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Heartsiq’s Third Annual “Mixtape” Festival is this Saturday with Two Stages, Vendors, and Art at The Brightside

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Heartsiq is a queer focused arts and entertainment group based in Dayton, OH that presents monthly curated live music and visual arts events around town, monthly “Queeraoke” events at The Oregon Express, and other queer focused events throughout the year.

On June 7th, they’re presenting their 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival featuring queer artists, live musicians, DJs, MCs, vendors, and more on multiple stages at The Brightside Music and Events Venue.

“We’ve changed the game this year for Pride!” Kacie Clover, Heartsiq Partner said. “Get ready for a local vendors market, a DJ rave room with go-go dancers, a talk show, local acts, and so much more!”

Heartsiq has grown over the last three years from a monthly showcase to their third annual Mixtape Festival over Pride weekend with dozens of events at multiple venues every year.

“We need Pride now more than ever. Queer joy is important. Queer joy is necessary. Queer joy is revolutionary” Ky Heart, Founder and Partner said. “We’re here and we’re not going anywhere. This festival is going to be Heartsiq like you’ve never seen it before! ”

If you’re interested in attending Heartsiq’s Mixtape Festival or other events, organizers say these events are for everyone.

“The definition of queer people and queer identities is always growing,” Clover said. “Heartsiq is a home for every single person.” She continued “Hosting Heartsiq has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The opportunity to promote LGBTQ artists, as well as spread queer joy has been a dream,” Heart said.

Attendees can get more information and tickets at heartsiq.com

How To Go?

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Doors 5pm

All ages – must have 21+ ID to drink alcohol

Tickets:

Single ticket – $12 in advance

5 Ticket Pack – $50 in Advance

At the door ticket – $15

Venue:

The Brightside Music and Events Venue

905 E. 3rd St. Dayton, OH 45402

https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/

Heartsiq’s 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival – June 7th

Schedule:

Side A – Ballroom Stage

6pm to 1am

DJ FEZ @boostohhs

DJ Sexbox @dylanfauxreal

Illwin @_illwin

Side B – Bar Stage

Starting at 9pm

Leggy @leggyband

Trade Like Qualities @trade_like_qualities

Izzie Morrow @izziemikael

Burlesque Dancers

Ophelia Plenty @defective.deity

Thrillda Swinton @thrilldaswinton

Indica Blows @cultofindica

Eris Minx @erisminx

Rude Burlesque @rudeburlesque

Ethera @ethera___

Magnus Lovesong @magnuslovesong

Zinnia Butterfly @zinnia.butterfly.burlesque

Kiara The Bearded Beauty @kiara_thebeardedbeauty

Cinnamon Spell @catinth3dark

Glad Ala Jara @guad.ala.jara

Moon Lyte @moon.lyte.dancer

Gertrude The Cherry @gertrudethecherry

Delusiona Grandeur @ballerinadentata

Elixir The Enigma @elixirtheenigma

Gulzar’s Indian Cuisine – Now Bigger and Better

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Deepika & Jay

After just 3 years in business Gulzer’s Indian Cuisine has moved.  The new space more than doubles the seating going from 73 seats to 168, which includes private space to reserve for meetings or events.  But don’t panic, they are literally moving just next door to the former Flyboy Deli spot at 219 N. Patterson Blvd, across from the Day Air Ballparkb downtown.

Deepika Singh, who owns the restaurant with her husband Jay, was kind enough to give me a tour, but was quick to point out that all the finishing touches were still in progress as I was taking pictures. She says they really weren’t looking for a new place, but when the space became available, it just seemed like the right thing to do.  She also hinted that they’ll hold on the space next door and that may become an American restaurant in the future.

The transformation of the space is impressive, bringing in the bright colors, wall accents and more to create an Indian flare in the eatery.   The Singh’s are proud to offer a sanctuary wher people can escape the stresses of daily and simply enjoy moments of good food and good company.

A bigger space means a bigger buffet and an addition of an ice cream cooler as well. The buffet is available for lunch, seven days a week and offers many vegetarian options.

You can now sit at the bar and enjoy a mango lassi, cocktail or a bottle of wine with your meal.

Or grab a table across from the bar.

One of two area’s that be reserved for private events:

Also with the new space, a new menu, with Owner Jay and his father, Paramjeet, are the  chefs. Tbey are best known for  recipes from the northern region of India, especially their Karai dishes – which blend three sauces cooked with ginger, garlic, onions, and pepper as a base. In Indian food its all about the curry and gravy’s are the foundation for each dish and then flavors are built from there. Here’s just a peek of the menu:

Monday – Friday, (Lunch Hours) 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Gulzer’s Indian Cuisine

219 North Patterson Blvd
Dayton, OH 45402

937-985-9420


Mon Thurs 11am  – 2:30pm and 5-9pm
Fri 11am  – 2:30pm and 5-10pm 
Sat 11am – 3:30pm and 5-10pm
Sun 12 – 3:30 and 5-9pm

John Waters special screening kicks off Yellow Springs Mini-Fest

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The Yellow Springs Film Festival is excited to announce its annual Mini-Fest this spring, with a new addition this year: an expansion to Dayton! The event kicks off at The Brightside in downtown Dayton, featuring a special screening of the cult classic Cecil B. Demented to celebrate its 25th anniversary, along with a Q&A session with its legendary director, John Waters.

The Yellow Springs Film Festival, which began in 2023, is a newly established film festival that has received widespread acclaim from attendees, media, and both local and film communities. For the first time, the festival is extending its reach beyond Yellow Springs, with organizers hosting an event in Dayton, thanks to generous support from The Berry Family Foundation.

“We’re thrilled to host one of our all time favorite directors screening one of his finest — and to expand into Dayton for our first event outside of Yellow Springs will hopefully engage more film fans in the Miami Valley,” Yellow Springs Film Festival Co-Founder, Eric Mahoney, shared with us. “The Brightside is such a fantastic room and we love partnering with them in bringing exciting events to town.”

Waters, who began his filmmaking career in the mid-60s, is renowned for his low-budget, provocative films that garnered a devoted fanbase, including Hairspray, Cry-Baby, and Pink Flamingos, among others. This event offers a rare chance to explore the creative genius of one of cinema’s most fascinating directors! 

Cecil B. Demented offers a thrilling cinematic experience. The story revolves around an independent film director and his rebellious team of teenage filmmakers who abduct a top Hollywood actress, forcing her to star in their underground project.

Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters. Grab yours now and be part of this extraordinary celebration!


How to Go?

Thursday, April 17th

Doors 6pm / Show 7pm

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

$35 general admission seated

$100 VIP – Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters.

Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ysff-presents-cecil-b-demented-screening-with-john-waters-tickets-1247234555129?aff=oddtdtcreator

Submissions Now Open for Emerging Visions Youth FilmFest

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Emerging Visions Youth FilmFest is the only festival of its kind in the greater Dayton Region.

At Emerging Visions Youth FilmFest (Previously “The FilmDayton High School Film Festival”), our mission is to empower and celebrate the creative voices of young filmmakers in grades 6 through 12, providing them with a dynamic platform to showcase their unique perspectives and innovative storytelling. As a vibrant extension of FilmDayton, a distinguished regional film commission in Ohio, that advances the art, craft and business of film in the greater Dayton region, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community that nurtures artistic growth, cultivates cinematic skills, and encourages the exploration of diverse narratives.

What makes this festival unique is the educational opportunity provided to students and teachers through our open judging event. Student are invited to screen their films in front of a panel of professional filmmakers and receive real-time feedback from the panel and their peers. Based on panel’s decision, the winning films will be screened at our Festival, the host theater for the final screening is TBD, and will be based on demand required and capacity needed to facilitate a pleasant viewing experience for filmmakers and guests.

Formerly the SunDog Film Festival which originated in 2003, previously participating schools include Centerville, Greenville, Kettering Fairmont, Hilliard Davidson, Kings, Miami Valley Career Technology Center, Stivers School for the Arts, The Miami Valley School, Upper Arlington, Wilmington, Yellow Springs, Ferguson MS, McKinney MS, and Franklin Jr. High.

Submit now via Film Freeway.
  • Earlybird Deadline
  • Regular Deadline
  • Notification Date
  • Event Date
Awards & Prizes

The top three films from each category will be screened at the Festival

The top 3 films in each category will be recognized as award winners, with the top winner in each category awarded a small prize package (TBD).

Additional Awards – Awarded a certificate:
– Best in Show – Highest scoring submission across all categories
– Judges Choice – A submission that is chosen by the judges to be recognized
– Best Storytelling – A submission selected by the judges that shows exemplary storytelling
– Best Cinematography – A submission selected by the judges for exemplary cinematography
– Best Wardrobe (Includes hair and makeup) – A submission selected by the judges for exemplary wardrobe and costuming
– Best Editing/VFX – A submission selected by the judges for exemplary editing or visual effects
– Best On-screen Talent – One person chosen from the submissions that showed exemplary acting, hosting or voice-over

Submissions MUST have been produced in the last 18 months (23/24 – 24/25 school years), be a student enrolled in a 6-12th grade educational institution in southwest region of Ohio. Submissions created as part of class assignments are accepted, as well as submissions produced independently outside of class assignments.

Your submission’s total runtime (TRT) must NOT exceed the five minute time limit. Credits are included in your TRT and credit runtime must NOT exceed 30 seconds.

All music and other copyrighted material (images, videos, etc.) used in the films must be properly licensed.

Handmade Dayton HOLIDAY CRAFT MARKET

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Handmade Dayton HOLIDAY CRAFT MARKET at the Wandering Griffin: Click here to RSVP on Facebook for reminders and updates

🎄 Come hang out with us at the Wandering Griffin for our Holiday Market series with Handmade Dayton!

When: November 17th from 12-3 PM || December 15th from 12-3 PM

Where: 3725 Presidential Dr., Beavercreek, OH 45324

Local artisans, craftsmen, baked goods, oh my! Vendors from all over Dayton will be joining us to show us all the wonderful things that they’ve been making for the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to enjoy the festive atmosphere, this market is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Don’t miss out on the fun, food, and craft beer – all in support of our local artisan community. ❤️

Located in Beavercreek, OH, right across the street from #wrightstateuniversity and close to #WPAFB. Wander on in to the #WanderingGriffin today!

#SupportLocalArtists #FarmersMarket #VendorMarket #CraftVendors #HandmadeGoods #DaytonOhio #DrinkBeerMadeHere #FromScratch #MarketsNearMe #HolidayShopping #GiftInspo #HolidayMarket

An Evening with Ellis Paul

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You’re invited to experience one of the premiere traveling troubadours since the early 90s! Ellis Paul has some amazing stories to tell and the songwriting prowess to wow you when he does. Join us for a special show at in The Brightside’s VodVil Bar with special guest Rich Reuter!
✨ How to Go? ✨
Thursday, Sept 19th
The Brightside – 905 E 3rd St, Dayton
Doors 7pm / Show 7:30pm
Tickets $25 advance: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/101866/orders/new
$30 day of show
All ages welcome!
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless.
Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven-album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories.
His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram). Through a steady succession of albums of his own – a remarkable 23 releases so far – and a constant touring presence around the world, Paul’s audience has grown into a loyal legion of fans. Along the way, he has picked up an impressive number of awards including the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, the 2019 International AcousticMusic Awards Artist of the Year and most recently his album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase, was named the 2019 NERFA Album of the Year.
His new album “55” touches on the necessity of gratitude in a difficult era of the pandemic and divided political stances on his own imprint, Rosella Records.

Exciting Local Music Showcase at The Brightside on Thursday, August 1st

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The Brightside Music & Event Venue is known for it’s Dayton Battle of the Bands series that showcases up-and-coming local musical talent. Last year’s DBB winners, crabswithoutlegs, a 9-piece jazz fusion band, is releasing their very first vinyl record and celebrating this achievement with their friends Six Foot Blonde and Eastwood.

 

Six Foot Blonde is a talented powerhouse coming from Bloomington, Indiana. They’re celebrating their own album release, And Then Some, with a major regional tour across the US. This stop in Dayton at The Brightside is extra special because they get to share the stage with their musical peers.

 

Eastwood, from Columbus, kicks off the evening at 7:30pm. They made their Dayton debut last year to high accolades, leaving local music fans wanting more! They are back and ready to knock our socks off once again.

 

Crabswithoutlegs members hail from both Dayton and Columbus, and have been wowing audiences across the state. Not only did they win Dayton Battle of the Bands, they won The Ohio State University Battle of the Bands too! If you have not yet seen them perform – this is your opportunity to see what all the hype is about.

 

This show is a also great opportunity to stock up on new music! Skeleton Dust Records, a local record shop, is posting up at The Brightside with crabswithoutleg’s vinyl. Six Foot Blonde will have merch and music available as well. Buying original music directly from the bands is a wonderful way to support local music!

 

✨ HOW TO GO? ✨
     August 1, 2024
     The Brightside – 905 E 3rd St, Dayton (inside the VodVil Bar)
     Doors open at 7pm / Music at 7:30pm
     Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door
     Get tickets in advance here: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/101382/orders/new#/
     All ages welcome!

Dayton Philharmonic announces new Music and Artistic Director: Keitaro Harada

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Photo of Keitaro Harada by Shin Yamagishi (Contributed)

The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) announced its appointment of conductor Keitaro Harada as the next Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO).

Maestro Harada will become the fifth Music Director in the orchestra’s 92-year history, preceded by founder Paul Katz (1933–1975), Charles Wendelken-Wilson (1975–1987), Isaiah Jackson (1987–1995), and Neal Gittleman (1995–present). Harada will begin his tenure during the 2024–2025 season as Music and Artistic Director Designate; he’ll assume the role of Music and Artistic Director on July 1, 2025. Harada committed to a five-year term with the option to renew.”

“DPAA is privileged to be working with such a stellar conductor with international scope and passion for local communities,” DPAA President and CEO Patrick J. Nugent commented about this announcement. “Maestro Harada has an impressive sense of artistic vision, community engagement, and commitment to our model of three arts in one organization. He also has a keen understanding of the business of the arts and can think in the language of finances and demographics as well as musical scores and artistic strategy. His technical and artistic abilities as a conductor are prodigious, and he electrifies audiences wherever he goes. He will be a major cultural force in Dayton, and we are delighted that he has agreed to lead the Philharmonic.”

Harada responded: “I am honored to join the DPAA family as Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. As the proud leader of two profound American institutions, I look forward to immersing myself in the DPAA community while I continue in my present role as Music and Artistic Director with the Savannah Philharmonic. And as I build new relationships in the Dayton community and deepen my relationships in Savannah, I believe both cities will benefit from this tandem experience. I will forever cherish the Savannah Philharmonic—the organization that provided me with my first Music Director opportunity—while wholeheartedly embracing the Dayton community as we bring the performing arts to life throughout the region.”

Photo of Keitaro Harada by the DPAA (Contributed)

“The DPAA stands out to me as it brings together three art forms I absolutely love: orchestra, opera, and ballet,” Harada continued. “Dayton’s rich history and vibrant art scene will provide us with the inspiration and imagination to build collaborations that can only be achieved at DPAA. Having recently performed together, we began to discover the endless possibilities of our music-making and great community. I am deeply grateful to serve as the next Music and Artistic Director.”

Keitaro Harada is a recipient of the prestigious 2023 Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award, and as Music and Artistic Director of the Savannah Philharmonic in Savannah, Georgia (a position he’s held since the 2020-21 season), Harada has transformed the quality of the orchestra and energized its audiences through his imaginative programs and charismatic presence.

In addition to his American posts, Harada also acts as Permanent Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra and is the Principal Guest Conductor and Artistic Partner of the Aichi Chamber Orchestra in Japan. Harada was Associate Conductor for four years at the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops, where he regularly assisted Music Director Louis Langrée (now Music Director Laureate) and collaborated with James Conlon and Juanjo Mena at the orchestra’s annual May Festival.

Harada was the top candidate among nearly 250 applicants from around the globe, according to Arts Consulting Group (ACG), which guided the extensive international executive search. ACG remarked that they had never before received such a response for an Artistic Director position. ACG screened applicants through a rigorous process that yielded a preliminary round of 57 candidates. After conducting initial interviews, ACG presented 27 candidates to the DPAA Search Committee for consideration. The diverse applicant pool represented 40 states and 26 countries and included a substantial number of candidates who self-identified as BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+.

Photo by Masatoshi Yamashiro (Contributed)

Barbara O’Hara, Chair of the DPAA Search Committee, said: “I feel certain that our Dayton community will heartily welcome and embrace Harada and his family, as will all the musicians, ballet dancers, opera performers, subscribers, future subscribers, donors, and young musicians. To me, a fitting description of Harada is that of a Renaissance man! His background is so varied covering classical music, opera, and ballet as well as contemporary and pops. His rapport with the musicians is outstanding—he challenges them and is respectfully demanding of them. While in Dayton, one of his great desires is to become an involved partner with other performing arts organizations. So, here’s to a wonderful and exciting musical future for the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance as we welcome Keitaro Harada, the next Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic.”

Harada succeeds Neal Gittleman, who announced his intent to retire in May of 2022. Regarding Harada’s appointment, Gittleman said: “I’m excited to see where Maestro Harada leads the Philharmonic in the future. After 30 wonderful years on the podium, I look forward to enjoying what comes next from a seat in the audience. I sincerely hope that Harada finds, as I have, that the DPAA is a place to make great music and build great community. And wish I him, the musicians, and the audience all the best on their adventure together.”

Learn more about Keitaro Harada at kharada.com

Learn more at daytonperformingarts.org

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0D3UHyr5Yk

Dayton Dinner Theater presents Holiday Movie Classics

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Are you looking for fun holiday events to do this month? Dayton Dinner Theater is presenting three Christmas themed movie parties that are great for date nights, or small groups of friends & family: Elf, A Christmas Story, and Christmas Vacation.  See these classic holiday fils on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.
Before the movie starts enjoy live music and food that is directly inspired by the movie. The Brightside bar is open, and features themed drinks as well! During the movie, Dayton Dinner Theater features their famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although the movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly. Costumes are encouraged!
Schedule: Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm,  a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.
When: Elf – Sunday, Dec 3, 2023
             A Christmas Story – Sunday, Dec 17, 2023
             Christmas Vacation – Friday, Dec 22, 2023
Where? The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.
Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.

Jazz-Pop Concert Features Up-and-Coming Bands

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This year’s Dayton Battle of the Bands winners, Crabswithoutlegs, are a young 9-piece jazz-fusion band that has been impressing Dayton audiences since their debut last year. They’re back at The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Thursday, November 9th, with another up-and-coming Ohio band: Eastwood. 

Eastwood hails from Columbus, and is making their Dayton debut. The band effortless mixes pop, soul, and funk into an original sound that is absolutely engaging. Both bands inspire confidence in the next generation of the Dayton music scene. If you’ve been missing Gilly’s and Canal Street Tavern, this is an evening you will not want to miss!

HOW TO GO?

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

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Doors 7pm

Show 7:30-10:30pm

All ages welcome

$10 advance / $15 day of show

Tickets available here: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/88622/orders/new

Featured photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

Art Parkd Music & Arts Festival features the Next Generation of Dayton Talent

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Eleanor Dakota performs at Art Parkd

Art Parkd is a grassroots music festival featuring Gen Z artists, and is one that Dayton music fans should really take note of. It’s located in Grafton Hill, and is happening this Saturday, October 7th and has a fantastic daytime schedule, running 3-9pm. No late nights for those who don’t like to be out late, and for those ragers out there, it’s a great pre-game before evening festivities.

Affordability is another other reason to buy a ticket to this festival. Pre-sale tickets are only $5! Even if you’re unsure if you can make this festival, buy a $5 ticket as a donation. Why? This festival features the next generation of Dayton talent, and they deserve all the support we can give them.

Art Parkd is the brain-child of the uber talented Sophia Munoz Daughtery, who is a local photographer and event organizer. Supported by her friend Jennifer Kash, the festival was launched last October to rave reviews. This year’s event promises to be even better!

If you want to see emerging talent that will delight and surprise you, please check out this event! More info and tickets available at: https://www.artparkd.com/

Musicians and bands performing include:

Frank Calzada

Proxy.Exe

Crabswithoutlegs

Isicle

Grandace

Dos.Gradiose

DJ Don

The Rosies

Jay Hill!

 

HOW TO GO?

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Time: 3pm – 9pm

Location: 609 W. Riverview, 609 W. Riverview , Dayton, United States

Buy $5 advance ticket here: https://allevents.in/dayton/art-parkd-dayton-music-and-art-festival/80002106649205?ref=smdl

TIFF 2023 – Day #1

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Hello Everyone,

Off to the races.  I had five screenings on the agenda for today – 3 with industry folks and 2 with the general public.  Of the five, one was a real winner…and one had a lot of merit but could have been trimmed by 30 minutes (I know some critics will greatly disagree with me on that).

LAST SUMMER, dir Catherine Breillat (France).  My first film of the day was from a director who is quite used to working with taboo subject matter…and this was no exception. “In the latest film by French provocateur Catherine Breillat, a prominent lawyer’s passionate affair with her 17-year-old stepson threatens both her career and family.”  (TIFF Catalog)  In the opening scene of this (intentionally) cringe-inducing film, the protagonist is dealing with an underage client who is preparing for court.  She tells the girl, “in court, the victims often become the accused” – which sets a certain tone for the rest of the film.  Though the film certainly has some memorable moments and worked on some levels,  there were multiple decisions for a lingering camera which became frustrating and laborious.  And in the end, I ultimately didn’t buy the attraction and thus the affair – so the film really didn’t work for me.

THE CRITIC, dir Anand Tucker (United Kingdom).  Next up was a rather handsomely designed period film with Ian McKellan chewing up the dimly lit scenery. “Gemma Arterton and Ian McKellen star as adversaries forced to take desperate measures to save their careers, in this scintillating tale of ambition and deceit in the theatre world.” (TIFF Catalog). Though lovely to look at, I found some of the story a bit hard to follow initially…this was due in part to tiredness and the fact that all interior scenes at night appeared to be lit with a 20 watt bulb…which had me a little confused keeping track of characters who mostly appeared in shadows.  Though McKellan is having a ball, he is sadly better than the material.    It’s a noir-ish story which doesn’t quite commit to the genre.

FLORA AND SON, dir John Carney (US & Ireland).  My winner for the day was this little gem! “The latest from writer-director John Carney (ONCE, SING STREET) features a revelatory performance from Eve Hewson as a young mother trying to connect with her teenage son through a shared love of music.” (TIFF Catalog) The rough-around-the-edges characters are so wonderful in this heartwarming (and occasionally crass) story about an Irish woman who ends up taking on-line guitar lessons from a guy in California (played by Joseph Gordon Levitt) while trying to build a relationship with her son.  Lots of laughs and several tears…it really works.  (NOTE: We may bring this to THE NEON at the end of the month.)

ANATOMY OF A FALL, dir. Justine Triet (France). “Winner of this year’s Palme d’Or, and starring German actress Sandra Hüller, Justine Triet’s Anatomy of a Fall is a riveting portrait of a complex woman put on trial for the murder of her spouse.” (TIFF Catalog) (One big detail of the short synopsis from the catalog is the fact that the only potential witness of what transpired is the woman’s visually impaired son.)  I’ve heard a lot of great things about this (mostly) courtroom drama, and it works on a lot of levels…but boy, oh boy – it’s longer than it needs to be.  (And this was the 2nd film today which thematically explored a victim being put on trial during court proceedings.)  One of the strongest moments of the film is a tennis-match-like argument that is fascinating for its character development.  A solid film with an outstanding lead performance (but don’t go in the slightest bit tired).

NORTH STAR, dir. Kristin Scott Thomas (United Kingdom).  This is Kristin Scott Thomas’s directorial debut, and I was sadly a bit disappointed.  I considered leaving early and just going to bed…but I’m glad I didn’t.  There’s a 10-minute scene in a cemetery that’s worth the whole film (and I’d bet my next paycheck it’s the scene that was the genesis for the entire movie).  Some funny moments.  Some touching moments.  But I could have easily seen this as a short film.

NORTH STAR – directed by Kristin Scott Thomas

And now it’s time for bed!  Bright and early tomorrow!

Thanks for reading!!

Jonathan

P.S.  Here’s a little picture of me and Jake just before heading into the NORTH STAR screening.

 

An Evening of Latin Jazz kicks off The Brightside’s 2023-2024 Season

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Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini

Between the amazing sound system, chic decor, and friendly staff have contributed to fans, The Brightside has quickly become one of Dayton’s favorite indoor music and event venues. While the bulk of their events are private, typically weddings, they are excited to kick off the concert series this fall.

“We have so many amazing outdoor venues around town that are putting out great concerts all summer,” Libby Ballengee, the venue’s music booker said. “We don’t really want to compete with them. So we’re opting for more of a performing arts style calendar, with the majority of our public events happening September through early May.”

The Brightside’s 2023-2024 season kicks off on Wednesday, September 6th with a night of Latin Jazz in their VodVil Bar space. It has an intimate, jazz club feeling that gives old school Dayton music fans a Gilly’s or Canal Street vibe. The evening starts off with local guitarist Frank Calzada, who is reminiscent of early Carlos Santana. The headliners, Natalie Cressman and Ian Falquini, hail from New York City, and are making their Brightside debut.

Natalie is known for being part of Trey Anastasio’s Band, and touring major venues with that ensemble. This duo is her side project and one that’s dear to her heart. Hailed as a “rising star” in the jazz world, she is not only an amazing musician, she’s a fabulous singer too.

Frank Calzada (Photo by Fea Fotos)

Ian Faquini is a Brazilian composer, guitarist, and vocalist who was born in Brazil and has lived in Berkeley, California since the age of eight. He was a member of the renowned Berkeley High School Jazz program, and at the age of 15, Ian met the legendary Brazilian composer Guinga, who became his mentor and inspired him to pursue a career in music.

The combination of these two artists creates an intimate collaboration, drawing from impressionism, jazz, and the great Brazilian songwriting tradition. This is a concert that Latin and jazz fans alike will not want to miss!

The rest of the concert series at The Brightside continues to be eclectic, with a Korean-American folk singer headlining a female songwriter showcase on September 25th. You can find anything from Blues, Celtic, Jam, Rock, and Hip-Hop shows to Dayton Dinner Theater and fundraisers peppered throughout the Brightside’s season. Get tickets and information here: thebrightsidedayton.com

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St., Dayton)

Wednesday, Sept 6

Doors 7pm / Show 8pm

$18 advance or $25 day of show – https://www.venuepilot.co/events/81810/orders/new

All ages welcome!

 

 

BREAKING: Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan making opening night appearance at Yellow Springs Film Festival

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Raekwon from Wu-Tang

Yellow Springs Film Festival (YSFF) has just announce their opening film on October 6, 2023 is the Midwest Premiere of award-winning documentary short Taking Back The Groove. The moving portrait of disco legend Richie Weeks’ battle to reclaim the rights to his music and restore his legacy in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement is directed by Celia Aniskovich (Call Me Miss Cleo) and executive produced by Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan and trailblazing comedian Russell Peters. A post-screening panel discussion with Weeks, Aniskovich and Raekwon will be moderated by festival Founder Eric Mahoney. Tickets for the event go on sale Thursday, August 24th at 12:00pm EST.

Additional YSFF special events include a conversation with Comedian / Actor Fred Armisen (Portlandia, SNL, Documentary Now); an immersive documentary experience, 32 Sounds, with the director Sam Green and Oscar® winning director Steven Bognar in conversation; and a 40-year retrospective of the band Guided by Voices featuring their seminal documentary Watch Me Jumpstart by Banks Tarver.

Richie Weeks

The Festival program includes documentary features The Cave of Adullam by Laura Checkoway; Rather by Frank Marshall; Citizen Sleuth by Chris Kasick; We Are Fugazi From Washington DC by Joe Gross, Joseph Pattisall & Jeff Krulik; and Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd by Roddy Bogawa & Storm Thorgerson. Narrative features include Fancy Dance by Erica Tremblay; The Secret Art of Human Flight by H.P Mendoza, Madly by Gael García Bernal, Mia Wasikowska, Anurag Kashyap, Sebastián Silva, Sion Sono, & Bat for Lashes; and a 10 Year Anniversary screening of Only Lovers Left Alive by Jim Jarmusch.

The YSFF short films program features work by Steven Bognar, Charlotte Ercoli, Adam Meeks, Stephen Michael Simon, Max Cohn and Ellie Sachs, and will include the World Premiere of Lynn’s Fire by Steve Zahn (The Righteous Gemstones, The White Lotus).

The festival will also present a retrospective of the career of longtime Yellow Springs resident and Academy Award® winning director Julia Reichert, featuring film posters, interviews and excerpts of her incredible body of work available free to the public.

All films and events will take place October 6-8, 2023 in the village of Yellow Springs, Ohio at the historic Little Art Theatre, The Foundry at Antioch College and Crome Architecture. YSFF is produced by Hotshot Robot Productions Director / Producer Eric Mahoney and Creative Director / Musician Ian Jacobs, supported by the Yellow Springs Community Foundation.

For further info or to purchase tickets and badges please visit: www.ysfilmfest.com/

Live music back at the Dayton Arcade on Thursday!

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Last summer, Culture Works, presented a 6-week local music series in the Tank space, which is located in the basement of the Dayton Arcade, under the Rotunda. This year, the series kicks off again on Thursday, July 27, 2023 with the Dayton Battle of the Bands winner: Crabswithoutlegs!

This series and show in particular is highly anticipated by the community because the Tank is such a unique entertainment space, and the band performing is such a phenomenal talent. This space and series is “inspired by Centerpoint Energy.”

What makes the Tank unique starts with its entrance, which is located at 35 W 4th St, between Main Street and Ludlow Streets in downtown Dayton. Look for the walls of glass coming out of the sidewalk. That marks the entrance! Go downstairs to a space with intentional, artist c reated graffiti, and into a cool space with blue neon lights leading you to a theater in the round. It’s like nothing you’ve seen before!

Eleanor Dakota will kick off the evening with a couple solo songs. Photo by Fea Fotos

The band is a 9-piece jazz ensemble of very young musicians (age 20-23), several of whom studied at Stivers School for the Arts and are currently studying music on the collegiate level. Led by singer Eleanor Dakota and bass player Carter Griffin, the band has been wowing audiences since they made their debut at The Brightside Music & Event Venue (also located in downtown Dayton).

What makes this concert even more special is that there will be 3 live artists paining in the lobby, curated by Culture Works, and a pop up photo booth by Fea Fotos. A bar is on site for patrons as well!

“This is the first of several concerts we are planning for the back end of the summer season,” Libby Ballengee shared with us. She is working with Culture Works on the music booking, and is a big supporter of live music downtown. “We’re looking forward to having an eclectic season again with jazz, hip hop, Latin, and rock bands. If you’ve been missing Gilly’s – this first show is a don’t miss event for sure!”

 

HOW TO GO?

July 27, 2023

At the Dayton Arcade’s Tank (35 W 4th St – look for glass entrance in stairwell)

Doors open 6pm

Music 7:30-9pm from Eleanor Dakota & Crabswithoutlegs

$10 cover at the door

18+

Find out more about the Tank here:

https://www.arcadedayton.com/arcade-events/category/the-tank-inspired-by-centerpoint-energy/

Get a preview of Crabswithoutlegs here:

 

UK band makes a stop in Dayton on US Tour!

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UK’s Project Blackbird is on their first US tour, and are prioritizing Dayton as one of their stops! You can see them Tuesday, July 18th at 8pm at The Brightside.

This “extraordinary” band, as BBC 6Music’s Tom Robinson has described them, offers an atmospheric, genre-fluid listening experience that draws equally upon intellect and emotion. They are made up of 5 core members are vocalist Ming Nagel (originally from the USA), multi-instrumentalist Jon Read (former trumpet player for The Specials), guitarist Alan Roberts, multi-instrumentalist Jamie Varley, and drummer Eddie Dublin.

“Imagine a party at Ronnie Scott’s,” one fan suggests, “where Sade, Björk, Jeff Beck, and David Byrne meet Portishead and then go for a late night curry to exchange ideas…sublime”.

Local support comes from Rude Scholar. On site food truck, Phat & Rich, will be on site!

HOW TO GO?

July 18, 2023

Doors 7:30pm

Show 8:15pm

All ages welcome!

$10 advance /  $15 day of show.  
Advance tickets: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/75846/orders/new

Venue address: 905 E 3rd St (free, on-site parking available)