First Friday Food Truck Rally.  Street Food is all the ragea and Dayton Food Park  (2oo S. Jefferson St.) will have 14 of Dayton’s food trucks lined up from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.  After you grab some grub, browse through the booths of local artisans that include jewelry, homemade soaps, pottery and other crafts.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Great Dayton Flood, the Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) is showcasing artwork by local artists around the theme “Water, Water Everywhere.” Visitors can talk to the featured artists from the exhbit. The gallery will be open until 8 p.m. Call 937-224-3822.

Green Baby (31 S. St. Clair St.) will exhibit work by local artist Bley Hack, offer free chair massages to visitors and host a sale on select children’s items. The store will be open until 8 p.m. Call 469-8665.

Miami-Jacobs (110 N Patterson Blvd.) will host a Summer Block Party. HOT-FM 102.9 and WROU-FM 92.1 will broadcast live from the event, and entertainment includes a photo booth, indoor cornhole tournament and outdoor games. Call 937-668-0213.

As part of the First Friday Salsa Music Series, Son del Caribe will play live music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at RiverScape MetroPark (111 E. Monument Ave.) on the MetroPark Pavilion Stage. Experience sounds that include salsa and other styles of Latin dance music. Call 937-274-0126.

Sew Dayton (16 Brown St.) will showcase artist-of-the-month Craig Galentine, creator of the The Kokeshi Clan. A group of local children will be selling lemonade for Hanna’s Treasure Chest outside the store and the winner of the “Make It Work” contest will be announced, along with the next challenge. Call 937-234-7398.

Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub (101 Pine St.) presents Cutthroat Freakshow by Dirty Little Secrets. This off-the-beaten-track show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 for 18 and older. Call 937-224-5653.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website. Call 937-224-1518 or email [email protected] for more information.

Annual Downtown Dayton Photo Contest

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998702_10152509198158840_814700363_a Amateur and professional photographers are invited to participate in Downtown in Focus, a photo contest aimed at finding new and distinctive shots of our downtown. The City of Dayton, Downtown Dayton Partnership, Kaplan College and Dayton Daily News are sponsoring the contest.

One amateur winner and one professional winner will be selected in each of the following categories:

  • Downtown Living:  You know that place you and your friends go to every Saturday night downtown? Now is your chance to win some money for being a regular! Take photos showing off Dayton’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene, urban housing or anything else unique to living and playing downtown.
  • I Heart Downtown: The architecture of one of the historic buildings you have always admired. Your favorite spot along the river. That coffee shop where you buy your morning brew — this category is wide open to photograph anything and everything you love about downtown Dayton.
  • Skyline: It’s hard to single out the best thing about Dayton, so why not just capture the whole city? Show us your best shot of our downtown Dayton skyline!

A panel of judges ― consisting of professional photographers, photography editors and instructors, and arts community leaders ― will select the winners in each category and award a $250 cash prize to the Best in Show winner in each division. Honorable mentions also will be awarded at the discretion of the judges. In addition, City of Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell will select one photo that best represents the City’s “Dayton Originals” motto. This photographer will receive a gift basket from the City of Dayton. Contest winners will be recognized at the Sept. 20 Urban Nights, and all entries will be displayed in a special exhibit during Urban Nights.

From approximately 8 to 11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, during First Friday, many of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture night shots of the city.

The deadline to submit photos is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, 2013. There is no fee for application or participation.

Photographers are not required to be Dayton-area residents, but winners must be age 18 or older. Photos must have been taken in Greater Downtown ― which includes the Central Business District, Oregon Arts District, Webster Station and the ring of neighborhoods that surrounds downtown ― within the past calendar year. Official contest guidelines and entry forms are available at www.downtowndayton.org and www.daytonohio.gov.

For more information, contact:

Kristen Wicker: 937-224-1518, ext. 228, or [email protected]

Courtney Deutsch: 937-224-1518, ext. 231, or [email protected]

For contest submission details and entry forms: www.downtowndayton.org

 

 

July 5 Event to Feature Dance Lessons, Classic Movies, Contests, and Live Music

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image002Downtown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 5. To celebrate the holiday weekend, many restaurant and stores are offering a variety of activities and entertainment for downtown visitors to enjoy. Events include art exhibits, live music, dinner and drink specials, retail sales, and special events will be featured at a variety of downtown venues.

Some of the highlights for the July 5 First Friday are listed below. A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website.

MVMFA_logo circletagFood Truck Rally – 200 S. Jefferson St. (near the Dayton Convention Center): Synergy Incubators hosts the July First Friday Food Truck Rally, featuring Zombie Dogz, Go Cupcake, Ringo’s North Star Mobile Eatery Caribbacanas,Fressa Truck, G’s CUE BBQ Horseless Buggy Eatery, Tik’s Thai Mobile, @The Monchon, Kona Ice and Missouri Avenue BBQ from 5:00pm – 9:00pm

American Pi (37 S. St. Clair St.) is celebrating a new collaboration with “Life in Letters,” a local handcraft décor store. Visitors can create unique and personal pieces using photos taken in the Dayton area that resemble letters. For First Friday, the owners of “Life in Letters” will be at the store to meet with anyone who comes by. The store is open until 8:30 p.m. Call 937–938-7890.

Cincinnati artist Gregory Sitg will be showing light paintings at Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.). Call 937-241-9434.

The Collaboratory (33 N. Main St.) will feature an exhibition by artist and designer Misty Thomas-Trout that is a visual representation of her personal journey into self-awareness. Enjoy drinks and food with while getting to know the artist. The Collaboratory will be open until 8 p.m. Call 937-732-5123.

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. The July ride will include a tour of the McPherson, Grafton Hill, Five Oaks and Santa Clara District neighborhoods.

As part of the First Friday Salsa Music Series, Latin band Cla’ve Son will play live music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at RiverScape MetroPark (111 E. Monument Ave.) on the MetroPark Pavilion Stage. Visitors can learn some salsa steps while listening to great music. Call 937-274-0126.

sewdayton_logoSew Dayton (16 Brown St.) will offer treats from the PNC 2nd Street Market and showcase work by fiber artist Pat Weaves. Those who stop by are encouraged to partake in a DIY “Make It Work” contest. Participants will be given three pieces of textiles and given the challenge to create something new from them. The contest will run through the end of July. Call 937-234-7398.

Kicking off the Cool Film Series at Victoria Theatre (138 N Main St.) is the classic comedy “The Apartment” starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine and directed by Billy Wilder. Free popcorn and soda are offered in the lobby and an old-fashioned sing-a-long begins 30 minutes before show time. Tickets are $5. Call 228-3630.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

Experience the Best of Downtown at Urban Nights

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Photography by Josh Mayes

More than 100 downtown venues are offering special events, discounts and more for the May 10 Urban Nights.

Urban Nights is getting an updated flavor and feel. Entertainment now will focus on three “hotspots” located throughout downtown, allowing visitors to experience downtown’s biggest street party in a new way by visiting hubs of activity throughout downtown. The next Urban Nights will be held 5 to 10 p.m. this Friday, May 10, in downtown Dayton, the Oregon District and Wright-Dunbar Business Village. A list of the hotspots at the spring event is below.

“We celebrated the 10th anniversary of Urban Nights last year and felt it was a good time to re-evaluate the event,” said Sandy Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership, which presents Urban Nights. “It’s clear the event has been extremely successful, as it brings more than 30,000 people to our downtown, many business owners report record sales, and we continue to receive a great deal of positive feedback from the community about Urban Nights.

“Still, we wanted to make sure Urban Nights more effectively meets its overall goal: to showcase all downtown has to offer and the places that only can be experienced in downtown Dayton,” Gudorf added. “We believe this new plan will encourage people to visit more places downtown during Urban Nights while giving us the opportunity to better highlight different areas in our center city.”

A map of participating venues and a complete performance schedule, including a listing of all participating locations’ events and specials, is available online. Follow Urban Nights on Facebook for regular updates and more information.

More than 30,000 people come downtown to experience this free event, when more than 100 establishments showcase downtown’s dining, nightlife, art, music, retail and housing options. The best way to see as much as possible during Urban Nights is to walk, and many of the destinations are just a short distance from each other. Greater Dayton RTA also will provide free event busses to help visitors get around.

Urban Nights is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Montgomery County and the City of Dayton, with support from Greater Dayton RTA, Bud Light Lime, Miller-Valentine Group, the Downtown Priority Board, Sinclair Community College, Mix 107.7-FM, WYSO 91.3-FM, Wright-Dunbar Business Village and the Ohio Arts Council.

MAY 10 URBAN NIGHTS HOTSPOTS

International Street

Sponsored by Miller-Valentine Group

Second Street between Main and Jefferson streets

Enjoy dance performances from a variety of troupes and grab an import brew to go along with foods from many cultures.

Second Street will be closed by the Kettering Tower to make way for dance performances and more.

Second Street will be closed by the Kettering Tower to make way for dance performances and more.

Dancing in the Street Stage Schedule

5-5:25 p.m.:        Troupe Roja
5:30-5:55 p.m.:  McGovern Ceili Dancers
6-6:25 p.m.:        South Dayton Dance Theatre
6:30-6:55 p.m.:  Grupo Caribe
7-7:25 p.m.:        The Beseda Dancers
7:30-7:55 p.m.:  Vivian Zumba
8-10 p.m.:            Son del Caribe

The corner of Fourth and St. Clair streets will be a hub of arts-inspired activity.

The corner of Fourth and St. Clair streets will be a hub of arts-inspired activity.

Arts Corner

Sponsored by Sinclair Community College

St. Clair and Fourth streets

Experience the Urban Nights motto “Walk on the Creative Side.” Enjoy a range of entertainment hosted by nearby businesses, including live entertainment, art exhibits and special sales. The Dayton Art Institute will host a photo booth where you can transform your image into an Andy Warhol-style work of art.
Arts Corner Entertainment
5-7 p.m.:              Sweet Betsy

7-9 p.m.:              By Means of Words at CADC

9-11 p.m.:            Miss Lissa & Co. at Serendipity Bistro

 

Rock out to local bands at the Live on Five stage in the Oregon District.

Rock out to local bands at the Live on Five stage in the Oregon District.

Live on Five

Corner of Fifth and Pine streets in the Oregon District

Grab a draft brew from the beer truck and rock out to a variety of live bands.

Entertainment Schedule:

5-5:45 p.m.:        The Broken Lights Band

6- 6:45 p.m.:       Meghna & the Majority

7-7:45 p.m.:        Cherry Lee and the Daddy Katz 

8-10 p.m.:            Magic Jackson

MAY 10 URBAN NIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS

Tours and Exhibits Commemorating the Great Dayton Flood of 1913

Great Dayton Flood of 1913 Bus Tours

Presented by Dayton History, Generation Dayton and Greater Dayton RTA

Get around Urban Nights while learning about our city’s largest natural disaster. Narrators on specially marked Flood Tour buses will detail factors that led to the catastrophe and recount survivors’ personal stories and those of heroic Daytonians from 100 years ago. The free 30- to 45-minute tour will follow the Urban Nights blue bus route and will stop at various locations throughout downtown Dayton. The tour officially begins at the corner of Monument Avenue and Jefferson Street, but visitors can get on and off the bus at any of the designated stops.

The Miami Conservancy District, 38 E. Monument Ave.

At its historical administrative building, the MCD will feature pocket park clean water tours and display 1913 flood inundation maps. The MCD also will host open-mic story telling about the flood along with other displays and giveaways.

The Great Dayton Adventure Race

Starts at the MetroParks Bike Hub at RiverScape MetroPark

This urban scavenger hunt will wind through the Urban Nights action. See how many clues you can answer in two hours as you navigate the city by foot for a chance to win prizes. Team up with friends or tackle the challenge solo. Racers can start anytime between 5 and 7 p.m. $20 per person. Register in advance at www.topoadventuresports.org or at RiverScape MetroPark the day of the event. Call 937-274-0126 for more information.

RiverScape MetroPark will be a hub of activity, including live entertainment and activities focused on green living. (Photography by Josh Mayes)

RiverScape MetroPark will be a hub of activity, including live entertainment and activities focused on green living. (Photography by Josh Mayes)

RiverScape MetroPark: Plaza and Pavilion Stage

At the RiverScape Plaza, visit DRG3’s Green Fest: Spring into Green!, featuring green displays and exhibits, recycled arts and crafts, a thrift shop runway, basketball with recyclables, extreme hop scotch, hula hoop, solar race cars, energy bikes and martial arts demos. Also at RiverScape at the nearby MetroParks Pavilion, enjoy live entertainment:
5:30-6 p.m.:        The Dayton Poetry Slam Showcase
6-7:45 p.m.:        New Vega
7:45-8:15 p.m.:  Howard School of Dance
8:15-10 p.m.:      The Ark Band 

 

 

 

Live entertainment, food and activities will be part of the Urban Nights experience in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village.

Live entertainment, food and activities will be part of the Urban Nights experience in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village.

Wright-Dunbar Business Village Entertainment

Enjoy live entertainment, cultural arts, creative and tasty cuisine, and other festivities in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village. Special events include:

• Gospel and R&B Plaza, Third & Williams streets:  Featuring live entertainment and four food vendors.
• Dance Tent, 1133 W. Third St.: Featuring entertainment by DJ Master G, three food vendors and a spirits bar.
• Jazz Plaza, West Third Street: Featuring live jazz entertainment and food stations.
• The Lounge, 1100 W. Third St.: Presenting a ticketed event at 8:30 p.m., a tribute to The Ohio Players by D-Funk All Stars. Call 443-0249 for tickets and information.

Self-Guided Architectural Tour

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Dayton Chapter has organized a self-guided tour for those intrigued by the architecture of Dayton and the history behind it. Refer to the Architectural Week brochure (distributed with Urban Nights program books) for more details or start at any of the buildings that are on the tour, where more information also will be available. The tour highlights the exterior architectural features of buildings, and not all buildings will be open to tour the interiors.

• Kuhns Building, 45 S. Main St.

• The Arcade, Third Street across from Courthouse Square

• The Old Courthouse, corner of Main and Third streets

• Kettering Tower, southeast corner of Main and Second streets

• Schuster Center, northwest corner of Main and Second streets

• Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St.

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Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St.

The Dayton Circus Creative Collective again will kick off its two-day celebration of music and art in Dayton during Urban Nights. This event showcases the work of more than 60 artists and more than 20 musicians, and it hosts an event after-party until 1 a.m. Food and refreshments available. Visit the event website for a complete entertainment schedule and list of participating artists.

Join hundreds of cyclists on a ride through the night’s action at Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights, which will start at Courthouse Square. (Photography by Josh Mayes)

Join hundreds of cyclists on a ride through the night’s action at Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights, which will start at Courthouse Square. (Photography by Josh Mayes)

 

 

Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights 

Start at Courthouse Square, Third and Main streets, at 6 p.m.

Get a preview of Urban Nights from the seat of your bike. Join hundreds of cyclists on this police-escorted ride through downtown. Riders are encouraged to wear a helmet and should be able to ride at a decent pace. This is not a ride for young children on their own bikes. From 5 to 8 p.m. on the Square, GetUP Montgomery County will present an event with live music, fitness demonstrations and other interactive activities focused on active, healthy lifestyles.

 

 

 

Sample New Food and Drink Establishments

Several downtown dining destinations either will be newly opened or open during Urban Nights to offer samples from their menus and preview their soon-to-be-open spots:

• Agnes All Natural Grill, 135 E. Fourth St.

• The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St.

• Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.

• Salar Restaurant and Lounge, 410 E. Fifth St.

• Toxic Brew Co., 431 E. Fifth St.

 

Mosaic City Photo Show

St. Clair Lofts building, 39 S. St. Clair St.

Cityfolk presents an exhibit that includes entries from a recent Cityfolk photo contest and work by artist Glenna Jennings, who will present her project “Looking at Looking.” Her photographs depict residents and visitors to downtown Dayton observing historic images from the National Cash Register archive.

Watch large-scale prints being made with a steamroller at the third Steamroller Printmaking event.

Watch large-scale prints being made with a steamroller at the third Steamroller Printmaking event.

Steamroller Printmaking: Flat-Out Fun!

Stivers School for the Arts, 1313 E. Fifth St.

Printmakers from the Dayton Printmakers Cooperative and students from Stivers School for the Arts will print large-scale linoleum blocks using a real steamroller as a printing press. Anyone can carve a smaller version of the linoleum blocks prior to the event (available for purchase at the Dayton Visual  Arts Center for $10), called “Parking Prints,” and have it printed the night of the event. At DVAC, 118 N. Jefferson St., view large-scale and parking prints from the previous two Steamroller events.

Light My Fire & Brilliant Trash Competition

K12 Gallery for Young People and TEJAS, 510 E. Third St.

More than 100 hand-crafted mosaic lanterns will be lit in front of and inside the gallery as part of the Light My Fire exhibit. The lanterns will be for sale, with proceeds benefitting programming at K12 and TEJAS. K12 also will host the Brilliant Trash Competition, featuring upcycled works of art by local artists vying to be named Craft Master 2013, along with the exhibition “Can I Get a Witness?,” featuring abstract paintings by Rebecca Sargent and Erika Hess. Enjoy light refreshments, music and salsa dancing.

We Care Arts Celebrates 30 Years

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busyin the studioThirty years is a remarkable amount of time.  In a culture where TV shows are cancelled almost as soon as they begin, and businesses rise and fall with the latest trend, commanding longevity in an ever-changing world means you know how to leverage good fortune, anticipate change, and strategize for the future.

Celebrating their 30-year anniversary, We Care Arts, a Kettering non-profit that teaches art to people with disabilities, has succeeding in doing just that, and their place in the artistic and special needs communities continues to blossom.

“What we do here is very important to a lot of people,” explained Shari Hignite, the program coordinator for We Care Arts.  “Without us, many of our clients have nowhere else to go. Many of them have tried other agencies or methods to help them, but they have not had any success.  Art is a powerful tool, and our programs help them in ways that nothing else will.”

In 2012 alone, We Care Arts served about 900 clients across four counties in more than a dozen creative fields including woodworking, painting, knitting, sewing, and jewelry making.  These are awe-inspiring statistics, considering how they modestly began in a closet attached to the Rose E. Miller Recreation Center’s wood shop to accommodate two clients (one of which was taught by We Care Arts’ executive director, Terry Schalnat).

long view of studioFlash forward three decades.  We Care Arts experienced a rapid-fire expansion that included adding a gift shop, changing locations, and developing nearly two dozen outreach programs to aid as many demographics as possible.  And they are still expanding.  “We’ve been at our Wilmington Pike location for nine years, and it’s amazing how we are already busting at the seams,” said Brenda Thieman, We Care Arts’ bookkeeper.

During We Care Arts’ 30 years, the staff has witnessed radical transformations–mentally, emotionally, and spiritually–in many of their clients from their newfound sense of pride and self-worth.

“We have had so many people come through our doors broken, in mind and spirit,” mentioned Hignite.  “They come to us at their lowest low; at the beginning of the rebuilding process.  We provide them with advice, encouragement, and the tools to start moving upward.  Many of our clients have gone on to college, gotten jobs, started families, mended fences, left their abusers, and improved their lives.”

Considering the outpouring of inspirational stories, it’s no wonder that We Care Arts is celebrated by the citizens of Dayton.

“I think if we can continue to provide the community with a safe place for people, then we have met our goals,” offerlincoln park (1)ed Hignite.  “What we do here is very important to so many individuals, yet it is really simple.  We are kind. We are supportive, encouraging, loving, and caring.  It is amazing what people can do when given the right tools and a little encouragement.”

Hignite mentioned that We Care Arts has several new programs in the works.  They currently teach one class at each school they serve, but they have been asked to do more, in addition to piloting initiatives at other schools.  They are also thinking about creating more programs for nursing homes.

To supply their massive reach, We Care Arts is always in need of donations, both monetary and in-kind, and they also rely upon the dedication of sundry volunteers who help in-class, serve on committees, man the gift shop, and organize fundraisers in tandem to a variety of other duties.  But one of the best ways to contribute to this organization takes very little time.

“What I hope for the most is that more people become aware of us and visit our gift shop,” mentioned Hignite.  “When people purchase something made by our clients, it lifts them more than anything else. It is a validation that they are worth something.”

The gift shop certainly has something for everyone and every budget, offering paintings, comic books, household items, coffee mugs, baby blankets, cards, painted wine glasses, and more.  They also strive to offer a wide array of seasonal items, especially for Mother’s Day and Christmas, which are some of their busiest times in-store.

In talking with the We Care Arts’ staff, their passion for their vocation is evident, and it is certainly one of the driving forces behind We Care Arts’ success.

“This is the first job I have ever had that I love getting up to go to,” exclaimed Thieman.  “Even when I have a bad day, I can take a minute to just visit with a client, and my spirits are lifted.”

Echoing the comments of Thieman, Bruce Rill, a tenured instructor at We Care Arts, offered these parting words:

“Art has great value in the lives of all human beings, no matter where they are in life,” he explained. “We are blessed to use our gifts, all the while learning from others.”

We Care Arts will have their Garden Party fundraiser on Saturday, May 4th.  For more information about their programs and upcoming events, visit www.wecarearts.org or call 252-3937.  We Care Arts is located at 3035 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH, 45429.  Their gift shop is open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

First Friday to Feature Walking Tour, Craft Battle, Beer Tasting, Art Shows, More

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G - 3 DVAC• The Collaboratory (formerly Blue Sky Gallery), 8 N. Main St.: Featuring “Best Time Ever,” a visual collaboration between photographer Glenna Jennings and mixed-media artist Issa Randall. They use Facebook as a stock image bank to create collages that speak to the transient nature of “good times.” 732-5123.

• CADC, 35 S. St. Clair St.: Presenting “Mexican Reflections;” Sandra Picciano and David Brand will demonstrate their jewelry-making techniques and exhibit their rings inspired by a jewelry workshop in Mexico. 313-9883.

• Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St.: Opening reception for art exhibit “Intuition,” featuring work by Betsy Molinsky, Marvin Olinsky and Beth Duke. The exhibit features mixed-media art, sculpture and painting. 228-4532.

• Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N. Jefferson St.: (Open 5 to 8 p.m.) The opening of “Art Auction Preview,” featuring works in all types of media. 224-3822.

• Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.: The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. for a ride through the city.

• Clash Consignments, 521 E. Fifth St.: Hosting “Aries de la femme,” an art show highlighting local women artisans. This girl-themed art show promotes girl art by girl artists. Categories include visual, audio and fine arts. Call 241-9434.

• Fifth Third Center, 1 S. Main St.: Local artisans Gina Duncan and Judy Riesser will host an opening reception for their artwork, displayed in the lobby, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. 228-2224.

• Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St.: Presents a new collection of hand-beaded pendants and pins by Gallery 510 artist Cathy Helmers. Mention First Friday and receive $5 off winter scarves. 672-6717.

• Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C: Art opening with paintings by artist-of-the -month Jed Helmers. 723-6747.

• Great Dayton Flood Walk: View vintage photos of the great flood, visit buildings that made it through the flood, see high-water marks from 1913 and much more. Walk starts at 7 p.m. and is $10 per person. Call 274-4749 or email [email protected] for required reservations and meeting location.

• K12 Gallery for Young People/TEJAS, 510 E. Third St.: The opening reception of the second annual juried exhibit featuring 2D black-and-white art; 16 artists have been selected to participate in the exhibit, which includes photographs, drawings, paintings and collages. 461-5149.

G - 32 510• Olive, an urban dive, 416 E. Third St.: Displaying photographs by Gary Kunze, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2004; 10 percent of all the sales of Gary’s photographs and cards will go toward Parkinson’s disease research. From 6 to 8 p.m., visitors can get a sneak peak at the new The Barrel House, which is being renovated across the street from Olive.

• Requarth Co. Supply One Showroom, 447 E. Monument Ave.: (open 6 to 8:30 p.m.) Join the Fifth Street Brewpub for a beer tasting. Learn about the Fifth Street Brewpub Co-op and enjoy performances by local musicians David Baugham, composer/slap-style guitarist and winner of the Teen Music Slam 2012 (6 to 6:40 p.m.) and Pam Baugham of the folk/Americana group Sweet Betsy (6:40 to 8 p.m.). The tasting will feature six craft beers from a variety of breweries for  $2 per taste or six tastes for $10. Proceeds will help the brewpub renovate its historical space and open its doors this spring. Also, Harvest Mobile Cuisine will be on site with local food for sale.

• Sew Dayton, 16 Brown St.: Hosting a “spring cleaning” sale; fill up an entire bag of scraps of fabric for $1. Artwork by featured artist-of-the-month Cherry Fullam will be on display. 234-7398.

• The Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St.: Hosting the second “Dayton Crafty-Con,” showcasing local crafters. Starting at 5 p.m., more than 25 vendors will be giving demos on how to create the crafts they are selling. At 7 p.m.,“Battle of the Crafters” will take place on the main stage. Each team will be presented with a box of unknown supplies and will be judged on its ability to make a craft within the parameters of the specified theme. Zombie Dog food truck will be selling gourmet hot dogs. 203-8175.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association, the Ohio Arts Council and WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org

 

 

 

Urban Arts Showcase Takes the Stage This Friday

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HBO Def Poet Black Ice will headline this Friday's "The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show."

HBO Def Poet Black Ice will headline this Friday's "The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show."

Oral Funk Poetry Productions will launch its fifth season of “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” at The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., from 9 to 11 p.m. this Friday, April 20.

The season-opening performance will be a celebration of National Poetry Month. The theme will be Jamaican and Caribbean culture through spoken word, dramatizations, live music, vocalists, visual arts and more.

Featured performers include Tony Award-winning HBO Def Poet Black Ice, who appeared on six seasons of the popular show and starred in Def Poetry on Broadway. He’s lent his voice to hip-hop projects by such artists at Method Man and opened for Mary J. Blige on her 2006 world tour. Black Ice also has appeared on BET’s Live 8 Concert Special, Rap City the Basement and 106th & Park, as well as on NBC’s Showtime at the Apollo.

Joining Black Ice will be singer and poet Scorpio Blues, who also has appeared on HBO’s Def Poetry. Her recent CD, Scorpio Rising, features her soul music and some poetry, while her first CD, Blue Blushin’, was an acclaimed poetry work. In 2006, Scorpio Rising became the first female and the first African-American to win the Ill List Poets championship. She also has her own spoken word and music entertainment, management and promotions company called Hot Water Cornbread.

The Flex Crew Reggae Band, a popular group from Columbus, will perform live music. Its seven members hail from a variety of musical backgrounds, resulting in a versatile and high-energy band with an array of musical styles, including funk, R&B, soul, hip hop and roots reggae. In addition, local spoken word poet I Witness Life will emcee.

Tickets cost $20 and can be purhcased at www.ticketcenterstage.com, by calling 937-228-3830 or at the door.

Poet Scorpio Blues also will perform during The Signature.

Poet Scorpio Blues also will perform during The Signature.

Oral Funk Poetry Productions has partnered with De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., for the event. The restaurant, located across the street from the theater, will offer special Jamaican and Caribbean menu items and drinks.

During its first four seasons, “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” featured local and national poets, musicians, actors, vocalists, dancers and visual artists presenting numerous forms of self-expression ― often to sold-out crowds.

“We’re so excited to continue producing our show at The Loft Theatre after moving the production to this great venue last year,” said Sierra Leone of Oral Funk Poetry Productions. “This location has more seating for our shows, which often sell out, and has allowed us to kick up the performance a notch thanks to access to more professional production equipment and capabilities in the theater. We also have appreciated the opportunity to work with and learn from the professionals at The Human Race Theatre Company.”

Not Your Grandparents’ Norman Rockwell

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The Problem We All Live With

The Problem We All Live With

You only have a few days to get to The Dayton Art Institute or you’re going to miss something surprisingly evocative and just plain cool.

Until recently, my idea of Norman Rockwell was a memory of images painted on dishes displayed in my granny and grandpa’s dining room cabinet. Those images were cutsey, small-town Americana and very, very quaint.

My Norman Rockwell has changed an awful lot.

When I first visited the exhibit “American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell,” I was surprised to learn this iconic American artist was a progressive thinker. To be honest, I had no idea he created a body of work addressing such issues as desegregation, civil rights and poverty. I admit I was stunned when standing in front of The Problem We All Live With, a recreation of the walk 6-year-old Ruby Bridges took as a first-grade student and the first African American to attend a previously all-white school in New Orleans. This was not only because of the powerful imagery but because I had not expected to see this ― feel this ― in a Norman Rockwell exhibit. I had trouble breaking myself away from Murder in Mississippi, Rockwell’s depiction of the murders of three young civil rights workers in Philadelphia, Miss., during the civil rights era.  I was late for a meeting (OK, really late) but I really didn’t care. These paintings!

I had the same intense feeling ― you know, when you think a wooly worm is crawling along your spine ― when hearing that same Ruby Bridges Rockwell painted years ago tell a packed auditorium at The Art Institute about her experience and emotions that November day as she and her mother, riding in a car with federal marshals, made their way to her new school.  (Tangent: Check out Bridges’ book, Through My Eyes, if you get a chance.)

Ruby Bridges speaks to a packed house at The Dayton Art Institute and shares images from the day she made history by being the first African American to attend a previously all-white school. "Even back then, I knew that 'separate but equal' was not true," she said.

Ruby Bridges shares images from the day she made history as the first African American to attend a previously all-white school. "Even back then, I knew 'separate but equal' was not true," she said.

And there were more surprises. Bridges’ parents were not activists. They simply wanted a better life for their daughter, which is why they answered when the NAACP knocked on their door. Bridges used her imagination to decipher what was happening during those days when she unknowingly was making history. Since she had been one of only six African American children to pass a test engineered for them to fail, Bridges thought she was so smart she was going to college. Since her neighbors walked alongside the car that drove her to her first grade class, she thought she was in a Mardi Gras parade. Bridges said the worst thing about first grade was being lonely, as nearly all the white families had withdrawn their children from the school. She revealed the horror of walking by white protestors holding an infant’s coffin containing a black doll, constant threats that she would be poisoned, the schoolboy who told Bridges his mother insisted he not play with her and the weight she felt lifted off her shoulders upon hearing that comment because, finally, she knew what was going on. She knew it was about color, the color of her skin.

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