Dayton937

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

Chicago

‘Chicago’ Review – Springboro Community Theatre – Jailhouse Jewels

By

The heated competition between merry murderesses Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly is back as Springboro Community Theatre continues its inaugural season with an entertaining production of composer John Kander, lyricist/co-librettist Fred Ebb, and co-librettist Bob Fosse’s classic 1975 musical Chicago.

Photo caption(s) (left to right) Logan Hylinski (Velma Kelly) and Kailey Yeakley (Roxie Hart) are featured in Springboro Community Theatre’s production of John Kander, Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse’s classic musical “Chicago” through Nov. 17. (Contributed photo)

The core 1920s battle inside the Cook County Jail as famed veteran Velma is challenged in publicity and attention by upstart Roxie is well-established and believably grounded by Logan Hylinksi and Kailey Yeakley, respectively. Although their youth significantly lessens the level of desperation inherently built inside both roles, they nonetheless bring charisma, passion, sensuality, and spunk to the stage as stakes are raised. Hylinski, agile, sleek and sly with an impressive grasp of the Fosse style, greatly emphasizes Velma’s unexpected change of course having to share her turf and see her reputation disintegrate as Roxie surpasses her. “I Can’t Do It Alone,” Velma’s plea for Roxie’s assistance, showcases Hylinksi to the fullest as a performer while still reflecting Velma’s vulnerability. Yeakley, filling Funny Honey with a pleasant country twang near the outset, shrewdly embraces Roxie as a cold-hearted killer empowered and reveling in her celebratory rise as the Windy City’s latest craze even as she is doted on by her hopelessly gullible husband Amos (endearing Aaron Brewer) and spars with hotshot lawyer Billy Flynn (Steven Lakes, vocally strong yet lacking in layers and specificity). Her playful rendition of Roxie, which includes a fantastic monologue detailing the character’s adulterous backstory, is a particular highlight.

In addition: Jeannine Geise is a delightfully crass Matron Mama Morton (her brutally blunt rendition of Class opposite Hylinski is wonderfully lyric-driven and sarcastic); Donna Cason keeps the action humming in her central role as Emcee; The Cell Block Tango, one of many flavorful Fosse-inspired routines admirably choreographed by Kara Castle, is terrifically rendered by Lily Newman (Mona), Morgan Gruet (Annie), Ryann Davis (June), and Madison Stapleton (Liz) along with the aforementioned Hylinksi and Castle (Hunyak) who are all costumed seductively by Olivia Dakin; standout ensemble members Jeremy Smith (Fogarty/Harrison) and William Boatwright, Jr. (Harry/Aaron) are great assets in spirit, tone and movement; Tim Fingerle (Fred Casely) proves prominent in flashback during Roxie’s climatic trial; Xander Hildenbrandt is a fittingly fiery Go to Hell Kitty; and Megan Blitz, Lauren Ping, and Allie Staples nicely complement as featured dancers. However, as newspaper reporter Mary Sunshine, Jordan Mckinniss stumbles within the tricky parameters of spoof, specifically lacking authenticity and vocal finesse to properly sell the role and its duality. Trust me: A Little Bit of Good is one of the finest character-specific songs in the Kander and Ebb canon and deserves a far better treatment than exhibited here.


In a unique departure from the standard jailhouse setting, director Jenni Cypher frames the show inside a period nightclub, designed by Wayne Myers complete with tables and bar. It’s an interesting concept at times refreshing but occasionally muddled, particularly Act 1 finale My Own Best Friend, a defiant number devoted to Roxie and Velma’s decision to rely on no one but themselves that gets deflated as Hylinski and Yeakley stroll across the stage as some sort of lounge act to satisfy customers. On the other hand, Cypher’s choice to bring the overwhelming fury of The Cell Block Tango directly into the audience notably appeals. Her production team includes music director Judy Mansky, lighting and sound designer Jason Vogel, and properties master Kurt Cypher.

We can learn a lot from the corruption, betrayal, lies, and treachery that make Roxie and Velma household names. With Hylinksi and Yeakley firmly in the driver’s seat, this cautionary tale rightfully stings with relevancy. Buckle up.

Chicago continues through Nov. 17 at Springboro Community Theatre, 115 Wright Station Way, Springboro. Performances are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, students, military, and groups. For tickets or more information, call (888) 262-3792 or visit borotheatre.org. Patrons are advised the show contains adult language/situations.

 

Music and Art Go Hand in Hand on Fine Art Final Friday!

By

Music fans are in for a treat on Friday June 28th when Marbin, the up-and-coming progressive jazz-rock band based in Chicago, comes back to town! This exciting act is taking the stage at Dayton’s hottest new music spot: The Brightside Music & Event Venue. Special guest Ben Delaurentis kicking off the night at 9pm!

Added bonus to this show! The Brightside is serving up food and amazing tunes on Friday night. The lovely ladies who run Drunkin’ Waffle / Twisted Taco will be on site as soon as doors open, to serve up some tasty food!

If you’re really looking to round out this cultural date night – I’d suggest getting out early and checking out some visual art around town. Fine Art Final Fridays is a new trend downtown, spurred by gallery owner Edward Dixon. This month he features three of Ben Ibebe‘s amazing pieces from his 6 painting “Jazz Series” which has never been shown outside of Dayton, Ohio! Meters are free after 6pm. So get your fine art on, and then get your groove on at The Brightside!

How To Go?

Friday June 28, 2019

Gallery Show: 5-9pm at Edward Dixon Gallery – 12 S Ludlow St Dayton, Ohio. No entry fee!

Marbin Concert: 

The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St Dayton, Ohio

Doors 8pm. Show 9-11pm.

$10 at the door

All ages

Food: Twisted Taco food truck

Presented by Venus Child Productions

More about the Music

Marbin has a unique story that stands out in today’s music world. With a do-it-yourself approach, they started started touring extensively in 2011, bringing their original instrumental music to every part of the United States. Through word of mouth, Marbin has gained the attention of thousands of devoted fans all over the world. This is your chance to see them right here in Dayton!

Ben is a singer-songwriter from Lynchburg, Virginia whose warm tones and heartfelt lyricism create an authentic, intimate experience for the listener.

Giordanos Pizza is Coming ….

By

Coming to the Farifield Mall area by year’s end.

You have heard the buzz and mumblings, and may have even seen what the pizzas look like. .  Giordano’s Pizza is coming.  Yes, finally, a one of a kind Deep Dish Chicago Style Icon will enter the Miami Valley, and thick pizza in Dayton will forever be changed.

Opening day will be Tuesday, Feb 19th!
They will open at 2819 Centre Drive, which is across from the Fairfield Commons, in the spot that was once Logan’s Steakhouse.

Eating the pizza here is a Food Adventure. in fact it is more of a pie than pizza.  A combination of deep dish pizza, a stuffed pizza and a tomato pie from all walks and regions of Italian life.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON GIORDANO’S RESTAURANT:

— In the 1800’s in Turino, Italy, Mama Giordano would get married to a Mr Boglio.  Every Easter she would make a big “Italian Easter Pie” for her family.  This pie was made only on special occasions and was a huge, stuffed pizza.

— In 1974 Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio started serving their mom’s recipe in the South side of Chicago.

A Chicago Icon

— In 2018 they have about 50 locations, one about to be Dayton, Ohio !

 

HOW TO MAKE A FAMOUS GIORDANO’S STUFFED PIZZA:

1) The pizzas are made to order and baked like a pie

2)  An oiled, Deep Dish pan is lined with a signature flaky, thick dough on the bottom.  This dough tastes like a mix of pizza dough, part pie dough, and part “pot pie” crust.

3) The pan is lined with ingredients placed on top of the thick crust.

4) The ingredients are covered in a huge mound of mozzarella cheese

5) This step is the  “secret” that sets them apart.  A thin layer of top dough is than placed atop the pizza and trimmed off, making a pie type appearance.  Numerous air holes are purposely put into this layer.

6) A thick, generous helping of marinara sauce is hand ladled onto the thin top crust , covering it completely.

The Stuffed Pizza from Giordano’s

7) The pizza is baked for 45 minutes.

There you have it, the steps to a Giordano’s Stuffed pizza.  We hope they open sooner than later, we cannot wait for a stuffed pizza Food Adventure.

 

Besides stuffed pizza Giordano menu features appetizers, Italian dishes, thin crust pizza, salads, and has a full catering menu.

Dayton has had its brush with Chicago Pizzas.  Uno’s Pizzeria used to operate 3 stores in Dayton, Centerville and Huber Heights.  Two Uno’s have since closed and only the downtown Dayton location remains at 126 North Main St. next to Victoria Theater.

For more local pizza fun and food happenings, follow FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK.

If you can’t wait until they open, feel free to go to www.Girodanos.com and have a pizza sent by  special delivery to your doorstep.

A thick dough is lined on the bottom of the pan, then igredients are applied.

 

 

Cheezy

Next comes mounds of cheese

Next a small thin layer of dough on top, poke holes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Delicious and filling -Giordanos is coming …

Literally tire of pizza

final step before baking – ladel on that sauce baby !!

Top with sauce, bake 45 min

 

 

 

Human Race Raffle: Win A Trip to Chicago to See Hamilton

By

Here’s your chance to win a fabulous time in the Windy City and to see one of the greatest theatrical events of our time while supporting Dayton’s official professional theatre company.

The raffle package includes
Four tickets to a performance of Hamilton at Chicago’s PrivateBank Theatre
Two rooms for two nights at the 5-star Gwen Hotel, compliments of Huffman Travel
A $150 gift card for dinner at  Petterino’s– classic Italian dining, prime steaks and fresh seafood.

Raffle ticket prices
One ticket for $50
Four tickets for $150
(No more than 1,000 tickets will be sold.)

To purchase your raffle tickets:

BUY ONLINE NOW!

Or, in person in the Loft lobby before every performance of On Golden Pond and Family Ties.

The drawing will be held June 25, 2017 following the final matinee performance of Family Ties. Winner need not be present.

The fine print:
The winner must redeem their ticket between August 1, and December 31, 2017.
Ticket stub and valid ID must be presented to The Human Race to redeem.
One month’s prior notice to The Human Race is required in order to make ticket and hotel reservations.
The price of raffle tickets is not tax deductible.
No refunds or exchanges. Prize cannot be returned for cash payment.
The Human Race Theatre Company employees, contractors or their family members are not eligible to enter.
Participants must be 18 years of age to enter.

Just You ‘N’ Me and 4200 Others Can See Chicago at Rose Music Center

By

Hailed as one of the “most important bands in music since the dawn of the rock and roll era” by former President Bill Clinton, the legendary rock and roll band with horns, Chicago will make their debut at Rose Music Center in Huber Heights, OH on Saturday, May 20th .

Chicago – who celebrates their 50th anniversary as a band this year and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016 after receiving their first nomination – came in at #9, the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine’s Hot 200 All-Time Top Artists. Chicago is the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six decades.

Lifetime achievements include a Grammy Award (Chicago Transit Authority, 2014), multiple American Music Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a Chicago street dedicated in their honor, and keys to and proclamations from an impressive list of US cities. Record sales top the 100,000,000 mark, and include 21 Top 10 singles, 5 consecutive Number One albums, 11 Number One singles and 5 Gold singles. An incredible 25 of their 36 albums have been certified platinum, and the band has a total of 47 gold and platinum awards.

Chicago have toured every year since the beginning – they’ve never missed a year. The band is now in their 50th consecutive year of touring, and continue to be true ambassadors for their beloved hometown, carrying the city’s name with pride and dignity around the world. The line-up includes original band members Robert Lamm on keyboards, vocals, Lee Loughnane on trumpet and vocals, James Pankow on trombone and Walt Parazaider on woodwinds, as well as Jeff Coffey on bass, vocals, Tris Imboden on drums, Keith Howland on guitar and vocals, Lou Pardini on keyboards, vocals and Walfredo Reyes, Jr. on percussion.

From the signature sound of the Chicago horns, their iconic vocalists, and a few dozen of ever-classic songs, this concert is one not to be missed!

Tickets for the Huber Heights show, $73.00*, $61.00*, $51.00*, and $24.50* will go on sale to the public beginning 11:00am on Friday, February 10th at www.Ticketmaster.com, www.Rosemusiccenter.com, and all Ticketmaster outlets.  Charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000. *Ticket prices include parking and are subject to applicable Ticketmaster fees.  Dates, times and artists subject to change without notice.

‘Chicago’ Review – Wright State University – How to Get Away with Murder

By

Long before Annalise Keating displayed tremendous legal savvy, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly knew how to get away with murder in the Windy City of the Roaring Twenties. And it’s a lot of fun seeing these merry murderesses of the Cook County Jail compete to the hilt behind bars and in the press while enticing with delicious decadence in Wright State University’s marvelous production of John Kander, Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse’s cynically satiric 1975 musical “Chicago.”

chicago 2

Caroline Chisholm (Velma Kelly) and the cast of Wright State University’s production of “Chicago” performing “All That Jazz.” (Contributed photo)

Deftly directed by Joe Deer with a striking emphasis on the show’s original vaudevillian framework, expertly heightened by choreographer Teressa Wylie McWilliams, scenic designer Adam Koch and costumer Michelle Sampson, this “Chicago” takes hold and is firmly grounded from the outset thanks to the dynamic pairing of triple threats Bailey Rose (Roxie) and Caroline Chisholm (Velma). Chisholm, resembling Academy Award-winner Catherine Zeta-Jones who portrayed Velma in the 2002 film, launches the action with a sultry, sharply focused “All That Jazz” and impressively showcases her dancing skills in “I Can’t Do It Alone” and “When Velma Takes the Stand.” But at the same rate, she doesn’t discount Velma’s desperation and bruised ego due to her standing in the press (she killed her husband and vaudeville partner-sister after finding them in bed together) as Roxie overtakes her on the front pages having murdered her lover Fred Casely. Rose, memorable last season as Wendy Darling in “Peter Pan,” absolutely dazzles in her first scene bringing astute character choices and lyric-driven brilliance to the humorous “Funny Honey” detailing Roxie’s “affection” for her meek husband Amos. Once she arrives at the introspective “Roxie,” a fascinating peek into Roxie’s dalliances and desire for stardom, Rose transforms into a fiery, unyieldingly determined force to be reckoned with specifically as Roxie is overtaken by socialite Go-To-Hell Kitty (a feisty Alex Caldwell) and comes up with a pregnancy stunt to regain favor to Velma’s dismay. Deer wisely ensures Roxie and Velma remain rivals at all costs (there is definite bad blood between these ladies) so it is a joy to see Rose and Chisholm fully ignite the show’s final moments wonderfully unified with seductively sexy, electrifying finesse in “Nowadays” and “Hot Honey Rag.” Demanding total syncopation and synergy, these two numbers are performed at such a high professional-caliber proficiency you’ll wonder if you’re actually seeing “Chicago” at WSU or in the form of a national tour at the Schuster Center.

chicago
Additionally, the confident, suave, vocally strong, and remarkably mature Jordan Adams is a true find as Roxie and Velma’s super slick lawyer Billy Flynn, whose love of law doesn’t compare to his love of women. Adams embodies Billy as a sophisticated showman totally accustomed to the fickle, gullible nature of the press. In fact, during Adams’ excellent rendition of the press-driven “We Both Reached for the Gun,” pay heed to Billy stepping aside to scribble a few lines of copy on the pad of reporter Mary Sunshine (an appropriately ambiguous Cody Westbrook). Tyler Simms, a delightful Smee in “Peter Pan,” is equally winning as the dejected Amos. Simms’ mesmerizing interpretation of “Mister Cellophane” truly conveys the isolation, loneliness and timidity permeating within Amos’ soul as he simply yearns for recognition and respect. Katie Momenee, a standout in “Sondheim on Sondheim” last season, lacks intimidating seediness as Matron “Mamma” Morton, but she sings the role very well and commands attention. Keaton Eckhoff (Fred Casely) enjoyably accents the vaudevillian structure as he gleefully introduces each song. Haylee Dobkins (June), Alyson Snyder (a poignant Hunyak), Megan Valle (Mona), Meredith Zahn (Liz), Chisholm, and Caldwell join forces for a splendidly fierce and vengeful “Cell Block Tango,” one of many remarkable routines meticulously crafted by McWilliams in the iconic spirit of Fosse while altogether original. The slinky, praiseworthy ensemble includes Briana Koon, Rebekah Espich, Scotti Stoneburner, Lindsey Knoth, Hannah Struppa, Eli Davis, Aaron Johnson, Dakota Mullins, Kyle Sell, and Philip Stock.
Deer’s top-notch artistic team includes lighting designer Matthew P. Benjamin, sound designer James Dunlap, dialect coaches Deborah Thomas and Matthew Tabor, magic consultant Kyle Miller (the circus-themed “Razzle Dazzle” eerily enthralls with surreal mystery), and music director Scot Woolley who leads a red hot 12-piece onstage orchestra.

It’s unsurprising the pursuit of fleeting fame and the effects of a topsy-turvy judicial system still strikes a chord in today’s celebrity-crazed world. Nearly everybody wants to be somebody famous, but it’s a detrimental quest. As Billy tells Roxie, “You’re a phony celebrity, kid.” Luckily for theatergoers, there’s nothing false about the commitment and passion within this rip-roaring “Chicago,” which received special permission to be mounted courtesy of Kander and is so period-perfect I felt as if I were watching an episode of HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire.”

Don’t miss your chance to discover why WSU lays claim to one of Ohio’s finest collegiate musical theater programs. It’s the real deal. And that’s good isn’t it?

 “Chicago” continues through Nov. 15 in the Festival Playhouse of the Creative Arts Center at Wright State University, 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn. Performances are Nov. 4, 5 and 12 at 7 p.m., Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 8 p.m., and Nov. 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 2 p.m. Act One: 78 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call WSU box office at (937) 775-2500 or visit www.wright.edu/theatre-tickets.