• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to secondary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Event Calendar
    • Submit An Event
  • About Us
    • Our Contributors
    • Subscribe
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Where to Pick up Dayton937
  • Arts & Entertainment
    • Art Exhibits
    • Comedy
    • On Screen Dayton
    • On Screen Dayton Reviews
    • Road Trippin’
      • Cincinnati
      • Columbus
      • Indianapolis
    • Spectator Sports
    • Street-Level Art
    • Visual Arts
  • Dayton Dining
    • Happy Hours Around Town
    • Local Restaurants Open On Monday
    • Patio Dining in the Miami Valley
    • 937’s Boozy Brunch Guide
    • Dog Friendly Patio’s in the Miami Valley
    • Restaurants with Private Dining Rooms
    • Dayton Food Trucks
    • Quest
    • Ten Questions
  • Dayton Music
    • Music Calendar
  • Active Living
    • Canoeing/Kayaking
    • Cycling
    • Hiking/Backpacking
    • Runners

Dayton937

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

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Dayton Playhouse

‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – Corporate Charm

September 12, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr.

how to succeed

Photo caption (Center left and right) R.J. Steck, Jim Lockwood and the cast of the Dayton Playhouse’s production of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” (Photo by Art Fabian)

The Dayton Playhouse’s 2014-15 season is off to a promising start thanks to its delightful staging of Frank Loesser, Abe Burrows, Willie Gilbert and Jack Weinstock’s 1962 Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical satire “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

Based on the 1952 book by Shepherd Mead and directed by Jeff Sams, this “Succeed” succeeds primarily because it doesn’t have to survive on the confident shoulders of R.J. Steck, a tall, lanky and personable presence who conveys the proper amount of gumption and shrewdness as window washer-turned-corporate honcho J. Pierrepont Finch. Steck charmingly handles Finch’s fascinating ascension within the World Wide Wicket Company circa 1965, a goofy, dated playpen where men behave badly and women long for marriage. However, as with any star-driven musical from “Mame” to “Fiddler on the Roof,” it’s important for the lead to be supported. It’s satisfying to know Steck is surrounded by a strong ensemble and featured performers despite the cast overtly skewing younger than most productions of this show.
Brad Bishop is a hoot as philandering company president J.B. Biggley, particularly mastering Biggley’s idiosyncrasies and no-nonsense attitude while validating how easily manipulated he is. He also memorably partners with Steck for a comical rendition of “Grand Old Ivy” reminiscent of the 2011 Broadway revival starring Daniel Radcliffe. Lovely vocalist Taylor Winkleski is sweet and appealing as Rosemary Pilkington, the secretary smitten by Finch. The playful Tori Kocher, a breakthrough performer last season as Penny Pingleton in the Playhouse’s “Hairspray,” shines again as a wonderfully witty Smitty, Rosemary’s close friend and fellow secretary. Desmond Thomas, precise and intuitive, schemes with glee as Bud Frump, Biggley’s jealous nephew and Finch’s nemesis. As dim-witted vamp Hedy LaRue, Hannah Thompson cutely seduces and entraps. Jim Lockwood is terrifically distinctive as Mr. Twimble and Wally Womper. J. Gary Thompson (Bert Bratt), Richard Young (Milt Gatch), Rebekah Skaroupka (Miss Jones), and Steve Peters (Voice of the Book that gives Finch the tricks of the trade) commendably round out the principals. The enjoyable ensemble consists of Maggie Carroll, Malcolm Casey, Naman Clark, Janice Lea Codispoti, Paige Combs, Allison Eder, Karla Enix, Tyler Henry, Marabeth A. Klejna, Matt Lindsay, Grace Lindsley, Joe Meyer, Trevor Meyers, Jim Spencer, Sydney Thomas, John-Michael Vanover, Stacy Ward, and Andrew Wood.
From a notable musical standpoint, the Act 1 finale spotlighting Steck, Winkleski and Thomas will send you into intermission with a smile due to their very pleasant harmony and the strength of Nancy Perrin’s fine orchestra.
Elsewhere, choreographer Annette Looper supplies another series of energetic and flavorful routines as evidenced in the hilarious frenzy of “Coffee Break,” the mindful caution of “A Secretary is Not a Toy,” and the rousing unity of “Brotherhood of Man.” Chris Newman, the Playhouse’s resident scenic designer this season, supplies a colorfully authentic workplace complete with an efficient elevator and large walls cleverly serving as office doors. Kathleen Carroll’s attractive costumes are also era-appropriate. John Falkenbach’s lighting design, K.L. Storer’s sound design, Melanie Davis’ properties, and Steve Burton and Tim Grewe’s wig and hair design are added benefits of this thoroughly entertaining production.

 

“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” continues through Sept. 21 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $16 for seniors and students. The production is performed in 3 hours including a 15-minute intermission. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit online at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Reviews, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton Playhouse, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.

‘Oklahoma!’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – Smokehouse Showdown

May 9, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!,” the landmark 1943 musical concerning love and statehood circa 1906 in Oklahoma territory based on Lynn Riggs’ 1930 play “Green Grow the Lilacs,” thrives on its engaging romance between a stubborn farm girl and her folksy suitor. Even so, there is another relationship, a truly alluring collaboration, key to the appeal of the Dayton Playhouse’s entertaining if off-kilter presentation.

oklahoma

David Hallowren (left) and Jeff Sams in the Dayton Playhouse production of “Oklahoma!” (Photo by Art Fabian)

 

Late in Act 1, an absolute highpoint, cowboy Curly McClain (an immensely charismatic Jeff Sams) arrives at the pornography-adorned smokehouse of surly ranch hand Jud Fry (an impressive David Hallowren). Both men vow to win the heart of Laurey Williams (Amanda Carter), but Curly particularly knows deep within that Laurey only pines for and intends to be with him. Still, Jud has the upper hand for the time being since Laurey promised to go with him to a box social despite Curly’s bewildered disdain. Under director Brian Sharp’s delicate guidance, the fascinating tug-of-war transpiring here over casual conversation and a few shots of gunfire wonderfully conveys the determination and jealousy fueling Curly and Jud’s inherent friction. In fact, Sams, carefree yet astute, hits all the right marks in an appropriately impromptu fashion while building the morbid gem “Pore Jud is Daid,” a humorously somber portrait of Jud’s demise. Having winningly interpreted Curly’s knack for fantasy in “The Surrey With the Fringe on Top,” Sams conjures another imaginary premise with colorful nuances freshly heightening the tune, particularly as Hallowren ensures the clueless Jud falls for the silly scenario perhaps due to nothing more than momentary masculine companionship. When Curly leaves the smokehouse, after intimidating Jud to the core with his confident swagger, Jud’s pain as an unloved, detached outcast is powerfully examined by Hallowren in his dynamic rendition of the haunting, underrated “Lonely Room” filled with ample heartache, vengeance and frightening decisiveness.

Sams and Hallowren are a significant pairing primarily because of Carter’s vocal limitations hindering the cohesion she tries very hard to maintain opposite the more vocally firm Sams. Carter is an endearing presence and gives credence to Laurey’s hopeful yearnings, but the score is simply beyond her range, particularly “Many a New Day” and “People Will Say We’re in Love.” As ruthless peddler Ali Hakim, Christopher Delanis (an amusing Hero in the University of Dayton’s recent “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”) is equally uneven, providing an overly meek, tentative and exasperated portrayal absent of salesman-like savvy and go-getting vigor. Even “It’s a Scandal! It’s an Outrage!,” Ali’s signature tune, falls flat despite cheery backup from the male ensemble.
Nonetheless, this production has its share of strong principals and featured performers. As Aunt Eller, the outstanding Karen Righter provides a wonderfully earthy sparkle, specifically bringing substantive radiance to Eller’s words of wisdom directed to Laurey late in Act 2. Kelli Locker is chock-full of fiery abandon as the hopelessly flirtatious Ado Annie Carnes. Matthew Glenn is a delightfully dimwitted Will Parker. Shawn Hooks is effectively authoritative and sly as Andrew Carnes. Ben Douglas (Ike Skidmore) and Zack Conway (Slim) pleasantly partner as Will’s friends. The absolutely luminous Tiffany Cichanowicz captivates as Dream Laurey in the favorably abridged Dream Ballet, beautifully choreographed by Barbara Pontecorvo.
Notable choreography is also offered by Paige Hanshaw, especially in the rousing “The Farmer and the Cowman.” In-demand scenic designer Chris Newman returns to the Playhouse to create a striking set depicting an authentic homestead essence. Kathleen Carroll supplies fine period costumes. John Falkenbach’s lighting design aptly captures varying moods. Musical director Ron Kindell leads another terrific orchestra.

 

“Oklahoma!” continues through May 18 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Act One: 90 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit online at www.daytonplayhouse.com.

In addition, the Friday, May 16 performance will be “Western Wear Night.” Patrons are encouraged to dress in their favorite farmer or cowboy/cowgirl attire. In addition, two special picnic hampers, containing gift certificates for fried chicken and other picnic delicacies from Benjamin’s Restaurant and sweet treats and coffee from Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees, will be raffled, as a fundraiser, during all performances and awarded after the closing performance Sunday, May 18. Raffle tickets will be $1 or six for $5.

 

In related news, the Dayton Playhouse’s 2014 FutureFest of new plays will be held Friday, July 25-Sunday, July 27 at the Playhouse. From a total of 151 submissions across the country, the six finalists are: “Masterwork” and “The Paymaster” by Dayton native M.J. Feely (a previous winner and third playwright to have two plays in final six), “Sugarhill” by Linda Ramsay-Detherage, “The Humanist” by Kuros Charney (previous semi-finalist), “The Killing Jar” by Jennifer Lynne Roberts, and “Wash, Dry, Fold” by Nedra Pezold Roberts (previous semi-finalist). Auditions will be held Sunday, June 1 at 2 p.m. (all plays), Monday, June 2 at 7 p.m. (fully staged plays) and Tuesday, June 3 at 7 p.m. (staged readings). Anyone interested in directing or serving as a member of the production staff should e-mail FutureFest program director Fran Pesch by May 15 at fpesch3@hotmail.com. FutureFest weekend passes will go on sale Wednesday, June 11. Single tickets will go on sale Tuesday, July 1. For more information, visit www.daytonplayhouse.com

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Reviews, The Featured Articles Tagged With: David Hallowren, Dayton Playhouse, Jeff Sams, Oklahoma!

SMAG Dance Collective’s 10th Season Finale Comes to the Dayton Playhouse

April 28, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

SMAGSave the date! for SMAG Dance Collective’s 10th Anniversary Season Spring Fling concert which takes place on May 24h at Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45414.

Show times are 4:00pm and 8:00pm.  Tickets can be purchased at www.smagdance.org and Brown Paper Tickets.

Spring Fling is purely devoted to the art of dance; challenging, physical, dynamic and insightful works are performed.  This 10th Anniversary Season’s Spring Fling Concert features the work of many of Dayton’s OWN, so #dateyourcity

SMAG’s 10th Anniversary Season Spring Fling features the work of nearly 10 choreographers, and SMAG is proud to present the work of the exceptionally artful, Rodney Brown, Founder/Director of the Brown Dance Project, the intensely moving work of fellow dancer and life-long friend, Shonna Hickman-Matlock, Director of DCDC2, and the work of Rodney Veal, for whom there are many accolades, and yet who is a humble man who lives art in a way that only he can and our community is blessed by his amazing gifts.

SMAG’s Spring Fling also serves as a showcase for emerging choreographers such as this season’s veteran company member and Assistant Director, Taiesha Green and first year company member, Rachelle Cartee.

This 10th Anniversary Season’s Spring Fling also features the work of Deniz and Renee McClendon.  These women are long time contributors to the body of work that is dance in Dayton, Ohio, and SMAG Dance Collective is excited to share the stage with these choreographers and their dancers.

Spring Fling is very much representative of the company’s mission which is to provide opportunity for dancers and choreographers, educate and entertain diverse audiences, and to bridge the gap between artists, arts organizations and the community.

SMAG Dance Collective extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the company’s Spring Fling power2give campaign and also to Culture Works!

SMAG’s programming is made possible by grant funding from the Ohio Arts Council, private donors, in kind donations from volunteers and local businesses, and most recently, with the help of Culture Works’ power2give launch.

SMAG Dance Collective is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Tagged With: Brown Dance Project, Dayton Club Scene, Dayton Playhouse, DCDC2, Rodney Brown, Rodney Veal, Shonna Hickman-Matlock, SMAG Dance Collective, Spring Fling

‘Working’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – It’s a Living

February 4, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

working

Suzanne Clabaugh and William “Kip” Moore rehearse a scene from “Working” with director Jim Lockwood (Contributed photo)

The Dayton Playhouse delivers an admirable, often touching production of Stephen Schwartz and Nina Faso’s 1978 musical “Working,” based on Studs Terkel’s 1974 book “Working: People Talk About What They Do and How They Feel About What They Do.”

Nearly 30 wide-ranging occupations from a publicist and project manager to a community organizer and fundraiser are the lifeblood of this meaningful, intermissionless outing insightfully conceived from a series of interviews. The allure of the material, including additional contributions by Gordon Greenberg, rests in its endearing simplicity reminding us that every worker contributes to the productivity of our society. Some jobs may seem trivial or underhanded, but all of them undeniably serve a purpose. The dialogue, flowing with smooth transitions by director Jim Lockwood, is peppered with personality and depth by an assortment of terrific songwriters including Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, Mary Rodgers, Micki Grant and James Taylor. The Playhouse uses the revised 2011 version, which particularly trims the cast to six and incorporates new professions (including a Verizon tech support and fast food delivery employee) and two songs from Tony Award-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (“In the Heights”). Interestingly, the revised script also effectively remembers the unemployed.

A true ensemble showcase, “Working” features enjoyable, entertaining portrayals from a vocally sufficient cast. Matt Poliachik incites laughs and groans as a privileged student who seemingly has his life all planned out. He also offers a sincerely plaintive rendition of Carnelia’s wonderful Billy Joel-esque tune “The Mason.” Matthew Clifton is equally humorous as the aforementioned fast food worker and a crazed ex-newsroom assistant. Lynn Kesson, sweet and grounded, particularly joins Clifton for the impactful duet “A Very Good Day,” which focuses on the joys and concerns of an elder care worker and a nanny. Suzanne Clabaugh gives credence to her earthy assignments as a prostitute and cleaning lady. Tori T. Tuccillo adeptly inhabits an agitated school teacher (“Nobody Tells Me How”) and an energetic waitress (“It’s an Art”). In addition to rendering a tender version of Schwartz’s moving “Fathers and Sons,” William “Kip” Moore, in a welcomed return to the Playhouse, simply mesmerizes as a retiree discussing the monotony of his daily routine (“Joe”).
Scenic designer Chris Newman’s metropolitan backdrop, Allison Eder’s understatedly organic choreography, and musical director Lorri B. Topping’s fine onstage band are added benefits.

“Working” continues through Feb. 16 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The production is performed in 90 minutes without intermission. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit online at www.daytonplayhouse.com

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, On Stage Dayton Reviews, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Comedy, Dayton Playhouse, musicals, Nina Faso, Stephen Schwartz, Studs Terkel, Theater, Tony Award, Working

An Urban Nutcracker

December 4, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

247422-250An Urban Nutcracker is a ballet created for the holiday season and as an alternative to the traditional Nutcracker.  It is an engaging work that encompasses the urban environment, and it has become an audience favorite in addition to drawing the most diverse of SMAG Dance Collective’s audiences.



An Urban Nutcracker brings together dancers from throughout the Dayton, Ohio area as well as some out of town guest performers from the tri-state area.  The ballet is performed by a cast of approximately 50 performers which is comprised of professional dancers, students and volunteers. Funk Lab Dance Center is among this season’s guest performers.  An Urban Nutcracker is SMAG Dance Collective’s largest seasonal offering and is only made possible by the generous support of people like you and grant funding from the Ohio Arts Council in addition to the immensely appreciated in kind donations from volunteers and local businesses.

[yframe url=’https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2QxWWa1DFU’]

This production is very much representative of the company’s mission which is to provide opportunity for dancers and choreographers, educate and entertain diverse audiences, and to bridge the gap between artists, arts organizations and the community.  SMAG Dance Collective also collaborates with other organizations as a part of our mission, and the company has spearheaded an effort to dialogue with other arts producing organizations and develop collaborations which push the impetus of the region toward being an arts and cultural destination.  SMAG Dance Collective is a contemporary fusion dance company founded by Michael Groomes in 2003.  The company’s eclecticism in movement, choice of venue and its dancers pushes the boundaries of contemporary dance.

There are two performances at the Dayton Playouse on Sat, Dec 21st: 4 & 8pm and tickets are $15 for general admission and $15 for VIP seating.  Seniors and students rates are just $10. Tickets can be purchased online.

 

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment Tagged With: An Urban Nutcracker, Dayton Playhouse, SMAG Dance Collective

Fellow Passengers to Take Audiences on a Journey ** Ticket Contest**

December 2, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro 9 Comments

Fellow Passengers-1048Let’s play a game.
Name this line:

“I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round… as a good time: a kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time: the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow-passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on their journeys.”

 

Well – if you’re not sure – you’re not alone. This line is from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, although you wouldn’t know it from the many, many (many, many, many) variations you’ve no doubt seen over the years. The Dayton Playhouse will Fellow Passengers-1134remedy that with an adaptation of the holiday classic that more closely resembles the original.

 

Fellow Passengers (which takes its name from the above quote) is a three-person reading that closely follows the original text. Megan Cooper, Franklin Johnson and Charles Larkowski bring audiences on a journey over the course of the evening as we watch Scrooge discover the meaning of Christmas. Directed by Dodie Lockwood, the language is the true star of the show. Costume pieces are hinted at – a cap here, a shawl there – just enough to convey the multiple characters portrayed by each actor. Lights and music shift as Scrooge journeys from scene to scene and learns what Christmas means.

 

Audiences who are familiar with the tale know that Scrooge’s old friend Marley introduces him to three ghosts who remind him of who he used to be and show him the direction his life is heading if he doesn’t change. But there’s so much more to the story. Fellow Passengers strips away the spectacle (huge sets, elaborate costumes, multiple song breaks) that occasionally accompanies holiday shows and focuses on that classic story.  According to Lockwood, this adaptation is “chock full of the beautiful language of Dickens’ original work.”

 

Fellow Passengers-1115
 Lockwood continues, “I was fortunate to find this beautifully written piece and was taken with it immediately. It has previously been produced only in Seattle, so we are happy to premiere it in Dayton. The play slips in and out of Dickens’ richly drawn characters and transports us adventurously through the old streets of London to witness Scrooge’s past, present and future. This unique script is quite a challenge for even these three very talented actors.”

 

This fresh adaptation was written by Greg Carter, director of the Strawberry Workshop in Seattle, Washington. Performed by Chuck Larkowski, Megan Cooper, and Franklin Johnson, each playing multiple roles. Nostalgic Victorian Christmas carols performed by local musicians Michael and Sandy Bashaw, will be featured throughout the production along with original pieces developed by the Bashaws for this presentation. Dodie Lockwood is directing the production assisted by Richard Brock. Set design by Chris Newman; Light design by Anita ; Costumes by Robin Farinet; Produced by Kelli Locker. Sound and Light support from Josh Davis and Greg Nichols.

SPECIAL DAYTON MOST METRO DEAL! For the Thursday, December 12 performance ONLY – you can attend for only $10 if you mention that you saw it on Dayton Most Metro. Fellow Passengers-1099Also – see below for a great ticket giveaway opportunity.

Fellow Passengers will open Friday, December 6 and will run through December 15. Performances are at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. The Dayton Playhouse is at 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave, Dayton, OH 45414. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. Special discount rates are available for groups of 10 or more, with an additional group discount on Thursday, December 12. Reservations are encouraged and may be made at www.daytonplayhouse.com, or by calling the Dayton Playhouse box office at 937-424-8477. The box office is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m., however, messages may be left at any time and calls will be returned. Group sales must be done directly through the box office.

Fellow Passengers B&W-1075  DMM does have a couple of pairs of tickets to give away for some lucky readers to see this show as our guests.  If you’d like to enter the drawing to win these tickets, just comment below and share this story on your page and fill out the entry below.
Our contest has ended.  Congratulations to ticket winners Amy Feltner and Steve Stawser!

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Previews Tagged With: a christmas carol, Dayton Playhouse

Coming up in Dayton theatre, 10/23 – 11/3

October 23, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Welcome back! You know, whenever I type that  phrase, I think of the theme song to the 1970’s sitcom “Welcome Back, Kotter!” Only, in this case, your dreams aren’t your ticket. Your tickets are your dreams. And in each one of the pieces I’m synopsizing for you, there are dreams a’plenty. For safety, for glory, for happiness…and maybe just for a really good-looking man.

Was that too much? I may be waxing poetic. Probably best, then, just to dive right in!

Limited Engagement!

War Horse

imgres-1The Schuster Center

The Skinny: A heart-warming tale of loyalty and friendship, War Horse is based on the 1982 novel of the same name. The plot heart-warming tale of loyalty and friendship, War Horse tells the story of young Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, set amid the horrors of the first World War. And features puppetry you must see to believe.

Dates:

Tickets: Tickets are available at the Victoria Theatre Association website, www.victoriatheatre.com

Opening This Weekend!

Deathtrap

21016B67A-E92D-F73F-FC1D8715FDB04ADBDayton Playhouse

The Skinny: A writer of thrillers, who has seen his unsuccessful plays greatly outnumber his smashes, receives a nearly perfect thriller in the mail from a fan. After inviting the fan to his home, the question becomes…what would you do for a taste of glory? This is a dark comedy that will make you laugh, and gasp, and keep you guessing.

Dates: Deathtrap opens 10/25 and will run through 11/03.

Tickets: Please visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Dog Sees God – Confessions of a Teenaged Blockhead

Dog Sees God FB picBeavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny:  An “unauthorized parody,” the play imagines characters from the popular comic strip Peanuts as teenagers. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion, sexual relations and identity are among the issues covered in this drama. Not for the younger set, as this is produced by BCT’s more-adult “Edge Of The Creek” season.

Dates:

Tickets: Please see the Beavercreek Community Theatre website at www.bctheatre.org

Oklahoma!

OK FLYER 1Wright State University

The Skinny: This beloved Rogers & Hammerstein classic tells the story of the denizens of the Oklahoma territory, just as it is poised on the cusp of statehood. You know it, you love it. It’s a guaranteed good time in the theatre.

Dates: Oklahoma opens Thursday, 10/24 and will run through 11/10.

Tickets: Please visit the Wright State box office page, here.

Currently In Production!

The Rocky Horror (Puppet!) Show

1173871_10100273183026040_1503918685_nZoot Theatre Company

The Skinny: The sweet transvestite and his motley crew will take the stage in an entirely new way and for the first time ever at the NCR Renaissance Auditorium. A much different take on this classic, yet campy musical this deliberately kitschy rock ‘n’ roll sci-fi Gothic is more fun than ever and let’s face it…it’s going to be done like ONLY Zoot can do! Caution: adult themes and strong language are used. Recommended for those ages 16 and up.

Dates: RH(P)S is currently in production, having opened last weekend, and will run through 11/2.

Tickets: Please call the Zoot box office at  937.512.0140

Opening Next Weekend!

Fiddler On The Roof

u897ff6o70mayiekm6rzt89q0gttig7iThe Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Based on the short stories of Sholem Aleichem, Fiddler is the tale of Tevye the milkman and his family. The shtetl of Anatevka seems safe and peaceful, but the sweeping changes facing Russia in 1905 bring strife and worry even to its smallest pockets. Fiddler juxtaposes the large changes rocking the world with the intimate, beautiful and sometimes heart-breaking changes that can rock a family.

Dates: This production will open on 10/31 and run through 12/1.

Tickets: Please visit the Human Race Theatre Company website at www.humanracetheatre.org

 

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, On Stage Dayton Previews Tagged With: Beavercreek Community Theatre, Dayton Playhouse, Downtown Dayton, Fiddler On The Roof, Oklahoama, Peanuts, puppet theatre, The Human Race Theatre Co., the schuster center, Thrillers, War Horse, wright state theatre department, Zoot Theatre Company

‘Hairspray’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – The Beat Goes On

September 20, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. 2 Comments

HAIRSPRAY-1

The cast of the Dayton Playhouse’s production of ‘Hairspray’ (photo by Art Fabian)

After Wright State University staged “Hairspray” in the fall of 2011, I didn’t think any theater troupe in town would touch the show for at least five years. The sheer electricity of that indelible production, which I saw three times, whisked me immediately back to July 26, 2002 when I saw a preview of “Hairspray” on Broadway before the critics heralded it as the hit it was bound to be. Even so, the Dayton Playhouse refreshingly and assuredly steps up to the plate to present a wholeheartedly entertaining version that certainly ranks among the best musicals the organization has produced.
Crisply directed by Tina McPhearson and set in1962 Baltimore, “Hairspray,” winner of eight 2003 Tony Awards including Best Musical, centers on spunky, plus-sized teenager Tracy Turnblad (an innately appealing Tamar Fishbein). Tracy’s humble world changes forever when she joins the merry dance troupe of the local “Corny Collins” TV show. Her lively personality and funky moves helps her catch the attention of the show’s heartthrob Link Larkin (the handsome, sensitive Ben Douglas), but situations escalate when she vows to racially integrate the program.
Fishbein charms throughout as Tracy evolves into a courageous visionary for equality, a key element deftly explored in Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan’s terrific libretto adapted from the 1988 John Waters film of the same name. There are occasional glimpses of exhaustion in her portrayal which diminishes her vocal capacity, but she’s an admirable singer nonetheless, particularly filling the dreamy “I Can Hear the Bells” and the reprise of “Good Morning Baltimore” with great tenderness. Fishbein is also wonderfully supported by Brian Sharp, warmly feminine, affably understanding and very funny as Tracy’s insecure mom Edna, and Jim Lockwood, who delivers one of his finest performances as Tracy’s kooky dad Wilbur. Sharp and Lockwood’s close-knit partnership culminates in a truly effervescent, meaningfully touching version of “Timeless to Me,” composers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman’s nod to unwavering love.
An assortment of excellent featured turns are given by reliable triple threat Desmond Thomas as Seaweed J. Stubbs, knockout vocalist Crystal Williams as Motormouth Maybelle, the absolutely dynamic Kelli Locker as Velma Von Tussle (on par with Linda Hart who originated the role), the spirited Dean Swann as Corny Collins, the amiable Amanda Carter as Amber Von Tussle, the magnetic Amber Butler as Little Inez, the versatile Marabeth Klejna and Rod Wood in multiple roles, and an utterly hilarious Tori Kocher in a breakthrough performance as Tracy’s zany best friend Penny Pingleton.
The cohesive, sunny ensemble, energetically executing Annette Looper’s choreography flavorfully capturing the period, consists of Naman Clark, Malcolm DeSean Casey, Erica Savage, Sydney Thomas, Alyssia Blake, Andrew Reese Tomlinson, Alissa Peppo, Paige Combs, Daveed Abrams, Andrew Wood, Allison Eder, James Branham, Melanie Barrett and Zack Conway.
McPhearson’s impressive technical team includes scenic designer Chris Newman (colorfully recalling David Rockwell’s original work), costume/wig designers Steve Burton and Tim Grewe, and lighting designer Anita Bachmann. Musical director Judy Mansky leads a firm orchestra particularly accented by the skillfulness of drummer Thomas Varner.
Attempting a character-specific, ensemble-driven show like “Hairspray” is a huge undertaking for a community theater, but the Playhouse effortlessly rises to the occasion. Long before the cast says goodbye with the infectious “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” one of only a few songs in contemporary musical theater to live in the pop culture mainstream, you’ll be glad “Hairspray” returned with unbridled glee.

 

“Hairspray” continues through Sept. 22 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 75 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, On Stage Dayton Previews, On Stage Dayton Reviews Tagged With: Dayton Playhouse, Hairspray

Coming up in Dayton Theatre, 9/20 – 9/29

September 19, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Hello again! Welcome back and hello! We’ve got three good shows closing this weekend, a couple still running and one getting ready to open. Let’s get right on stage.

Closing This Weekend!

 

Hairspray!

Dayton Playhouse
hairspray-the-musicalThe Skinny: This high-spirited musical musical takes place in 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland. Teenager, Tracy Turnblad, dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance program. When Tracy wins a role on the show, she becomes a celebrity overnight. She then launches a campaign to integrate the show. The show deals with injustices of parts of American society in the 1960’s.
Dates: Hairspray runs this weekend, closing Sunday, 9/22.
Tickets: Please visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Hair

Beavercreek Community Theatre

hairThe Skinny: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical!This show introduced America to the “Rock musical”, with songs that became standards, such as “The Age Of Aquarius” and “Easy To Be Hard.” Hair focuses on a “tribe” of hippies, touching on several different individual stories, woven throughout with the tragedy of the Vietnam conflict.
Dates: Hairs also closes this weekend, Sunday 9/22.
Tickets: Please visit www.bctheatre.org

First Baptist of Ivy Gap

ivygap_logoThe Skinny: During WWII, six women gather at the church to roll bandages and plan the church’s 75th anniversary. Overseeing things is Edith, the pastor’s wise-cracking wife who dispenses Red Cross smocks and witty repartee to Luby, whose son is fighting in the Pacific; Mae Ellen, the church’s rebellious organist who wants to quit but hasn’t the courage; Olene, who dreams of a career in Hollywood; Sammy, a shy newcomer with a secret; and Vera, an influential Baptist with a secret of her own. When Luby learns her son has been wounded, she confounds the others by blaming the vulnerable Sammy. Twenty-five years later, our “First Baptist Six” reunite!

Dates: Closing Sunday, 9/22

Tickets: To make ticket reservations, please call the Brookville Flower Shop at 937-833-3531

Opening This Weekend!

Harvey

harveyThe Wright State Theatre Company
The Skinny: Elwood P. Dowd is an endlessly pleasant & delightfully eccentric bachelor living in a small town that isn’t quite aware that its newest citizen is a 6’3″ white rabbit named “Harvey,” that only certain people can see.
Dates: Harvey opens Thursday, 9/19 and runs through 9/29
Tickets: Please visit the WSU Theatre Department box office website: http://www.wright.edu/theatre-dance-and-motion-pictures/performances/ticket-information

Currently In Production

Becky’s New Car

The Human Race Theatre Company

ndbeckyThe Skinny: Becky Foster is stuck in neutral—middle aged, in middle management and a middling marriage—until an honest misunderstanding with a wealthy widower offers her the chance at an exciting double life…and she takes it. Now she’s frantically juggling to keep her two worlds apart before everything threatens to come crashing down on her. It’s enough to drive Becky off a cliff, and she’s taking the audience along for the ride!

Dates: Running through the 29th.
Tickets: Please visit the Human Race Theatre Company website at www.humanracetheatre.org

A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement

La Comedia Dinner Theatre

lacomedia-mighty-fortressThe Skinny: The fourth installment in the popular Church Basement Ladies series takes place in 1960, and reformation is underway. The Church Basement Ladies are once again required to face chance head-on, but they will stand strong in their faith and their friendships.

Dates: Closing 10/27.

Tickets: Please visit the La Comedia website at www.lacomedia.com

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Beavercreek Community Theatre, Brian Sharp, Brookville Community Theatre, Dayton Playhouse, dayton theatre, hair, Hairspray, Human Race Theatre Company, la comedia dinner theatre, musicals, wright state theatre department, wright state university

Coming Up In Dayton Theatre, 9/5 – 9/22

September 4, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Welcome back! Has everyone had a good and fulfilling summer? I sure have. But I’m ready to jump back into Dayton’s exciting theatre scene.

Closing This Weekend!

45 Seconds From Broadway

ju4jrz0trfesodmdeu5ipeotavk2686eThe Skinny: Neil Simon’s 2001 Broadway-based comedy takes place in the Polish Tea Room, a haunt of Broadway-types in general, and comedian Mickey Fox in specific.Taking place over the course of 1 year (4 scenes, 4 seasons), this story follows Mickey and his friends as they do all those play things; live, laugh, love and learn.

Dates: 45 Seconds closes this weekend. Friday, 9/6 at 8, Saturday 9/7 at 5 and Sunday 9/8 at 3.

Tickets: For ticket information, please visit the Dayton Theatre Guild website, www.daytontheatreguild.com

Opening This Weekend!

Hairspray

hairspray-the-musicalThe Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: This high-spirited musical musical takes place in 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland. Teenager, Tracy Turnblad, dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance program. When Tracy wins a role on the show, she becomes a celebrity overnight. She then launches a campaign to integrate the show. The show deals with injustices of parts of American society in the 1960’s.

Dates: Hairspray opens this Friday, 9/6 and runs 3 weekends, closing on Sunday, 9/22.

Tickets: For ticketing information, please see the Dayton Playhouse website, www.daytonplayhouse.com

A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement

lacomedia-mighty-fortressLa Comedia Dinner Theatre

The Skinny: The fourth installment in the popular Church Basement Ladies series takes place in 1960, and reformation is underway. The Church Basement Ladies are once again required to face chance head-on, but they will stand strong in their faith and their friendships.

Dates: This show opens Thursday, 9/5 and runs through 10/27.

Tickets: For information regarding tickets, schedule and menu, please visit La Comedia’s website at www.lacomedia.com

 

Opening Next Weekend!

Becky’s New Car

ndbeckyThe Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Becky Foster is stuck in neutral—middle aged, in middle management and a middling marriage—until an honest misunderstanding with a wealthy widower offers her the chance at an exciting double life…and she takes it. Now she’s frantically juggling to keep her two worlds apart before everything threatens to come crashing down on her. It’s enough to drive Becky off a cliff.

Dates: Becky debuts Thursday, 9/12 and runs through Sunday, 9/29.

Tickets: For ticketing information, please visit www.humanracetheatre.org

Hair

hairBeavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical!This show introduced America to the “Rock musical”, with songs that became standards, such as “The Age Of Aquarius” and “Easy To Be Hard.” Hair focuses on a “tribe” of hippies, touching on several different individual stories, woven throughout with the tragedy of the Vietnam conflict.
Dates: Hair opens next weekend, 9/13 and closes 9/22.
Tickets: For ticketing information, please visit the BCT website at www.bctheatre.org

 

First Baptist of Ivy Gap

cjlijq5u8l1joxq42wlzoksfaadhwo7eBrookville Community Theatre

The Skinny: More Church ladies! During WWII, six women gather at the church to roll bandages and plan the church’s 75th anniversary. Overseeing things is Edith, the pastor’s wise-cracking wife who dispenses Red Cross smocks and witty repartee to Luby, whose son is fighting in the Pacific; Mae Ellen, the church’s rebellious organist who wants to quit but hasn’t the courage; Olene, who dreams of a career in Hollywood; Sammy, a shy newcomer with a secret; and Vera, an influential Baptist with a secret of her own. When Luby learns her son has been wounded, she confounds the others by blaming the vulnerable Sammy. Twenty-five years later, our “First Baptist Six” reunite!

Dates: Opening Friday, 9/12 and running through 9/22.

Tickets: To make ticket reservations, please call the Brookville Flower Shop at 937-833-3531

 

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, On Stage Dayton Previews Tagged With: Brian Sharp, Brookville Community Theatre, dayton community theatre, Dayton Playhouse, Dayton Theatre Guild. Neil Simon, dinner theatre, Downtown Dayton, hair, Hairspray, Human Race Theatre Company, La Commedia, Rock Musical, Saul Caplan

‘King’s Face’ and ‘Position’ Tie for Historic FutureFest Win

August 1, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Photo1

2013 Dayton Playhouse FutureFest-winning playwrights Hal Borden (left) and Steven Young (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

History was made Sunday at the Dayton Playhouse as the organization’s 23rd annual FutureFest of new plays gave top honors to Steven Young’s fascinating historical drama “The King’s Face” and Hal Borden’s hilariously topical comedy “A Position of Relative Importance.”
Last weekend’s jaw-dropping yet welcomed tie primarily reflected the refreshing strengths and enormous potential of this year’s six diverse, developing finalists, which included the cross-cultural dramedy “Veils” by Tom Coash of New Haven, Connecticut, quirky abstract art-centered dramedy “The One with Olives” by Sam Havens of Houston, Texas, psychological drama “On the Road to Kingdom Come” by 2009 FutureFest winner and Dayton native Michael Feely of Woodland Hills, California, and the gay marriage-themed comedy “St. Paulie’s Delight” by J. Joseph Cox of Chicago, Illinois. Each contender was judged on criteria including character development, conflict, dramatic structure, plot, page-to-stage and the next stage. The adjudicators consisted of New York-based trio Helen Sneed, Eleanore Speert and David Finkle along with 1997 FutureFest winner Faye Sholiton of Cleveland and 2002 FutureFest finalist Robert Koon of Chicago.

The Kings Face

Charles Larkowski (left) and Josh Katawick in “The King’s Face” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

“The King’s Face,” an engrossingly intimate two-hander superbly directed with palpable unease by Geoff Burkman, concerned the true story of Prince Harry of Monmouth, who was struck by an arrow during the 1403 battle of Shrewsbury. Inside a chamber at Kenilworth Castle, London surgeon and counterfeiter Jonathan Bradmore had the enormously difficult task of attempting to save Harry’s life by meticulously extracting the arrowhead from his skull while simultaneously saving his own.
As the sickly, agitated and paranoid Harry, Josh Katawick delivered a tremendously mature, extraordinarily emotional performance. Consistently discovering delicious nuances inside Young’s beautifully descriptive language, particularly when Harry recounts the elation and horror of battle, Katawick took his lines to Shakespearean heights while remaining astutely connected to the doubt, fear and panic boiling beneath Harry’s youthful bravado. At one point, Harry awakened from a terrible nightmare executed so brilliantly by Katawick you could feel every morsel of his anguish.

The Kings Face-2

Charles Larkowski (left) and Josh Katawick in “The King’s Face” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

At the same rate, the outstanding Charles Larkowski, an absolute natural as Bradmore, effortlessly supported Katawick, genuinely yet cautiously fueling Bradmore’s desire to create a connection and establish trust with his future king. Adopting the warm, personable tones in his narrative duties that served him well as Cosmé McMoon in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s 2011 production of “Souvenir,” Larkowski excellently blended the roles of father, brother, therapist, priest and teacher as the play’s vivid portrait of friendship evolved.
“I enjoyed every minute of the whole process of putting (the play) together,” said Larkowski, a retired music historian who ensured all of the music in the play had a connection to Henry V. “I found both characters to be interesting and even enigmatic in certain ways. Bradmore’s professed aloofness and professionalism are a wonderful contrast to Henry’s more fiery or mercurial nature. Also noteworthy is the play’s range from highly intellectual/abstract content to the immediate, physical and visceral, which makes audiences think and squirm in their seats multiple times before the evening ends. I’ve been really overwhelmed by the response to this play. It’s definitely one of my most memorable theatrical experiences.”

“This play has a heart and a head,” said Sneed. “It is very original and highly dramatic with extreme theatricality. It is one of the best examples of a play staying in period but (remaining) accessible. I felt like I was watching a very good example of a playwright being a master of his universe.”

“This play could be performed anywhere,” said Sholiton. “It is a fully realized piece with stunning, brilliant writing.”

“I was astonished by the acting,” added Finkle, who rated the performances on par with the best of John Gielgud, Kenneth Branagh and Laurence Olivier. “This was a superlative production.”
“The actors were very attentive to the heighted language and dialect needs of the script,” said Young, a Dallas-based playwright. “They fully embraced the physical demands of (Harry’s) injury as well as the psychological state of a wounded warrior. I thought Geoff Burkman had a fantastic sense of the pacing, mood and arc of the play. Also, the simplicity of the production values supported the performances, but allowed the acting and text to remain in the forefront. Given the response of the adjudicators I was pleased they touched on the relationship of the characters, the search for a father figure, the nature of leadership and war.”

A Position of Relative Importance

David Gaylor (left) and Titus Wolverton in “A Position of Relative Importance” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

“A Position of Relative Importance,” Borden’s impressive playwrighting debut which opened the festival Friday, was also a veritable home run. Breezily and sharply directed by Debra Kent, “Position” told the charming story of humble, educated and unemployed Frank (a thoroughly engaging Titus Wolverton) who suddenly advances within a New York City business due to mistaken identity and unexpected bonds. Kent’s terrific cast included David Gaylor, Meagan Kuchan, Jared Mola and Dave Nickel.

“This play is totally wonderful and very fresh,” said Finkle, who noted the script brought to mind musical theater classics “A Chorus Line” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. “It’s all very real but also surreal. You never know where the story is going but it’s always a surprise.”
“The characters are sparkling and keep you interested,” said Speert. “It was a lot of fun.”
“Seeing the play on its feet for the first time, I was surprised at how little it surprised me,” said Borden, a Philadelphia trademark lawyer. “To a remarkable degree, what I saw on stage matched what I’d seen in my head when I wrote it even though the script itself says very little about the physical aspects of the production.”

A Position of Relative2

Titus Wolverton (left) and Jared Mola in “A Position of Relative Importance” (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

Borden was also appreciative of the commitment and generous hospitality displayed by the festival’s numerous volunteers.
“I can’t talk about FutureFest without talking about the devotion of the organizers and volunteers,” he said. “On Saturday, Chuck Larkowski chauffeured a group of writers from the Playhouse to Marion’s Piazza for lunch. By Sunday, he was on stage giving one of the best performances I’ve ever seen in a role he might only play once in his life. I’m not sure that kind of thing happens anywhere else. In three days, I met more interesting people, and made more new friends, than I had in the past three years.”

Mola, likely to receive DayTony Awards this weekend for his knockout performances last season in the Dayton Playhouse’s “Dracula” and the Dayton Theatre Guild’s “Ghosts,” was the only actor featured in two plays. Juggling the roles of marketing whiz Trevor in “Position” and inquisitive young artist Danny in “Olives” may have appeared daunting, but he regards both assignments as an unforgettable introduction.

“From the time I started doing shows in Dayton last year, people have been telling me about how amazing and unique FutureFest is,” said Mola. “Six original plays in 48 hours takes a lot of effort and a lot of love from everyone involved. I can say with only slight hyperbole that the experience was awe-inspiring. It was everything it was built up to be and more. I think ‘Position’ is a really successful comedy because it’s layered with immediate punchlines and setups that build throughout. It’s that kind of intricate ebb and flow that makes writing a tight comedy so difficult, but this was one of those shows where every joke lands. Even as a ‘straightforward’ comedy in a field of shows with more emotional heft and tackling serious subject matter, I’m thrilled the adjudicators knew how rare of a feat it was.”

Additional components of the festival included a slew of fine performances: Risa Hillsman and a truly mesmerizing Annie Pesch in “Veils” (directed by FutureFest program director Fran Pesch); Wendi Michael, Jim Lockwood, Jordan Norgaard, Richard Young, David Hollowren and Cynthia Karns in “The One with Olives” (directed by Nancy K. Campbell); Shawn Hooks, Jennifer Lockwood, K.L. Storer, Heather Campbell Martin and John Bukowski in “On the Road to Kingdom Come” (directed by Saul Caplan);  and Rick Flynn, Brian Sharp, Leo Santucci, Travis J. Cook, Naman Clark, Dodie Lockwood, Art Fabian and Kelli Locker in “St. Paulie’s Delight” (directed by Kathy Mola). The striking technical contributions for “The King’s Face” (costume design by Deirdre Root, scenic design by Fran Pesch, lighting design by John A. Falkenbach, props/extractor fabrication by Blake Senseman, prosthetics/makeup by Jacklyn Alexa, and properties by Jim Foreman and Amanday Gray) are equally praiseworthy.
Looking back on the whirlwind weekend, Young and Borden, who will each receive a plaque and $1,000, remain grateful to have been finalists and share the coveted title of outstanding playwright. It’s not out of the question to assume they will spread the word about just how special this nationally recognized festival continues to be.
“FutureFest is a unique event in the theater world and the experience speaks well of Dayton, the Playhouse and the commitment of its leadership and supporters,” said Young. “I found the entire weekend to be inspiring and invigorating.”
“FutureFest was one of the best experiences I’ve had as a writer,” added Borden. “I’m going to have to come back to Dayton some other time of year just to confirm that it’s a real place and not an illusion Fran Pesch pulled out of her magic hat.”
Mark your calendars! FutureFest will return July 25-27, 2014. For more information, visit www.daytonplayhouse.org.

 

2013 FutureFest Audience Favorite:ff
“The King’s Face”

 

My 2013 FutureFest Ranking:
1. “The King’s Face”

2. “A Position of Relative Importance”

3. “Veils”

4. “St. Paulie’s Delight”

5. “On the Road to Kingdom Come”

6. “The One with Olives”

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Reviews, The Featured Articles Tagged With: "A Position of Relative Importance", "The King's Face", charles larkowski, Dayton Playhouse, FutureFest, Hal Borden, Josh Katawick, Steven Young

New Plays From Coast To Coast Debut in Dayton

July 17, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

ff2013FutureFest is an annual festival of new plays presented by the Dayton Playhouse. This year’s festival will be July 26-28. During the 3-day festival, audience members join the playwrights and professional adjudicators in viewing, and reviewing, six new scripts presented half as staged readings and half as fully staged productions. The Dayton Playhouse received 190 eligible scripts from across the country for this year’s FutureFest . Here are the six finalists along with their performance schedule:

A Position of Relative Importance by Hal Borden of Philadelphia (fully staged performance July 26, 8 p.m.)

Veils by Tom Coash of New Haven, Connecticut (staged reading July 27, 10 a.m.)

The One with Olives by Sam Havens of Houston, Texas (staged reading July 27, 3 p.m.) Havens also wrote Curve which was a finalist in 2012 FurtureFest.

On the Road to Kingdom Come by Michael Feely of Woodland Hills, California (fully staged performance July 27, 8 p.m.) Feely’s play Night and Fog won the festival in 2009.

St. Paulie’s Delight by J. Joseph Cox of Chicago (staged reading July 28, 10 a.m.)

The King’s Face by Steven Young of Dallas, Texas (fully staged performance July 28, 3 p.m.)

Adjudicators for FutureFest 2013 will be David Finkle, freelance reporter and reviewer for the Village Voice and the Huffington Post; Rob Koon, resident playwright and dramaturg at Chicago Dramatists; Faye Sholiton, Cleveland playwright; Helen Sneed, whose career included work in Theatre Professional Rights at Dramatists Play Service; and Eleanore Speert, founder of Speert Publishing and former publications director for Dramatists Play Service.

How to Attend: FutureFest will be presented July 26-28 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave, Dayton, OH 45414. Weekend passes are $95 and include admission to six plays, adjudication sessions and social activities with the authors and adjudicators. Passes can be purchased online at www.daytonplayhouse.org, or through the box office, 937-424-8477. The box office is staffed Monday’s and Wednesday’s from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m., however messages may be left at any time. Admission to an individual play is $18. Individual tickets may be purchased online, or through the box office, but may also be purchased at the door one hour before each performance (space permitting).

The Dayton Playhouse is a community theatre providing outstanding theatrical productions to Miami Valley audiences of all ages for more than fifty years. The Playhouse is nationally recognized for “FutureFest,” a festival of new plays.

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton Playhouse, FutureFest

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Review – Dayton Playhouse – Comedy Tonight

June 7, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Funny-Thing-3110

(l to r) Jamie McQuinn, Brad Bishop, Brad Mattingly and Saul Caplan in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Contributed photo by Art Fabian).

Need a good laugh? Do yourself a favor and check out the Dayton Playhouse’s highly entertaining production of composer Stephen Sondheim and librettists Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart’s 1962 Tony Award-winning musical “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.”
A charmingly witty romp set in ancient Rome and adapted from the Roman comedies of Plautus, “Forum” centers on the madcap mayhem surrounding Pseudolus, a slave whose only chance at freedom rests with his ability to ensure his dim-witted master Hero falls in love with Philia, the genial virgin next door. It’s a tough assignment considering Philia is promised to a powerful warrior, but Pseudolus shrewdly steps up the plate relying on nothing more than a great deal of mischief and pure luck.
Director Jim Lockwood, always adept at comedy, fashions a breezy showcase strictly intended to produce a good time. His lively cast embraces the material with a fun-loving rapport that doesn’t feel calculated or forced. The jokes are a hoot because the laughs are earned beyond the script, similar to the impromptu intuitiveness of a sketch comedy troupe. The cast, winningly handling Sondheim’s tunefully tricky score and nicely costumed by Jennie Hawley, are also in sync with each other, heightening the humor particularly when an actor reacts to another actor’s silly glance or gesture.
Brad Mattingly, a terrific vocalist who would be an inspired choice to portray Sweeney Todd, impressively captures the frenzy, perplexity and persuasiveness within Pseudolus, a role that can be very exasperating and showy in less capable hands. Mattingly’s engaging spirit and sharp comedic timing serves him well as Pseudolus skillfully orchestrates the hilarious madness, which involves mistaken identity, a body snatcher and mare’s sweat. As Hero, Matthew Glenn relies too heavily on his character’s bashful innocence, resulting in a one-dimensional portrayal that goes nowhere. Still, he is physically right for the role and well-matched with the sweetly sensitive Mary Mykytka as Philia. Saul Caplan, embodying Hero’s beleaguered father Senex once more, has the audience under his spell thanks to the impeccable delivery of his one-liners. Soprano Claire Hurley’s delightfully domineering portrayal of Domina, Senex’s wife, is highlighted by her excellently lyric-driven rendition of “That Dirty Old Man.” Brad Bishop has a ball as the frantic and devoted servant Hysterium. Richard Young effortlessly supplies one of his most scene-stealing performances as the hopelessly befuddled Erronius. Jamie McQuinn keeps the comedy at fever-pitch as smarmy courtesan owner Marcus Lycus. As mighty Miles Gloriosus, the perfectly cast Jeff Sams is a brooding, goofy, intimidating and towering presence. Sarah Jordan (Tintinabula), Tamar Fishbein (Panacea), Rikki Overman (Geminae), Kali Jordan-DeBruin (Geminae), Krista Stuber (Vibrata) and Marabeth Klejna (Gymnasia) comprise the appealing courtesans. Naman Clark, Suzanne Clabaugh and Malcolm Casey are an efficiently adaptable trio of proteans.
Additionally, Sandra Hyde supplies playful choreography, especially for the amusing opener “Comedy Tonight” and the Frank Loesser-esque “Everybody Ought to Have a Maid.” Musical director Ron Kindell leads another solid orchestra.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” continues through June 16 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Act One: 80 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.com

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, On Stage Dayton Reviews Tagged With: A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, Dayton Playhouse

Coming up in Dayton Theatre 5/17 – 5/26 (Plus! FutureFest 2013 News!)

May 17, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

 

Welcome back, Theatre lovers!

 

What’s happening in the theatrical neck of your woods? So glad you asked!

 

Closing This Weekend!

 

Next To Normal

 

The Human Race Theatre Company (@ The Victoria Theatre)03092_show_portrait

 

The Skinny: The story of a mother who struggles with bipolar disorder and the effect her illness has on her family. This contemporary Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning musical is an emotional powerhouse that addresses issues such as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life. With provocative lyrics and a thrilling score, this musical shows how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s world intact.

Dates: Closes Sunday 5/19

Tickets: Tickets are available via the Victoria Theatre Association website, here: tickets.

 

Opening This Weekend

 

The Pillowman

Print

The Dayton Theatre Guild

 

The Skinny: With echoes of Stoppard, Kafka, and the Brothers Grimm, THE PILLOWMAN centers on a writer in an unnamed totalitarian state who is being interrogated about the gruesome content of his short stories and their similarities to a series of child murders.

 

Dates: Opening Friday, 5/17 and running 3 weekends to close on Sunday, 6/2. Remember, at the Guild, the 2nd and 3rd Saturdays are at 5 pm.

 

Tickets: For ticket reservations, please visit the Dayton Theatre Guild website, www.daytontheatreguild.org.

 

(Note: For mature audiences only. Note: there will be a loud gun shot and a minor amount of smoke on stage during one scene in the performance.)

 

Currently In Production!

 

The Sound Of Music

lac_sound-of-music

La Comedia Dinner Theatre

 

The Skinny: A little known musical gem about a would-be nun who battles Nazis. But seriously, folks – this is the well-loved classic, a perennial crowd pleaser. Join The Captain, Maria and all 7 children as they sing, dance and, eventually, cross the Alps.

Dates: Through June 30th.

 

Tickets: Please visit La Comedia’s website at www.lacomedia.com

 

 

FutureFest 2013!

 

Announcing the line up of your 2013 FutureFest Finalists!

ff2013

A Position of Relative Importance by Hal Borden

On the Road to Kingdom Come by Michael Feely

St. Paulie’s Delight by Jacob Cox

The King’s Face by Steven Young

The One With Olives by Sam Havens

Veils by Tom Coash

FutureFest weekend will be July 26th through 28th.

Weekend Pass tickets go on sale June 3rd and will be $95

Single Show Tickets go on sale July 8th and will be $18

 

This year’s crop of adjudicators are all familiar, friendly faces:

David Finkle, Rob Koon, Faye Sholiton, Helen Sneed and Eleanore Speert.

Auditions are Monday, June 3rd for Fully Staged shows, Tuesday, June 4th for Staged Readings and Thursday, June 6th for both.

Please see the Dayton Playhouse FutureFest site for more detailed information regarding cast breakdowns and play synopses, here.

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Tagged With: dayton community theatre, Dayton Playhouse, dayton theatre guild, dinner theatre, family musicals, Future Fest, Human Race Theatre Company, la comedia dinner theatre, Next to Normal, Regional Premiers, The Sound Of Music, Theatre Festivals

Coming up in Dayton Theatre 5/3 – 5/12 (plus Season Announcements!)

May 2, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Welcome back friends! We’ve got just a couple things going on the next couple weeks, but we also have SEASON ANNOUNCEMENTS! So exciting!

Closing This Weekend!

‘Til Beth Do Us PartTil_Beth_Logo

Brookville Community Theatre
The Skinny: A comedy about love, marriage and trust.
Dates: Running through Sunday, May 5th.
Tickets: For tickets, please call the Brookville Flower Shop at (937) 833-3531.

Opening This Weekend!

The Late Edwina Blacktroy_late-edwina-black

Troy Civic Theatre

The Skinny: When a some-what unpopular woman dies, the community feeling is rather less of grief and more of relief. When an autopsy shows her remains full of arsenic, an Inspector must interview the three main suspects and try to figure out what really happened.
Dates: Opening 5/3 and closing Saturday, 5/11
Tickets: Please call the ticket chairman at 937-339-7700

Mid-week Opening!

Next To Normal

The Human Race Theatre Company (@ The Victoria Thatre)Next To Normal

The Skinny: The story of a mother who struggles with bipolar disorder and the effect her illness has on her family. This contemporary Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning musical is an emotional powerhouse that addresses issues such as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life. With provocative lyrics and a thrilling score, this musical shows how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s world intact.

Dates: Opens Tuesday 5/7 and closes Sunday 5/19

Tickets: Tickets are available via the Victoria Theatre Association website, here: Tickets.

Opening Next Weekend!

Jekyll & Hyde

Playhouse South132555a

The Skinny: This dark, gothic musical is based on the Robert Louis Stevenson book The Strange Case of Doctor Jekyll and Mister Hyde. Nominated for several Tony awards, the music is chilling, moving and altogether wonderful.

Dates: Jekyll takes the stage on Friday, 5/10 and will run Fridays and Saturdays through 5/25 with one Sunday matinee on 5/12. What better treat for Mom?!

Tickets: Tickets are available for purchase via the PHS website, here: Tickets

 

Season Announcements!

Tis the season for season announcements! Theatres are beginning to release their 2013-2014 seasons. Here’s what I’ve got so far!

Dayton Theatre Guild
45 Seconds from Broadway, by Neil Simon
Directed by Fred Blumenthal. Runs Aug 23-Sep 8, 2013dtg

Time Stand Stills, by Donald Margulies
Directed by Debra Kent. Runs Oct 4-20, 2013

The Gifts of the Magi, by Coats & Germain — (The Holiday Extra)
Director to be announced. Runs Nov 22-Dec 8, 2013

The Subject Was Roses, by Frank D. Gilroy

Directed by Marcia Nowik. Runs Jan 10-26, 2014

Expecting Isabel, by Lisa Loomer
Directed by Natasha Randall. Runs Feb 28-Mar 16, 2014

An Inspector Calls, by J.B. Priestly
Directed by David Shough. Runs Apr 18-May 4, 2014

The Dead Guy, by Eric Coble
Directed by Saul Caplan. Runs May 30-June 15, 2014

Dayton Playhouse

Hairspray   Sept. 6-22

Directed by Tina McPhearson and Fran PeschDayton-Playhouse-Color

Deathtrap, by Ira Levine
Directed by Jennifer Lockwood. Runs October 25-November 3rd

Fellow Passengers, by Greg Carter
Directed by Dodie Lockwood. Runs December 6-15

Working
Directed by Jim Lockwood. Runs January 31-February 16

The Whales of August, by David Berry
Directed by John Riley. Runs March 14th-23

Oklahoma!
Directed by Brian Sharp. Runs May 2-18

Beavercreek Community Theatre

Hair
September 13-22BCT-logo

Dog Sees God
October 25-November 3

A Neverland Christmas Carol
December 6-15

‘Till Beth Do Us Part
January 24-February 2

Carrie
March 7-16

Monty Python’s Spamalot
June 20-29

Human Race Theatre Company

Becky’s New Carimages
September 12-29

Fiddler on the Roof
October 31-November 17

Torch Song Trilogy
January 30-February 16

Other Desert Cities
March 27-April 3

Play It By Heart
June 12-29

Victoria Theatre Association/Broadway Series

War Horse
October 22-27logo

It’s A Wonderful Life (A Live Radio Play!)
December 3-15

Sister Act
January 28-February 2

Memphis
April 8-13

Beauty And The Beast
May 27-June 1

Million Dollar Quartet
June 17-22

That’s what I’ve got so far — There are more to come, however. It’s gonna be a really good season! I’m already marking my calendars. How about you?

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton, On Stage Dayton Previews Tagged With: Beavercreek Community Theatre, Brookville Community Theatre, Dayton Playhouse, dayton theatre guild, Human Race Theatre Company, Jekyll & Hyde, Next To Normalm, Playhouse South, troy civic theatre, Victoria Theatre Association/Broadway Series

ON STAGE DAYTON REVIEW: The Retreat from Moscow (Dayton Playhouse) – The Thrill is Gone

April 19, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Retreat from Moscow Cast

(l to r): Matthew Lindsay, Chuck Larkowski and Jennifer Lockwood rehearsing The Retreat from Moscow

The Dayton Playhouse marks a refreshing return to serious drama with a beautifully commendable presentation of William Nicholson’s quietly compelling British marital study “The Retreat from Moscow.”

Nominated for three 2004 Tony Awards including Best Play, “Retreat”  depicts the heartbreaking disintegration of the 33-year marriage between Edward, a history professor obsessed with Napoleon’s 1812 retreat from Moscow, and Alice, a poetry aficionado unable to cope with reality. Jamie, Edward and Alice’s only child, is predictably caught in the emotional crossfire to assess his parents’ differing viewpoints without taking sides. Nicholson (“Shadowlands”) uses the titular history lesson as a striking metaphor for survival, particularly as Edward chooses to seek love in the arms of another woman while Alice tries her best to simply move on.

Chuck Larkowski is perfectly cast and touching as the meek, wounded Edward who never really felt comfortable with or respected by Alice. There’s no second guessing as to whether or not Edward has reached the point of no return because Larkowski never wavers in the character’s determination or desires. You may not agree with Edward’s infidelity, but there’s no denying the visceral impact stemming from understanding his point of view, which is brilliantly expressed from start to finish. At the same rate, Jennifer Lockwood doesn’t miss a beat as the fiery, bewildered Alice, who feels her marriage is “struggling to be born” after three decades when faced with its demise. Lockwood could have played her juicy, antagonistic role as a relentlessly emotional train wreck, but wisely avoids the sentimental trap. On the contrary, she fills her Alice’s distressing nature with enough underlying resilience to convey the notion that she will not be entirely defeated even as she faces living alone. Lockwood is particularly strong when addressing Alice’s shock of hearing Edward disregard the many years of marriage she helped build. Matthew Lindsay is an amiable Jamie, but could have treated the character’s prized, beloved status in the sight of his parents with more emotive velocity instead of understated indifference.

Director Dodie Lockwood, providing a seamlessly fluid experience with a slightly haunting allure and a few genuine moments of levity, never allows her cast to leave the stage. Her wonderfully astute decision effectively magnetizes the family dynamics at hand with inescapably palpable potency.

“The Retreat from Moscow” continues through April 21 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15for seniors and students. Call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.org.

Filed Under: On Stage Dayton Reviews Tagged With: Chuck Larkowski, Dayton Playhouse, dodie lockwood, Jennifer Lockwood, The Retreat from Moscow Article

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Page 3
  • Page 4
  • Page 5
  • Page 6
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Submit An Event to Dayton937

- Featured Events -

Loading view.
  • Previous week
  • Next week

Color Our World – The Art of Stories

1:00 pm
Dayton Metro Library - Huber Heights Branch

Rolling Easy

5:00 pm
Yellow Springs Brewery

$3 Burger Night

5:00 pm
Bullwinkle's Top Hat Bistro

Bourbon and Cigar Night

6:00 pm
Trolley Stop

Auditions for THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical

7:15 pm
Dayton Playhouse

Justin’s LOTD Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament

7:30 pm
Miami Valley Sports Bar

Monday Night Laughs!

8:00 pm
Oregon Express

Freakin Ricans Food Truck

11:00 am
Win Supply

Schmidt’s Sausage Truck

12:00 pm
O Reilly Auto Parts

Bargain Tuesday: $6.50 Movie Day

2:30 pm
The Neon

Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

6:00 pm
RiverScape MetroPark

 Herb Garden Make & Take Workshop

6:30 pm
Mystic Life

Trivia with Rob

7:00 pm
The Phone Booth Lounge

Progressive Euchre Tournament

7:00 pm
Star City Brewing Company

Auditions for THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical

7:15 pm
Dayton Playhouse

Fairborn Farmers Market

10:00 am
Fairborn Farmers Market

Adult Stretch

1:00 pm
Franklin-Springboro Public Libary

Trotwood Community Market (presented by American Legion Post 613)

3:00 pm
Old Salem Mall

Miamisburg Farmers Market

3:00 pm
Miamisburg Christian Church

Beckers SMASH-tastic Burgers

5:00 pm
Devil Wind Brewing

Bourbon vs Barrel: The Ultimate Pairing Experience

6:00 pm
Mode X

Trivia Night at Alematic

7:00 pm
Alematic Artisan Ales

Live Trivia

7:00 pm
Star City Brewing Company

Country Concert 2025

8:00 am

Art Start Pre-School Storytime

11:30 am
Rosewood Arts Centre

Open Coworking

12:00 pm
The Hub at Dayton Arcade

Launch Pad

12:00 pm
The Hub at Dayton Arcade

Lebanon Farmers Market

4:00 pm
Bicentennial Park

Grapes & Groves

5:00 pm
Heather's Coffee & Cafe

Englewood Market

5:00 pm
englewood Market

Rolling Easy

5:00 pm
D20: A Bar with Characters

Culture Kitchen

5:00 pm
2nd Street Market

Matilda: The Musical

6:00 pm
La Comedia

Artist Talk: Erin Holscher Almazan

6:30 pm
The Contemporary Dayton

John Papa Gros

7:00 pm
Levitt Pavilion

Fun Trivia! Prizes!

7:00 pm
Bock Family Brewing

Shrek The Musical

7:00 pm
Epiphany Lutheran Church

EMO Night with Flicker // Fade

7:00 pm
The Brightside Event & Music Venue
+ 7 More

Birdies and Bogeys for Breast Wishes

9:00 am
Pipestone Golf Course

Cruise In at the Roadhouse

4:00 pm
Rip Rap Roadhouse

The Great Dayton Food Truck Rally- 50 Trucks

5:00 pm
Front Street Studios

Matilda: The Musical

6:00 pm
La Comedia

Wire-Wrapped Succulents: a Two-Part Workshop with Jenn & Shanon Queen

6:00 pm
Blue Sky Coffee

LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark

6:00 pm
Miami Valley Sports Bar

Candlelight Reading Night

7:00 pm
Davis-Linden Building

Head Games: A Tribute to Foreigner

7:00 pm
Stubbs Park

Velvet Crush on the Patio

7:00 pm
Heather's Coffee & Cafe

Yam Yam

7:00 pm
Levitt Pavilion

Star City Free Concert Series

7:00 pm
Riverfront Park

Shrek The Musical

7:00 pm
Epiphany Lutheran Church

Shrek The Musical

7:00 pm
Epiphany Lutheran Church

Firefly Party

8:30 pm
Caesar Ford Park
+ 6 More

Dragons 5K

8:00 am
Day Air Ballpark

Yellow Springs Farmers Market

8:00 am
John Bryan Community Center

2025 Dragons 5K

8:00 am
Water Street District

2nd Annual Lebanon Pride Festiva

8:00 am
Mulberry Plaza

Downtown Franklin Farmers Market

8:30 am
Franklin Farmers Market

Oakwood Farmers Market

9:00 am
Oakwood Farmers Market

Greene County Farmers Market

9:00 am
Beavercreek Farmers Market

Shiloh Farmers Market

9:00 am
Shiloh Church

Yoga in the Park

10:00 am
RiverScape MetroPark

Dayton’s First-Ever M Cruise-In

10:00 am
BMW of Dayton

Farmers Market at The Heights

10:00 am
Eichelberger Amphitheater

New Carlisle Farmer’s Market

10:00 am
Downtown New Carlisle

Waynesville Street Faire

10:00 am
Downtown Waynesville

Planting a Shade Garden

10:00 am
Cox Arboretum

THE MARKET

11:00 am
Town & Country Shopping Center

Greek Fest

11:00 am
Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church

Underground Railroad Walking Tour

11:30 am
Springboro Area Historical Society

Curtis Barnes, Sr., Dayton Icon Exhibit Opens

12:00 pm
The Dayton Art Institute

Freakin Ricans

12:00 pm

New Carlisle Farmer’s Market

4:00 pm
Downtown New Carlisle

Matilda: The Musical

6:00 pm
La Comedia

Summertime Luau

6:00 pm
Country Side Park

Madison Park Live – Tony Terry

6:00 pm
Madison Park

Davina & the Vagabonds

7:00 pm
Levitt Pavilion

Shrek The Musical

7:00 pm
Epiphany Lutheran Church

Shrek The Musical

7:00 pm
Epiphany Lutheran Church

Dancing in the Streets

7:00 pm
Downtown Miamisburg
+ 20 More

Christmas in July Half Marathon & 5K Dayton

8:00 am
Hollywood Gaming Dayton Raceway

Locking Up Otis

8:00 am
Wright Station

Downtown Troy Farmers’ Market

9:00 am
Downtown Troy

Dayton Summer Wedding Expo

11:00 am
Hilton Garden Inn Beavercreek

DAYTON MAC N’ CHEESE FEST 2025

11:00 am
The Brightside Event & Music Venue

Porsche and Packards

12:00 pm
America's Packard Museum

Pencils and Prompts: Drawing Basics

12:30 pm
Dayton Society of Artists - DSA

Tomato Workshop

1:00 pm
Possum Creek MetroPark

Sketcher Social Session: Advanced Drawing

2:30 pm
Dayton Society of Artists - DSA

Matilda: The Musical

6:00 pm
La Comedia

Turn to Stone: A Tribute to ELO

7:00 pm
Stubbs Park

Bevercreek Free Summer Concert Series

7:00 pm
Dominick Lofino Park

Becca’s LOTD Dart Tournament

7:30 pm
Miami Valley Sports Bar
+ 6 More

Week of Events

Mon 7

Tue 8

Wed 9

Thu 10

Fri 11

Sat 12

Sun 13

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Recurring

Color Our World – The Art of Stories

July 7 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Recurring

Color Our World – The Art of Stories

Each session of this freeform art class will focus on a different children's book illustrators' works and provide children an...

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Rolling Easy

July 7 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Rolling Easy

Mobile food trailer w/ freshly made street food: crispy wonton rolls filled with fresh ingredients, prime rib sliders, grilled cheese...

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

$3 Burger Night

July 7 @ 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

$3 Burger Night

From 5-10pm you can choose from the following: for $3 - it's a plain burger on a bun, $4 -...

$3
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Bourbon and Cigar Night

July 7 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Bourbon and Cigar Night

Choose 1 cigar Get a flight of Jefferson’s (three 1 oz pours) Sign up on Eventbrite space is limited to...

$35
7:15 pm

Auditions for THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical

July 7 @ 7:15 pm

Auditions for THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical

 Performances:Weekends, September 5–21 Join us for this spooky, kooky musical comedy! We’re looking for kind, hardworking people who want to...

Free
7:30 pm - 11:30 pm Recurring

Justin’s LOTD Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament

July 7 @ 7:30 pm - 11:30 pm Recurring

Justin’s LOTD Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament

EVERY MONDAY NIGHT at Miami Valley Sports Bar - Justin's Famous Luck of the Draw Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament!!! Each...

$10.00
8:00 pm Recurring

Monday Night Laughs!

July 7 @ 8:00 pm Recurring

Monday Night Laughs!

  Join us every Monday at Oregon Express for Comedy Open Mic hosted by the hilarious G-Money! Sign-ups at 8:00PM...

11:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Freakin Ricans Food Truck

July 8 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Freakin Ricans Food Truck

12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Schmidt’s Sausage Truck

July 8 @ 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Schmidt’s Sausage Truck

2:30 pm - 9:30 pm Recurring

Bargain Tuesday: $6.50 Movie Day

July 8 @ 2:30 pm - 9:30 pm Recurring

Bargain Tuesday: $6.50 Movie Day

Tuesday at the Neon in Downtown Dayton movies are just $6.50

$6.50
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

July 8 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Tai Chi & Qigong at the River

Offered by Immortal Tree Qigong. Each hour-long Tai Chi & Qigong session will start with breathing exercises, warm up, and...

Free
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

 Herb Garden Make & Take Workshop

July 8 @ 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

 Herb Garden Make & Take Workshop

 Herb Garden Make & Take Workshop Tuesday, July 8, 2025 | 6:30–8:00 PMHosted at Mystic Life | $20 per person Join...

$20
7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Recurring

Trivia with Rob

July 8 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Recurring

Trivia with Rob

Come test your brain, enjoy great food and drinks, and have some fun!

7:00 pm - 9:45 pm Recurring

Progressive Euchre Tournament

July 8 @ 7:00 pm - 9:45 pm Recurring

Progressive Euchre Tournament

Are you ready for a fun, social evening with fellow Euchre enthusiasts? Look no further! Our progressive Euchre tournament is...

7:15 pm Recurring

Auditions for THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical

July 8 @ 7:15 pm Recurring

Auditions for THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical

 Performances:Weekends, September 5–21 Join us for this spooky, kooky musical comedy! We’re looking for kind, hardworking people who want to...

Free
10:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Fairborn Farmers Market

July 9 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Fairborn Farmers Market

The Fairborn Farmers Market was established with the intent to provide the Fairborn community access to fresh and wholesome products...

Free
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Recurring

Adult Stretch

July 9 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Recurring

Adult Stretch

Adults ages 16 and up are invited to an afternoon session of stretching and more! Donna Gambino is owner of...

Free
3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Trotwood Community Market (presented by American Legion Post 613)

July 9 @ 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Trotwood Community Market (presented by American Legion Post 613)

A celebration of locally sourced foods and products from small businesses in Trotwood and the surrounding communities! Stop by and...

3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Miamisburg Farmers Market

July 9 @ 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Miamisburg Farmers Market

Miamisburg Farmers MarketAt Miamisburg Christian Church parking lot.1146 E. Central Ave in Miamisburg.Fresh Produce, sweet treats, food trucks and more..

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Beckers SMASH-tastic Burgers

July 9 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Beckers SMASH-tastic Burgers

Single Single smash patty on a brioche bun $9.00 Single with Bacon Single smash patty and bacon on a brioche...

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Bourbon vs Barrel: The Ultimate Pairing Experience

July 9 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Bourbon vs Barrel: The Ultimate Pairing Experience

Join ModeX Tequila Bistro and Wright Dunbar Cigars for a night of fire-grilled meats, aged bourbon, and hand-selected premium cigars....

$95
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Trivia Night at Alematic

July 9 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Trivia Night at Alematic

Grab some friends and join us every Wednesday night at the brewery for a pint of your favorite ALEMATIC brew...

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Live Trivia

July 9 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Live Trivia

Think You’re the Trivia Champ at Star City? Prove it.Join our Star City Trivia Facebook Group — where the smartest...

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Country Concert 2025

July 10 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Country Concert 2025

30 SUPERSTARS - GREAT CAMPING The Midwest's Premier Country Music Festival started more than 40 years ago and is still...

$155 – $436
11:30 am - 12:15 pm Recurring

Art Start Pre-School Storytime

July 10 @ 11:30 am - 12:15 pm Recurring

Art Start Pre-School Storytime

Art Start Pre-School Storytime 2nd Thursday of the month 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM Rosewood Arts Center 2655 Olson Dr....

Free
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Recurring

Open Coworking

July 10 @ 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Recurring

Open Coworking

Join us in The Hub for open co-working from 12pm to 5pm. Ever wonder how The Hub could work for...

12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Launch Pad

July 10 @ 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Launch Pad

Meet the people you need to move your business forward This monthly LaunchPad event series brings you opportunities to expand...

Free
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Lebanon Farmers Market

July 10 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Lebanon Farmers Market

The Lebanon Farmers Market is open 4 pm to 7 pm every Thursday mid-May through mid-October.  We are located in...

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Grapes & Groves

July 10 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Recurring

Grapes & Groves

Join us every Thursday to Taste Wine at your own pace. Each Thursday we will have one of our highly...

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Englewood Market

July 10 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Englewood Market

The Englewood Market is an outdoor market which offers food, music and fun to the community! Come out to try...

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Rolling Easy

July 10 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Rolling Easy

Mobile food trailer w/ freshly made street food: crispy wonton rolls filled with fresh ingredients, prime rib sliders, grilled cheese...

+ 7 More
9:00 am

Birdies and Bogeys for Breast Wishes

July 11 @ 9:00 am

Birdies and Bogeys for Breast Wishes

Join us for the Breast Wishes Foundation Golf Outing and tee up FORE a day of fun, giving back, and...

$125
4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

Cruise In at the Roadhouse

July 11 @ 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Recurring

Cruise In at the Roadhouse

Cruise In at the Roadhouse is taking place at Rip Rap Roadhouse, which is located at 6024 Rip Rap Rd. in Huber Heights....

5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

The Great Dayton Food Truck Rally- 50 Trucks

July 11 @ 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

The Great Dayton Food Truck Rally- 50 Trucks

We are excited to announce the biggest food truck rally Downtown Dayton has ever seen over a two day period!...

6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

July 11 @ 6:00 pm Recurring

Matilda: The Musical

Winner of 47 International Awards! Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and special powers. She's unloved by...

$39 – $79
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Wire-Wrapped Succulents: a Two-Part Workshop with Jenn & Shanon Queen

July 11 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Wire-Wrapped Succulents: a Two-Part Workshop with Jenn & Shanon Queen

Join us for a creative two-day workshop where you’ll learn the art of wire wrapping while crafting a charming wire-wrapped...

$65
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark

July 11 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark

Join us every Friday night at 6pm for Dayton's Best LIVE TRIVIA with Trivia Shark at Miami Valley Sports Bar!...

7:00 pm Recurring

Candlelight Reading Night

July 11 @ 7:00 pm Recurring

Candlelight Reading Night

Candlelight Reading Nights is a cozy, intentional space for BIPOC & Queer community to gather and read together. Bring your...

7:00 pm

Head Games: A Tribute to Foreigner

July 11 @ 7:00 pm

Head Games: A Tribute to Foreigner

All concerts are free. Food trucks and beer sales will be available for guests to enjoy. Friday night Party in the...

Free
+ 6 More
8:00 am - 11:00 am

Dragons 5K

July 12 @ 8:00 am - 11:00 am

Dragons 5K

The 2025 Dragons 5K presented by Orthopedic Associates hits the heart of Water Street District on Saturday, July 12, 2025....

$20 – $40
8:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Yellow Springs Farmers Market

July 12 @ 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Yellow Springs Farmers Market

For over 20 years this market has been made up of a hardworking group of men, women and children, dedicated...

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

2025 Dragons 5K

July 12 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

2025 Dragons 5K

Registration will open March 3, 2025, but if you participated in last year's race, check out your photos and learn...

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

2nd Annual Lebanon Pride Festiva

July 12 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

2nd Annual Lebanon Pride Festiva

Join us for the second ever PRIDE Celebration happening in Downtown Lebanon, Ohio! Come have a fabulous day of vendors,...

8:30 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Franklin Farmers Market

July 12 @ 8:30 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Franklin Farmers Market

Join us every Saturday through Sept 13, 8.30 a.m. - 12 p.m. for local products including fresh produce, honey/jams, and...

9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Oakwood Farmers Market

July 12 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Oakwood Farmers Market

The 2025 Oakwood Farmers’ Market will be held Saturdays, June 7th thru October 11th, from 9 am until 12pm. The...

9:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Greene County Farmers Market

July 12 @ 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Recurring

Greene County Farmers Market

The outdoor Farmers Market on Indian Ripple Rd. in Beavercreek runs Saturdays, 9-1 even during the winter months. Check out...

9:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Shiloh Farmers Market

July 12 @ 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Recurring

Shiloh Farmers Market

The farmers’ market is located on the corner of Main St. & Philadelphia Dr, in the parking lot of Shiloh...

+ 20 More
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Christmas in July Half Marathon & 5K Dayton

July 13 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Christmas in July Half Marathon & 5K Dayton

Ho Ho Ho, Oh What Fun it is to Run in the Sun (and Shade) and Earn Some Chillin’ Hawaiian Summer...

$39.99 – $79.99
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Locking Up Otis

July 13 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Locking Up Otis

Ready for some Wright Station live music? Here we go!  The Classic rock of Locking Up Otis kicks off our...

Free
9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Troy Farmers’ Market

July 13 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Recurring

Downtown Troy Farmers’ Market

Downtown Troy Farmers' Market will run Saturday mornings 9:00 am to 12:00 pm from June 22nd, 2013 through September 21st,...

11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Dayton Summer Wedding Expo

July 13 @ 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Dayton Summer Wedding Expo

FREE ADMISSION, Reservations Required. Show only vendor discounts and specials Every couple receives a gift card for Free wedding rings....

Free
11:00 am - 6:00 pm

DAYTON MAC N’ CHEESE FEST 2025

July 13 @ 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

DAYTON MAC N’ CHEESE FEST 2025

Join us for a ton of incredible mac n' cheese and more all from some amazing food trucks at The...

Free
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Porsche and Packards

July 13 @ 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Porsche and Packards

Two great collector car icons meet! America's Packard Museum, for the very first time, is hosting Porsche and Packards sponsored...

Free
12:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Pencils and Prompts: Drawing Basics

July 13 @ 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Pencils and Prompts: Drawing Basics

Pencil and Prompts: Drawing Basics Sharpen up your sketching skills with a local artist providing you insights and inspirations into...

$30
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Tomato Workshop

July 13 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Tomato Workshop

Watering, pruning, staking, pinching and fertilizing are all part of getting the perfect tomato crop. We'll discuss these and more...

$20
+ 6 More
View Calendar

Join the Dayton937 Newsletter!

Trust us with your email address and we'll send you our most important updates!
Email:  
For Email Marketing you can trust
Back to Top

Copyright © 2025 Dayton Most Metro · Terms & Conditions · Log in