Dayton Playhouse

Back to the FutureFest

July 27, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Dancing Backwards by John Fiorillo - FutureFest 2010

FutureFest 2011

Dayton Playhouse

This weekend, the Dayton Playhouse will present its 21st annual FutureFest of new plays, one of the most highly anticipated and widely regarded events in the local arts community.

This uniquely structured, nationally recognized festival, co-founded by Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame members Dodie Lockwood and John Riley, openly nurtures the artistic growth of emerging playwrights from across the country and internationally. Within three days, six original, previously unproduced works are showcased fully staged or as staged readings followed by adjudications from theater professionals. Patrons are also encouraged to offer opinions, fueling the weekend’s considerably engaging atmosphere.

How It Works by Carey Pepper

The adjudicators will consist of longtime New York-based judges David Finkle, Helen Sneed and Eleanore Speert along with Robert Koon, resident playwright/dramaturg of the Chicago Dramatists and a 2002 FutureFest finalist for “Vintage Red and the Dust of the Road,” and D. Lynn Meyers, producing artistic director of Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati. Each play will be judged on criteria including dramatic concept/theme, plot/story development, dialogue/language and character development.

Refuge by Marc Comblatt

Since its inception, FutureFest has been an advantageous launching pad for playwrights hoping to raise their profile. The most successful example in recent years is unquestionably attributed to Brooklyn playwright Beau Willimon, a former political staffer who took the 2005 FutureFest by storm with “Farragut North,” a marvelous political drama. “Farragut North” arrived off-Broadway at New York’s Atlantic Theater Company in 2008 and was recently adapted (and re-titled) for the big screen by Willimon, Grant Heslov and Oscar winner George Clooney as “The Ides of March.” Shot on location in the Cincinnati area and prominently previewed in the July 26 edition of USA Today, “The Ides of March,” which will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, is officially scheduled for an October 7 release. The film has already received buzz as a major contender for the Golden Globes and Academy Awards. Molly Smith Metzler, also of Brooklyn, is equally noteworthy. Metzler’s terrific relationship-driven comedy drama “Carve” was a highlight of the 2009 FutureFest and her latest work, “Close Up Space,” will be presented off-Broadway at New York’s Manhattan Theatre Club this fall starring Emmy and Tony winner David Hyde Pierce.

This year’s promising contenders were chosen from over 240 submissions. Each finalist recently reflected on their work with onStageDayton in advance of the festival.

2011 FutureFest Performance Schedule

Friday, July 29

8 p.m.

“Drawing Room,” an introspective look at a Supreme Court sketch artist.

Playwright: Mark Eisman of New York City

Cast: Mark Jeffers, Annie Pesch and Rachel Wilson

Director: Matthew Smith

Production format: Fully staged

Since cameras invaded our courtrooms some 20 years ago, I have missed the artists’ renderings which often accompanied the most notorious (and yes, most dramatic) legal spectaculars. The brilliantly colored chalks and pencils have been replaced by the dullness of reality TV. The sketch artists have been forced to scramble and compete against each other, as only the federal courts (with its terrorist defendants) and the Supreme Court (with its familiar cast of characters) remain camera free. When their art is threatened, the characters in ‘Drawing Room’ must confront the realities of their own lives. Life in the theater has never been easy for playwrights. Over the same 20 years, it’s become increasingly difficult due primarily to economic ‘realities.’

~Mark Eisman

Saturday, July 30

10 a.m.

“Roosevelt’s Ghost,” a drama centered on the special assistant to President Franklin D. Roosevelt convicted of perjury and accused of being a member of the Community Party.

Playwright: Dayton native and Woodland Hills, California resident Michael Feely, who won the 2009 FutureFest for “Night and Fog” and was a 2006 finalist for “Bookends.”

Cast: Debra Kent, Charles Larkowski, Jennifer Lockwood, Dave Nickel, David Shough, Michael Stockstill and Debra Strauss

Director: Saul Caplan

Production format: Staged reading

‘Roosevelt’s Ghost’ is (very) loosely based on the Alger Hiss case. It concerns a man, Charles Castle Hunt, who stood at the pinnacle of power until he was accused of treason and espionage for the Soviet Union and convicted of perjury in 1951. It is now 1968 and he’s come home both to vindicate himself by publishing his memoirs and to reconnect with the family he abandoned after his fall. The play is about many things. It is, on one level, about the events of the ’50’s and ’60’s, similar to the other two plays that have appeared in FutureFest, that I believe draw a bright red line through Vietnam to our current involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. On another level, however, it’s a far more personal play, about family, about what fathers owe their sons and, equally important, what sons owe their fathers. It’s about husbands and wives, what they give each other and what they take from each other. And, lastly, it’s about love, how it sustains us, can let us down and, ultimately, can lift us up.

~Michael Feely

3 p.m.

“The Haven,” a contemporary comic drama concerning a broken marriage and the possibilities of connection.

Playwright: Richard Etchison of Los Angeles, California

Cast: Megan Cooper, Danny Lipps, Deirdre Root and Richard Young

Director: Fran Pesch

Production format: Staged reading

Initially, I set out to write a play about one relationship ending and one relationship at the very beginning. A simple exploration of the nature of marriage and love and youth. The ending came to me midway through the writing process. I also wanted to write a realistic play for once. Previously, my plays have some mind-bending, sometimes surreal elements. In most ways, I succeeded. To me, the theme of this play is that human beings approach both marriage and life with the same attitude: We know it’s going to have its trying moments, moments that take every bit of courage and resolve we have to get through them. Yes, we (as a people) voluntarily embark on it anyway. When you are young, marriage seems a simple matter. So does life. But once deep inside of marriage, we learn otherwise. Same as life in general.

~Richard Etchison

8 p.m.

“Allegro Con Brio,” a farce about a musical couple plotting revenge.

Playwright: Dayton resident Nelson Sheeley of Sinclair Community College

Cast: Michael Boyd, Matt Curry and Cheryl Mellen

Director: Nick Moberg

Production format: Fully staged

I got the idea for the play when I turned on the radio and heard one of the Mendelssohn Piano Concertos played faster than anyone should be able to play it. I wondered what the conversation backstage after the concert between the conductor and the pianist would be. Also, once I got into it, the theme of the piece seemed to shift a bit to include the music critic…how people behave who have unquestioned authority and power in their fields. I love farce and there’s a dearth of good contemporary farce in the American theatre. Farce seems to be the poor stepchild of comedy. My first play ‘…And Call Me In The Morning’ got a begrudgingly good review from The New York Times. Jacques LeSourde liked it and in the review sounded a little embarrassed that he did! So here I am leading a crusade to get those slapstick lovers out of their comedy closet and have a good laugh.

~Nelson Sheeley

Sunday, July 31

10 a.m.

“Jinxed,” a 1930s aviatrix-themed account of Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran.

Playwright: Stacey Luftig of New York City

Cast: Franklin Johnson, Cynthia Karns, Wendi Michael, Kate Smith, Mike Rousculp, Mike Taint and Matt Turner

Director: Richard Brock

Production format: Staged reading

Amelia Earhart is an American icon. But only history buffs and aviation fans remember Jackie Cochran, whose rags-to-riches story and groundbreaking achievements in aviation rival those of any pilot, including Amelia. Brash Jackie and sophisticated Amelia were close friends for the last two years of Amelia’s life. Their lives had many parallels: among them, husbands who were tremendously supportive of their careers, a practicing knowledge of ESP and a preoccupation with luck. Their focus on luck is not surprising. The dangers faced by pilots in the 1930s, especially those who sought to set records and win races, were enormous. Forced landings and even crashes were commonplace, airplane parts would malfunction, engines would blow up. Like baseball players, aviators often placed faith in talismans and other superstitions. It is hard to say how much of any aviator’s career at that time depended on skill, and how much on luck. Based on this uncertain balance, a key question arose for the main characters of my play: How far do you go to allow a pilot you love to follow her dreams – knowing that to do so could result in her death?

~Stacey Luftig

3 p.m.

“A Woman on the Cusp,” a drama concerning mental illness and sibling treachery.

Playwright: Two-time FutureFest finalist Carl L. Williams of Houston, Texas (“Under a Cowboy Moon,” 2003; “Coming Back to Jersey,” 2008)

Cast: Cher Collins, Lynn Kesson, Scott Knisley and K.L. Storer

Director: Ray Gambrel

Production format: Fully staged

‘A Woman on the Cusp’ started out as a 20-minute one-act for a festival in Houston. I quickly realized the length wasn’t nearly sufficient to explore all the facets of character in this story, as well as the underlying issues of emotional trauma, mental instability, deceit and treachery. A buried subtext concerns how people can do the wrong thing for a right reason or the right thing for a wrong reason. For the full-length play I was better able to develop a backstory for the major character, providing a fuller explanation for her current situation. I could also explore the relationships between and among the characters to a greater degree and with a more gradual revelation of their secrets. In addition, I changed certain elements of the basic plot as I transitioned the piece to a more complete story. I can’t say that I set out to make any particular point with this play or convey any central message. Mainly I just wanted to engage the audience with these characters and their conflicts. The FutureFest production offers the opportunity of judging to what degree I succeeded.

~Carl L. Williams

The 21st annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest will be held Friday, July 29-Sunday, July 31 at the Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. Weekend passes for all six shows are $90. Single tickets are $17. For tickets or more information, call the Playhouse at (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.com.

-RF

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

21st Annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest

July 29-31, 2011

Tickets Prices: $17 for single show tickets / $90 for weekend pass (includes all shows)

Location: The Dayton Playhouse
1301 East Siebenthaler Ave
Dayton, OH 45414 (map)

Tickets are on sale now through DP’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 424-8477

For more information about The Dayton Playhouse visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.org/

Photo Highlights of 2010 FutureFest

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkr156COQwE’]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6prD48dheE’]

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 05/26 – 06/08

May 25, 2011 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Thursday, May 26 – Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Dayton Theatre Guild: Mauritius

Yesterday, when friends asked about having a picnic on Monday, I returned the question with a confused stare until they prompted me that it was Memorial Day. Wow! The holiday seems like it has completely snuck up on me. And with it has come some break in the rain (just some) and the beginning of summer.
Even in the midst of cookouts and vacations, there’s still the opportunity to see shows in the Dayton area this summer and these next few weeks. This can be a great time to celebrate school letting out and the warmer weather, and what better way than by doing something creative? A few shows are closing this weekend, so make sure to catch them before they do!

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

right next to me

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: A war widow, attempting to cope with her Marine husband’s death in Iraq, goes with her brother-in-law on a quest to scatter her husband’s ashes where he required, remembering and seeing flashbacks along the way in an emotionally moving and uplifting journey. This show premiered in an earlier and very different version as part of the Human Race Musical Theatre Workshops in 2009.
The Dates: May 21 – June 12, 2011
Tickets & More Information: Human Race Theatre Company

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

La Cage aux Folles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: George (a glitzy nightclub owner) and his partner Albin (also the glamorous changeuse Zaza)’s son is getting married… and in this musical, he brings his fiancee’s conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair. “The bonds of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly [in this] tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together… stay fabulous… and above all else, stay true to themselves!”

Date: May 13 – 29, 2011

Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse, DMM Review, DMM Preview

Mauritius

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: Only together after the death of their mother, two estranged half-sisters discover a book of rare-and potentially extremely valuable – stamps. One sister embraces the stamp collecting, the other resists – but both are targets of three seedy, high-stakes collectors who are willing to do anything to claim a particularly rare find as their own.

Dates: May 13 – 29, 2011

Tickets & More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild, DMM Preview

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

First Annual Talent Show

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Basics: The talent pool in this area is great and diverse… and Playhouse South has selected 21 people of various ages, from singers and dancers to comics and beat-boxers, to show off their skills and compete for a $250 Grand Prize. Part of the contest is the audience’s ranking, so get ready to cheer for your favorite act!
The Date: Friday, May 27, 8:00 pm
More Information: Playhouse South

~KN

The Best of Times

May 12, 2011 By Shane Anderson 3 Comments

La Cage aux Folles

Dayton Playhouse

Win tickets to this delightful show! Read on…

La Cage aux Folles, a collaboration between two of the most recognizable voices in musical theatre (Jerry Herman- Hello Dolly, Mame & Harvey Fierstein- his vocal chords), premiered on Broadway in 1983. That production garnered nine Tony Award nominations, winning six of those including Best Score, Best Book and the Best Musical. Since that production, the show has continued to achieve recognition with Tony Award winning revivals in 2004 & 2010 (earning it the distinction as being the only musical to win the Best New Musical along with two trophies for Best Revival). The terrific show is not often booked by local theatres, however. I assume that the thought of producing this show (primarily the necessary lavish costumes and opulent sets) would be a hurdle most non-profit community groups would not want to take on.

Dayton Playhouse has entrusted director Doug Lloyd with bringing the St. Tropez nightclub and it’s cast of female impersonators to life on their stage over the next three weekends. With the success Lloyd has had on the Playhouse stage in recent years with very popular productions of Urinetown and Hair, I am sure that La Cage aux Folles will be a smash hit.

La Cage aux Folles, book by Harvey Fierstein and lyrics and music by Jerry Herman, is based on the 1973 French play of the same name by Jean Poiret. La Cage focuses on a couple: Georges, the manager of a Saint-Tropez nightclub featuring drag entertainment, and Albin, his romantic partner and star attraction. Comedic adventures ensue when Georges’s son, Jean-Michel, brings home his fiancée’s ultra-conservative parents to meet them.

The cast of La Cage is anchored by stage veterans Michael Boyd and Richard Croskey. Boyd, playing Georges, was in the 1989 Playhouse production of La Cage and has been acting and directing every since. Croskey, last seen in the Playhouse production of Victor/Victoria, has been a professional dancer and choreographer for the last 30+ years. The Cagelles, the “showgirls” of the La Cage aux Folles, include Playhouse executive director Wade Hamilton, features playhouse regulars Tony Fende, Ian Manuel, Stacey Ward and Allie Eder and also include some new Playhouse faces Nick Brown, Ty Mentz and Sean Metcalf. Playing Jean-Michele is the Playhouse’s golden voice Zach King. The cast is rounded out with Jeff Campbell, Karen Righter, Sarah Parsons, Duante Beddingfield, Mike Frazier, Joe Meyer, Chris Hammond, Ginger Hubbs, Brandon Saldivar, Alexandra Grizinski and Tim Behnken.

“We’re very happy to have this enormous production headed up by Director Doug Lloyd.” says Dayton Playhouse Executive Director Wade Hamilton. “His vast experience and reputation for producing hit musicals made me breath a little easier as we started this project.”

On the sliding scale of Playhouse musicals, this is a mammoth production. The Playhouse has assembled an all-star group of designers to bring this show to life. The set will be designed be Chris Harmon, lights by John Falkenbach and costumes by Kaitlyn Osborn and Karen and Stephanie Dickey. Leading the 10 piece La Cage orchestra will be Playhouse board member Ron Kindell. Choreography is from Miami Valley native Stacey Gear.

onStageDayton had some questions for Doug Lloyd about the upcoming opening. Here’s what he had to say:

onStageDayton: La Cage has recently had a successful return to both Broadway and the West End. What do you think is the appeal of the show?

Doug Lloyd: Well first of all the show is just plain “fun” it has great comedy and wonderful music, but it also a great love Story. I like that fact that it shows what in this age we would call an “alternative” family, has as much love caring and nurturing as a traditional family.

oSD: Jerry Herman’s score is legendary. Did you feel any allegiance to recreate and honor the show or did you take a fresh approach?

DL: We stayed true to the script, & score. The score we are working from is from the original Broadway production, with the exception of “Anne On My Arm” where they sent the music to the “new” version from the recent revival production with Kelsey Grammer. We did try to make an extra effort to show the true love and connection between Georges, Albin & Jean-Michel as well as show how the employees of La Cage are almost their extended family

oSD: How have local actors taken to these characters? How have they embraced them? What has been the biggest struggle?

DL: The cast has taken to their characters quite well. We had an extensive character development session, and they all walked away from that with a true feeling for each of their characters. Again we were searching for a true family feel as well as a closeness in the entire community

oSD: Many people are familiar with this story as it appeared in the film THE BIRDCAGE, what can audiences expect from the musical staging of the same tale?

DL: Many people don’t even realize “Bird Cage” was taken from “La Cage” when I tell them we are doing it they say what’s that. While the story line is the same, they took many liberties with the La Cage script when writing “Bird Cage”. There are several characters that appear in the movie that aren’t in the stage show, including the role of Sybil, John-Michel’s natural mother that was played by Christine Buransky. Sybil is referred to in La Cage but never appears. Both shows are funny but being a theatre person I’m partial to the La Cage script.

oSD: You are one of the city’s most active directors. What’s your next project?

DL: My next project will be back at my home theatre in Beavercreek and will be the world premiere of a new musical written by local author David Brush and the music was composed by local musician Jim Farely. The show is called “The Big Picture.” Set in the summer of 1962, it is about college freshman Billy Carson who is spending his first summer home with his mom and best friend. With only a few items to provide clues, Billy sets out with a renewed interest in discovering the father he never knew – B-Movie script writer and war hero, Jack Carson. When old wounds are opened and new loves are discovered, Billy realizes that coming home is more difficult and ultimately more enlightening than he ever imagined and the sleepy town of Pine Springs, Illinois may never be the same.

-SA/DB/DP Press Release

Photos by Bruce W. Brown.

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES – May 13-29 – (8pm on Fridays & Saturdays / 2pm on Sundays)

Tickets Prices: $10 student / $14 senior / $15 adult

Location: The Dayton Playhouse
1301 East Siebenthaler Ave
Dayton, OH 45414 (map)

Tickets are on sale now through DP’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 424-8477 Monday-Friday 2:00pm-5:00pm. In Person: Friday 2:00pm-5:00pm

For more information about The Dayton Playhouse visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.org/

Win Free Tickets!

Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to La Cage aux Folles! We will be giving away up to FOUR pairs of tickets for the second weekend of the show…We’ll select 1 winner (of a set of tickets) for every 10 FB/Twitter Shares! 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 on this post, answering the following question…a revival of one of our more popular ticket contest questions…What’s your favorite Drag Queen Name? (i.e. “Julie Mandrews,” “Anita Cocktail,” etc.)
The deadline to enter is Midnight on SATURDAY, May 14th.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre – 05/05 – 05/18

May 9, 2011 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Thursday, May 5 – Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Zombies, the eighties, AND a musical? Today, I started my job as Assistant Stage Manager for a production of Evil Dead: the Musical at CATCO in Columbus, and I was reminded of something I love about theatre. One of the most powerful things about the arts is the wide variety of people to which they can appeal. Plays can include things you’d never have imagined… There literally is a show out there for everyone, even zombie lovers! I think that ability to speak to or entertain so many people through the same art form is one of the things I love most about theatre, and also our Dayton theatre in particular. There is often a wide variety of shows up, and these next two weeks are no exception, with selections from hip hop to drama. So, no matter your tastes, go see one of these great shows!

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

La Cage aux Folles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: George (a glitzy nightclub owner) and his partner Albin (also the glamorous chanteuse Zaza)’s son is getting married… and in this musical, he brings his fiancée’s conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair. “The bonds of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly [in this] tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together… stay fabulous… and above all else, stay true to themselves!”
Dates: May 13 – 29, 2011
Tickets & More Information: Dayton Playhouse

A Piece of My Heart

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: “Based on true stories recounted in the book of the same name, A Piece of My Heart
follows six women as they relive their memories of serving in Vietnam during the
1960s. These unsung heroes were among several thousand American women who
volunteered during the Vietnam War, serving as nurses, civilian humanitarian workers
and entertainers under frustrating and harrowing conditions.” (PHS)
Dates: May 13 – 21, 2011
Tickets & More Information: 888-262-3792 or Playhouse South

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE

The Story: “Right from the start, Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over their freshly-hatched brother duck. He just doesn’t seem right. His feet are way too big, he’s a lousy quacker and, well, he looks downright ugly! Even his parents are embarrassed to show him to the rest of the barnyard. Feeling miserable and alone, “Ugly” leaves home and begins a dangerous journey that will take him to a place where he, too, can be beautiful.” (THT) The entire family will love this musical adaptation of the classic story of the ugly duckling.
Dates: May 6 – 22, 2011
Tickets & More Information: Town Hall Theatre

Mauritius

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: Only together after the death of their mother, two estranged half-sisters discover a book of rare – and potentially extremely valuable – stamps. One sister embraces the stamp collecting, the other resists – but both are targets of three seedy, high-stakes collectors who are willing to do anything to claim a particularly rare find as their own.
Dates: May 13 – 29, 2011
Tickets & More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Illstyle and Peace

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL

The Basics: In this admission-free performance, the muticultural dance company Illstyle and Peace fuses the moves and spirit of contemporary and old-school hip-hop with an eclectic mix of dance, while spreading unity, peace, love, and respect through dance.

Date: Wednesday, May 18, 7:30 pm

More Information: Springfield Arts Council

Mid-Day Arts Cafe: the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Basics: A major collaboration between the DPO and Wright State University, Leonard Bernstein’s MASS explores a journey of self-discovery and finding faith. Enjoy a preview performance and a great box lunch from CitiLites during this education series.

Date: Tuesday, May 10, 2011. Registration and Networking: 11:30 a.m. – Noon; Performance: Noon – 1 p.m.

More Information: Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Leonard Bernstein’s MASS: A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers, 2010-2011 Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Hospitals Classical Series

~KN

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

A major collaboration between the DPO and Wright State University, Leonard Bernstein’s MASS explores a journey of self-discovery and finding faith.

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre – 03/24 – 04/06

March 24, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

THURSDAY, MARCH 24 – WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 2011

Limestone Bricks: rainbow base painting (Photo Credit: Denise Yvette Serna)

When I wandered into the theatre today, a scenic artist was busily painting a stone wall – with nearly every color of the rainbow, rather than a traditional brick red or tan. The stones looked gorgeous, although not yet like the limestone bricks on the set model. “Real bricks aren’t flat – they’re unique,” she said, explaining her process of basing the bricks with rainbow scumbling, then applying multiple washes to mute the colors but bring out the pigments and bright undertones. However, when the set is complete, audience members will never know just how many layers were essential to make such a realistic stone wall.

So many layers and colors go into every one of these shows, as well. From the sound designer to the box office intern to the actors and directors, shows are necessarily collaborative and layered, to an extreme. Often, we are never aware of these affectations, but each one contributes to the show that we see.

Limestone bricks: completed! (Photo Credit: Denise Yvette Serna)

Likewise, we and the people around us bear the same intricacies and layers. We are products of years of existence and influence; each personal experience has added color to the scumbled wall that is a life. Part of the magic of theatre is its influential power to reflect people; part of that, and of shows in general, illustrates the deep and layered nature of those other human beings around us. It does this not only through the literal act of a show, but also through the subtle things, like the rainbow layers underneath the bricks.

This week, go see one of the following shows. Whether exploring cupcakes, alcoholism, or sex, each one deals in some way with real people, in all of their layers and depth; therefore, through them, we can better understand the people and world around us. You could even take a friend or two to one of the shows below, then discuss it over drinks or dinner afterward. Understand the layers, one at a time.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

Bill W. and Dr. Bob

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Bill W. – famous New York stockbroker who loses everything in the 1929 crash, then turns to alcohol – and Dr. Bob Smith – Ohio surgeon who often operates hung over – meet and form a relationship, each helping to keep the other sober. This courageously blunt, uncompromisingly straight forward docu-drama explores the lives of these two men and the history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Dates: April 1 – 3, 2011 (Season Extra)
Tickets and More Information: 937-424-8477, Dayton Playhouse

The Boys Next Door

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: Four emotionally and/or mentally challenged men live together as part of an independent living program; social worker Jack attempts to guide them in their distinct trials and pursuit of a happier life.
Dates: April 1 – 17, 2011
Tickets and More Information: 937-278-5993 or Dayton Theatre Guild

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: This musical, the first collaboration between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, explores the Biblical saga of Joseph through an exciting variety of musical styles. The prophetic Joseph is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, where he “endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged” as he struggles to survive in a new land and move past his brothers’ betrayal.
Dates: March 25 – April 9, 2011
Tickets and More Information: Playhouse South

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Pinkalicious!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Photo Credit: Mike Long

The Story: Young Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes, even though her parents and friends warn her to stop. But when she wakes up one morning to discover she has turned bright pink from head to toe, her doctor diagnoses her with Pinkitis. In this adaptation of the beloved children’s book, families see if there can ever be too much of a good thing.
Dates: March 11 – 27, 2011
Tickets: (937) 433-8957
More Information: Town Hall Theatre: Pinkalicious

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Encore Theater Company: Summer Mainstage Season

The Basics: Altar Boyz. In My Blood. Pump up the Volume. The Consequences. In its exciting 2011 season, ETC collaborates with Sinclair Community College and the Human Race Theatre Company to bring Dayton several developing and contemporary musicals throughout the summer.
Auditions: March 27 – 29, 2011 (schedule appointment)
More Information: Encore Theater Company

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Avenue Q

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Story: Princeton moves to NYC with bright eyes, big dreams, and a tiny bank account, and ends up on Avenue Q, where everyone is looking for the same things: a decent job, a stable relationship, and a “purpose.” Sponsored by Logos@Work, Square One Salon & Spa, and with DaytonMostMetro.com as media sponsor, this national touring production of the sassy, irreverently hilarious puppet show that took Broadway by storm explores the ups and downs of life and “the real world.”
Date: March 30, 2011 – One Night Only!
Tickets: Ticket Center Stage , but they’re almost sold out!
More Information: DMM Feature

~KN

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 02/24 – 03/09

February 25, 2011 By Dayton937 1 Comment

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24 – WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2011

“it can be interesting to see if other people – like dead people who wrote books – agree or disagree with what you think… because it makes you – a larger part of the human community.” – Eurydice

I’m currently in the midst of rehearsing to play Eurydice in Sarah Ruhl’s beautiful play of the same title. When asked why she loves books, Eurydice says, “It can be interesting to see if other people – like dead people who wrote books – agree or disagree with what you think… because it makes you – a larger part of the human community.”

Theatre, I believe, does the same. We sit in performance spaces surrounded by other audience members, and all experience a show slightly differently; we perform on stages in front of any number of people, but only focus on the ones in the world of the play; we talk about plays and glance at reviews and comment on upcoming events.

I impulsively went to Chicago this past weekend to see two plays, and was reminded of these concepts as I spent some time in the audience. Seeing shows does bring us closer as human beings, whether with the two people we came with or the 212 in the audience, and that can be incredibly moving. So, these next two weeks, take someone you know to come see one of these shows, and enjoy being a part of that community.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Fat Pig

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: From the moment they meet, Tom finds Helen witty and charming, and they quickly fall in love. She happens to be quite plus-sized; Tom claims not to mind, but the people around him do. In this daring and provocative play, one of famed and cruelly witty Neil LaBute’s best, we explore societal treatment of the unfit, our despisal in others of what we fear in ourselves, and the ever-relevant question of whether size really matters or not.
Dates: February 11 – 27, 2011
Tickets and More Information: DTG: Fat P ig, DMM preview

Play On

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Story: In this behind-the-scenes comedy about an amateur theatre group, novice director Gerry Dunbar deals with a diva actress (supported by her doting husband) and their play’s haughty author (with a plethora of rewrites), rounded out by a cranky stage manager and technician. This riotous comedy exemplifies only too well the old theatre adage – “If it can go wrong… it will.”
Dates: February 17 – 19 & 24 – 26 at 8pm and February 20 & 27 at 3pm
Tickets and More Information: Brookville Flower Shop, (937) 833-3531

The Foreigner

SINCLAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Story: Charlie is pathologically shy; staying together at a bed and breakfast, his friend decides telling the other guests he is foreign and speaks no English will be the easiest thing to do… but once alone with the guests, he overhears more than he should – and much more than they want him to. “Based on what the NY Post describes as a “devilishly clever idea,” the play demonstrates what can happen when a group of devious characters must deal with a stranger who (they think) knows no English” (Dramatists).
Dates: Continues through Saturday, February 26
Tickets: (937) 512-2808 or http://www.sinclair.edu/arts
More Information: DMM event page, DMM preview

Picnic

WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

The Story: In a small town in Kansas, everything is going calmly and according to plan for widow Flo Owens and her two daughters. Madge, the oldest, is on her way to being a trophy wife while the younger, more rambunctious daughter Millie is getting ready to go to college on a scholarship. However, Flo starts to worry about their safety when Hal, a handsome but troubled drifter, shows up… (WSU)
Dates: February 17th-19th & 24th-26th at 8:00 PM, February 20th, 26th, & 27th at 2:00 PM, and February 23rd at 7:00 PM.
Tickets and More Information: (937) 775-2500, onStageDayton Review

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Auditions: February 23, beginning at 3:45 pm; February 26, beginning at 8:45 am. Register in advance.

THT: Berenstein Bears (2011) (Photo Credit Mike Long)

Performances: May 6 – 22, 2011
The Story: “Right from the start, Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over their freshly-hatched brother duck. He just doesn’t seem right. His feet are way too big, he’s a lousy quacker and, well, he looks downright ugly! Even his parents are embarrassed to show him to the rest of the barnyard. Feeling miserable and alone, “Ugly” leaves home and begins a dangerous journey that will take him to a place where he, too, can be beautiful.” (THT)
Directed by Brittany Hayden-Hinkle
More Information: (937) 433-8957, Town Hall Theatre

La Cage Aux Folles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Auditions: February 28 & March 1, 2011 (Callbacks March 3 & 4)
Performances: May 13 – 29, 2011
The Story: George (a glitzy nightclub owner) and his partner Albin (also the glamorous chanteuse Zaza)’s son is getting married… and in this musical, he brings his fiancée’s conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair. “The bonds of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly [in this] tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together… stay fabulous… and above all else, stay true to themselves!”
Directed by Doug Lloyd
More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

First Friday

DOWNTOWN DAYTON PARTNERSHIP

The Basics: In this monthly event, Dayton showcases a variety of artistic, creative, and fun events and locations downtown. Gallery exhibits and entertainment provide a great way to discover downtown and have a great time!
Date: Friday, March 4 (and the first Friday of every month!)
More Information and Events Listing: Downtown Dayton partnership: First Friday

~KN

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 02/10 – 02/23

February 10, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

ETC: Cait Doyle's Hot Mess in Manhattan

Thursday, February 10 – Wednesday, February 23

Renowned dancer Twyla Tharp observed that the arts are the only way one can run away without leaving home, and the shows in the greater Miami Valley area these next two weeks reflect that concept well. While there are a couple of deeper shows, there are quite a few comedies and musicals, which range across a spectrum from the witty Twelfth Night to humorous Hello, Dolly! One thing all of these shows have in common, however, is the ability to remove us from the stresses of our daily lives. This is also true of the deeper plays – like Fat Pig – which can provide escape while concurrently challenging us to consider social issues. This can be just an effective a tool for kids busy with school, so be sure to check out the children’s auditions while you’re at it. For those two or two and a half hours, you can step away from whatever occupies your thoughts, relax, and just enjoy a show… “running away” to take a breath, reenergize, and just laugh.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

The Last 5 Years

SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

The Story: Cathy is a struggling actress; Jamie, a rising writer. Over the course of five years, they fall in and out of love, The Last 5 Years chronicling that journey in an emotionally powerful and intimate song cycle.
Dates: February 10 – 13, 2011 One weekend only!
Tickets: $10 at the door
More Information: Springfield StageWorks

Fat Pig

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

Play On

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Twelfth Night

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: After being shipwrecked, Viola pretends to be her drowned brother. When she falls in love with her employer, for whom she’s delivering love notes to the Lady Olivia, the result is a classic love triangle in this hilarious Shakespearean comedy of mistaken (and disguised) identities. HRTC sets this production in 1927 America, complete with speakeasies, tights, and all the music of the Roaring Twenties!
Dates: January 27 – February 13.
Tickets: Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Human Race Theatre Company: Twelfth Night

Hello, Dolly!

Hello, Dolly! cast (Photo Credit Scott Huck)

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

The Story: Dolly Levi, adored by all (especially the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant) is a self-termed meddler, but this time, she’s scheming to arrange her own marriage, to the well-known and rich Horace Vandergelder. In this optimistic and fun musical, Dolly charms (and meddles) her way into his heart, setting up a few other matches along the way.
Dates: February 3 – 5, 10 – 12; curtains at 8:00 pm, with additional Saturday performances at 2:00 pm. Call for info on additional student and senior citizen matinees.
Tickets: Cedarville University: Tickets
More Information: Cedarville University: Theatre Season, DMM behind-the-scenes preview

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Spelling Bee cast (Photo Credit John Gebhardt)

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Six eclectic students in the throes of puberty compete (along with some volunteer audience members) in pursuit of spelling bee fame; the adults and hosts aren’t so far from childhood themselves! In this fun and interactive musical, the students learn where they can stand out and fit in all at the same time.
Dates: January 28 through February 13; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm.
Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse, call the box office at (937) 424-8477, and read my DMM feature, s-y-n-e-r-g-y and spelling .

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

The Phantom Tollbooth

ZOOT THEATRE COMPANY

Auditions: Friday February 11, 2011 – 6 – 8 pm
Performances: April 15 – 30, 2011, at both Town Hall Theatre and the Schuster Center Mathile Theatre
The Story: In this adaptation of the youth classic, after the very bored Milo receives a make-believe tollbooth, he is transported to the Lands Beyond, a fantastic and imaginitive world. He meets Tock the watchdog, the floating Alex Bings (whose legs have not yet grown down to earth), Dynne (a monster made of smoke), and many others, ultimately learning the boundlessness of imagination.
Directed by John Lavarnway
More Information: Actors of all ages will perform a one-minute monologue with a puppet (provided). Zoot Theatre Company

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

THT: Junie B. Jones (Dec. 2010) (Photo Credit Mike Long)

Auditions: February 23, beginning at 3:45 pm; February 26, beginning at 8:45 am. Register in advance.
Performances: May 6 – 22, 2011
The Story: “Right from the start, Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over their freshly-hatched brother duck. He just doesn’t seem right. His feet are way too big, he’s a lousy quacker and, well, he looks downright ugly! Even his parents are embarrassed to show him to the rest of the barnyard. Feeling miserable and alone, “Ugly” leaves home and begins a dangerous journey that will take him to a place where he, too, can be beautiful.” (THT)
Directed by Brittany Hayden-Hinkle
More Information: (937) 433-8957, Town Hall Theatre

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRE

Auditions: February 22 – 23, 2011, from 7 – 8:30 pm (see contact information below to schedule a 5-minute appointment)
Performances: April 8 – 17, 2011
The Story: Alice falls down a rabbit-hole into “a world of talking animals, comic royalty, and races where the contestants run in circles!” (BCT) This children’s adaptation provides a contemporary view of the Carroll classic, where “nonsense makes quite good sense” and we can believe as many as six impossible things before breakfast.
More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre, 429-4737, or email [email protected]

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Queen Nur’s “Sweet Potato Pie and Such”

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL: “Creative Connections”

The Basics: Using a wide repertoire of folktales, African percussion, song, and dance, the “incomparable and entertaining storyteller” Queen Nur performs and tells stories that originated on the African continent but spread throughout the world. This family-oriented show will sure to keep all audience members clapping, stomping, and celebrating African-American heritage.
Date: Wednesday, February 16, at 7:30 pm
Tickets: Free; seating is first-come, first-served.
More Information: Springfield Arts Council

Cait Doyle’s Hot Mess in Manhattan

ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

The Story: Carrie Bradshaw is a Lie. In this stylistically encompassing new musical, we journey through the wilds of New York City life in an honest, hilarious, contemporary, and touching look at one woman’s interaction with the city that never sleeps. Encore Theater Company is pleased to be the host theatre for the out-of-town tryout of this New York bound musical.
Date: Saturday, February 12, 8pm at Sinclair Community College (Building 8 )
Tickets: http://brushfire.e-vent.info/Events/Sinclair/Start.aspx

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

Jane’s Best Bets (2/9 – 2/13)

February 8, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Some of you may be suffering from cabin fever, as the weather last week wasn’t conducive to enjoying all the wonderful activities in Dayton. Although it’s supposed to be cold this week according to our local meteorologists, hopefully you will have the opportunity to get out and experience some of the wonderful things going on in our city!

On Wednesday, in the afternoon, take a trip to the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch for Special Events: Putting the FUN in Fundraising, in order to learn how to plan and execute a successful fundraising event. Over at the Schuster Center, check out Visual Voices Art Exhibit: Dayton Skyscrapers 2011. If you missed the Trolley Stop’s Monthly Beer Tasting last week because of the ice/snow, no worries, as it has been rescheduled for Wednesday. Afterwards, be sure to stay for the Old Time Acoustic Jam!

On Thursday, join Generation Dayton as they partner up with jumpstART for their Thirsty Thursday at De’Lish. Afterwards, Jump into Theatre with these two great organizations by checking out the Human Race Theatre Company’s production of Twelfth Night. Make sure you ask for the “jumpstart” deal in order to get half-off tickets! Plus, the Human Race will offer a private tour after the production! For those of you who love the sport of skiing, head to The Neon for their screening of ‘The Story’, which is a documentary on the topic. At the Schuster Center, listen to the sounds of the Dayton Philharmonic for Heroes & Journeys: Strauss & Mozart. In addition, A Streetcar Named Desirewill be playing at Victoria Theatre and True West will be playing at the University of Dayton.

On Friday, for those of you who like the color green, you’ll want to attend the ‘Ohio Leads the Way: Green Markets and Green Jobs’ Expo at the Dayton Convention Center. If you’re feeling a little anti-social and would prefer to just watch a movie, head to UD for ArtStreet Friday Film Series Presents: The Social Network. I still haven’t seen this movie, but have definitely heard good things about it! Over at the Nutter Center, meet Achmed the Terrorist, Bubba J, and Jose Jalapeno on a Stick, as they take the stage alongside the hilarious Comedian Ventriloquist Jeff Dunham! All you beer lovers may want to take a trip to Cincinnati for the Cincy Winter Beerfest – just bring a DD, or rather have the DD bring you! For a fun way to start off Valentine’s Weekend, attend the Valentine’s Masquerade Ball Fundraiser at the Cannery Art and Design Center to benefit the YMCA Youth and Teen Programs. If you’re looking for some theatre/music options, there are plenty! Get your tickets to The Berenstain Bears Onstage: A Bear Country Musical (Town Hall Theatre), A Streetcar Named Desire (Victoria Theatre), Fat Pig (Dayton Theatre Guild), Stauss: A Hero’s Life(Dayton Philharmonic at the Schuster Center), The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee (Dayton Playhouse), Twelfth Night (The Loft Theatre), or True West at the University of Dayton. At Alex’s, you can see The Fries, one of my favorite local bands (and foods) perform as part of their 2011 Debut! Speaking of fries, be sure to check out the St. Henry/Bishop Leibold Fish Fry! After all, what Friday would be complete without one?!?!

On Saturday, head out to the PNC 2^nd Street Market for their Valentine’s Celebration, featuring perfect gifts for your sweetheart. All teens are welcome to attend the Game Day @ Your Library, which will take place at the East Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Be sure to reserve your spot for the Do-It-Yourself Valentine Cookie Cakeat the delicious Ele Cake Company…I just can’t get enough of their butter cream icing! If you have any leftovers, feel free to send them my way! Over at the UD Arena, watch the UD Flyers as they play Temple. The ‘Ohio Leads the Way: Green Markets and Green Jobs’ Expo will still be going on at the Dayton Convention Center. If you so desire, you can see A Streetcar Named Desire at Victoria Theatre. All you Sex and The City lovers will want to see the new show, Hot Mess in Manhattan. There are also several other theater options listed on the DMM calendar. At the University of Dayton, you will be able to check out the Libby Larsen Residency: Grand Finale Concert. If fish fryin’ is your thing, head to St. Peter’s for their Fish Fry and Monte Carlo. Several restaurants are also having Valentine’s specials or “couples specials,” such as the Sweetheart Package at The Melting Pot. Over at the Nutter Center, attend the WYSO’s Silent Auction and Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting, featuring one of my favorite types of chocolates – Winans! At Hara Arena, catch the Dayton Gems as they play the Fort Wayne Komets…kind of reminds me of that song I used to sing when I was little about comet making your mouth turn green and tasting like Listerine. Darn, now I’m going to have that song in my head all day! And finally, you will not want to miss the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s (DCDC’s) Black History Month Performance entitled In the Spirit of…The Spirit Within. They are an amazing group of performers!

On Valentine’s Day Eve, be sure to Savor Your Sunday & Support Stivers. At the Dayton Art Institute, check out the Afternoon Musicales. If you’re looking for something to do with your sweetheart (or your mom or grandma), you can check out Spinoza’s Dinner and a Movie Package, the Valentine Sharing Menu at Fleming’s, 3 course dinner for 2 for $25.99 at Mimi’s, or the Sweetheart Package at The Melting Pot. If your mom, grandma, or sweetheart enjoys theatre, take her to one of the many shows going on, including The Berenstain Bears Onstage at Town Hall Theatre, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee at the Dayton Playhouse, Twelfth Night at The Loft Theatre, A Streetcar Named Desire -Passport Performance at Victoria Theatre, or Fat Pig at the Dayton Theatre Guild. If the lady in your life likes music, take her to listen to the sounds of the Dayton Philharmonic for The Magic Orchestra with Dan Kaminat the Schuster Center. And finally, another wonderful Sunday option is DCDC’s Black History Month Performance In the Spirit of…The Spirit Within.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week…well actually, a couple cheesy pickup lines in honor of Valentine’s Day. Drum roll please…

Let’s make like a fabric softener and snuggle.
Are your legs tired, because you’ve been running through my mind all day long.
Do you believe in love at first sight or should I walk by again?

Disclaimer: The success of these pick-up lines is not guaranteed.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar. There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today! Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE! And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a LOVEly week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (2/2 – 2/6)

February 1, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Hello February…and hello icky weather! If you’re reading this, that means you still have power, which is a great thing! I hope you also have the power to get up off the couch and enjoy some of these events!

On Groundhog Day (a.k.a. Wednesday), eat lunch at Smokey Bones for their $5 Lunch Special. Over at the Schuster Center, check out the Visual Voices Art Exhibit: Dayton Skyscrapers 2011, which celebrates “women and men who stand tall as role models in the Dayton African-American community.” There will be a sea of food at Dorothy Lane Market as part of their Oyster Bar Happy Hour, as well as at Bonefish Grill for their Bang Bang Shrimp Wednesday. If you are a fan of environmental causes and would like to know more about the lives affected by the water industry as well as public water rights, then you will want to attend the Environmental Film Series: Tapped at Cox Arboretum. Enjoy an adult beverage at The Wine Loft for their Happy Hour, The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting, or Bruning’s Wine Cellar for their Taste the Wines of Frog’s Leap event. If you’re downtown, head to the Schuster Center to see 9 to 5: The Musical (I’m looking forward to it after my 9 to 5 job!) or to The Loft Theatre to see Twelfth Night. Over at Clark State Performing Arts Center, watch Fiddler On The Roof…I’m hoping he doesn’t fall down with it being icy! And finally, support the UD Flyers as they play St. Bonaventure at UD Arena…and hopefully get a victory!

On Thursday, celebrate the Chinese New Year with dinner specials at both The Nanking Inn and Kabuki. Have you always wanted to dance, but keep putting it off? If so, boogie your way to Michael Solomon Pavillion for International Folk Dance Lessons. Over at the Dayton Racquet Club, attend the Go Red for Women/American Heart Month Kickoff. At The Neon, check out Pecha Kucha Night Dayton, Volume 6, in which there will be several short presentations by noteworthy people around the city about their creative endeavors. The presentations will be followed by a screening of the documentary DIVE, which is based on the topic of food waste at L.A. supermarkets. For more information about Pecha Kucha, click here. If you like meeting new people, head to Cedarville University to meet Dolly… be sure to tell her Hello, Dolly! Also, at the Schuster Center, you will be able to see 9 TO 5: The Musical, and at The Loft Theatre, you can catch Twelfth Night.

On Friday, after you get out of the shower, be sure to put on your red for the National Wear Red Day, in honor of the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” Movement. If you wish, you can continue to celebrate the Chinese New Year at China Dynasty, The Nanking Inn, or Kabuki. Get out your dancing shoes and head to the Michael Solomon Pavilion for the Contra Dance Party – Cityfolk. If you love a good fish fry, head to either the Ascension or the St. Mary Fish Fry. All you art lovers will want to participate in First Friday, the fabulous art hop which happens the first Friday of each month downtown. There will also be many wonderful shows going on in our great region, including 9 to 5: The Musical (Schuster Center), The Octette Bridge Club (Beavercreek Community Theatre), The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee (Dayton Playhouse), Twelfth Night (Loft Theatre), The Berenstain Bears Onstage; A Bear Country Musical! (Town Hall Theatre), and True West (University of Dayton-Kennedy Union Boll Theatre). And finally, listen to The Rocket Man, The Eagles, Diana Ross, and The Beatles as you skate at RiverScape for their event, Peace, Love, and Skate: 60s and 70s.

On Saturday, bring your Valentine and go to the wonderful El Meson for their Cooking Class for Lovers. For all you techies, head to the Dayton Diode Open House which has been called a “YMCA for nerds”…perhaps I should go then! When tragedy strikes, it is important for a community to join together. Over at St. John’s Lutheran Church, bring your friends and participate in the Dodgeball Tournamnet to benefit the Suzanne Waughtel Hopper fund. In the evening, there are opportunities to support other great causes. You can attend the 21st Annual Artemis Center Gala ‘Be a Star, a Purple Carpet Event’ at Sinclair or Sing your Heart Out For A Good Cause (the American Heart Association) at The Wine Loft. All you “pasghetti” lovers (as many kids call it!) will want to go to the American Legion Post 598 for Franco’s FAMOUS Spaghetti. Over at RiverScape, participate in the Star-Late Skate. Also on Saturday, there will be a plethora of theatre options, including 9 to 5: The Musical, The Berenstain Bears Onstage; A Bear Country Musical, The Octette Bridge Club, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee, Twelfth Night, and True West.

On Sunday, consider going to Alex’s for their Jazz Brunch. Or you can Savor Your Sunday & Support Stivers at Coco’s Bistro. If it’s not too cold, perhaps you’ll want to learn the Fundamentals of Skating at RiverScape. Sundays are a great day for the arts, so consider checking out the Wright State University 2011 Faculty Exhibition, Visual Voices Art Exhibit; Dayton Skyscrapers 2011 at the Schuster Center, Folk Art from the Collection of Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP at The Dayton Art Institute, or A Student of People Exhibit at Troy-Hayner Cultural Center. Or check out one of the many theatre productions going on around town. If you still haven’t done so, be sure to check out DMM’s onStageDayton, where Shane, Katherine, and Russell keep you up to date on the Dayton theatre scene!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

How many pessimists does it take to change a lightbulb?

Nevermind. Nobody would get the joke anyway.

Have a great week Dayton!

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 01/27 – 02/09

January 28, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

WSU: Jekyll and Hyde (Photo Credit Wright State University)

Thursday, January 27 – Wednesday, February 9, 2011

It seems like it’s the beginning of that time of year when hours pass too slowly and days even more so. There’s been snow on the ground for the majority of several months, but its melting seems too far in the future to even consider. The excitement of the holidays has been over for a month, and there aren’t any special events or vacations to which to look forward for quite a while. However, the plays that are up in Dayton over the next two weeks are perfect distractions from those winter doldrums, and whether you’re in the mood for a fun musical spectacle (Hello, Dolly!) or a tale of intense inner torment (Jekyll & Hyde), there’s a show for you. So… what do you plan on seeing?

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

Twelfth Night

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: After being shipwrecked, Viola pretends to be her drowned brother. When she falls in love with her employer, for whom she’s delivering love notes to the Lady Olivia, the result is a classic love triangle in this hilarious Shakespearean comedy of mistaken (and disguised) identities. HRTC sets this production in 1927 America, complete with speakeasies, tights, and all the music of the Roaring Twenties!
Dates: January 27 – February 13.
Tickets: Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Human Race Theatre Company: Twelfth Night

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

David Thomas as Leaf Coneybear (Photo Credit John Gebhardt)

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Six eclectic students in the throes of puberty compete (along with some volunteer audience members) in pursuit of spelling bee fame; the adults and hosts aren’t so far from childhood themselves! In this fun and interactive musical, the students learn where they can stand out and fit in all at the same time.
Dates: January 28 through February 13; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm.
Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse, call the box office at (937) 424-8477, or win some free through my DMM feature, s-y-n-e-r-g-y and spelling .

The Octette Bridge Club

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Story: Eight sisters in a small Rhode Island town meet twice a month for bridge and gossip; in this play set in the context of the World Wars, we see them grow closer and apart, and how their selves, relationships, and world change between 1934 and 1944.
Dates: January 27 – February 6, 2011
Tickets and More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre

Hello, Dolly!

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

The Story: Dolly Levi, adored by all (especially the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant) is a self-termed meddler, but this time, she’s scheming to arrange her own marriage, to the well-known and rich Horace Vandergelder. In this optimistic and fun musical, Dolly charms (and meddles) her way into his heart, setting up a few other matches along the way.
Dates: February 3 – 5, 10 – 12; curtains at 8:00 pm, with additional Saturday performances at 2:00 pm. Call for info on additional student and senior citizen matinees.
Tickets: Cedarville University: Tickets
More Information: Cedarville University: Theatre Season and watch for a behind-the-scenes preview article here next week!

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

I Hate Hamlet

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: In this dramatic comedy, television actor Andrew Rally is struggling in his professional and private lives, attempting to play the role of Hamlet (which he hates) and deal with his girlfriend’s unrelenting chasteness. The dilemma deepens when the ghost of John Barrymore appears to try to convince Andrew to persevere in the role… while an old deal-making friend suddenly offers Andrew the chance at a new television deal.
Dates: January 21 – 23, 28 – 29, 2011
Tickets: 888-262-3792
More Information: Playhouse South

Jekyll & Hyde

WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

The Story: Dr. Henry Jekyll studies what he perceives to be a dichotomous nature in humans, comprising good and evil; when he attempts to separate them, “he unwittingly unleashes his dark, inner self: the murderous Edward Hyde” (WSU). In this intense and thrilling musical, he battles that self and the destructiveness Hyde unleashes.
Dates: continues through Sunday, January 30.
Tickets: (937) 775-2500 (good luck getting them, but it’s worth trying)
More Information: (937) 775-3072 or DMM Review

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Beyond Therapy, by Christopher Durang

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Auditions: February 1 & 2, 7:00 pm
Performances: March 11 – 20, 2011
The Story: Manhattanites Prudence and Bruce, both seeking stable romantic relationships with their psychiatrists’ help, place personal ads. After a disastrous meeting, the two flee back to their respective therapists, who may just be more troubled than their patients. Although Prudence and Bruce overcome their mutual loathing, in true Durang fashion, the chaos doesn’t end.
Directed by Kim Warrick
More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

ONE SHORT DAY

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Cait Doyle’s Hot Mess in Manhattan

ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

Date: Saturday, February 12, 8pm at Sinclair Community College (Building 8)

Tickets: http://brushfire.e-vent.info/Events/Sinclair/Start.aspx

More Information: Encore Theater Company

s-y-n-e-r-g-y and spelling

January 26, 2011 By Dayton937 9 Comments

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

"Spelling Bee" cast. Photo credit: John Gebhardt

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Win Tickets to this show…Read on!

“Trespass. T – R – E – S…” Nine years old and fourth speller left, I paused. Were there one or two s’s in the middle? I guessed two, and with the disheartening ding of the buzzer, my chance at spelling stardom disappeared. Since then, I’ve never forgotten how to spell ‘trespass,’ or been in another bee. However, in Dayton Playhouse’s upcoming production of The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, we can all relive those childhood competitions… some of us, even onstage with the actors.

s-y-n-o-p-s-i-s

According to the show’s official website, this “hilarious tale of overachievers’ angst chronicles the experiences of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime.” Each student is eclectic and unique, from the youngest but politically aware Logainne SchwartzandGrubenniere (overseen by her overbearing, gay fathers), to the linguistic, obsessively confident, not-allowed-to-cry Marcy Park (Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, anyone?) to the pubescent (inopportunely so…) Chip Tolentino.

Bobby Mitchum as Chip Tolentino; photo credit John Gebhardt

p-r-e-c-o-c-i-o-u-s

The adults in charge are equally diverse and have barely managed to escape childhood themselves. The result is a quirky and hilarious story “filled with jubilant music, humor, and heart.”

Cast member Corinne Derusha, who plays host Rona Lisa Peretti, observed,

“Spelling Bee isn’t meant to be performed by kids [it’s aimed to be performed by adults portraying children] but with the range of ages and experiences [of our cast], it takes the audience away from that one aspect and focuses more on the characters we have created.”

d-i-d-a-c-t-i-c

This unique portrayal of children by adults is, according to director Natalie Houliston, “very revealing, [bringing] a new life and light to the struggle of the human condition.”

"Spelling Bee" cast; photo credit John Gebhardt

The characters are not the only spellers in this fictitious bee. Prior to the show, audience members can sign up with Vice Principle Panch and Rona to be considered for one of four audience speller roles. Don’t let this b-e-l-e-a-g-u-e-r you, though – these spellers don’t have to be amazing, merely willing to sit onstage and try their best!

p-a-r-t-i-c-i-p-a-n-t

The cast members have enjoyed working on this production. Derusha in particular loves the music: “[it] is brilliant. And singing it every day has been a treat. I’m going to be sad when it’s over.” Each of the cast members with which I spoke also praised the show’s direction as both professional and familial.

Charity Farrell, who plays Marcy, said,

“Natalie has been incredible to work with… she is completely open to any ideas we might have – in fact, every single suggestion that anyone has thrown out from the beginning has been answered with, ‘I’d be willing to see that!’”

Especially for a show about a student experience, that spirit of collaboration is perfect. But, this attitude has not come at the expense of quality and a clear vision, but rather alongside and promoting them.

Charity Farrell as Marcy Park; photo credit John Gebhardt

r-a-p-p-o-r-t

The cast shares this perspective : Errik Hood, vocal director and Vice-President Panch, said, “The entire cast showed up to the first rehearsal with great voices, but the truly special thing about each of them was their willingness and ability to try new ideas, experiment with new vocal colors and approaches, and to dramatically motivate each musical choice– making the singing an organic manifestation of the character instead of a superimposed or conflicting idea.”

That combination of synergy, creativity, and leadership, along with a s-t-e-l-l-a-r cast of s-p-e-l-l-e-r-s, makes Dayton Playhouse’s production of The 25^th Annual Spelling Bee a show Dayton audiences shouldn’t miss.

Performance Information

p-a-i-d-e-i-a (a compendium of general education)

Who: Complete cast – Corinne Derusha, Errik M. Hood, Lindsay Sherman, Charity Farrell, Bobby Mitchum, Matthew Smith, David Thomas, David Stone, and Hannah Berry. Directed by Natalie Houliston, with musical and vocal direction from Joe Whatley and Errik Hood, choreography by Erica Hamilton, lights by John Findley, sound by Tony Fende, costumes by Eric Winslow, and stage management by Cami Brewer.

When: January 28 through February 13; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm.

Where: 1301 Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton.

Warning: Parents strongly cautioned: “…Spelling Bee” contains strong language, adult jokes, and mature themes. Not recommended for children under 13.

To purchase tickets, visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.org or call the box office at (937) 424-8477.

Win Free Tickets!

The Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to Spelling Bee! We will be giving away up to FOUR pairs of tickets for the show! All you need to do is:

Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page (We’ll give away one pair of tickets for every TEN FB/Twitter Shares).
Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
Leave a comment, answering the following question…WHAT COMMONLY USED WORD ALWAYS TRIPS YOU UP WHEN YOU TYPE IT? You know…”D-E-S-S-E-R-T or D-E-S-E-R-T?”
The deadline to enter is NOON on FRIDAY, January 28th.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Contest Closed 1/28/2011 at Noon

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre – 12/09 – 12/22

December 9, 2010 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9 – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2010

Photo Credit: Mike Long

Two main messages seem to bombard our culture during the holidays: we are either obsessed as consumers, always searching for that perfect gift or the better price or the best idea; or we focus on the “reason for the season” and look beyond giving to the joys of spending time with family and friends. Generally, we operate somewhere in the middle of those concepts, and try to do and have it all.

In the midst of all of that, it’s easy to forget about the arts, in favor of everything else on the month’s agenda. However, in the Dayton Theatre scene of these next few weeks are several great shows sure to provide holiday joy and entertainment. Seeing one of these productions doesn’t have to become one more facet of your to-do list, but can actually be a way to focus: what better way to do something unique and special as a family than to see a performance together, and how special that gift could be! And there will still be time to finish up the shopping and decorating.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS NOT TO MISS

Christmas Belles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: With three squabbling sisters, an ailing Santa, vengeful sheep, and a reluctant Elvis impersonator, it’s not surprising this Texan church Christmas pageant is spinning wildly out of control! Add a potentially-derailing family secret and the plan to broadcast the pageant on cable access television to the mix, and you have a hilarious story sure to bring joy to your holiday!
Dates: December 17 – 19
Tickets: 937-424-8477
More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Christmas Belles

Photo Credit: Human Race Theatre

8-Track: The Sounds of the Seasons

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: This new musical revue celebrates “the songs of the ‘70s in all their glory, or lack thereof! Expect plenty offlashy outfits and hairdos as four talented performers rediscover the heart and soul of the forgotten decade, with music made famous by artists from Donna Summer to the Eagles to Debby Boone” (HRTC).
Dates: December 2 – 22, 2010
Tickets: Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Human Race Theatre Company: 8-Track, DMM Event, onStageDayton feature article and review

A Christmas Carol

Photo Credit: Diana Blowers

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRE

The Story: When a young boy struggles to understand why his grandfather would give money to the poor, the grandfather tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge as he recalls it, and the story of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, where ghosts of past, present, and future persuade the stingy Scrooge to change his life, comes to life as a play-within-a-play in this heartwarming story.
Dates: December 3 – 12, 2010
Tickets: 927-439-4737
More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre, DMM Event, and onStageDayton feature article

White Christmas

LA COMEDIA DINNER THEATRE

The Story: In the stage adaptation of the classic 1954 film, two WWII veterans, now successful song-and-dance performers, follow a duo of singing sisters en route to their Christmas show in Vermont, hoping for romance. But the 80 degree weather has everyone dreaming of a white Christmas!
Dates: through December 31, 2010
Tickets and More Information: La Comedia: White Christmas

Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Photo Credit: Mike Long

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

The Story: The holidays are supposed to be a time of peace and goodwill… that is, until first grader Junie B. Jones draws her sworn enemy’s name for the secret Santa gift exchange at school. And if that’s not enough, their music teacher announces the two will perform together in the school’s holiday pageant!
Dates: December 3 – 19, 2010
Tickets and More Information: Town Hall Theatre, DMM Event, and onStageDayton feature article

The Wonder Bread Years

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Basics: In this comic salute to the Baby Boomer generation, critically acclaimed writer and performer Pat Hazell (“Seinfeld,” “The Tonight Show,” and NPR, among other credits) plays out the fun of Halloween night, Christmas morning, and other high watermarks of our collective American youth of the ‘60s and ‘70s. This hilarious production “gracefully walks the line between stand-up and theater,” and is part of the Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Hospitals Broadway Series.
Dates: December 7 – 19, 2010
Tickets: (937) 228-3630 or (888) 228-3630, Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Victoria Theatre Association: The Wonder Bread Years

Photo Credit: Dayton Ballet

The Nutcracker

DAYTON BALLET

The Story: Dayton Ballet brings the classic story of the Nutcracker to life, complete with mice, soldiers, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Over 100 local youth participate in this magical performance that has become a much-loved holiday tradition.
Dates: December 10 – 19, 2010
Tickets: 937-228-3639, Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Dayton Ballet: The Nutcracker

~KN

SUBMIT PRESS RELEASES
Would you like to submit theater news for DaytonMostMetro.com’s onStageDayton features? Email Shane, Dave, Russell, & Katherine at [email protected]

W;t – DEATH BE NOT PROUD…a chance to win free tickets

November 12, 2010 By Dayton Most Metro 6 Comments

W;t - showing at the Dayton Playhouse

W;t

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

DEATH BE NOT PROUD: Margeret Edson’s Pulitzer-Prize winning play opens this weekend at Dayton Playhouse

Pulitzer-Prize Winning plays seem to be the fall trend in Dayton Theatre. Leading the way was the joint premiere of Tracy Lett’s August: Osage County from Wright State University and The Human Race Theatre Company. This week, Dayton Playhouse will present one of Pulitzer’s more powerful selections in recent years – Margaret Edson’s W;t.

The play is structured as the last hours of Dr Vivian Bearing, a university professor of English, who is dying of ovarian cancer. She recalls the initial diagnosis of Stage IV metastatic ovarian cancer from her oncologist, Dr. Harvey Kelekian. Dr Kelekian then proposes an experimental chemotherapeutic treatment. Although Vivian agrees to the treatment, the heart of the piece is Vivian’s searing intellect and introspective journey with disease.

What’s striking about the play is that it serves as both an homage to those we have all lost to cancer – ovarian or otherwise – and a heartfelt “hell-yeah!” to those currently in a fight for their lives. This is an extraordinary achievement for a typically intermission-free evening of theatre. Even more striking is that W;t is not a play about cancer, but rather a play about the value of the heart in times of vulnerability. Theatrically, it has often served as a tour-de-force for the actress embodying Vivian. She is well-educated, logical, an expert on the work of John Donne, and an accomplished academic, yet through the play we see even her arguably above-average intellect is no match for the illogical complexities of this crippling scourge.

Premiering in 1995, one might think advances in cancer research since would render Edson’s play obsolete or, at the very least dated. Refreshingly, Edson’s carefully selected prose still has a visceral resonance and perhaps even a fresh one in 2010.

Dayton Playhouse is in the middle of an ambitious season that began with a widely well-received regional premiere of Mel Brooks’ Tony-Winning musical The Producers directed by Chris Harmon. The remainder of the year includes William Finn’s contemporary hit The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Jerry Herman’s iconic and progressive La Cage Aux Folles, and Christopher Durang’s Beyond Therapy. W;t – although not a light evening of theatre – could prove to be a fine addition to this line-up AND a rarely produced play in the region, and with local actors Barbara Coriell and Chuck Larkowski leading the cast (as Vivian Bearing and Dr. Kelekian, respectively), the prospects are high indeed.

W;t is directed by Matthew Smith with assistance from Anita Bachmann (lights), Duante Beddingfield (sound), Michael Stockstill (costumes) and Jamie McQuinn (stage management). The cast includes Barbara Coriell, Jonathan Berry, Chuck Larkowski, Jeri Williams, Chris Hammond, Gloria Doty, Ellen Ballerene, Macus Simmons II and Carol Narigon.

Win tickets to W;t

Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to W;t. We will be giving away up to four pairs of tickets for the second weekend of this terrific show! All you need to do is:

Share this post on Facebook or Twitter…we’ll give away a set of tickets for every 10 ’shares’ on FB/Twitter, up to 4 pairs of tickets. Just click on the appropriate button below, it’s that easy!

Leave a comment, answering the following question…The character of “Vivian” is a college professor…tell DMM about an educator in your past who made an impact on your life.

The deadline to enter is MIDNIGHT on TUESDAY, November 16th; tickets will be made available for the second weekend of the show.

For more Information & Tickets, visit:

Margeret Edson’s W;t (November 12-21, 8pm Fridays & Saturdays and 2pm Sundays at Dayton Playhouse, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave
Dayton, OH 45414) Tickets: $10/$14/$15 Call (937) 424-8477 (M-F 2:00-5:00 pm) or by visiting their ONLINE BOX OFFICE.

Visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.org/ for more information about the organization.

-DB

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

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.

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre 11/11-11/24

November 11, 2010 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2010 – WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2010

Dayton Playhouse: W;t (Photo Credit Art Fabian)

The last few weeks, I’ve been recovering from surgery, a process that has been unfortunately long, stressful, and exhausting. But in the midst of that, I had the opportunity to see the national tour of Spring Awakening at the Victoria Theatre last week, and for those two and a half hours, I forgot my pain and exhaustion as I watched and enjoyed an amazing piece of art. The experience reminded me of the incredible power of theatre, and how moving and cathartic seeing a show can be.

We all have plenty of stresses in our lives, and theatre can be a great way to cast those aside for a few hours as we lose ourselves in a show, many of which will still teach us something about life and ourselves in the process. Whether you want to do that by laughing (Anything Goes) or crying (Wit), there’s a show for you in Dayton these next two weeks. And, performing in a show can be just as cathartic, so be sure to check out the auditions below, too.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

W;t

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: English professor Dr. Vivian Bearing has just been diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer; words and her wit are her only defense, since the hospital gown and Boston Red Sox cap cannot protect her from a body that has turned into an enemy and a cure that may be worse than the disease. Ultimately, “we uncover a new appreciation for the simple, the maudlin, and the kind, and see the triumph of the human spirit.”

Dates: November 12 – 21, 2010

Tickets: (937) 424-8477

More Information: Dayton Playhouse: W;t

The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

The Story: When Piggsylvania’s highest court puts him on trial, things don’t look so good for Alexander T. Wolf — everyone from judge Prudence Pig to the court reporter is rooting into the truth about his so-called terrible deeds! In this fresh musical adaptation of the familiar story, audience members (ages 4+) decide the way the story ends.

Dates: November 19 (7 pm), 20 – 21 (3 pm), in special performances at the Schuster Center’s Mathile Theatre

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage or call 937-228-3630

More Information: Town Hall Theatre, Victoria Theatre Association: Three Little Pigs

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Anything Goes

WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

Anything Goes (Photo Credit WSU)

The Story: In this musical set aboard an ocean liner bound from New York to London, Billy Crocker is a stowaway in love with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is unfortunately engaged to Lord Evelyn Oakleigh; former Evangelist turned nightclub singer Reno Sweeney falls in love with Lord Evelyn; gangster Moonface Martin attempts to escape the law, and Hope’s mother only desires to maintain her social standing.

Dates: October 28 – November 14

Tickets: 937 775-2500

More Information: Wright State University: Theatre season

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

I Hate Hamlet

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Auditions: Nov 15 & 16, 2010, 7:00 pm

Performances: January 21-23 & 28-29, 2011.

Directed by Ray Gambrel

The Story: In this dramatic comedy, television actor Andrew Rally is struggling in his professional and private lives, attempting to play the role of Hamlet (which he hates) and deal with his girlfriend’s unrelenting chasteness. The dilemma deepens when the ghost of John Barrymore appears to try to convince Andrew to persevere in the role… while an old deal-making friend suddenly offers Andrew the chance at a new television deal.

More Information: Playhouse South: I Hate Hamlet, DMM Event

The Octette Bridge Club

The Spitfire Grill at BCT (Sept 2010)

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

Auditions: November 15 & 16, 2010, 7:00 pm

Performances: January 28 – February 6, 2011

Directed by Jim Lockwood

The Story: Eight sisters in a small Rhode Island town meet twice a month to play bridge and gossip; the ten year span of the show, exploring the eras of WWI and WWII, shows the changes in the sisters, their relationships, and the world.

More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

An Evening with Sutton Foster

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL

The Basics: Broadway sensation Sutton Foster, known for originating roles in four shows, performs selections from her debut solo album, “Wish,” in a night of laughter and music. Music Director Michael Rafter accompanies Sutton on the piano in this evening filled with some of Broadway’s best.

Date: November 13, 8:00 pm

Tickets: 937-328-3874

More Information: Springfield Arts Council, DMM Feature

Broadway Rocks

DAYTON PHILHARMONIC

The Basics: In this dynamic review, four top-notch Broadway vocalists join the Dayton Philharmonic in an evening of musical theatre classics from shows such as Wicked, Rent, Tommy, Phantom of the Opera, The Wiz, Mamma Mia, and more, backed by a full orchestra and chorus.

Date: November 12 & 13, 8:00 pm

Tickets and More Information: 888-228-3630, Dayton Philharmonic, DMM Feature

SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE

Would you like to submit theater news for DaytonMostMetro.com’s onStageDayton features? Email Shane, Dave & Katherine at [email protected]

~KN

Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. 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.

Dirty Rotten – Murder Mystery (plus FREE TICKETS)

October 7, 2010 By Dayton Most Metro 3 Comments

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

La Comedia Dinner Theatre

‘Here I Am’ – In the wings with Lauren Morgan

A Conversation with a cast member from La Comedia’s current offering – the hit musical comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

I first met LAUREN MORGAN when I was seeking a choreographer for Encore Theater Company’s summer production of RENT. She came highly recommended and boy – they weren’t kidding! I found her to be among the most professional, respected and thorough dance designers I’d ever worked with.

Currently, you can catch Lauren among the cast of La Comedia’s staging of the David Yazbeck-penned musical comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels – based on the Steve Martin film of the same name. A contemporary hilarious musical – itself a love letter to the golden age of American Musical Comedy.

onStageDayton sat down with Lauren recently to talk about the show, her training, and what’s next for this Dayton-bred star.

[LAUREN MORGAN is a recent graduate of Wright State University with a BFA in Dance. She began dancing at age 3 in her hometown of Middletown, Ohio. She has performed throughout the area with many different companies including La Comedia Dinner Theatre, Dayton Ballet, Wright State University, and Middletown Lyric Theatre. Her regional performance credits includeFootloose, Beauty and the Beast, and A Chorus Line. Her university credits include The Pajama Game, Titanic, Aida, Lady Be Good, and many dance concerts. Recently Lauren has taken to choreography having staged her original work for the musicals The Wedding Singer, RENT, and Footloose.]

OSD: Tell us about the training and experience you recieved in the Dayton region. How and when did theatre/dance come into your life?

LM: I began dancing at age 3. In fourth grade I auditioned for The Nutcracker with Dayton Ballet and was cast as a toy soldier. From then on I was hooked. My first musical was The Wizard of Oz at Middletown High School where I was a Munchkin and a monkey. My junior year of high school I auditioned at La Comedia for Footloose and was double cast as a teen ensemble member. That was the first time that I realized that I needed to pursue theatre as a career. Immediately after that I was cast in Beauty and the Beast or another eight week run. I stopped taking dance my senior year of high school with the intention of being a musical theatre major in college. For some reason I ended up at WSU as a dance major and it was the best thing that could have happened to me. Wright State’s department of Theatre, Dance, and Motion Picture has given me more opportunities to perform than I could have ever asked for. I was in six mainstage musicals including Titanic as ‘Kate Murphy’. I had many choreographic and performance opportunities with concert dance and even participated with student films and voice overs.

OSD: Many of our readers are probably familiar with the original source film of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”, but what can audiences expect from the musical adaptation?

LM: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels the musical offers great laughs and singing, as well as a fantastic dancing ensemble that helps tell the story. The cast has a lot of fun performing and audiences always leave with a smile on their face.

OSD: In New York and on the road, it was a large show. How is it translating to the unique La Comedia space?

LM: Even though the La Comedia stage is small, it doesn’t stop the story from being told. The show starts off with a fantastical dance overture and follows all the twists and turns that any audience member who has seen the movie expects. The cast functions as the crew in some scenarios and each setting unfolds in front of the audiences eye.

OSD: What’s next for you?

LM: After the show I tell everyone I need to save money. I’d like to end up out west performing and choreographing. I love mountains and rock climbing so I find I need nature to help me create. Graduate school is in the cards at some point in the near future. I would like to have my master’s in choreography or directing as well as be qualified to teach the Alexander Technique.

Performance Information:

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (through October 31 – various show times) visit LaComedia.com / (937) 746-4554 for ticket info, menu and show times.

Die Mommie Die!

Dayton Playhouse

Win Tickets to this show! Keep reading for details!

The Dayton Playhouse is delighted to present the second production of their 2010/2011 Mainstage Season, Die Mommie Die! by Charles Busch – opening Friday, October 8, 2010 and running through October 17. Die Mommie Die! is a delightful send-up of film noir classics such as touch of Evil, Double Indemnity and in particular, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane. The production is directed for the Playhouse by Michael Boyd, lights by Anita Bachmann, costumes by Erin Winslow, stage management by Jeremy King and set design by Wade Hamilton.

Die Mommie Die! The Plot:

Set in 1967 Beverly Hills, this off-beat, “comic-thriller-melodrama” features the glamorous Angela Arden, a once grand, now fading diva of the recording industry. She is trapped in a corrosive marriage to a overbearing film producer, Sol. In her attempt to find happiness with her lover Tony, a much younger, out-of-work TV star, Angela murders her husband – in a most unusual manner! Angela’s meddling, daddy’s-girl daughter Edith convinces her emotionally disturbed, secually ambiguous brother Lance to avenge their father’s death and to learn the truth about Angela by putting LSD in her coffee. This triggers a wild acid trip exposing Angela’s dark, secret past! Can anyone predict how the plot will twist?

“This show is a blast. It’s some kind of cross between film noir murder mystery and campy revenge story…” says Director Michael Boyd. “We have a fantastic cast who understands the spirit of fun and homage.”

Die Mommie Die! The Cast:

The complete cast of Die Mommie Die! includes: Cassandra Engber, Jonathan Berry, Jeremey Gingrich, Megan Grabiel, Richard Young and Cynthia Karns.

Your Chance to WIN TICKETS to Die Mommie Die!

The Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to this fun show! We will be giving away up to four pairs of tickets! All you need to do is:

Share this post on Facebook or Twitter…we’ll give away a set of tickets for every 10 ‘shares’ on FB/Twtr, up to 4 pairs of tickets.
Leave a comment, answering the following question…WHAT UNUSUAL MANNER DO YOU SUPPOSE ANGELA ARDEN USES TO MURDER SOL?
The deadline to enter is MIDNIGHT on FRIDAY, October 8th

(You don’t have to have a correct answer to win the tix! We will draw the winners from the entire group of entries.)

Performance Information:

Die Mommie Die! (October 8-17) visit DaytonPlayhouse.com or call (937) 424-8477 from 10am – 2pm Monday through Friday for ticket information and show times.

SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE

Would you like to submit theater news for Dayton Most Metro’s onStageDayton features? Email Shane, Dave & Katherine at [email protected]

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.

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre

October 7, 2010 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

August: Osage County at HRTC/WSU. Photo Credit: Scott Kimmel

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2010 – TUESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2010

CLICK HERE to learn how you can get FREE TICKETS for “Die Mommy Die!” at the Dayton Playhouse!

To make this page an even better, more centralized place for you to come find all the latest information about what’s going on in the Dayton greater metropolitan area arts scene, we’re trying some new things with onStageDayton. These posts will now be biweekly, and we’ll continue to write regular feature articles highlighting specific things and events. Join the conversation by leaving comments, and let us know what you think. And, make sure to attend one of these great performances! There are lots to choose from…

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

Die, Mommie, Die

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Glamorous but fading diva Angela Andrews murders her husband in an attempt to find happiness with her lover, but her son seeks to avenge the death by killing his mother in this off-beat, “comic-thriller-melodrama.”

Dates: October 8 – October 17, 2010

Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Die, Mommie, Die

Moon Over Buffalo

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: In this story set in 1953, after rumors begin to swirl that a famous Hollywood director will be auditioning fading performers George and Charlotte, misunderstandings ensue and merriment begins.

Dates: October 15 – 23; Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 pm, Sunday 2:00 pm

Tickets: Box Office, 888-262-3792

More Information: Playhouse South

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

The Importance of Being Earnest

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

The Story: A trivial comedy for serious people, this show is a romantic delight that entertains, satirizes the hypocrisy of social obligations, and comments on society’s foibles – all in the midst of mistaken identities.

Dates: September 30 – October 9; Thurs – Fri 8:00 pm, Saturday 2:00 and 8:00 pm.

Tickets: Cedarville Box Office

More Information: Cedarville University Theatre

August: Osage County

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY & WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

Photo Credit: Scott Kimmel

The Story: A pill-popping mother, a vanished father, and a family that personifies dysfunctional combine in this intense yet humorous drama, a collaboration between the collegiate and professional, and the regional premiere.

Dates: September 23 – October 10. Curtain times vary; check the performance calendar.

Tickets: WSU Box Office, (937) 775-2500

More information: HRTC website; onStageDayton feature article, last week’s post, and DMM event.

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Mid-Day Arts Café: Porgy & Bess

THE VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Basics: Dayton Opera will feature songs from Porgy and Bess and a Q&A with the actors and director Gary Briggle, while you enjoy a box lunch from Citilites Restaurant & Bar and connect with others interested in the arts.

Date: Registration/Networking – 11:30 am – 12:00 pm; Performance – 12:00 – 1:00 pm

Tickets: www.TicketCenterStage.com/ArtsCafe, (937) 228-3630.

More Information: Victoria Theatre Association, Mid-Day Arts Cafe

JUMP Into Dance

JUMPSTART

The Basics: Young adults (20s – 30s) are invited to join with other YPs for a fantastic night of fusion including a mixture of art, dance, music, food, and fun!

Date: Saturday, October 16. 7:30 pm show – Stivers School for the Arts; 9 pm post-show social – SideBar

Tickets: $20 when you mention jumpstart; box office – 937-228-3232 x111

More Information: Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, jumpstART Facebook page

Within the Silence

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL & CLARK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Basics: This story follows the life and dreams of a Japanese-American girl during WWII, the plight of her family in an internment camp, and her desires to rebuild her life and tell her story.

Date: Wednesday, October 13, 7:30 pm

Tickets: free!

More information: Springfield Arts Council

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

The Last 5 Years

SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

Auditions: October 16, 2010, 10:00 am (callbacks later, same day, if necessary)

Performances: February 10 – 12, 2011

Directed by James Straley & Tom Kushmaul

The Story: Cathy is a struggling actress, Jamie a rising writer, and over the course of five years, they fall in and out of love in this emotionally powerful and intimate song cycle.

More Information: Springfield StageWorks: Auditions

A Christmas Carol

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE – CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Auditions: October 19 – 20

Performances: Dec. 3 – Dec. 12, 2010

Directed by Teresa Connair

The Story: Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale is told from a new perspective – a young boy’s grandfather, who uses the story of Ebenezer Scrooge to explain to his grandson why he would give his money away.

More information: Beavercreek Community Theatre: Auditions

~KN

Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

Dayton Playhouse

Dancing Backwards by John Fiorillo - FutureFest 2010 FutureFest 2011

Dayton Playhouse

2011 FutureFest Performance Schedule

Friday, July 29

8 p.m.

Saturday, July 30

10 a.m.

3 p.m.

8 p.m.

Sunday, July 31

10 a.m.

3 p.m.

Tickets & Performance Information:

21st Annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest

July 29-31, 2011

Photo Highlights of 2010 FutureFest

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

right next to me

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

La Cage aux Folles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Mauritius

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

First Annual Talent Show

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

La Cage aux Folles

Dayton Playhouse

Win tickets to this delightful show! Read on…

“We’re very happy to have this enormous production headed up by Director Doug Lloyd.” says Dayton Playhouse Executive Director Wade Hamilton. “His vast experience and reputation for producing hit musicals made me breath a little easier as we started this project.”

Tickets & Performance Information:

Win Free Tickets!

Thursday, May 5 – Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

La Cage aux Folles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

A Piece of My Heart

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE

Mauritius

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Illstyle and Peace

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL

Mid-Day Arts Cafe: the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

Bill W. and Dr. Bob

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Boys Next Door

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Pinkalicious!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Photo Credit: Mike Long

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Encore Theater Company: Summer Mainstage Season

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Avenue Q

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

“it can be interesting to see if other people – like dead people who wrote books – agree or disagree with what you think… because it makes you – a larger part of the human community.” – Eurydice

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Fat Pig

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

Play On

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Foreigner

Dancing Backwards by John Fiorillo - FutureFest 2010

FutureFest 2011

Spelling Bee cast (Photo Credit John Gebhardt)

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

THT: Junie B. Jones (Dec. 2010) (Photo Credit Mike Long)