Dayton Ohio

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #2

September 10, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal 1 Comment

Hello Again,

Today was full once again…and I’m going to try and keep this “brief.” I saw 5 films – and overall, it was a better day than yesterday.

First off, I saw MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE – starring Elizabeth Olsen (sister to the Olsen twins) & John Hawkes (from WINTER’S BONE). Many people will relate WINTER’S to MARTHA. There’s a similar backwoods tone to the film…and it’s a very human thriller…but that’s it. This film about a girl who has escaped a cult and has difficulty assimilating into traditional “American manners” is at first quietly unsettling and eventually becomes terrifying. Olsen is fantastic, and I’ll be concerned anytime I hear pine cones on my roof.

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Next I saw A DANGEROUS METHOD – the new film from David Cronenberg. I liked the trailer. On paper, the film seems ready-made for me – A period piece with high production values, actors I like, interesting subject matter (Jung & Freud), Christopher Hampton as screenwriter…but there was something about the film that didn’t make it work for me. Knightley’s accent was a bit hard to take – but otherwise, her performance was fantastic. I found Cassel a bit hard to take, but Fassbender was wonderful. I just couldn’t find a way into the film – though some are already declaring it a masterpiece.

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Next I saw THE KID WITH A BIKE – the new film from the Dardenne Brothers (directors of LORNA’S SILENCE). The most naturalistic narrative I’ve seen so far…and it’s such a simple story that is heartbreaking without really playing moments for tears. This movie is about a boy who is left alone at a group home. He’s certain his father is at home – but it’s evident that his father has left and even sold the boy’s bike. Enter a woman who takes an interest in the boy and agrees to let him stay with her on the weekends. It’s simple. It’s great.

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And then there’s THE ARTIST. I saw this at a public screening – the director and lead actor introduced the film…and it’s really, really terrific. Beautifully shot. Great performances. And the story is a hybrid of A STAR IS BORN, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN and SUNSET BOULEVARD…but silent! I’ll let the trailer do the rest.

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THE ARTIST got a late start…so I had to leave early. I got up from my seat about 5 minutes before it was over and went to the back of the auditorium. I asked the usher if the other screening (in a theatre upstairs) had started seating yet. She said, “No,” so I asked if I could continue watching from the back. Moments before it ended, I had to get out in order to make it to my screening on time. The usher led me to a back door which wouldn’t interfere with the light of the theatre. Upon opening the door, there she was…just six feet in front of me – being ushered to the elevator for my next screening. Tilda Swinton! One of my favorite actresses of ALL TIME. Absolutely stunning!

I made it to my last screening with just a few minutes to spare, and I got a front row seat. (I’ll upload my pictures sometimes soon.) WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN is based on a famous book about a mother reflecting on how she raised her son – and how it might have led to his violent behavior. It’s edgy, it’s non-linear, and it is somewhat experimental. Directed by Lynne Ramsay, this film is a rough ride. Interestingly, I think the musing are akin to Lars von Trier…but with Ramsay, the product is organic. It feels richer, more honest and less contrived. Swinton is brilliant in this film (as is Ezra Miller), and I’m still thinking about it. I’m so delighted that I got see Swinton in person…EDWARD II, ORLANDO, THE DEEP END, I AM LOVE…I could go on!

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Off to bed.

Until tomorrow,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS Day #1

September 9, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

I’m gonna keep this ever-so-slightly short. It’s already after midnight…and I made the most of today. Get ready. I saw 5 films!!

First off, I saw Lars von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA. I’ll start by saying I love DANCER IN THE DARK and I’m quite fond of DOGVILLE. That said, I’m not a fan of MELANCHOLIA! There is some truly beautiful photography and there are a couple wonderful moments. In addition, the themes are compelling…but von Trier’s “meditation” on the collision of worlds (both figuratively and literally) is a serious story with lots of dark, comedic moments…and the two parts of the film (part one focuses on the marriage night of Kirsten Dunst’s character…the second focuses on the fear that Charlotte Gainsbourg’s character has about a planet crashing into earth) are actually quite disjointed. Ultimately, I felt quite aggravated by most of the time – and not in a good way.

Next I saw Nadine Labaki’s new film WHERE DO WE GO NOW (she made the film CARAMEL – which I love). Though there are a couple moments that caused me to raise an eyebrow, I ultimately found this film quite wonderful. The women are absolutely delightful. The story is about a small village that has essentially been shut off from the rest of the world (except for a small path/bridge that is quite scary to cross). The village, inhabited by Muslims & Christians, have learned to live in harmony. When they find out that there is unrest in the surrounding world, they begin to fight again…and the women decide they’ll do whatever necessary to keep their men alive.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NO_8Nyk-qQ’]

Next I saw THE IDES OF MARCH. This will get a wide release in the coming weeks. I mostly saw it because I had time, because it was shot in Cincinnati, and because I’ll be at a party with George Clooney on Saturday night (he directed it). Except for the slight tabloid-feeling story, I actually think the film is quite solid. The performances are good (I love Gossling) and the dialog is well-written. For the first 30 minutes of the film, I was ready to vote for Clooney for president. (there is also a Dayton connection)

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For the fourth film, I saw PINA. I posted a trailer to this film last night. PINA was today’s highlight. The film, under the direction of Wim Wenders (responsible for PARIS, TEXAS and WINGS OF DESIRE) is complete magic. I’ve been moved by dance before…but never like this! (Here is yesterday’s POSTING if you want to check out that trailer.) Wenders introduced the film, and he put the piece into perspective. He and Pina had been talking about making this film for 20 years. She died before it could happen, but people twisted Wenders’ arms and he decided to move forward. This film acts at once as a eulogy…and also a way to keep Pina alive.

Lastly, I saw RESTLESS – the new film from Gus Van Sant – starring Mia Wasikowska (from THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT and JANE EYRE) and Henry Hopper (Dennis Hopper’s son). The story is about a boy obsessed with funerals who meets a girl (full of life) with terminal Cancer. Mia glows at every turn, and there are a couple very good moments…but ultimately, this film had me sighing numerous times. It’s over-scored, it has a moment of archival footage that totally doesn’t work, and the characters seem to only exist in their quirkiness – there’s not a lot of depth. That said, some people really seemed to enjoy the film (it was a sold-out auditorium that seats 1250). Van Sant, Mia and the producer and screenwriter were there.

Other sightings today: Roger Ebert, Atom Egoyan, and one of my favorite film writers/critics – Peter Knegt of indiewire.

Well…it’s 1:30 now.

5 Hours sleep….then off again tomorrow morning quite early.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

In Toronto – Films Start Tomorrow!

September 7, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal 1 Comment

Hello!

I got to Toronto this afternoon (it’s 6:00 Wednesday evening as I write this), found my way to Banting House (the B&B where I’m staying), then scurried to the Hyatt Regency where I picked up my festival materials (my Industry pass allows me access to all Press/Industry screenings + 2 public screenings per day…though I can only get those public screening tickets 1 day in advance and based on availability).

I quickly opened my schedules and began marking and cross-referencing the films that I want to see. Most films are offered at least once or twice to the Press/Industry folks and at least twice to the Public. It then becomes a game – trying to determine which films I’d prefer to see in a setting with the public (which are generally screenings at which directors & stars appear…not to mention, the public seem to appreciate the work more than the often cynical P/I folks). Making my schedule is a process that will be an on-going effort as I start to hear buzz about new and exciting films. Every night, I will determine my best strategy for the next day…and more than likely, I’ll be out the door by 7am to try and get my most-desired tickets for the following day. (OK – sorry – that was long-winded.)

All that said, I managed to get tickets to 2 public films for tomorrow. I got a ticket to Wim Wenders’ PINA – a performance/documentary featuring choreography of the legendary Pina Bausch…and in 3D nonetheless (this is a film I’ve been terribly excited to see). I also got a ticket to Gus Van Sant’s new film RESTLESS (which is already scheduled to open at THE NEON this Fall). In addition to these public screenings, I’ve got lots more to chose from tomorrow. Von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA, a French film called BEAUTY, Tilda Swinton’s new film WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN (though I think I’d prefer to see that at a public screening), WHERE DO WE GO NOW (the new film from Nadine Labaki), and THE IDES OF MARCH (George Clooney’s film – which I think he shot in Cincinnati). Sooooo….too many films for one day – so I have to start making decisions tonight.

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Thanks for reading! I’ll keep you posted.

Jonathan

TRIBE CALLED QUEST Documentary Opens + Toronto-Bound

September 6, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

THE TRIP did moderate business over the weekend…just enough to stick around for another week. That said, SARAH’S KEY is still performing quite well. In addition to these two films, we will open something new for one week only…a music documentary by actor and filmmaker Michael Rapaport.

Synopsis for BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE – THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST: “Michael Rapaport sets out on tour with A Tribe Called Quest in 2008, when they reunited to perform sold-out concerts across the country, almost ten years after the release of their last album, The Love Movement. As he travels with the band members, Rapaport captures the story of how tenuous their relationship has become; how their personal differences and unresolved conflicts continue to be a threat to their creative cohesion. When mounting tensions erupt backstage during a show in San Francisco, we get a behind-the-scenes look at their journey and contributions as a band and what currently is at stake for these long-time friends collaborators.” (Sony Picture Classics) Click this LINK to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbCT6_HAOmM’]

On Friday, September 16 at 9:30pm, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 8– sponsored by AIA Dayton, a chapter of The American Institute of Architects. Pecha Kucha Night was devised in Tokyo in 2003 as an event where people meet, network, and share their creative endeavors with a lively audience. PK Nights are now held in hundreds of cities, including Dayton. Presenters share 20 images but with only 20 seconds per image, the timed format keeps presentations lively and concise. Volume 8 will feature architects from around the region along with Dayton’s own Jane Black, London Coe, and Terry Welker. The cost for this event is $5, and tickets are already available at our box office.

The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is in the final prep stages, and festival passes are currently on sale at our box office (single tickets go on sale Sept. 8). 5 visiting artists are already booked to visit the festival (all 5 are being flown in from L.A.), and our opening night party is shaping up to be something special.

To visit the official website for the festival, visit www.daytonlgbt.com. The image above is from a French movie called TOMBOY – the film has one of the best child performances you will ever see. Here’s the trailer:

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I leave for the Toronto International Film Festival Wednesday morning…and I can hardly wait! If you’d like to read about the films I’m seeing, the stars I’ve sighted, and the parties I’m attending, please visit DaytonMostMetro’s site by visiting the link starting on Thursday: http://www.daytonmostmetro.com/tag/toronto-film-fest Just a few of the films I’m terribly excited to see are SHAME (with Michael Fassbender), ALBERT NOBBS (with Glenn Close), Almodovar’s THE SKIN I LIVE IN, Cronenberg’s A DANGEROUS METHOD, a new silent film from France called THE ARTIST, and the new film from Nadine Labaki (director of CARAMEL).

Please keep the staff busy in my absence.

Take care,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 9 – September 15:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE:

THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST (R) 1 Hr 37 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:10, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 8:15

THE TRIP (NR) 1 Hr 47 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 7:30

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept. 16 THE GUARD

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

Sept. 30 THE FUTURE

Oct. 7 RESTLESS

Oct. 7 SENNA

Nov. 4 TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18 MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25 THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD THE WHISTLEBLOWER

TBD LIFE ABOVE ALL

On Stage Dayton Theatre Guide: 2011-12

September 5, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Every new theater season in Dayton seems to be ripe with variety. It’s one of the great joys of the Dayton theatre scene that the ‘something for everyone’ cliche actually rings true. 2011-2012 is already proving to be among the most eclectic yet. This season promises……

parents behaving badly (God Of Carnage) AND children behaving badly (Spring Awakening)
romance of the sweet and fun kind (Hairspray) and of the creepy kind (The Phantom of the Opera)
true stories of tragedy (The Laramie Project) and of triumph (Jersey Boys)
journeys down familar roads (The Wizard of Oz) and unexpected ones (Caroline, Or Change)
wistful nostalgia (Lost in Yonkers) and celebratory joy (In The Heights)
even swashbuckling adventure (How I Became A Pirate) and cartwheels on Austrian mountainsides (The Sound of Music)

Below you’ll find On Stage Dayton’s picks for the most anticipated offerings for the 2011-2012 Dayton Theatre Season. It’s just a small sampling of a very full year of stage work. And with this official launch, you can count on OSD to be there all season long.

Russell’s Picks

If you like ‘The Help’ you’ll like…

Caroline, or Change

The Human Race Theatre Company offers the overdue local premiere of this dynamic 2004 Tony Award-nominated musical from librettist/Pulitzer Prize winner Tony Kushner (“Angels in America”) and composer Jeanine Tesori (“Thoroughly Modern Millie”). A potent study of race relations set in 1963 Louisiana, “Caroline, or Change” chronicles the testy yet engaging relationship between a headstrong African-American maid and her Jewish employers. Tesori’s sublime music encompasses klezmer, opera and Motown.

The Human Race Theatre Company

If you like ‘Mamma Mia!’ or ‘The Sopranos’ you’ll like…

Jersey Boys

The local premiere of “Jersey Boys,” the sleek, sharp and surprisingly tender story of pop legends Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, is the hallmark of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Good Samaritan and Miami Valley Hospitals Broadway Series. One of the most popular jukebox musicals of the last decade and the recipient of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, “Jersey Boys” features such timeless numbers as “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.”

Victoria Theatre Association

If you like ‘Dallas’ you’ll like…

Dividing the Estate

Academy Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Horton Foote’s authentic, relevant 2009 Tony Award-nominated portrait of a Texas clan at odds will receive its local premiere courtesy of the Dayton Theatre Guild. Centered on a tough traditionalist matriarch and her squabbling children, “Dividing the Estate” uncovers the harsh realities that arise when economics and legacy threaten to tear a family apart.

Dayton Theatre Guild

If you like ‘The Full Monty’ you’ll like…

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

Clark State Community College provides the local collegiate premiere of librettist Jeffrey Lane and composer David Yazbek’s 2005 Tony Award-nominated musical based on the 1988 film of the same name. Yazbek, an outstanding songwriter, had great success with his critically acclaimed adaptation of “The Full Monty,” co-created by Terrence McNally, and the con artist-driven “Scoundrels” shares an appealingly naughty kinship. The “Scoundrels” national tour failed to connect four years ago at the Schuster Center, but perhaps Clark State will give the hilarious material the solid treatment it deserves.

Clark State

If you like the Muse Machine you’ll like…

The Wizard of Oz

Dorothy’s ruby slippers will sparkle once more thanks to the Muse Machine, Dayton’s premier arts education organization celebrating its 30th year. The memories of Muse’s 1996 “Oz” production remain indelibly etched in my mind (the Broadway caliber performances of Tyler Maynard as the Scarecrow and Tory Ross as the Wicked Witch of the West were particularly extraordinary), but it will be refreshing to see a new generation tackle the iconic musical. Expect another Muse hit you will not want to miss.

Muse Machine

Continue to read David’s picks…

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British Comedy THE TRIP – Opens Sept. 2 at THE NEON!

September 2, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

A special thanks to all of you who came out for opening weekend for SARAH’S KEY…we had a terrific weekend. I’ve heard back from many of you that word is spreading about getting to THE NEON to see the film. I certainly appreciate this…as word-of-mouth is one of the most effective marketing tools for us.

SARAH’S KEY will hold over as well as ANOTHER EARTH (for one screening a day). In addition, we will open the new British comedy THE TRIP.

Synopsis for THE TRIP: “When Steve Coogan is asked by The Observer to tour the country’s finest restaurants, he envisions it as the perfect getaway with his beautiful girlfriend. But, when she backs out on him, he has no one to accompany him but his best friend and source of eternal aggravation, Rob Brydon. As the brilliant comic duo, freestyling with flair, drive each other mad with constant competition and showdowns of competing impressions, the ultimate odd couple realize in the end a rich amount about not only good food, but the nature of fame, relationships and their own lives.” (IFC Films) Click HERE to be directed to THE TRIP’s official website.

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The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is in the final prep stages. Visiting artists are booking their flights, posters and postcards are showing up all around town, and community partners are helping to spread the word. Check out this wonderful clip from CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE …it’s an interview in which she talks about Jacqueline Kennedy visiting backstage during HELLO DOLLY. (This particular screening is sponsored by The Human Race Theatre Company)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ex8gE6YC63Q’]

The official website is now up and running! Check out www.daytonlgbt.com to read a synopsis about each film…you’ll also find embedded trailers and links to official websites. One special treat…The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will give a pair of tickets away at each LGBT screening to see Lynda Carter when she’s in town! Festival passes go on sale tomorrow at THE NEON’s box office. $50 for all seven screenings + the Opening Night Party at Sidebar. (Single tickets go on sale Sept. 8 for $8 each.)

Living City’s Fall Festival is officially booked. This year? Vampires! From Bela Lugosi’sDRACULA (in 35mm) to Catherine Deneuve & David Bowie in THE HUNGER – the line-up is lots of fun. More details soon…the series begins Oct. 17!

Don’t forget…Take your NEON ticket stub to our new neighbor Sa bai: Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar – and receive 15% off your meal.

We’ve got some new great bookings below. From Pedro Almodovar and Gus Van Sant to the much-requested SENNA. Check out titles below.

I leave for the Toronto International Film Festival next Wednesday…and I can hardly wait! Beginning next week, I will blog on a daily basis (right here on DaytonMostMetro.com) about the films I’m seeing, the parties I’ve attended, and the stars I’ve sighted.

See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 2 – September 8:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

ANOTHER EARTH (PG-13) 1 Hr 32 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:10

Monday – Thursday: 5:20

THE TRIP (NR) 1 Hr 47 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 7:30, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:50

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept. 9   THE GUARD
Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER
Sept 16  BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST
Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND
Sept. 30 THE FUTURE
Oct. 7   RESTLESS
Oct. 7   SENNA
Nov. 4 TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18 MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25 THE SKIN I LIVE IN
TBD LIFE ABOVE ALL

“The Oldest Profession” has found it’s way to Wayne Ave.

August 31, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel

The Oldest Profession

THE DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

NOTE: Audition Info for “Lost In Yonkers” below!

The Dayton Theatre Guild run of The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel, continues through Sunday, September 11, 2011, with Friday performances at 8:00 p.m., Saturday shows at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m. It is directed by Greg Smith and produced by Barbara Jorgensen.

Once the toast of Storyville, the infamous red-light district of New Orleans, five very senior ladies of the night have transferred their talents to Reagan-era New York City. They now find both their clients and their own appearance slipping away with time. But every girl has a right to go out in her own style, doesn’t she? Don’t miss the laugh-filled chronicle of five very special ladies – how they lived the life and how they say goodbye. Warning: This production contains strong language and adult content. (Raunchy, racy and fun!)

The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel - Dayton Theatre Guild - through September 11

L to R: Marcia Nowik, Ellen Finch, (back) Jackie Engle, Marcella Balin, Patty Bell

The cast includes Jackie Engle from Dayton (Wallis, Pygmalion), Ellen Finch from Kettering (Kimberly Akimbo, Fuddy Meers, Hallelujah Girls), Marcia Nowik from Yellow Springs (Independence, God’s Favorite, and Octette Bridge Club at Beavercreek Community Theatre), Patty Bell from Dayton (Brooklyn Boy,) and Marcella Balin from Xenia, who makes her acting debut with The Oldest Profession.

-DTG Press Release

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

Paula Vogel’s THE OLDEST PROFESSION – through September 11 (Fri/Sat/Sun)

(Times Vary: Click HERE)

Tickets Prices: $10 student / $15 senior / $17 adult

Location: Dayton Theatre Guild at The Caryl D. Philip’s TheatreScape – 430 Wayne Ave. Dayton, Ohio 45410 (MAP)

No one under the age of seven will be admitted.

Tickets are on sale now through DTG’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 278-5993 (due to a volunteer staff, phones are not monitored continually).

For more information about Dayton Theatre Guild’s entire 2011-12 season, visit www.DaytonTheatreGuild.org

Dayton Theatre Guild at the Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape

AUDITION INFORMATION: Lost In Yonkers by Neil Simon

September 6 & 7, 2011

The Dayton Theatre Guild will hold open auditions for Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 6 and 7, at 7:00 p.m. It is directed by Fran Pesch and produced by Deirdre Bray Root.

The Lost in Yonkers production dates are October 21 through November 6, 2011.
Simon’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning laugh-filled piece tells the tale of two young boys left by their widowed father in a strange world called Yonkers. Their father must travel to pay back loan sharks, so the boys are entrusted to a tough-minded grandmother and a child-like aunt. The aunt, now in love with a man who is just as unable to cope with the boys’ care as she is, tries to figure out the next step in this funny, touching and unforgettable drama.

The director is looking to cast seven actors of varying ages:

JAY KURNITZ – mid-teen or older, able to play 16
ARTY KURNITZ – mid-teen or older, able to play 13
EDDIE – 41, Jay and Arty’s father
BELLA – mid-30’s, Eddie’s sister
GRANDMA KURNITZ – 70+, Eddie’s mother
LOUIS – 36, Eddie’s brother
GERT – mid-late 30’s – Eddie’s sister

Lost in Yonkers is a dialect play. Grandma Kurnitz speaks in combination Yiddish/NYC dialect. All other roles speak in NYC/Yonkers dialect. Actors will be asked to read from the script (with dialect.) Head shots & résumés are not required but are encouraged. PLEASE NOTE: If this is your first time auditioning for the director, be prepared to present a one-minute contemporary monologue. Dialect not required for monologue.
The cast meeting and read-through will be Thursday, September 8th at 7 p.m.

Additional casting information may be found on the website at www.daytontheatreguild.org or by calling (937) 654-0400.

ABOUT THE DAYTON THEATRE GUILD:

The Dayton Theatre Guild opened with “Outward Bound” at the Dayton Art Institute in 1945.

The 1963-1964 season opened with “Night of the Iguana” at 2330 Salem Avenue, the Guild’s home for over 45 years, where “Outward Bound” was performed as a part of the final season at that location.
The 2009-2010 season opened with “Les Liaisons Dangereuses” at the Guild’s new home at the Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape at 430 Wayne Avenue in Dayton’s historic Oregon District in August 2009. Over 400 plays have been produced, utilizing all-volunteer casts, crews and administration. You may reach the Dayton Theatre Guild at 937.278.5993 or www.daytontheatreguild.org.

This Week at The Neon – “Another Earth” and “Sarah’s Key”

August 24, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

We had a very slow weekend at THE NEON…so it’s time to clear the decks and move forward in a big way. If you haven’t seen BUCK, SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN orTHE DOUBLE HOUR, you only have until Thursday to see them at THE NEON. (Click here for current showtimes.)

On Friday, we will open 2 new films – the Sundance hit ANOTHER EARTH and the adaptation of the beloved novel SARAH’S KEY. We haven’t had a big opportunity to market SARAH’S KEY via trailer play…though we know there’s a large interest in the film. Please help us spread the word about its opening this Friday.

Synopsis for ANOTHER EARTH: “Rhoda Williams, a bright young woman accepted into MIT’s astrophysics program, aspires to explore the cosmos. A brilliant composer, John Burroughs, has just reached the pinnacle of his profession and is about to have a second child. On the eve of the discovery of a duplicate earth, tragedy strikes and the lives of these strangers become irrevocably intertwined.” (Fox Searchlight Pictures) ANOTHER EARTH’s official website.

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Synopsis for SARAH’S KEY: “Julia Jarmond, an American journalist married to a Frenchman, is commissioned to write an article about the notorious Vel d’Hiv round up, which took place in Paris, in 1942. She stumbles upon a family secret which will link her forever to the destiny of a young Jewish girl, Sarah. Julia learns that the apartment she and her husband Bertrand plan to move into was acquired by Bertrand’s family when its Jewish occupants were dispossessed and deported 60 years before. She resolves to find out what happened to the former occupants: Wladyslaw and Rywka Starzynski, parents of 10-year-old Sarah and four-year-old Michel. The more Julia discovers – especially about Sarah, the only member of the Starzynski family to survive – the more she uncovers about Bertrand’s family, about France and, finally, herself.” (The Weinstein Company) The official website for SARAH’S KEY.

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Marketing pieces for The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival are well underway, and I’m quite pleased with the line-up! In the coming days, you’ll start to see stacks of postcards popping up all over town (if you’d like to place some at your business or favorite hangout, please let me know…I have 2 different versions).

The official website is now up and running. Check out www.daytonlgbt.com to read a synopsis about each film…you’ll also find embedded trailers and links to official websites. One special treat…The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will give a pair of tickets away at each LGBT screening to see Lynda Carter when she’s in town! If you are a lover of theatre, don’t miss CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE. If you like being in the know regarding films that make the critics’ top ten lists…you’ll certainly want to see WEEKEND (one of my favorite films of the year).

Living City’s Fall Festival is also shaping up. This year? Vampires! From Bela Lugosi’sDRACULA (in 35mm) to Catherine Deneuve & David Bowie in THE HUNGER – the line-up is lots of fun. More details soon…the series begins Oct. 17!

And here’s another treat!!! Take your NEON ticket stub to our new neighbor Sa bai: Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar – and receive 15% off your meal.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 26 – September 1:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

ANOTHER EARTH (PG-13) 1 Hr 32 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:20, 7:50

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept. 2   THE TRIP

Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 9 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD THE GUARD

TBD THE FUTURE

2 New Films This Weekend at THE NEON + LGBT Film Fest Line-Up!

August 16, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

After a phenomenal 10-week run, it’s time for MIDNIGHT IN PARIS to head out. If you still need to see it (or need to see it one more time), you can find remaining showtimes on ourwebsite. That said, PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES is leaving after just one week. Hurry down if it’s still on your list.

In addition to holding onto BUCK, we will open two new films – SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN and THE DOUBLE HOUR.

Synopsis for SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN: “In 19th-century China, seven year old girls Snow Flower and Lily are matched as laotong – or “old sames” – bound together for eternity. Isolated by their families, they furtively communicate by taking turns writing in a secret language, nu shu, between the folds of a white silk fan.In a parallel story in present day Shanghai, the laotong’s descendants, Nina and Sophia, struggle to maintain the intimacy of their own childhood friendship in the face of demanding careers, complicated love lives, and a relentlessly evolving Shanghai. Drawing on the lessons of the past, the two modern women must understand the story of their ancestral connection, hidden from them in the folds of the antique white silk fan, or risk losing one another forever.What unfolds are two stories, generations apart, but everlasting in their universal notion of love, hope and friendship.” (Fox Searchlight Pictures) Click HERE to be directed to SNOW FLOWER’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wlk7TsdhsY’]

Synopsis for THE DOUBLE HOUR: “Guido, a former cop, is a luckless veteran of the speed-dating scene in Turin. But, much to his surprise, he meets Slovenian immigrant Sonia, a chambermaid at a high-end hotel. The two hit it off, and a passionate romance develops. After they leave the city for a romantic getaway in the country, things suddenly take a dark turn. As Sonia’s murky past resurfaces, her reality starts to crumble. Everything in her life begins to change – questions arise and answers only arrive through a continuous twist and turn of events keeping viewers on edge until the film’s final moments.” (Samuel Goldwyn Pictures) Click HERE to be directed to THE DOUBLE HOUR’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4loZt8-MRZw’]

Here’s this year’s line-up:

Fri. Sept. 23 at 7:30 – THE GREEN – sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa

Fri. Sept. 23 postfilm – PARTY at SIDEBAR – sponsored by Lisa Hanauer & Sue Spiegel

Sat. Sept. 24 at 12:30 – GEN SILENT with THE COLONEL’S OUTING & FIRST AND LOVELISS – sponsored by Greater Dayton LGBT Center

Sat. Sept. 24 at 3:00 – TOP DRAWER SHORTS: I DON’T WANT TO GO BACK ALONE, REVOLUTION, LUST LIFE, CHANGE, THE QUEEN, and THE NOT SO SUBTLE SUBTEXT – sponsored by Miami Valley Fair Housing Center

Sat. Sept. 24 at 7:30 – TOMBOY – sponsored by PFLAG Dayton

Sat. Sept. 24 at 9:30 – GOING DOWN IN LA-LA LAND with 52 – sponsored by MJ’s Cafe, JOHN and Marion’s Piazza

Sun. Sept. 25 at 12:30 – CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE – sponsored by Human Race Theatre Company

Sun. Sept. 25 at 3:00 – WEEKEND with EMPIRE – sponsored by Ken Byers

Ticketing details, trailers, and news about visiting artists will be available soon on the festival website. One special treat…The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will give a pair of tickets away at each LGBT festival screening to see Lynda Carter when she’s in town!

We don’t anticipate THE DOUBLE HOUR (and maybe even SNOW FLOWER) to stick around too long…so we hope you’ll hurry down.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 19 – August 25:

THE DOUBLE HOUR (NR) 1 Hr 35 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:00, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 2:20, 8:30

SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN (PG-13) 2 Hr

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

BUCK (PG) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:15, 7:20

Monday – Thursday: 4:30, 6:30

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Aug 26 ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26 THE GUARD

Sept. 2 THE TRIP

Sept. 9 LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9 THE WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 9 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD SARAH’S KEY

TBD THE FUTURE

THE NEON Gets To PAGE ONE

August 10, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal 3 Comments

Hello Everyone.

We’ve had a great summer so far…and you certainly helped to keep the ball rollin’ with BUCK. Our weekend was fantastic, and positive word-of-mouth should keep this film going for a little while. In addition to BUCK, we’re going to bring you another documentary which also has some great buzz – PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES. In addition, we’re going to keep MIDNIGHT IN PARIS for yet another week. Crowds keep coming to this little gem, and it’s quickly becoming one of our longest running and highest grossing summer films.

If you haven’t had a chance to see BEGINNERS, Thursday will be your last chance. For showtimes for this week and next, visit www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for PAGE ONE: “In the tradition of great fly-on-the-wall documentaries, Page One: A Year Inside the New York Times deftly gains unprecedented access to The New York Times newsroom and the inner workings of the Media Desk. With the Internet surpassing print as our main news source and newspapers all over the country going bankrupt, PAGE ONE chronicles the transformation of the media industry at its time of greatest turmoil. Writers like Brian Stelter, Tim Arango and the salty but brilliant David Carr track print journalism’s metamorphosis even as their own paper struggles to stay vital and solvent. Meanwhile, their editors and publishers grapple with existential challenges from players like WikiLeaks, new platforms ranging from Twitter to tablet computers, and readers’ expectations that news online should be free. But rigorous journalism is thriving. PAGE ONE gives us an up-close look at the vibrant cross-cubicle debates and collaborations, tenacious jockeying for on-the-record quotes, and skillful page-one pitching that produce the “daily miracle” of a great news organization. What emerges is a nuanced portrait of journalists continuing to produce extraordinary work-under increasingly difficult circumstances.” (Magnolia Picutures)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwTMFXgf95c’]

Click HERE to visit PAGE ONE’s Official site. Click HERE to visit BUCK’s Official site.

In the next few days, I will release the entire line-up for The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival. The selection committee sorted through over a hundred hours of material in order to bring the best films to Dayton. For a sneak peek, check out a trailer for our opening night film – THE GREEN – sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4fZqbMrd2E’]

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 12 – August 18:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:10

Monday – Thursday: 6:00

PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES (R) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 8:15

BUCK (PG) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:20, 9:20

Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.

Aug 19 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN
Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH
Aug 26   THE GUARD
Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL
Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER
Sept 9  BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST
Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND
TBD DOUBLE HOUR
TBD   THE FUTURE

Muse Machine Celebrates 30th Year with West Side Story Concert

August 8, 2011 By Shane Anderson Leave a Comment

TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More

Muse Machine

On Wednesday and Thursday evening Muse Machine, the nationally recognized educational arts group, will kick-off its 30th year with music from one of the most popular musicals of all time: West Side Story. The local organization has gathered together over 200 local students, alumni and guest artists to present TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More at 8:00 p.m. on the stage at the Victoria Theatre.

“The whirlwind, high-energy numbers will thrill you; the soulful melodies will move you; you can’t help but feel the joy of the show!”

-Kylen Franz, concertmaster

The local arts organization has a mission of changing the lives of kids through the arts. They accomplish this through professional performances both in and out of schools, arts integration training for teachers and student performance opportunities. Over the years, Muse Machine has developed two primary performance programs, including the popular productions of a musical (winter months) and a concert (summer). These productions showcase the most talented student singers, dancers, and musicians in the Greater Dayton region, under the direction of professional directors, conductors, choreographers and designers .

“We all work so hard together to make this a great show and the energy & love in rehearsals is incredible.”

-Rachel Snyder, singer/dancer

As their 2011 concert presentation, Muse Machine (along with support from MeadWestvaco) will present Tonight: The Songs of West Side Story & More on August 10 and 11 at the Victoria Theatre. Tonight features new concepts and arrangements of many favorite songs from the classic Leonard Bernstein score, including “Maria,” “America,” “Somewhere” and many others. The show will fill the stage with nearly 200 student performers, who will also share the spotlight with alumni from previous Muse Machine productions.

“I love to be on stage and hear the audience clapping. It makes me feel good to know they are having a good time. And, it’s fun!”

– Ben Harshbarger, young ensemble (4th grade)

A highlight of the concert will be a huge student orchestra performance of “Rhapsody in Blue” featuring internationally-renowned pianist Leon Bates. Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, Bates performs with symphonies around the world and the chance to see him bring to life Gershwin’s masterpiece with an orchestra of talented, passionate young musicians should not be missed. The evening also features guest appearances by talented, local gospel singers from the GSJ Youth Choir as well as nationally-acclaimed Stivers Jazz Orchestra and other special guests, including many alumni of Muse Machine productions.

“West Side Story was the first Muse musical, so it’s a way to glance back while also looking forward by bringing new sounds and choreography to this great music. We’ll be joined by exciting guests and we’ll also explore a few ‘related surprises,’ throughout the evening.” -Douglas Merk, producer

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yj0Mbq0Jcgo’]

What is the best part of being in a Muse Machine concert or show?

“The People. Everyone here loves what they’re doing, and that love of performing is evident in every single number…This is a show not to be missed.” -Andrew J. Koslow, singer/dancer

“The feeling of being so welcome and wanted…(and) Rhapsody In Blue because I LOVE THAT PIECE OF MUSIC!!!” – Noah Berry, singer/dancer

“Meeting new friends and seeing old friends.” – Ben Harschbarger, young ensemble (4th grade)

“Getting to work with such great people on great material.” – Mimi Klipstine Dick, singer

“The close family connection of the entire cast/ensemble. We all work so hard together to make this a great show and the energy & love in rehearsals is incredible.” – Rachel Snyder, singer/dancer

“Seeing or hearing the work come to fruition and eliciting the response from the audience.” – Kylen Franz, concertmaster

-SA/Muse Machine Press Release

– Muse Machine Photos by David Sherman

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

TONIGHT: THE SONGS OF WEST SIDE STORY & MORE

at the VICTORIA THEATRE – 138 N. Main St.– map

Tickets for Tonight are available exclusively through Ticket Center Stage, 937/228-3630, online at www.ticketcenterstage.com or at the Ticket Center Stage box office in the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton.

About the Muse Machine:

The Muse Machine is a nationally recognized arts education organization, providing creative experiences and resources for young people of the Miami Valley. Since 1982, they’ve produced 27 annual musicals and 14 concerts for the community and engaged thousands of students through academic-relevant lessons, workshops and in-school projects. For more information, visit www.musemachine.com.

The BARD is on the loose!

July 27, 2011 By Shane Anderson 2 Comments

Photo by Alisha McDarris=

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Free Shakespeare!

In many communities around the world, a treasured summer activity is outdoor performances and festivals devoted to classic Shakespeare plays (Shakespeare Fellowship List). Two of the most well-known in Ohio are Cincinnati Shakespeare Co. which tours two shows in fourteen different parks and Actor’s Theatre which is celebrating it’s 30th season presenting shows in Schiller Park in Columbus’ German Village. Suddenly in the past few years there is much interest in this terrific tradition right here in the Miami Valley, ranging from a small neighborhood troupe near downtown (Historic South Park – currently rehearsing for their 4th presentation) and the touring company known as Free Shakespeare! the brainchild of director Chris Shea.

“The experience with GreenStage was incredible. To have a free arts program not only survive, but flourish, for over twenty years, well, it gave me faith that the arts are alive and well. I want to bring that same energy here to Dayton. There really is nothing like a picnic and a play, and the price is right, too” -Chris Shea

Shea, a graduate of Kettering-Fairmont High School, spent time studying acting in the Pacific Northwest. Inspired by the GreenStage Theatre Company’s offering of free outdoor Shakespeare, he decided to bring the concept to the Miami Valley in 2010 in the form of Free Shakespeare! The troupe is described as a traveling community of artists with the goal of creating an event where people can rediscover the power and beauty of language and art. Shea wanted to take the performances to multiple venues throughout the region over a series of summer weekends – and free to audiences.

Shea launched his vision for a theatre company in 2010 with Hamlet, which was received enthusiastically during it’s tour of four venues in Dayton and Yellow Springs. 2011 brings a new production, this time the ever-popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream. After opening last weekend at Antioch Amphitheatre in Yellow Springs, Shea and his team of 14 actors will continue to bring the bard’s best-loved comedy to Dayton stages over the next several weekends. They can be seen at the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14). All performances are outdoors and weather permitting and begin at 7PM. Admission is free with donations accepted after the performance to pay the actors.

Photo by Alisha McDarris

The cast of A Midsummer Nights Dream includes Allison Husko (Titania), Chris Shea (Oberon), Will Hutcheson (Demetrius), Travis Cook (Lysander), Amy Brooks (Hermia), Megan Cooler (Helena), Kes-lina Luoma (Puck), Jason Antonick (Theseus), Lauren S. Deaton (Hippolyta), Zach Schute (Nick Bottom), Juliet Howard-Welch (Peter Quince & Peaselblossom), David Harewood (Francis Flute & Cobweb), Philip Titlebaum (Snug & Mustardseed), and, after a 48 year absence from the stage, Bill Styles as Egeus.

The group has recently partnered with Involvement Advocacy, an umbrella organization which fosters community initiatives. Involvement Advocacy’s partnerships include, among others, the Blue Sky Project and the Dayton Arts Project. Involvement Advocacy will act as Free Shakespeare’s! fiscal agent, allowing supporters of Free Shakespeare! to make tax deductible donations to the theatre company.

On the partnership, Free Shakespeare! founder Chris Shea had this to say, “We are very grateful to Peter Benkendorf and the folks at Involvement Advocacy for their tremendous support of our organization. This partnership is the perfect bridge for us as we make arrangements to form our own non profit corporation.”

Photo by Alisha McDarris

“Our purposes shall be proud, our garments poor; For ’tis the mind that makes the body rich” The Taming of the Shrew, Act IV, sc. iii

-SA, Free Shakespeare! Press Release & website.

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Weekends through August 14, 2011

Tickets Prices: FREE (donations accepted after the show to pay actors)

Locations: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14)

For more information about Free Shakespeare! visit http://freeshakespeare.com/

Don’t Miss BEGINNERS! Prize Details Inside!!

July 20, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

If you still need to see THE TREE OF LIFE, Thursday (7/21) will be its last day at THE NEON (all showtimes are available at HERE). On Friday, we will open the new film from Mike Mills – BEGINNERS – starring Ewan McGregor and Christopher Plummer (Plummer’s performance is an Oscar shoe-in for “Best Supporting Actor”).

Synopsis for BEGINNERS: “From writer/director Mike Mills comes a comedy/drama about how deeply funny and transformative life can be, even at its most serious moments. BEGINNERS imaginatively explores the hilarity, confusion, and surprises of love through the evolving consciousness of Oliver (Golden Globe Award nominee Ewan McGregor). Oliver meets the irreverent and unpredictable Anna (Melanie Laurent of Inglourious Basterds) only months after his father Hal (Academy Award nominee Christopher Plummer) has passed away. This new love floods Oliver with memories of his father who – following 44 years of marriage – came out of the closet at age 75 to live a full, energized, and wonderfully tumultuous gay life. The upheavals of Hal’s new honesty, by turns funny and moving, brought father and son closer than they’d ever been able to be. Now Oliver endeavors to love Anna with all the bravery, humor, and hope that his father taught him.” (taken from filmjabber.com)

Click HERE to visit the official site. Below is a wonderful “Making Of” featurette.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dOYyCaH_t4′]

Before the 7:20 screenings of BEGINNERS on both Friday and Saturday night, I will be giving out a handful of T-Shirts and soundtracks. So brush up on your NEON trivia – I hope to see you here!

On Saturday night, our large auditorium has been rented for a special event. 2 MUCH FLAVOR is a rollerblading documentary (a follow-up to SAVOR THE FLAVOR from 2008) by local videomakers Ryan Benner and Andrew Thompson. A trailer is available HERE. The movie will play on Saturday night, July 23 at 10pm. Tickets will be $5 each.

Many of you have been asking and calling about BUCK. We appreciate your patience as our schedule continues to re-arrange. We will eventually play it!

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready for parking! You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair. One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair. All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit. As always, this lot if free to NEON customers. If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 22 – July 28:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30

Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

BEGINNERS (R) 1 Hr 45 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

2 MUCH FLAVOR (NR)

Saturday: 10pm

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 29 PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

July 29 DOUBLE HOUR

Aug 5 BUCK

Aug 5 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26 ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26 THE GUARD

Sept. 9 LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9 WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD THE FUTURE

One More Week at THE NEON!

July 14, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

I’m keepin’ it short and sweet this week.

I’m sorry to report (but happy to report) that we can’t open BEGINNERS on Friday. Why? Because our two current films are still performing amazingly! We will hold MIDNIGHT IN PARIS and THE TREE OF LIFE for another week…and we plan to at least open BEGINNERS on July 22. If possible, we’ll also openBUCK on July 22. We appreciate your patronage and your patience as we continue to do gangbuster business. And I promise…BEGINNERS is worth the wait.

Visit the official website for each of our current films:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS THE TREE OF LIFE

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready! You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair. One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair. All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit. As always, this lot if free to NEON customers. If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 15 – July 21:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

THE TREE OF LIFE (R) 2 Hr 18 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:45

Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 22 BEGINNERS

July 22 BUCK

July 29 PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

Aug 5 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26 ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26 THE GUARD

Sept. 9 LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD DOUBLE HOUR

TBD THE FUTURE

Songs of the Undead: Encore Premieres “In My Blood”

July 12, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro 6 Comments

IN MY BLOOD

Encore Theater Company

Win Tickets to this new musical! Read on!

Vampires are everywhere. Not since Transylvania has a nation been so overrun with the undead. Is there an area of pop culture devoid of these little bloodsuckers? On television, I guess we have Joss Whedon to blame for his electrifying Buffy The Vampire Slayer all the way through more current hits like HBO’s True Blood and any of a number of copycat shows just like it. In cinema, there’s no other place to look but the Twilight series for the source of teen vampire mania. Walk into any Barnes & Noble and you’re likely to find title after title featuring some collection of sex-crazed vampires. Even in music, isn’t there a band called Vampire Weekend?

One thing’s for sure: this is not your father’s vampire craze. This new breed of vampire is less B-movie and more B-cup. (Immortality doesn’t seem so bad when everyone is ridiculously attractive, right?) Despite a marketing blitz like no other, the trend has been unable to sink its teeth into Broadway – try as it may! Elton John attempted (it’s the kindest word I can use here) a musical-adapted Anne Rice with Lestat and Jim Steinman penned the ill-fated Dance of The Vampires. Even Frank (Jekyll and Hyde) Wildhorn couldn’t capture musical thriller lightning in a bottle twice. His musical Dracula was an infamous bomb in New York. But there’s hope – this weekend in Dayton – that Encore Theater Company could break the curse when the regional premiere of Mark Weiser’s vampire rock musical In My Blood plays three performances at Sinclair Theatre’s Blair Hall.

The show, written by New-York Based composer Mark Weiser has been called “The right combination of romance, conflict, humor and drama” (Theatremania). In the tradition of contemporary vampire stories, In My Blood deals primarily with Gray and Alex, two childhood friends, who reunite for one last night of partying. They learn of an annual, secret soiree, at a hidden location called SANCTUARY. There, they meet Unique and Sasha, two of the revelers. Over the course of the evening, the pairs fall in love. The two friends come to learn that this is the home of the world’s last surviving vampires, and are offered a chance to join them, and live forever. Ultimately, everyone must choose sides – for love, for life and for family. The casts features 10 local performers including ETC Company member JJ Parkey (featuring previously this season in the title role of Hedwig & The Angry Inch). In partnership with Sinclair Theatre, the show is directed by Kimberly Borst with musical direction by John Faas.

“In My Blood deals with real people with real issues of isolation and social shunning who ALSO just happen to be vampires.”

“What works in Mark’s script that hasn’t worked in previous vampire-themed musicals is intent,” says ETC Artistic Director David Brush, “The ‘vampire’ element here is a device and not the primary concern, so people connect to the characters on real levels.” But don’t fear, there’s plenty of bloodshed for every taste level and a healthy dose of rock ‘n’ roll. ETC first came in contact with the show on their Litehouse New Musicals Reading series under the name The Cure. In My Blood continues ETC’s primary mission of developing new musicals right here in Dayton before heading off to New York. Weiser himself spent several days in Dayton last week working directly with the cast an creative team in an effort to work out some of the new material – it’s a part of the process ETC values enormously.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDmfuWAxVyQ’]

In My Blood opens Thursday July 14 for three performances.

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information

In My Blood – July 14 – 16, 8:00 pm

Encore Theater Company

Performances will be held at Sinclair Community College’s Blair Hall Theatre.

Tickets are $15 and can be reserved through http://brushfire.e-vent.info/Events/Sinclair/Default.aspx, by contacting (937) 512-2808 (be sure to leave a message as regular box office hours are not kept during the summer)

For more information, check out the Encore Theater Company.

Win Free Tickets!

Encore Theater Company & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to In My Blood! We will be giving away up to SIX pairs of tickets for the show! All you need to do is:

Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page (We’ll give away one pair of tickets for every FIVE FB/Twitter Shares).
Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
…and the fun part: leave a comment below, answering the following question…IF YOU WERE TO BECOME A VAMPIRE…WHAT VAMPIRE-Y TRAIT WOULD YOU MOST BE EXCITED TO HAVE?
The deadline to enter is NOON on THURSDAY, JULY 14TH.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

[contact-form 6 “Contest Entry”]

Stayin’ Put for 1 More Week at THE NEON!

July 5, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

We had another great weekend at THE NEON…in fact, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS saw a small increase over the past few days. Both THE TREE OF LIFE and MIDNIGHT IN PARIS will stick around for another week…and we plan to at least open BEGINNERS on July 15.

Visit each film’s website by clicking on the links below:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS

THE TREE OF LIFE

Take a look at the trailer for BEGINNERS – opening on July 15. You don’t want to miss this film!!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXUFUp6vsxg’]

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 8 – July 14:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Saturday: 12:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

THE TREE OF LIFE (R) 2 Hr 18 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:45

Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 15 BEGINNERS

July 15 BUCK

July 22 PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

Aug 5 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26 ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26 THE GUARD

Sept. 9 LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD DOUBLE HOUR

TBD THE FUTURE

Dayton Ohio

Russell’s Picks

Caroline, or Change

Jersey Boys

Dividing the Estate

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

The Wizard of Oz

The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel The Oldest Profession

THE DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

NOTE: Audition Info for “Lost In Yonkers” below!

Tickets & Performance Information:

AUDITION INFORMATION: Lost In Yonkers by Neil Simon

September 6 & 7, 2011

TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More

Muse Machine

What is the best part of being in a Muse Machine concert or show?

Tickets & Performance Information:

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Free Shakespeare!

Tickets & Performance Information:

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Weekends through August 14, 2011

IN MY BLOOD

Encore Theater Company

Win Tickets to this new musical! Read on!

“In My Blood deals with real people with real issues of isolation and social shunning who ALSO just happen to be vampires.”

Tickets & Performance Information

Win Free Tickets!

The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel

The Oldest Profession