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Cinderella

Dayton Ballet’s ‘Cinderella’ Lures Long Island Danseur!

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The Dayton Ballet has proven resilient through the COVID crisis, keeping dancers on their toes, and landing guests from bigger cities! ‘”I need to perform LIVE, I need an audience. I was dancing with the Metropolitan in New York and kept hearing ‘The Met will never close, never close!’ And then they closed.”  Time to make some decisions for Long Island native, Christopher Brian Nachtrab. The 13 year ballet veteran thought ‘Is this it? Is this how it ends?’ “I immediately started looking around for companies trying to do some kind of live performing. There were a few. Of course, safety was the first thing you had to think about.” Nachtrab has worked with Sacramento and Richmond Ballet companies. He is a graduate of Indiana University.

Nachtrab falls hard for Dayton!

“I heard one of the first to really move ahead with at least some kind of safe performing was here in Dayton. Then, I heard about Cinderella, a ballet I love and have performed multiple times. I put word out that I was hoping to join the company as a guest!” Sometime later, word came from Dayton Ballet Director, Karen Russo Burke. “She’s amazing. Dayton has such a great team and she is an incredible leader.” Nachtrab landed a part….as the Ugly Stepsister! “I was thrilled.” His sister -in-crime is Dayton Ballet’s own Isaac Jones. “We have a great time together!”

Dayton Ballet’s ‘Cinderella’ runs 4/23-4/25 with virtual options as well. “The show, obviously has limited seating, but knowing the audience is live just makes such a difference. We need their reactions to help us perform!”

Some UGLY Stepsisters.

For Nachtrab, dance is in his blood, His mother was his instructor on Long Island. “She still teaches dance today, and she’s stellar at it!” Nachtrab knew being a boy in ballet was not the norm…”But my parents told me if it is what you want, we will stop at nothing to see that you are successful.”  And he has been. As a child he dreamt of performing with the Met, and then it happened. “I remember getting on that stage and just thinking, it’s come full circle!” A city just outside of that circle is new favorite for Nachtrab….DAYTON! “I was so impressed with how this city embraces the arts. It’s a stronger bond than many big cities. Dayton is rallying around the arts community, and with COVID, many of us were feeling depressed and isolated!” His love for Dayton was a quick one, visiting many restaurants, bars, the Oregon District and even a trip to the Drive-In. “There’s a lot to enjoy here.”

As for the Ballet’s ‘Cinderella,’ the production is serious, hilarious, true-to-tale and magical! The costuming, which folks have been floored by, is simply fantastic with design by DB alum Lowell Mathwich. Pristine sets and impressive design add to the flair of the Ballet.

‘Cinderella’ Gets Her Chance!

With all of that, and the chance to do a live performance, Nachtrab has found a home away from home…at least for now. “I am getting to do what I love, with a group of dancers who are exceptional! All of them!” For the Dayton Ballet, Nachtrab and our community, seeing the dancers live is not only a dream come true, it is, in a sense, a Cinderella story! And we all know how well that ends!

For more information visit:

CINDERELLA
Dayton Ballet
Friday, April 23, 2021 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 24, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, April 25, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.
Victoria Theatre
Live Stream premieres Saturday, April 24 at 3:00 p.m.

70 minutes (no intermission)

 

‘Cinderella’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – A Lovely Night

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Marvelously inventive costumes, gorgeous vocals, terrific performances, and timely social themes fuel the outstanding national tour of the 2013 Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella,” continuing through Sunday at the Schuster Center courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series.

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Fluidly directed with subtly substantive flair by Mark Brokaw and cleverly reconceived with contemporary flourishes by Douglas Carter Beane (“Xanadu”), “Cinderella,” originally written for television in 1957, is new and improved for all the right reasons. What used to feel merely sweet and safe arises with inspired twists and a refreshingly current vivacity specifically as the musical’s look at finding The One and the townspeople’s quest for revolution respectively conjures the giddy awkwardness of “The Bachelor” and the excitement of Bernie Sanders’ stump speeches. As this romantic tale evolves, Ella (as she’s known here) truly desires to wed royalty, but she wants to change her world in the process. After she appears at the swanky ball (a sumptuous sequence heightened by choreographer Josh Rhodes’ dazzling waltzes) and cheerfully adjusts everyone’s perspective by flipping a cruel game of ridicule (a fascinating addition to this updated version), Ella eventually raises the stakes by returning to face Prince Topher in an attempt to make him understand what is really happening outside the palace walls. Her bold tenacity coupled with a determination to make her dreams come true makes her wonderfully three-dimensional. Thanks to Beane, a comic master bolstered by Rodgers and Hammerstein’s delightfully tuneful foundation, the Cinderella ideal has never been more compelling or progressive than in this production’s captivating depiction of her conviction, strength and kindness.

 


The very endearing Kaitlyn Davidson, a lovely soprano particularly bringing sweetness and depth to “In My Own Little Corner,” is an absolutely effervescent Ella. Davidson is well-matched by the handsome and charming Andy Huntington Jones as the relatable, contemplative Topher, a sheltered leader who grows in confidence for his own sake and the future of his country. As Ella’s Fairy Godmother Marie, the humorous, enchanting Liz McCartney provides radiant renditions of “Impossible” and the beautifully soaring “There’s Music in You.” Blair Ross is a superbly stern and malicious Madame, Ella’s wicked stepmother. Kimberly Fauré (kindly Gabrielle) and understudy Summer Broyhill (kooky Charlotte) are compatibly goofy as Ella’s spoiled stepsisters. The amiable David Andino is a spirited Jean-Michel, the sensitive rebel inciting revolt. Blake Hammond is fussy and slick as the treacherous Sebastian, Topher’s royal administrator. As the trusty Lord Pinkleton, Chauncey Packer impressively displays operatic heft while proudly proclaiming “The Prince Is Giving a Ball,” an Act 1 ensemble highlight.

 
Additionally, William Ivey Long’s applause-inducing, Tony Award-winning period costumes are simply stunning, particularly his meticulously crafted outfits for Ella and Marie which transform in full view of the audience. Long’s 330 costumes are notably inspired by French painter Pieter Breughel’s “The Wedding Feast” as well as the French court of Catherine de Medici. Scenic designer Anna Louizos’ colorful storybook sets, Kenneth Posner’s exemplary evocative lighting, Nevin Steinberg’s striking sound design, Paul Huntley’s superb hair and wig design, and music director Valerie Gebert’s excellent orchestra are noteworthy.
Having seen the “Cinderella” revival on Broadway with its original cast and later in its run when Keke Palmer became the first African-American to portray the titular role on the Great White Way, I can say with all honesty that this equally top-notch tour, perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day, is not to be missed.

 

“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” continues through Feb. 14 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.  Act One: 60 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $25-$132. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

 

In addition, a special activity for the week of “Cinderella” is Cinderella’s Clo12671951_10153425950780886_2667580626704899256_oset. Please go through your closets and find new or gently-used prom or formal dresses and bring them to Cinderella and help us make dreams come true for teen girls in Dayton. Victoria Theatre Association has partnered with YWCA Dayton and Girls Inc. to collect prom dresses, evening gowns, party dresses, shoes and accessories (shawls, clutches, jewelry and hair pins/clips etc.) for young ladies who do not have a fairy godmother to provide them with a gown of their dreams.  The collection area will be open starting two hours prior to show time for each performance.

 

Slip Her the Slipper!

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There is nothing more thrilling than an audience screaming and cheering when all things end well. Especially an audience filled with girls of all ages dressed to the hilt in princess gowns!

‘Cinderella’ at the Schuster Center delivers a feel good version of the classic tale, with some not-so-classic moments. Buoyed by a light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek script, the Rodgers and Hammerstein rendition is silly, sweet and satisfying. There are surprises! No doubt, you too will leave for intermission feeling like something didn’t go as expected. ‘They made a mistake,’ said 10 year-old Natalie Combs. ‘I sure hope they can fix it by the end.’ At the sake of ruining the surprise, I’ll let you discover the big ‘HUH?’

The technical edge this production carries is truly mesmerizing. I, for one, am still not sure how Cinderella got into that gown, or out of it for that matter! Those moments of magic inspire children and adults alike. Most lovable is the fairy godmother, played with such zest by Liz McCartney, who makes some dramatic entrances and exits, all worth the applause she garnered. The stepmother and the stepsisters are…well, they are the step-family we all have grown to love and hate!

Truly, it’s in Prince Topher, played Andy Huntington Jones,  and Cinderella, played by Kaitlyn Davidson, that we get the romantic edge we all crave. They are perfectly suited for their roles. They share an innocence, grace and likability that seal the deal. Sprinkled into the love story is a social awareness edge that adults can appreciate. The Prince really wants to make the world a more beautiful place. Can I vote for him in the 2016 election?

And in this version, Cinderella shows she can take care of herself, when necessary! The music is true to Rodgers and Hammerstein, with stand-outs ‘It’s Possible,’ ‘Ten Minutes Ago,’ and ‘Do I Love You because You’re Beautiful?’ The scenery is top-notch, especially the lighting design which takes us from deep in the forest, to dancing at the ball. And my, oh my, the dresses, some weighing up to 27 pounds, make the setting complete.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, ‘Cinderella’ will make for the perfect love story at the perfect time. Who doesn’t love a Cinderella Story, especially one where the ending is, much like a Venetian Glass slipper, truly fitting!

Information: “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” at the Schuster Center.

Showing  Feb. 9-14; 8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 2 and 8 pm Saturday; 2 and 7:30 pm on Sunday.  Call (937) 228-3630 or go to www.ticketcenterstage.com

 

Cinderella & Prince Charming Party

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Calling all princes and princesses! Join the Dayton Ballet Barre for a pre-show Tea Party before the Dayton Ballet’s Sunday October 25th performance of “Cinderella.”Ballet’s Sunday October 25th performance of “Cinderella.”

The Dayton Ballet Barre‘s Cinderella Tea is next Sunday before the Dayton Ballet Association‘s matinee performance of Cinderella. This is the PERFECT way to make the performance even more special for your little one!

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Cinderella and Prince Charming will be on hand for photos and a dance lesson! We will have story time and of course, yummy snacks and warm drinks, thanks to our sponsor Boston Stoker Coffee Shop & the wonderful members of the Ballet Barre. Boys are welcome too!!

The event runs from 1:30 – 2:30pm, prior to the 3pm performance at Victoria Theatre. The Boston Stoker 2nd Street location is conveniently located within walking distance of the Victoria Theatre.

Tickets are $10, and do not include performance tickets. All tickets can be purchased via Ticket Center Stage.

Proceeds benefit the Dayton Ballet Barre, which is dedicated to ensuring the Dayton Ballet continues it’s 75+ year historical legacy!

 

The Human Race Theatre Company Offers Winter/Spring Theatre Classes for Adults and Kids

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The Human Race Theatre CompanyThis March and April, The Human Race Theatre Company is offering three theatre classes for Dayton-area adults, and two classes for young girls. The classes run 4 to 8 weeks and are taught by professionals in the theatre industry, including three Human Race Resident Artists. All classes take place at The Human Race’s Philips Creativity Center at 116 North Jefferson Street in downtown Dayton.

CLASSES FOR ADULTS

Acting Basics
Human Race Resident Artist Kay Bosse teaches the craft of acting and auditioning in a safe and non-threatening atmosphere. Students will explore the vocabulary and techniques essential to understanding the world of the actor, and discover how to build a realistic and original character and the secrets to analyzing a script. Personal attention will also be focused on individual interests and exploration of media trends. This six-session class runs Mondays, March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 and April 7, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. The class fee is $150.00.

Playwrighting – Level II

Playwright Michael M. London continues the instruction begun in this winter’s Playwrighting ­– Level I course. While still looking closely at the dramatic structure of a story, students will also focus attention on other aspects of storytelling and the building of a play. There will be a lot of writing, a lot of thinking, some mutual support from other playwrights, a fair amount of laughing, some tasty food at breaks, and a general atmosphere of fun and learning. Each playwright will have a goal of completing a one-act play that will be presented in a public reading. Playwrights will have the opportunity to hear their work read aloud by actors and prepared by directors. Prerequisite: Playwrighting – Level I or permission from the instructor. This eight-session class runs Saturdays, March 8, 15, 22 and 29 and April 5, 12, 19 and 26, 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.The class fee is $200.00.

Reading Music

Learning to read music has been compared to learning a new language, very daunting for many. However, if you can count to seven, you may find this process easier than you thought. Assigning seven tones of the scale to the numbers 1 through 7 allows for easier recognition of notes, intervals, chords and even keys. Lead by Human Race Resident Artist Scott Stoney, this course is designed to get would-be singers started on the road to reading music and hearing pitches. A bit of homework will be given from week to week. This five-session class runs Saturdays, March 29 and April 5, 12, 19 and 26, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. The class fee is $120.00.

CLASS FOR GIRLS

Becoming Annie

Human Race Resident Artist Katie Pees leads this month-long adventure in musical theatre where girls ages 8 – 12 work on vocal coachings, dance techniques and character development using songs and choreography from the Broadway hit Annie. Aspiring actresses will be ready to sing their favorite songs and dance like a star to “It’s a Hard Knock Life”, “Tomorrow” and “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile.” There will be a sharing session on the last day of class. This four-session class runs Saturdays, March 1, 8, 15 and 22, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The class fee is $110.00.

Becoming Cinderella

Almost every young girl has a magical wish to become Cinderella and now they get to try on that glass slipper! Guided by professional actress and music educator Kandis Wean, students learn the gorgeous song melodies and lyrics of Rogers and Hammerstein’s current Broadway musical, Cinderella. Girls will kick up their feet with dance choreography that brings the enchantment to life as they strive to be a believable princess on stage. Students will perform a short show for parents and guests on the last day of class. This five-session class runs Saturdays, April 5, 12, 19, 26 and May 3, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The class fee is $110.00.

Registration is required one week prior to the first class date and can be made through The Human Race Theatre Company’s website – www.humanracetheatre.org.

For more information on classes and scholarship opportunities for children, interested students and parents may contact Education Director Marilyn Klaben at (937) 461-3823 ext. 3132 or[email protected].

The Human Race Theatre Company was founded in 1986 and moved into the Metropolitan Arts Center in 1991, taking up residence at the 212-seat Loft Theatre. In addition to the Eichelberger Loft Season, The Human Race produces for the Victoria Theatre’s Broadway Series, the Musical Theatre Workshop series, and special event programming. The Human Race, under the direction of Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore, also maintains education and outreach programs for children, teens and adults, as well as artist residencies in area schools, The Muse Machine In-School Tour, and summer youth programs. Human Race organizational support is provided by Culture Works, the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District, the Shubert Foundation, the Erma R. Catterton Trust Fund, the Jesse & Caryl Philips Foundation Fund for the Development of New Works, the Virginia W. Kettering Foundation and the Ohio Arts Council, which helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The 2013-2014 season sponsor is the Jack W. and Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation of the Dayton Foundation, with additional support from Jim and Enid Goubeaux, KeyBank, the Sam Levin Foundation, Premier Health, Heidelberg Distributing Company and Morris Home Furnishings.