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FALLING UP…A Dayton-Native’s Labor of Love To Make Its Local Premiere

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FALLING UP, the beautiful stop-action short film made by Dayton native Djuna Wahlrab, is coming to THE NEON in downtown Dayton.   This stunning film, with sets based on local architecture (and an opening live/animated scene shot in downtown Dayton), will play with select screenings of THE ILLUSIONIST (one of this year’s Academy Award nominated films for “Best Animated Film Feature”).

Wahlrab, a working filmmaker and graduate of Stivers School for the Arts, now resides in New York City.  She will be opening a gallery exhibit of sets and puppets from her film later this month at Stivers….You’ll want to see her short film THEN see how she made it.

Stop-action animation is shot one frame at a time – a pain-staking process with gorgeous, magical results.  To see more about her film and see the trailer, visit the official website at www.fallingupmovie.com.

FALLING UP will only play before THE ILLUSIONIST during the 3:00 and 7:30 screenings during the week of Friday, February 11 through Thursday, February 17.

Falling Up from Djuna Wahlrab on Vimeo.

‘9 to 5’ Thrives On Nostalgia

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9 to 5: The Musical presented by Victoria Theatre Association at the Schuster Center9 to 5: The Musical

presented by the Victoria Theatre Association

“9 to 5: The Musical,” Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick’s shaky adaptation of the 1980 workplace revenge film of the same name, struggles to overcome its dated discrimination premise and an assortment of hit and miss tunes, but there are commendable elements nonetheless in its reconceived, well cast national tour, which began its regional premiere Tuesday, February 1 at the Schuster Center courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Miami Valley and Good Samaritan Hospitals Broadway Series.

9 to 5: The Musical presented by Victoria Theatre Association at the Schuster CenterA greater sense of nostalgia in the form of a terrific pop culture-inspired show curtain as well as Parton’s warm, folksy introduction and closing commentary (including a sing-a-long) effectively distinguishes the tour from its unnecessarily flashy, vocally erratic and unsurprisingly short-lived 2009 Broadway counterpart. There is also a sharper character-driven focus and tighter pace that director/choreographer Jeff Calhoun establishes that keeps the show entertaining and engaging even when three labored fantasy sequences and a swarm of bad jokes and crude lyrics become cringe-inducing.

The core trio of Mamie Parris as ditzy divorcee Judy Bernly, “American Idol” runner-up Diana DeGarmo as voluptuous Doralee Rhodes, and three-time Tony Award nominee Dee Hoty as no-nonsense Violet Newstead form a compatible bond. Each character exudes a genuine, down to earth sensibility so it’s easy to empathize with the torment they endure at the hand of their bigoted boss Franklin Hart, Jr. (Joseph Mahowald in a terribly one-dimensional role). The endearing Parris actually finds depth in what could easily be perceived as a thankless part. Her belting soprano absolutely sparkles in “Get Out and Stay Out,” which powerfully culminates in a “Wicked” style reminiscent of “Defying Gravity” or “No Good Deed.” The naturally perky DeGarmo remains a vocal knockout and couldn’t be more charming. Her poignant rendition of “Backwoods Barbie” is a meaningful highlight, but she’s also great leading the rousing ensemble number “Change It.” Hoty, a wonderful authoritarian, particularly makes the most of Act 2 opener “One of the Boys,” Parton’s meager attempt at writing a razzle-dazzle show tune.

9 to 5: The Musical presented by Victoria Theatre Association at the Schuster Center

Enjoyable featured turns are given by the very funny, spontaneous Kristine Zbornick as Hart’s infatuated secretary Roz Keith, Gregg Goodbrod as Joe, Wayne Schroeder as the Colonel Sanders-esque Tinsworthy, and scene-stealer Jane Blass as the boozy Margaret.

Although there’s no escaping the fact that the best number in the show was written over 30 years ago, “9 to 5” is better here than in New York with an intent to please Parton admirers as well as fans of the film and its era.

9 to 5: The Musical presented by The Victoria Theatre Association at the Schuster Center

(L to R) Diana DeGarmo, Dee Hoty and Mamie Parris in '9 to 5'

9 to 5: The Musical continues through Sunday, February 6 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets. Remaining performances will be held today at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Act One: 70 minutes. Act Two: 45 minutes. Tickets are $36-$90. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

In addition, the show notably contains two Wright State University alums: swing K.J. Hippensteel and stage manager E. Cameron Holsinger.

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

A Cup of Ambition…at the Schuster Center

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9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre Association9 to 5 – the musical

Victoria Theatre Association

Win tickets to this show!  Read on…

The year was 1980.  Dolly Parton was making her big-screen debut and the whole world was a-flutter!  Dolly on the BIG SCREEN!  This 10 year old little kid couldn’t figure out why Grandpa had four copies of her latest album which featured the title song from the movie 9 TO 5.  Thirty-one years later, I think I’ve got it figured out.

9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre AssociationThis was one funny movie!  Bravo still has it listed as #47 on their list of the “100 Funniest Movies.”   I was so jealous of my older cousins who saw it in the local movie-plex.  I am pretty sure that I wasn’t allowed to see the movie when it first came out (I had to wait several years for VHS on the small screen), but I know that there was many a chuckle at family gatherings that Christmas over this flick.  I think I know now why Grandpa kept four copies of the vinyl.  You always wanna a few back-ups of something this, umm, monumental.

Leap forward almost thirty years.

Dolly Parton brushes the dust off of this classic, writes a few new songs, hires a kick-butt cast & breathes new life into the hilarious story–but this time in one of the biggest houses on the Great White Way, marking the Broadway debut of the seven-time Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter and musician.

9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre Association2009 saw the premiere of 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL, starring contemporary stage greats Stephanie J. Block, Megan Hilty, Mark Kudisch and Daytonian Allison Janney (who was just HEARD on stage in the recent Muse Machine production of Sondheim’s INTO THE WOODS as the voice of the giant).  Unfortunately the show’s NYC run only survived through September 2009, but a year later the first national tour kicked off…and will be making a stop at The Schuster Center February 1-6.

“it shines! Dolly Parton’s songs are bouncy, big hearted, fresh & original. If you’re looking for a diversion, 9 to 5 will do the trick from 8 to 10:15!” ~ The Daily News

9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre Association9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. This is the story of three unlikely friends who conspire to take control of their company and learn there’s nothing they can’t do — even in a man’s world.

Outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic, the show is about teaming up and taking care of business… it’s about getting credit and getting even.

While the company has changed a bit, it still features a stellar cast of Dee Hoty (Violet), Diana DeGarmo (Doralee Rhodes) and Mamie Paris (Judy), along with Dolly Parton’s original hit title song in her new Tony Award® and Grammy-nominated score. 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL was nominated for four 2009 Tony Awards® including Original Score and received a record breaking 15 Drama Desk nominations including Outstanding Musical.

9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre Association

“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience on my first Broadway show,” said Dolly Parton. ‘I’ve had the privilege of working with an amazing group of people who have become like family to me. I can’t wait for this show to hit the road so people across the country can see why I’m so proud of everyone involved.”

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL’s book is by Patricia Resnick (co-writer of the original screenplay). The touring production will be directed and choreographed by Tony nominated, Jeff Calhoun.

9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre Association“I met Dolly Parton as a chorus kid dancing in the film ‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ only a few years after ‘9 to 5’ was already a hit movie. It was a thrill to work with her then and an honor and privilege to be entrusted to direct and choreograph this exciting new tour of 9 to 5: The Musical” said Mr. Calhoun.

9 to 5 - the musical ~ February 1-6, 2011 at the Schuster Center ~ present by Victoria Theatre Association

Allison Janney in 9 to 5

The co–choreographer is Lisa Stevens, scenic design by Ken Foy, costume design by five time Tony Award® winner, William Ivey Long, lighting design by Tony Award® and Drama Desk Award winner, Ken Billington, music supervision by Stephen Oremus and casting by Telsey + Company.

-SA/VTA Press Release

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.
 

Tickets & Performance Information:

9 to 5: The Musical (February 1-6 at The Schuster Center) Performance times are Tuesday through Friday evenings at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $36, with discounts available for senior citizens, students and groups.

Tickets are on sale now through Ticket Center Stage, and may be purchased at the Schuster Center box office in downtown Dayton or by phone, at (937) 228-3630 or toll free (888) 228-3630. Ticket Center Stage hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, noon – 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Group discounts for 20 or more are available.

For more information about Victoria Theatre Association’s entire 20010-2011 season, visit www.victoriatheatre.com.

Win Free Tickets!

The Victoria Theatre Association & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL!  We will be giving away up to TWO pairs of tickets for the Tuesday evening show! (February 1st)  All you need to do is:

  • Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page.
  • Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
  • Leave a comment, answering the following question…WITHOUT NAMING NAMES…Describe your DREAM retaliation against your LEAST FAVORITE BOSS ever????! (no blood or guts, please)
  • The deadline to enter is 8PM on SUNDAY, January 30th.
  • Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

CONTEST CLOSED

BLUE VALENTINE & Oscar News at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

As predicted, MADE IN DAGENHAM only had enough business to stick around for one week…that’s not to say that audiences didn’t love the film – they did. If you still want to catch it, today (1/27) will be its last day. On Friday, we will open the much-anticipated film BLUE VALENTINE – a huge hit at Sundance, Cannes, Toronto and more. Numerous critics have given the film a 100% review, and Michelle Williams just earned an Oscar nomination for her performance.

Speaking of Oscar nominations…NEON titles popped up in several categories. THE KING’S SPEECH, nominated for 12 Academy Awards, is sticking around for another week. Here’s a look at other NEON titles that were recognized:
WINTER’S BONE, THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT, 127 HOURS, BLACK SWAN, BLUE VALENTINE, INSIDE JOB, I AM LOVE, ANIMAL KINGDOM, and RESTREPO.
The following films were also nominated…and are booked for the coming weeks:
ANOTHER YEAR, BIUTIFUL, RABBIT HOLE, THE ILLUSIONIST, IN A BETTER WORLD, and BARNEY’S VERSION. (more will likely come)
Details about our annual FREE Oscar Party will be available soon! Hold the date for Sunday, February 27!

Synopsis for BLUE VALENTINE: “BLUE VALENTINE is a story of love found and love lost told in past and present moments in time. Flooded with romantic memories of their courtship, Dean and Cindy use one night to try and save their failing marriage. Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams star in this honest portrait of a relationship on the rocks.”  Visit the official website by clicking this LINK.

On Thursday, February 3 at 7:15, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 6. PechaKucha 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, inspiring creative people worldwide. The name comes from the Japanese term for the sound of “chit chat”, and rests on a presentation format that is based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds. It’s a format that makes presentations concise, and keeps things moving at a rapid pace. PechaKucha Night Dayton is on its sixth volume, with presentations from Samantha Enslen, Reade Faulkner, Theresa Gasper, Sherif Hedayat, Sharon Howard, Brandy King, Jay King, and Chris Wire. Following the presenations, stick around for a screening of the thought-provoking and motivating documentary DIVE! Grocery stores around the country are filling their dumpsters with food. Not rotten, spoiled food, but billions of pounds of good, edible food. Follow filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and his circle of friends as they dumpster dive in the back alleys and gated garbage receptacles of L.A.’s supermarkets. In the process, they uncover thousands of dollars worth of good food and an ugly truth about waste in America: grocery stores know they are wasting and most refuse to do anything about it. The cost for this entire event is $5. Presentations start at 7:15 and DIVE! starts at 9:00.

Here’s something special and new for us:
Regional premiere!
Here With Me: Christian Duhamel LIVE in Concert!
Grab a drink at The Neon Bar and join singer/composer Christian Duhamel for an evening of LIVE song and story. Guest artists will contribute their voices to his original music as they bring a new kind of “show time” to THE NEON. One night only! February 8th @ 9:30pm.
Details are still developing, so stay tuned for more information in next week’s newsletter!

BLUE VALENTINE is a true indie. Made with passion and a very modest budget – it took eleven years to go from page to the screen.  Please spread the word to support this indie at a true indie cinema – THE NEON with the best ticket and concession prices in town…not to mention a great beer selection.

Hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 28 – February 3:

BLUE VALENTINE (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 2:30, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 58 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Wednesday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Thursday: 2:30, 5:00

PK NIGHT DAYTON, Volume 6 (NR)
Thursday: 7:15

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Due to Oscar Season, we know that many of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.

Feb. 4 ANOTHER YEAR
Feb. 11 I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS
Feb. 18 BARNEY’S VERSION
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, BIUTIFUL, SOMEWHERE
TINY FURNITURE & THE ILLUSIONIST

THE NEON – MADE IN DAGENHAM Set For One Week Only!

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Hello Everyone.

It’s time for us to move along. Today (1/20/2011) will be our last day for BLACK SWAN, and MADE IN DAGENHAM – starring the enchanting Sally Hawkins – will start tomorrow (1/21/2011). That said, you’ll have to move fast if you want to see DAGENHAM…we only plan to have the film for one week…that’s because BLUE VALENTINE is set to open on January 28.

Synopsis for MADE IN DAGENHAM: “Based on a true story, MADE IN DAGENHAM portrays a decisive moment in that decade of upheaval, when the fight for equal rights and pay was led – unexpectedly – by ordinary working-class women with one foot in the kitchen , one foot on the factory floor, and ears glued to the pop coming over the radio and telly from far-off London (19 kilometers and a world away). It’s a vintage “girl-power” tale.” (Sony Pictures Classics) Una LaMarche of The New York Observer writes, “Made in Dagenham is a retro romp with heart, smarts, soul and wit that will restore your faith in the power of the picket line. Peter Travers of Rolling Stone writes, “Sally Hawkins is just plain irresistible in this funny, touching and vital salute to women in the work force.”
Check out this incredible supporting cast…Bob Hoskins, Miranda Richardson and Rosamund Pike!  Visit the official site by clicking this LINK.

In the next couple weeks, we have a few special events (I’m waiting on a description of a ski movie set for early February). In each case, THE NEON has been rented by a person or an organization. Ticket prices are then set by that lessee in accordance with their mission. Here are details that are ready for the press:

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30.
Advanced tickets – ($10 each + $1 processing) are only available by visiting this LINK.
Tickets the day of the show will be available at the door for $15 each.
The official site of the film can be found atwww.ridethedivide.com.

On Thursday, February 3 at 7:15, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 6. PechaKucha 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, inspiring creative people worldwide. The name comes from the Japanese term for the sound of “chit chat”, and rests on a presentation format that is based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds. It’s a format that makes presentations concise, and keeps things moving at a rapid pace. PechaKucha Night Dayton is on its sixth volume, with presentations from Samantha Enslen, Reade Faulkner, Theresa Gasper, Sherif Hedayat, Sharon Howard, Brandy King, Jay King, and Chris Wire. Following the presenations, stick around for a screening of the thought-provoking and motivating documentary DIVE! Grocery stores around the country are filling their dumpsters with food. Not rotten, spoiled food, but billions of pounds of good, edible food. Follow filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and his circle of friends as they dumpster dive in the back alleys and gated garbage receptacles of L.A.’s supermarkets. In the process, they uncover thousands of dollars worth of good food and an ugly truth about waste in America: grocery stores know they are wasting and most refuse to do anything about it. The cost for this entire event is $5. Presentations start at 7:15 and DIVE! starts at 9:00.

Details about our annual FREE Oscar Party will be available soon! Hold the date for Sunday, February 27!

We’re quite excited to start BLUE VALENTINE next Friday. Given a 100% review from numerous critics (and a handful of my friends in other cities), I’m really looking forward to finally seeing it. If you haven’t seen the preview, you can visit the official site by clicking this LINK.

See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 21 – January 27:

MADE IN DAGENHAM (R) 1 Hr 53 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 2:30, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday & Tuesday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Wednesday: 2:30, 5:00
Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

RIDE THE DIVIDE (NR)
Wednesday: 7:30

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

Jan. 28 BLUE VALENTINE
Jan. 28 I LOVE YOU PHILIP MORRIS
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, BIUTIFUL, SOMEWHERE
TINY FURNITURE & BARNEY’S VERSION

2 Hits and Events Galore at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

It’s been a long, long time since we’ve had two hits with such longevity. We’re going to hold onto both BLACK SWAN and THE KING’S SPEECH for another week…and we’re currently planning to open MADE IN DAGENHAM on January 21. That said, the Golden Globes this Sunday may end up moving our entire schedule around for the coming weeks…and the upcoming Oscar nominations will also play a part. I’ll keep you posted.

BLACK SWAN Official Site. THE KING’S SPEECH Official Site.

In the next few weeks, we have numerous special events. In each case, THE NEON has been rented by a person or an organization. Ticket prices are then set by that lessee in accordance with their mission. Here are details that are ready for the press:

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

On Wednesday, January 19 at 7:00pm, cityfolk will present a free screening of BILL MONROE: FATHER OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC. “Steve Gebhardt’s film blends footage from rare 1990s performances by the founder of bluegrass music with a trove of interviews with Monroe, Emmy Lou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, Paul McCartney and many more. Gebhardt and scriptwriter and bluegrass expert Larry Nager will be on hand to discuss the making of the movie and Monroe’s vast legacy…General admission seating for this screening is available on a first-come, first-served basis.” (taken from press notes) Steve Gebhardt has directed and/or produced numerous music-based documentaries, including LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: THE ROLLING STONES, IMAGINE, and JOHN LENNON LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY.

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30.
Advanced tickets – ($10 each + $1 processing) are only available by visiting this link.  Tickets the day of the show will be available at the door for $15 each.

On Thursday, February 3 at 7:15, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 6. PechaKucha 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, inspiring creative people worldwide. The name comes from the Japanese term for the sound of “chit chat”, and rests on a presentation format that is based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds. It’s a format that makes presentations concise, and keeps things moving at a rapid pace. PechaKucha Night Dayton is on its sixth volume, with presentations from Samantha Enslen, Reade Faulkner, Theresa Gasper, Sherif Hedayat, Sharon Howard, Brandy King, Jay King, and Chris Wire. Following the presenations, stick around for a screening of the thought-provoking and motivating documentary DIVE! Grocery stores around the country are filling their dumpsters with food. Not rotten, spoiled food, but billions of pounds of good, edible food. Follow filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and his circle of friends as they dumpster dive in the back alleys and gated garbage receptacles of L.A.’s supermarkets. In the process, they uncover thousands of dollars worth of good food and an ugly truth about waste in America: grocery stores know they are wasting and most refuse to do anything about it. The cost for this entire event is $5. Presentations start at 7:15 and DIVE! starts at 9:00.

The line-up of films in the coming weeks at THE NEON looks terrific, and there are several that I can’t wait to share with the community. We hope to see you soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 14 – January 20:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 7:30, 9:40
Monday: 3:10, 5:40, 8:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00
Tuesday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Wednesday: 2:30, 4:50
Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

UNWRAPPING THE DREAM – FASHION SHOW DVD RELEASE (NR)
Sunday: 5:30

BILL MONROE: FATHER OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC (NR)
Wednesday: 7:00

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

Jan. 21 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Jan. 28 I LOVE YOU PHILIP MORRIS
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, BIUTIFUL, SOMEWHERE
BLUE VALENTINE, TINY FURNITURE & BARNEY’S VERSION

I Wish. More Than Anything…

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The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011Into The Woods

THE MUSE MACHINE

Win tickets to this show!  Read on…

Once upon a time…

Suzy Bassani had a dream.  That dream became a reality in the Muse Machine, a truly unique Dayton area arts organization for kids.  A culminating yearly activity is a highly regarded theatrical production featuring nearly 100 talented students on stage, back stage and in the orchestra.

The 2011 selection is the popular Sondheim show Into The Woods. The Tony Award winning show, by Stephen Sondheim (music & lyrics) and James Lapine (book), premiered on Broadway in 1987.  That original cast included Broadway legend Bernadette Peters and Joanna Gleason, as well as Dayton native Tom Aldredge.

The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011Just like with the fairytale favorites whose stories intertwine as they venture Into The Woods, new directions are afoot for the Muse Machine as more than 100 area students prepare to present Sondheim’s smash-hit family musical next weekend.

Muse Machine mounts it’s first Sondheim production in a year that celebrates the composer and lyricist’s 80th birthday.  The lavish musical, which thrusts characters into situations where their “happily ever after” may not come so easily.  Finding familiar characters like Little Red Riding Hood and her wolf, Cinderella and her prince, Jack of beanstalk fame and others faced with new challenges makes the show both unexpectedly funny and surprisingly poignant.

The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011The production will also experience the Muse touch through movement.  “Early versions of Into The Woods used very little dance, but we’re going to change that,” said New Orleans choreographer Lula Elzy, who promised surprises in store with each of the show’s tolls of midnight.  “It will feel like movement has always been a part of this show!”

The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011Into The Woods also marks the addition of a new face to the Muse Machine creative team:  Rufus Bonds, Jr., familiar to audiences as Collins from the Broadway cast of Rent and Mufasa from the national tour of The Lion King. Bonds comes from the west coast, joining returning NYC music director David Dusing to complete the directing team.

The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011“What’s so beautiful about this experience is the opportunity to work with young adults who bring the perfect marriage of acting and voice to their roles,” said Bonds, who hopes audiences will be surprised by the depth of talent coming from the young performers on stage.  “There’s nothing I’ve seen anywhere like this, on any level – students are far ahead of the game with the training they receive here at Muse.”

This is a theatrical opportunity that you don’t get in other cities.  The Muse Machine has touched countless lives, including actors, dancers, writers and designers currently earning their living in the arts all over the country, including New York City.  The organization’s track record indicates that within a few years, one of these young performers in Into The Woods will very likely be treading the boards of Broadway.

Happily ever after.

UPDATE 1/8/2011 (information from the Muse Machine Facebook Page):

The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011Emmy Award winning actress Allison Janney (The West Wing, Juno, Lost, Hairspray, Finding Nemo, American Beauty and many other film, television and stage credits) joins the cast of Muse Machine’s INTO THE WOODS in an original performance as the voice of the giant!

-SA/Muse Press Release
We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Tickets & Performance Information:

The Muse Machine presents Into The Woods - January 13-16, 2011Into The Woods (January 13-16 – various times – at The Victoria Theatre)

Tickets: prices range from $31-$56

Call (937) 228-3630  or by visiting TicketCenterStage.com.

Visit www.MuseMachine.com for more information about The Muse Machine and their programs.

Win Free Tickets!

Muse Machine & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to Into The Woods!  We will be giving away up to TEN pairs of tickets for next weekend’s performances! All you need to do is:

  • Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page.
  • Leave a comment, answering the following question…In just a couple of sentences, change the ending of your favorite classic fairytale.
  • The deadline to enter is 9AM on MONDAY, January 10th.
  • Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

THE NEON is Flying High!

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Hello Everyone.

Since December 25, THE NEON has seen almost 4,000 customers (a 10-day total of 3898, to be exact)! That’s incredible. Once again, I thank you for your support!

We’re going to hold onto both BLACK SWAN and THE KING’S SPEECH for another week…and we’re currently planning to open MADE IN DAGENHAM on January 14.

Here are a few notes on upcoming special events:

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

On Wednesday, January 19 at 7:00pm, cityfolk will present a free screening of BILL MONROE: FATHER OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC. “Steve Gebhardt’s film blends footage from rare 1990s performances by the founder of bluegrass music with a trove of interviews with Monroe, Emmy Lou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, Paul McCartney and many more. Gebhardt and scriptwriter and bluegrass expert Larry Nager will be on hand to discuss the making of the movie and Monroe’s vast legacy…General admission seating for this screening is available on a first-come, first-served basis.” (taken from press notes) Steve Gebhardt has directed and/or produced numerous music-based documentaries, including LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: THE ROLLING STONES, IMAGINE, and JOHN LENNON LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY.

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30. The official site of the film can be found at www.ridethedividemovie.com.
TICKETS – $10 (+$1 processing) in advance by visiting this site:
http://www.imathlete.com/events/EventStore.aspx?fEID=7982
$15 at door on day of show!

The line-up of films in the coming weeks at THE NEON looks terrific. We hope to see you soon and often.
(And don’t miss THE KING’S SPEECH!!)

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 7 – January 13:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Saturday: 2:45, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

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

Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS, TINY FURNITURE, BIUTIFUL, CASINO JACK, BLUE VALENTINE, RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

Holiday Success at THE NEON! Thank You!!

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Hello Everyone.

I returned to Dayton on December 24 (after visiting with my folks for a couple days) to find that we had lost exclusivity with our engagement of THE KING’S SPEECH…and I’ll admit I was disappointed and a bit heartbroken. But I shouldn’t have been.
More Daytonians supported THE KING’S SPEECH at THE NEON than at any of the multiplexes…and I thank you for your support! We have had a couple sell-outs and numerous large audiences since the film opened on December 25, and people are absolutely loving the film.
If you haven’t seen it yet, we hope to see you soon!
If you’ve already seen the film, please keep spreading the word…and tell people that THE NEON has the best prices in town.
Visit the official website for the film by clicking this LINK.

BLACK SWAN has flooded the marketplace over the past several days, and our extraordinary ticket sales have started to fall…so we may open MADE IN DAGENHAM a bit earlier than planned (Jan. 7 instead of Jan. 14)…but all that depends on business during the upcoming weekend. I’ll keep you posted.

Here are a couple notes on upcoming special events:

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30. Advanced tickets are only available by visiting this LINK. The official site of the film can be found at www.ridethedivide.com.

Have a Safe & Happy New Year!
(And don’t miss THE KING’S SPEECH!!)

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 31 – January 6:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

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

Jan. 7 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS, TINY FURNITURE, BIUTIFUL,
BLUE VALENTINE, RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

THE KING’S SPEECH – Exclusively at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that THE KING’S SPEECH will open exclusively at THE NEON on December 25. Being that the 25th is a Saturday, our schedule is a bit strange this week. THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST will play through Friday, THE KING’S SPEECH starts Saturday, and BLACK SWAN will hold.

And speaking of BLACK SWAN…Wow! What a weekend! For a film that opened on multiple screens, BLACK SWAN was our biggest opening of the year. (That said, CRAZY HEART – which we had exclusively for one week back in January – was still our best.)

Synopsis for THE KING’S SPEECH: “England’s Prince Albert (Colin Firth), soon to become King George VI, is plagued by a crippling speech impediment. With her husband soon to take over the throne, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter) hires Lionel Logue, an Australian actor and speech therapist, to help Albert overcome his stammer. An extraordinary friendship develops between the pair as Logue uses unconventional means to teach Albert how to speak with confidence.” (Weinstein Co.) 7 Golden Globe Nominations including BEST PICTURE!

Click here for the official site – http://kingsspeech.com/

We have a special treat for those of you looking to give NEON gift certificates this holiday season. For every $50 of gift certificates you purchase, you will receive a free bag of Candy Cane Granola. This delicious, locally made snack was recently sampled by the staff…and quickly became a favorite. Loaded with peppermint schnapps, white chocolate, dried cranberries and almonds, you might end up keeping this treat for yourself.

Lastly, I want to remind you about 2011 calendars from The Rubi Girls. Calendars are available in our lobby for $20 each – 100% of which goes to local charities. And now we’re offering a special deal so you can stuff everyone’s stockings this year…Calendars are now 2 for $30!
If you’d like to see a little video I put together about the calendar, click on this LINK. If you want to know more about The Rubi Girls, visit www.rubigirls.com.

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

I’ll be here all day on the 25th, so I’m sure I’ll see some of you.
Have a wonderful, warm and safe holiday season.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 24 – December 30:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20
Saturday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST (R) 2 Hr 27 Min
Friday: 12:15, 3:00, 6:00

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Saturday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50

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

Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: BLUE VALENTINE, RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

BLACK SWAN & TAMARA DREWE at The Neon!

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Hello Everyone.

There are two films that so many people have been talking & asking about, and this Friday marks the opening of the first – Darren Aronofsky’s BLACK SWAN, starring Natalie Portman. (The other film – THE KING’S SPEECH – is right around the corner…with 7 Golden Globe Nominations.)
If you still need to see 127 HOURS, you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. (All these films are certain to be Oscar contenders in a couple months…so don’t miss seeing them on the big screen.)

On Friday, in addition to BLACK SWAN, we will open a much smaller film directed by one of my favorite directors – Stephen Frears. TAMARA DREWE, based on a graphic novel that was in turn based on a Thomas Hardy novel – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD – will play for one week only. (On a similar note, THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST will only play for one more week.)

Synopsis for BLACK SWAN: “New York City ballet dancer Nina (Natalie Portman) enters into an intense battle of wills with a talented and ambitious new arrival (Mila Kunis) who seems intent on edging her out of the spotlight in this supernatural-flavored psychological thriller from director Darren Aronofsky.” (Jason Buchanon, All Movie Guide) **Nominated for 4 Golden Globe Awards Including Best Picture**  For the official site, visit – http://www.ijustwanttobeperfect.com/

Synopsis for TAMARA DREWE: “Tamara Drewe (Gemma Arterton) was born and raised in Ewedown, a quiet community on the outskirts of London dominated by a writer’s colony run by Nicholas Hardiment (Roger Allam), a best-selling novelist who specializes in crime fiction, and his wife Beth (Tamsin Greig). When Tamara left Ewedown, she was a plain and awkward teenager, but when she returns home for the first time in years, the locals are surprised to discover that time (and a nose job) have turned her into an attractive and alluring woman, and she’Tamara Drewe was adapted from the graphic novel of the same name by Posy Simmonds, which was in turn inspired by Thomas Hardy’s novel Far From the Madding Crowd.” (Mark Deming, All Movie Guide)  For the official site, visit – http://sonyclassics.com/tamaradrewe/

The Children’s Holiday Film Series is about to wrap up! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection is based on the classic book by Dr. Seuss!
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (starring Jim Carrey)

We have a special treat for those of you looking to give NEON gift certificates this holiday season. For every $50 of gift certificates you purchase, you will receive a free bag of Candy Cane Granola. This delicious, locally made snack was recently sampled by the staff…and quickly became a favorite. Loaded with peppermint schnapps, white chocolate, dried cranberries and almonds, you might end up keeping this treat for yourself.

Lastly, I want to remind you about 2011 calendars from The Rubi Girls. Calendars are available in our lobby for $20 each – 100% of which goes to local charities. If you’d like to see a little video I put together about the calendar, click on this LINK . If you want to know more about The Rubi Girls, visit www.rubigirls.com.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 17 – December 23:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST (R) 2 Hr 27 Min
Friday – Thursday: 4:15, 7:00

TAMARA DREWE (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday – Thursday: 2:00, 9:45

THE GRINCH (PG) 1 Hr 37 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

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

Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH
Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest & Other Great NEON News!

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THIS JUST IN!!!  BLACK SWAN has moved up!  It will now open on December 17th (instead of the 22nd)!

Hello Everyone.

First off, I need to let you know that FAIR GAME will have its last day at THE NEON on Thursday. Folks have been loving this film, but attendance fell drastically this weekend…so it has to go. For remaining showtimes, please visit our website. 127 HOURS will stick around.

Before I move forward with more of this week’s news, I’m delighted to let you know that we have managed to book a film that is destined to be a huge hit with us. THE KING’S SPEECH, which I saw and adored in Toronto, is currently scheduled to open on Dec. 25th. Between KING’S SPEECH and BLACK SWAN, all signs are good that we’ll end 2010 on a fantastic note!

On Friday, we open a film that has already garnered a following. The third and final installment about the girl with the dragon tattoo – THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST – “is positively soul-satisfying,” writes Kirk Honeycutt of The Hollywood Reporter. “The movie features a great finish, where three movies’ worth of subplots and characters dovetail into a breathtaking climax and final confrontation…”

Synopsis for THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST: “In this last installment, Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace) lies in critical condition, a bullet wound to her head, in the intensive care unit of a Swedish city hospital. She’s fighting for her life in more ways than one: if and when she recovers, she’ll be taken back to Stockholm to stand trial for three murders. With the help of her friend, journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist), she will not only have to prove her innocence, but also identify and denounce those in authority who have allowed the vulnerable, like herself, to suffer abuse and violence. And, on her own, she will plot revenge – against the man who tried to kill her, and the corrupt government institutions that very nearly destroyed her life.” (Music Box Films) OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Please be certain to pay close attention to showtimes. Due to recent trends and the duration of our upcoming attractions, showtimes are not the same from day to day. Sunday through Thursday will not have late screenings. (Upcoming showtimes are listed below.)

The Children’s Holiday Film Series is already underway, and the snow last Saturday seemed to cement the idea that the holidays are upon us! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection has become a holiday favorite for many!
Here’s what’s left:
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

Most of you who frequent THE NEON know Diana – she’s our assistant manager who is responsible for the beautiful menu boards in our concession area. Way above and beyond her inventory duties, Diana decided to come up with a delicious menu of holiday drinks – ranging from traditional Eggnog (*spiked, of course*) to Candy Cane Hot Cocoa. Check out the special menu during your next visit.

Lastly, we have a special treat for those of you looking to give NEON gift certificates this holiday season. For every $50 of gift certificates you purchase, you will receive a free bag of Candy Cane Granola. This delicious, locally made snack was recently sampled by the staff…and quickly became a favorite. Loaded with peppermint schnapps, white chocolate, dried cranberries and almonds, you might end up keeping this treat for yourself.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 10 – December 16:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:30

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST (R) 2 Hr 27 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Sunday – Thursday: 2:20, 5:10, 8:00

ELF (PG) 1 Hr 37 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

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

Dec. 17 BLACK SWAN
Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH
Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, TAMARA DREWE & SOMEWHERE

Holiday Film Series & More at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

This newsletter will be short and sweet. We’ve got 2 great films…and they’re both performing very well…so they’re gonna stick around. 127 HOURS and FAIR GAME were a great mix for us over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. If you still need to see either one, hurry on down!

The Downtown Holiday Festival will begin this year’s Children’s Holiday Film Series on Saturday! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection is a film that is absolute magic on the big screen. Though not often thought of as a holiday film, MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS is a perfect film for the whole family – and how can you go wrong with Judy Garland singing the bittersweet American standard “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas?”
Here’s the full line-up:
Dec. 4 at Noon – MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (“Clang, clang, clang went the trolley…”)
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

December 1st  was World AIDS Day…a day to reflect on the lives of those who have passed from HIV/AIDS complications…and a day to remember that the fight isn’t over. New cases, especially in young demographics, are on the rise. THE RUBI GIRLS, known for their work with various HIV/AIDS charities, have unveiled their 2011 wall calendar – and they’re now available in our lobby. Calendars are just $20 each, and 100% of that amount will go to charities in the Miami Valley. If you still need a 2011 calendar…or you’re looking for a fun, unique gift…check out the calendar next time you’re here. Last year’s edition sold out, and this year’s edition is even more wonderful! If you’re an out-of-town subscriber to this newsletter, you can always visit www.arcohio.org to buy your calendar on-line – where 100% stays with AIDS Resource Center Ohio.
Special thanks to those of you who wrote to me upon hearing the story about The Rubi Girls during “All Things Considered” on WYSO.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 3 – December 9:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

FAIR GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Saturday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45

MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (NR) 1 Hr 54 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

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

Dec. 10 THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST      Dec. 17 TAMARA DREW
Dec. 22 BLACK SWAN    Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH     Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM

TBD: RABBIT HOLE

So This is Christmas…

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8-Track:8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

The Sounds of the 70’s

THE HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

Grab Your Boogie Shoes!

The Human Race Presents

A Unique Holiday Offering

So this is Christmas and what have you done?

Another year older, a new one just begun.

A very merry Christmas and a happy new year,

Let’s hope it’s a good one without any fear.

Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon & Yoko Ono – December 6, 1971

Holiday fare at the theatres can often get stale and repetitive.  I love a good Dickens’ tale or Nutcracker ballet like anyone else but wouldn’t it be a great to start a NEW holiday tradition, Recently, we’ve seen local production of fresher holiday fare including classics like Miracle on 34th Street and White Christmas (currently playing at La Comedia) to edgier offerings like Eight Reindeer Monlogues. Nationally, TWO new holiday musicals are making the rounds – a new musical adaptation of the classic holiday film A Christmas Story and on Broadway – a musical staging of the more recent film, Elf.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

This holiday season, amid all of the standards, The Human Race Theatre Company is inviting you back to the age of bellbottoms, flower power, and draft dodging.  Fifty of the greatest hits of the 70’s wrapped into one rock ‘n’ roll evening doesn’t seem like typical holiday fare but The Human Race is betting on 8-Track: The Sounds of the 70’s.

From the creator of the 60’s musical revue Beehive comes this all new retrospective that the Minneapolis Star Tribune has called “an infectious, joyous celebration.”  The show is cleverly split into 8 “tracks” or themes like War and Peace and Disco that give the show a thematic tie to the decade it represents.   Be prepared to hear classic songs from Donna Summer, Helen Reddy, KC & The Sunshine Band, The Carpenters, The Bee Gees among others.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

The other thing you can be sure of is that these songs will be expertly executed. Under the direction of Human Race Resident Artist Scott Stoney, the cast of five include TWO locals-made-good including EBONY BLAKE and JJ TIEYMEYER – both Wright State graduates and both now New York based. Neither are strangers to the Loft. Blake was seen in Jitney and the workshop presentation of Nefertiti (Ms. Blake was last seen here in Dayton on the national tour of The Color Purple that played the Schuster Center).  Tiemeyer has been seen  in A Christmas Carol and Man of La Mancha with The Human Race.  The cast is rounded out by JENNIFER WREN (Brigadoon at the Schubert) and JONATHAN BURKE (National Tour of Cats).

So go ahead and indulge in your “ghost of Christmases past” and dancing mice but don’t miss the holiday Disco party at the Loft.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.Photos by Scott  J. Kimmins

Tickets & Performance Information:

The Human Race Theatre Company - Dayton, Ohio8-Track:  The Sounds of the 70’s  – December 2 through 22 at The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St.

Various performances days and times, visit  www.humanracetheatre.org or Ticket Center Stage for ticket information.

Tickets also available by calling (937) 228-3630 or toll-free (888) 228-3630

Group tickets for holiday outings (or otherwise) at (937) 461-3823 x 3113

-DB

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com - Shane Anderson, David Brush, Katherine Nelson & Russell Florence, Jr.Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company.Katherine Nelson, a senior theatre major at Cedarville University, serves as the Literary Intern for ETC.  The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

127 HOURS & FAIR GAME – A Great Combo at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

We’ve cleaned house…and have moved into awards season – hopefully a busy time for us.
We have just opened the region’s premiere engagement of Danny Boyle’s new film starring James Franco – 127 HOURS (which you’ll be hearing more about come Oscar time). This film has been given a 100% review by Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today, Chicago-Sun Times, and many more.
Don’t miss this incredible, gripping film on the big screen.

In addition, we opened the new thriller FAIR GAME – starring Naomi Watts and Sean Penn. Owen Gleiberman of Entertainment Weekly wrote that this film “gets you riled up all over again at a deeply unpatriotic abuse of power.” J.R. Jones of Chicago Reader wrote that the film is “easily the best fact-based Hollywood political thriller since ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN.”

Synopsis for 127 HOURS: “127 HOURS is the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston’s remarkable adventure to save himself after a fallen boulder crashes on his arm and traps him in an isolated canyon in Utah. Over the next five days Ralston examines his life and survives the elements to finally discover he has the courage and the wherewithal to extricate himself by any means necessary, scale a 65 foot wall and hike over eight miles… Throughout his journey, Ralston recalls friends, lovers, family, and the two hikers he met before his accident. Will they be the last two people he ever had the chance to meet?” (taken from Fox Searchlight Pictures) Directed by SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE’s Danny Boyle.
http://www.foxsearchlight.com/127hours/


Synopsis for FAIR GAME: “Valerie Plame and her husband face the fallout when her cover is blown as a covert CIA agent. Plame’s status as a CIA agent was revealed by White House officials allegedly out to discredit her husband after he wrote a 2003 New York Times op-ed piece saying that the Bush administration had manipulated intelligence about weapons of mass destruction to justify the invasion of Iraq.” (taken from Fandango)
http://www.fairgame-movie.com/


The Downtown Holiday Festival has announced The Children’s Holiday Film Series for this year! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults.
Dec. 4 at Noon – MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (the gorgeous Judy Garland classic which introduced the American standard “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”)
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

THE RUBI GIRLS have unveiled their 2011 wall calendar, and they’re now available in our lobby. Calendars are just $20 each, and 100% of that amount will go to charities in the Miami Valley. If you still need a 2011 calendar…or you’re looking for a fun, unique gift…check out the calendar next time you’re here. Last year’s edition sold out, and this year’s edition is even more wonderful!

Over the past several years, we’ve built a following of loyal, NEON customers…and we’re very thankful for your support and interest in our programing. Thank You so much!
Being that we’re open 365 days a year, we thought we should spread our thanks to folks who come out on Thanksgiving (this will be my 10th year that I’ll be here on Thanksgiving). If you come to THE NEON to see a movie on Thanksgiving Day, mention this newsletter for a free small popcorn.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care & Happy Thanksgiving,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for November 24 – December 2:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (11/24 & 25): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Thursday: 3:00, 7:20, 9:30

FAIR GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 48 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (11/24 & 25): 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Wednesday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Thursday:7:30, 9:45

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

Dec. 10 THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST
Dec. 17 TAMARA DREW
Dec. 22 BLACK SWAN
Dec. 24 MADE IN DAGENHAM
TBD: THE KING’S SPEECH & RABBIT HOLE

Big Film Announcements at The Neon – Fair Game, 127 Hours and More!

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Hello Everyone.

Within the next several days, we will open 2 films that have garnered 100% reviews from numerous critics.  First off (only guaranteed to play for 5 days!!) is LEBANON.  This film will open on Friday and has been given a 100% review by Entertainment Weekly, Chicago Tribune, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and many more!  Hurry down!

Next Wednesday (Nov. 24), we will have the region’s premiere engagement of Danny Boyle’s new film starring James Franco – 127 HOURS (which you’ll be hearing more about come Oscar time).  This film has been given a 100% review by Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today, Chicago-Sun Times, and many more.  Don’t miss this incredible, gripping film on the big screen.

THIS JUST IN!!    I started typing this e-mail on Wednesday evening, but I decided to hold off sending it because we were asked to consider opening another film within the next couple weeks.  As it turns out, it’s coming even sooner…we’ve got another film set to open on November 24 – the new thriller FAIR GAME – starring Naomi Watts and Sean Penn.   Owen Gleiberman of Entertainment Weekly wrote that this film “gets you riled up all over again at a deeply unpatriotic abuse of power.”  J.R. Jones of Chicago Reader wrote that the film is “easily the best fact-based Hollywood political thriller since ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN.”

Synopsis for LEBANON: “A handful of soldiers take a claustrophobic journey into the heart of war in this drama from Israeli writer and director Samuel Maoz.  It’s June 1982, and Israel is launching an invasion of Lebanon. Four men assigned to take part in the first strike are put on the same tank detail…After being given their orders, the men set out toward the Lebanese border, recognizing little of what goes on outside beyond what can be seen through a tiny window; they occasionally stop to help fellow Israelis hurt in battle, but for the most part, they roll relentlessly onward, occasionally arguing amongst themselves, until they arrive at their destination, a town already bombed into rubble by the Israeli Air Force. Few of their allies remain in the city, putting the soldiers in a perilous situation when a band of Syrian resistance fighters lays siege to the tank.”  (Mark Deming, All Movie Guide)
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE


Synopsis for 127 HOURS: “127 HOURS is the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston’s remarkable adventure to save himself after a fallen boulder crashes on his arm and traps him in an isolated canyon in Utah. Over the next five days Ralston examines his life and survives the elements to finally discover he has the courage and the wherewithal to extricate himself by any means necessary, scale a 65 foot wall and hike over eight miles… Throughout his journey, Ralston recalls friends, lovers, family, and the two hikers he met before his accident. Will they be the last two people he ever had the chance to meet?” (taken from Fox Searchlight Pictures)  Directed by SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE’s Danny Boyle.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE


Synopsis for FAIR GAME: “Valerie Plame and her husband face the fallout when her cover is blown as a covert CIA agent. Plame’s status as a CIA agent was revealed by White House officials allegedly out to discredit her husband after he wrote a 2003 New York Times op-ed piece saying that the Bush administration had manipulated intelligence about weapons of mass destruction to justify the invasion of Iraq.” (taken from Fandango)
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE

The Downtown Holiday Festival has announced The Children’s Holiday Film Series for this year!  Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults.
Dec. 4 at Noon – MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (the gorgeous Judy Garland classic which introduced the American standard “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”)
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

THE RUBI GIRLS have unveiled their 2011 wall calendar, and they’re now available in our lobby.  Calendars are just $20 each, and 100% of that amount will go to charities in the Miami Valley.  If you still need a 2011 calendar…or you’re looking for a fun, unique gift…check out the calendar next time you’re here.  Last year’s edition sold out, and this year’s edition is even more wonderful!
We hope to see you very soon.
Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for November 19 – November 23:

WAITING FOR SUPERMAN (PG) 111 minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday & Tuesday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45

INSIDE JOB (PG-13) 108 Minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Monday, Tuesday: 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

LEBANON (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday – Tuesday: 3:00

SHOWTIMES for November 24 – November 25:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

FAIR GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 48 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.  Some of these dates will change.
Dec. 3 or 10  THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST
Dec. 17   TAMARA DREW
Dec. 22  BLACK SWAN
Dec. 24   MADE IN DAGENHAM
TBD:  THE KING’S SPEECH & RABBIT HOLE