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

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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Dayton Playhouse: 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 25th 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.

Dayton Playhouse: Spelling Bee

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.”

Dayton Playhouse: Spelling Bee

"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.

Dayton Playhouse: Spelling Bee

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 25th 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

One Year To A Better Neighborhood

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Before Dayton had “Originals”, we were a “City of Neighbors”. I’m not sure when we stopped being so neighborly, but one of the things I hear from buyers is that they want to live in a neighborhood where residents really know each other. They want a sense of community and camaraderie. People don’t just buy a home, they buy into a neighborhood and they want to know that not only are there are people within shouting distance who’ve got their back, they want to find a neighborhood where their own presence is felt and appreciated. Not all neighborhoods come with a ready-made sense of community so maybe it’s up to you to be the change.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to make a plan for your community, so I’m offering some ideas for becoming a stronger neighborhood. One for each month, these are generic, easy, simple- a spring board for what might work in your own community, but hopefully they will get you started. If you have kids, your job is easy. Kids are natural neighbors who use the block as a playground and every new person is a potential friend, whereas adults use the home as a refuge. Fight the urge to shut the door against strangers in your own neighborhood. There’s a difference between being friendly and being nosy and very few people in your neighborhood will complain about the former.

January: Hire a kid.
We get snow in January, and believe me, there is a teenager in your neighborhood who would love to make some money shoveling snow. Hire them. Hire them! Set your expectations high and hold that kid to those expectations, but hire the kid, and hire them to shovel your elderly neighbor’s driveway as well. Don’t make the 3-foot-nothing kindergartners on the block trudge through 5 inches of snow.

February: Take a walk.
There are usually a few days in February where the weather breaks. Get out of the house and take a look around. Notice which neighbors are gardeners and who likes landscaping. Where is the neglect in the neighborhood? Is there a need there that can be filled? Wave hello. In the car, on the sidewalk, across the street- wave hello. Acknowledge that you recognize that you are sharing space with your neighbor and 95% of the people you wave to, will wave back. Who knows? They may even smile. 🙂

March: Clean up your yard.
March winds mean a lot of flotsam and jetsam starts blowing around the neighborhood. Clean it up, your mom doesn’t live there. When you walk, take a bag with you and pick up the garbage you see. I know you didn’t put it there, but you live there, and trust me when I tell you that your neighbors will notice and will start to take pride in their neighborhood, too.

April: Meet the gardeners.
Someone in your neighborhood is a horticulturist by passion. Because you’ve been out walking and paying attention, you’ll know who they are. Early weekend mornings, go meet them. Walk past, say hello, compliment their yard, get their advice, find out where they shop for plants and how they treat their soil. If you don’t care for plantings, perhaps you can find the best lawn in the neighborhood and talk to them. These people are regularly outside, they know what is going on in the neighborhood. They are clued into the community same as the house with all the kids. Get to know these people. If you have the opportunity to start a community garden, do it!

May: Neighborhood Open House.
The historic districts in Dayton do these on a regular basis, but why not your neighborhood? Contact the Realtors who have listings in the neighborhood and get this started. My guess is that any Realtor worth her salt would jump on this idea in a heartbeat and do a lot of the heavy lifting for you. It’s a great way to spruce things up, show off the community, and bring people into the neighborhood.

June: A neighborhood cookout or block party.
Pot luck, casual, bring the kids, keep it outside. Easy does it. Invite local police if that would be helpful, appropriate, and productive.

July: Exterior updates to the house.
Attitudes are contagious. Painting the shutters, or replacing windows, or a new roof will get your neighbors out of their homes to talk about it with you, and you will soon see improvements to their homes as well. Very few people want to live in the worse home on the block, and some blocks simply need one or two home owners to decide that the neighborhood is worth it, before that attitude becomes the norm. If you don’t have a front porch, create the feeling of one and use it on summer evenings.

August: Back to school.
Go to a school board meeting. I’m not sure what affects property values like the local school system. That means you have to know what is going on and you have to hold your elected board members accountable. It’s okay to be the PITA citizen who expects results.

September: Fall Pot Luck.
One last chance to get outside together while the weather is warm. There will be a lot of changes to talk about: Neighbors who have come and gone; a neighbor who is in need; the roads or sidewalks in disrepair; which home is in foreclosure and do you take on maintenance for the vacant property?

October: Trick or Treat.
Beggar’s Night is a great time to get to know your neighbors, don’t turn off the lights and hide in the dark. The younger kids will be out early so buy enough candy for the first hour or half hour and get to know the families in the neighborhood, if you haven’t already.

November: Leaf raking.
Raking, not blowing. Raking leaves invites the neighbors to stop and chat with you, while a leaf blower is a noisy apparatus that repels your neighbors. Rake your leaves and skip the trip to the gym.

December: Share with your neighbors.
Self-explanatory.

There you have it. A painless way to get to know your neighbors. Each neighbor has something unique to bring to the neighborhood, and not everyone will be receptive to participation. Respect those differences, but find a way to build on them, and you’ve got the beginnings of a vibrant, growing community.

Okay, I’ve shared my ideas- let’s hear from you all. What makes your neighborhood such a great place to live and how do you create a sense of community?

Photo courtesy of TLussier

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre – 01/13 – 01/26

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Muse Machine: Into the Woods

Muse Machine: Into the Woods / Photo Credit: Muse Machine

Thursday, January 13, 2011 – Wednesday, January 26, 2011

At tonight’s rehearsal for the show I’m stage managing, we ran Act I in its entirety for the first time. Sitting with my prompt book and taking notes, I couldn’t help but feel hopeful at the way this collection of scenes and songs we’ve been working on since November, in some small way at least, is becoming a show. It’s exciting, but also intimidating. Somehow it’s 2011 already, time to start meeting those resolutions and accomplishing things. The holidays are over and things we began last year, when 2011 seemed some part of the future, are now part of the present. Some days I feel like life is moving too quickly, and it’s all I can do just to keep up.

But, the shows in Dayton these next few weeks seem perfect for how I’ve been feeling already. From the comedy to the mystery, I think the theatres have hit the vast spread of emotions that come with the new year, and that’s true for other people and situations. So, you should join me in catching one of these shows over the next two weeks – or, if you’re in the mood for a little something more, audition for one of them yourself.

ANOTHER OPENIN’, ANOTHER SHOW

…Shows Opening Soon

I Hate Hamlet

PLAYHOUSE SOUTHPHS: I Hate Hamlet

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

…Shows Closing Soon

Into the Woods

Muse: Into the Woods

Students rehearse for Into the Woods (photo credit Muse Machine).

MUSE MACHINE

The Story: After a Witch curses a Baker and his wife with childlessness, the couple embarks on a quest for special objects from classic fairy tales to break the spell, stealing from and lying to Cinderella, Little Red, Rapunzel, and Jack (of beanstalk fame). But the characters didn’t count on the consequences of their actions or the disasters that would ensue…

Dates: January 13 – 16, 2011

Tickets:(937) 228-3630 or Ticket Center Stage: Muse Machine

More Information: Muse Machine: Into the Woods, DMM Feature, DMM Event

Ravenscroft

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: In this comedy about deception and the nature of truth, DTG: Ravenscroftwhen Inspector Ruffing is called to a remote English county manor house to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke, he becomes involved in the lives of five alluring and dangerous women who lead him through an evening of contradictory versions of Patrick’s demise, including ghosts, skeletons, and much more than he bargained for. (DTG)

Dates: January 7 – 23, 2011

Tickets: 937-278-5993 or DTG Box Office

More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild: Ravenscroft, DMM Review, DMM Event

PART OF IT ALL

…Auditions and Casting Calls

Titus Andronicus

SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare

Auditions: January 17 & 18, 2011, 7:00 pm

Performances: April 14 – 23, 2011

The Story: In this intense Shakespearean classic, Roman war general Titus Andronicus has just returned from battle to find all but four of his twenty sons dead; his ritual sacrifice of the sons of Tamora, Queen of the Goths, earns him her despise and promise of revenge. What follows is an insane struggle of power and betrayal in this gritty tragedy.

Directed by Larry Coressel

More Information: Springfield StageWorks: Auditions

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Auditions: January 24 & 25, 2011; callbacks January 26

Performances: March 25 – April 9, 2011

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.

Directed by Jennifer Skudlarek

More Information: Playhouse South

ONE SHORT DAY

…Special Events for the Theatrically Minded

3 Mo’ Divas

3 Mo' Divas

3 Mo' Divas (Photo Credit Douglas Brown, 2008)

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION – SCHUSTER CENTER

The Basics: According to VTA, “Delivering ten musical styles spanning 200 years in one evening, these three ladies–all classically trained vocalists–will raise the roof with their class, sass and style! 3 Mo’ Divas is a one-night-only concert that delivers some stupendous genre-jumping feats, from opera to R&B, from Broadway to blues, from soul to gospel and more.”

Date: January 16, 2011

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage

More information: Victoria Theatre Association: 3 Mo’ Divas , 3 Mo’ Divas official website, DMM Event

I Wish. More Than Anything…

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

THE MUSE MACHINE

Win tickets to this show!  Read on…

Once upon a time…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happily ever after.

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

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

-SA/Muse Press Release
We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

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

Tickets: prices range from $31-$56

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

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

Win Free Tickets!

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

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

The Theater Of The Strange

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Comedian Dow Thomas Reminisces About The Dayton Comedy Scene

12/15/10

            It’s very rare for someone to be able to meet any of the people that were instrumental in warping the needle on their moral compass. For example, in the future, the odds are astronomically against my kids ever meeting up with Snooki, the creator of Grand Theft Auto or any or the Real Housewives of Poughkeepsie. I, however, was able to talk with one of the people who were instrumental in changing my vision and giving me the ability to see the world through laughing eyes: Dow Thomas. Dow is a musician, comedian and actor, who was, at one time, a script writer and musician for the notoriously wonderful local program shown on channel 22 and hosted by Dr. Creep called Shock Theater…a show that I was an avid fan of when I was a kid.

I was able to speak with Dow recently from his Floridahome. The first question I asked was whether or not Shock Theater was his introduction into the world of comedy.

“No. I was actually doing comedy in 1972, but at that time there weren’t any comedy clubs, so I was just doing comedy along with my music. I got with Dr. Creep in the late seventies when it was called Saturday Night Dead because they had him on after Saturday Night Live, so it was kind of a neat spot.” Dow reflected on the first time he was on Dr. Creep’s show, saying, “I wrote The Ballad of Dr. Creep and went on there with my girlfriend at the time, Astrid Socrates. I remember some of the early stuff. It was juvenile jokes and stuff, but that was what they (the television station) wanted because they wanted everything clean, stupid and quick.”

If there were no comedy clubs, what venues did he perform in? Dow told me that he would just play in the local bars, places like the Trolley Stop, The Bar and The Iron Boar.

“I would get hired as a musician/entertainer and just add in the comedy in between songs. I would always put on masks and stuff…I just can’t help myself from clowning around. I’d have the gig and eventually I had bands, but when I clowned around, everyone clowned around with me. What was always part of the show was me being stupid.” Dow said. “Sailcats was one of the early comedy songs I wrote which got people to throwing plates at me and that just started it all. We used to sing The Wonderful World of Toilet Paper and we used to TP all the clubs like Clancy’s and the old Wiley’s, which was The Iron Boar originally. But comedy was always a thing with me.”

Since this was predating the eighties comedy boom, I wondered how the comedy scene evolved inDayton. After talking with Dow over an hour, I got a sense of how paradoxically brutal and liberating the process was.

“I was doing The Iron Boar only on Sundays and Wiley had hired me to do it by myself and so I basically got rid of the band…but I still had jam sessions. I was primarily a single act and that’s when I went almost strictly comedy. Back then, I had to do five hours, like from nine to two in the morning, so you had to have a lot of material.” Dow added a couple of memories from the early days ofDaytoncomedy, saying, “We had a comedy night on Tuesdays…and people still bitched about the dollar door charge! It was just crazy. I remember D.L. Stewart came in and did a little bit one night and then wrote an article about the experience.”

Since he had seen the whole evolution of the comedy scene, I wondered whether he felt that it had become too rigid, too structured.

“Yeah…yeah I do. Back then I could have Emo Philips come in and do twenty minutes and then I’d get a chance to go to the bathroom. Then maybe Judy Tenuta would come in and do twenty to thirty minutes…and then I’d get a chance to go to the bathroom.” Dow related that, “For me, I thought it should go on all night because I had been out to the Comedy Store and all of these places. I mean, I had moved out toL.A.in 1983 and I spent a couple of years out there going to different clubs. Back then, nobody closed their bar after the show. A lot of times, we’d all be up doing improv.”

Dow was not a native resident of Dayton, having moved here to attend Wright State, but he quickly adopted the city as his own. He became a habitué of the Arcade, the local bars and the dinner clubs ofDayton. I asked when he had moved from Dayton to his current residence inFlorida.

“Uh…let’s see (yelling to his wife)…Kay! When did we move down here? What year was that? 1997.” Dow the related a funny anecdote. “After we moved, aDaytonnewspaper im

 

mediately voted me the funniest man inDayton…then they did it again the next year. They voted me the funniest man inDaytonfor two straight years and I wasn’t even living there!”

The paper in question used to be called The Dayton Voice…then Impact Weekly…and now it is known as the Dayton City Paper. Maybe we were just still pretending that our Uncle Dow hadn’t left our fair city.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llpMWbmXDY0&list=PLC369CAD7BFD06170&index=1&feature=plpp_video’]

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

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9 – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2010

THT: Junie B. Jones

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

HRTC: 8-Track

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

BCYT: 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

THT: Junie B. Jones

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

Dayton Ballet: Nutcracker

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

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

So This is Christmas…

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

The Sounds of the 70’s

THE HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

Grab Your Boogie Shoes!

The Human Race Presents

A Unique Holiday Offering

So this is Christmas and what have you done?

Another year older, a new one just begun.

A very merry Christmas and a happy new year,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

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

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

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

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

-DB

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

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

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

Music Video Monday: November 29, 2010

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The Reece Lincoln Band are a trio of local young men who have been getting some national attention for their gospel-infused electric blues. This Friday night, the band will celebrate the release of their debut album, Soul of a Man at Canal Street Tavern.  Full show details are available at the Dayton MostMetro Events Calendar.

This week’s video features the Reece Lincoln Band performing a classic Willie Dixon tune at Gilly’s during one of the Dayton Blues Society showcases.

Move On…

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Chris Erk - Photo by Kidtee Hello…a conversation with Chris Erk

The Tap Factor

Dayton is a tap town.  There, I said it.  Most people in this city and region probably had no clue, and yet this is  another thing that Dayton should be really proud about.  It’s been a whirlwind of a year for tap dance in Dayton.  First, we come to the painful realization that Sharon Leahy and Rick Good’s RHYTHM IN SHOES was closing up shop after 20-some years…but then we start hearing news of other amazing dance projects in the works.  We hear of South Park resident Kandee Thacker-Mann (who had performed with the legendary Savion Glover) teaching urban kids the art of tap dance through her company SOLE PURPOSE.  Then, out of the blue there’s news of another new tap company in town….THE TAP FACTOR.

THE TAP FACTOR?  Honestly, the first time I saw a flier advertising the studio, I assumed that it was some of the soon-to-be-former R.I.S. members, establishing their next project.  Upon a little bit of investigation, we started to hear about this new guy in town, one Christopher Erk…he’d been in some Broadway tours and all.? ? A Broadway tour that ended in Dayton, Ohio?  How did a star performer in TAP DOGS end up in Dayton?  This Chris Erk guy was kind of elusive at first…until a quick introduction on Fifth Street one day, then the occasional friendly wave across a bar or on the street.  Then SLAM! The Tap Factor started shaking things up in Dayton!  The Tap Factor - photo by Sarah BabcockThe first gig…at Urban Nights; a special guest appearance at R.I.S’s last performance; SOUL’D OUT DAYTON at C{Space; Broadway caliber guest performers flying in from NYC to teach master classes around town; THE DAYTON TAP PROJECT at Stivers.

I contacted Chris…I wanted to find out more about this force that suddenly flew into town less than a year ago.   What did I find out? 1) Besides talented, he’s a really nice guy.  2) He really appreciates our city & the artistic environment here. 3)  He’s on his way out of town.? ?

onStageDayton:  Chris, Dayton is just getting to know you as a performer in our arts scene…but, you came to our city after a pretty interesting career in New York and on the road. For our DMM readers who are just being introduced to you, just who the heck are you?

Chris ErkChris Erk:  I am originally from CT where I grew up dancing extensively and training in musical theater and drama. When I was 15 years old I was hired for the National Tour of Tap Dogs with whom I went on to tour internationally for 5 years. After putting some time in on the road I settled in NYC where I lived and worked as a tap dancer/teacher/choreographer for the next 5 years. Work there was diverse. I spent a lot of time covering the bases of what the dance world could offer. From corporate entertainment, the teaching and convention circuit, to independent and company projects, there was plenty to get mixed up in while living in the city, and many friendships developed along the way. The exposure gained in my first stint of my career has geared me up for round two.

OSD:  It seems that you are quite connected on the national dance scene…what do you find exciting about the future of American dance?

Chris Erk & Janet Schroeder - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  The thing that excites me most about the future of the American dance scene is that there is a lot more going on by a lot more people. I notice the country realizing that it doesn’t take much to get something done. Communities are starting to come alive and more groups are being formed. I find the “flash stardom” shows are showing that there is a shot out there for the average Joe. I also think that globalization and internet sharing are making cross culture exchanges “the norm”. That alone is making for a deeper creative pool which in turn yields a more diverse product for a wider audience to enjoy.

OSD:  We are sorry to hear that your time in Dayton is coming to an end. What personal opportunities did your time here provide for you as an artist and an educator?

The Tap Factor - Urban Nights, May 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Leaving Dayton is definitely not going to be the easiest thing to do. From the moment I got to town I was given warm reception and the open heart of the town. Good luck and favor kept coming at the rate of disbelief. I couldn’t fathom that the town was really as kind as it seemed. Whenever there was a hand in need there was a hand indeed.

As an educator, I would say that I got to have my cake and eat it too. Whether I was teaching “Broadway Bounders” at WSU, giving the recreational class at Sinclair their first tap steps, enriching the experienced dancers at the local studios, or getting my hands dirty getting the Tap Factor crew comfortable to take their tap to the streets to share with the town, the breadth of what I had to offer as an educator and coordinator was full spectrum here in Dayton. As any teacher can tell you, you learn as much as your students do, and in that, I was spoiled here. I will not take that for granted as I move on.

I found that there are community supported opportunities for everyone who wants to participate in the arts in any capacity. As an artist, the work just flowed out stimulated by the backdrop and resources made available by the city. All of the work that I created in town was a product of good company. I am not set out on a mission to accomplish anything in particular as much as I just like to have a good time tapping with others. If there was no one to work with, there would have been no work produced on my end. In all actuality the demand was steady and therefore in a short time, we got a lot of great work done.

Soul'd Out Dayton - July 2010 @ C{Space - Photo by Sarah BabcockIn Soul’d Out, the show I produced at C{space, I found that I was able to utilize every bit of skill I had under my belt as well as get my feet wet as a producer. In that experience I was able to dance, teach, choreograph, create, delegate, coordinate, share, invite, collaborate, direct, host, design, etc…all in one show. Artistically and beyond, there was no stone unturned.

OSD:  You mentioned what a fantastic working environment Dayton is for artists, what factors make you feel that way?

The Tap Factor - Urban Nights, May 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Dayton has many hungry people ready for action. They just need to be led and to know, it really isn’t that hard to get something done. There is a venue and audience for all. The theater community itself is thriving which also adds for good stimulation, incubation, and cross pollination. It is nice to have this website, for instance, as a go to for people to get plugged in to what’s happening in town. There is art in everything and Dayton seems to get it. The main factor in all of it is that it costs a fraction of the price you would pay in any major city. If you have goals and a plan, Dayton is the canvass to get ‘er done. I also must attribute the Downtown Dayton Partnership for being a major catalyst and supporter for my work here. The exposure of The Tap Factor would have been dwarfed it it weren’t for frequent supported events that allowed us to get busy.

OSD:  In the past year you have had the opportunity to collaborate with several other arts and community organizations…what are some of the highlights from these experiences?

Rhythm In Shoes members at Soul'd Out Dayton - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  I would have to say that I was honored to have at least one opportunity to dance with Rhythm in Shoes. They joked and announced me in their final show at the Cityfolk festival as it being my first and last gig with the company. I was sad for that to be the case as I had gained much respect for their historical contribution to the town. They gave me their blessing and came out of retirement for a moment to perform with me and my friends in Soul’d Out.  It really was a treat.

Zoot Theatre Co. Puppet at Soul'd Out Dayton - Photo by Kidtee HelloI am also sad to leave with out getting some puppets tapping for Zoot. I may have to make sure I get that taken care of at some point. I was also treated with the task of choreographing Gypsy at the Dayton Playhouse. That was my first community theater experience and a blessed one.

As I had mentioned before, the DDP has been a great resource to lean on, from writing press releases, finding space, to booking gigs, they really are there to be taken advantage of if one wishes to get pugged into the Dayton Circuit. I have also made great friends with some local movers and shakers. Local artist Mike Elsass and Peter Benkendorf of Blue Sky have been readily available for engagements in candid guidance and encouragement. Without their vote of confidence, some of the moves I made may have been handled with less follow through.

My future was headed towards, of course developing The Tap Factor, but also working with Ann Rassmusen to create space and opportunity for people who need a chance and a helping hand in getting their work out to the world. I believe there is a void in that capacity here in town and it will be exciting to see if and what will be created and by whom.

OSD:  November 13th’s “Dayton Tap Project,” was most likely your last gig in the city. What story were you able to tell through your performance? What type of audiences were you hoping to reach & what is the personal message that you wanted them to take away from the show?

The Dayton TAP ProjectCE:  In The Tap Factor segment in the showcase, you pretty much got a point for point account of the works that have come out of my time here. It was a nice recap and a great chance for me to dance with some of the company members that have been around through the whole process. I  also cut up the stage with my best friend, Anthony Russo.  There was tap dancing as you know it and may have never seen before. There were no age or language barriers up.  It’s good clean fire. This was a priceless opportunity…I’m just sayin’…I want audiences to just have fun and let loose with us. No messages to be stated here. Each individual will make of it what they will.

OSD:  What’s next for you?

The Tap Factor 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Next I am going to go back East and throw my self back into the whirlwind of NYC. There is a lot to latch onto. I plan on spending time developing my craft, continuing my college education, and reuniting with my professional peers to see what’s been shaking. I know I will have a wealth of experience from my time here to share.

OSD:  Chris, thanks for taking time to chat with onStageDayton, we wish you well and hope that you will spread the word on the East Coast what a great arts scene Dayton, Ohio has!

Chris Erk - The Tap Factor, Urban Nights, May 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Trust me, I have been an advocate for Dayton since the moment I landed here. I have already had several friends in to get hands involved the arts scene. There are still stories to unfold about what the future holds for the arts in this town. There is a storm brewing up here and I will continue to let the world know that they are about to find out! I am not one to predict the future. I never would say that my time here had ended. All I can say for now is peace and love to you Dayton, onward. There is magic happening here and in due time it’s going to pop and the secret will be out. Trust I will be back for the party. Thank you! See you soon 🙂

In our conversation, Chris kept discussing how much he has enjoyed his time in Dayton, and the many great people & things to do that he’s heard about but hasn’t yet had the opportunity to meet/experience.  You can tell what an organizational genius he is, because he went ahead made some lists and emailed them to me!

My Top 10 things I need to do before leaving Dayton:

1. Meet an Ervin

2. Box at Drakes Gym

3. Get on one of Dayton’s Bike paths

4. Have a Bad Juan Margarita

5. Go to the Dayton Arts Scene

6. Teach a class at Stivers

7. Dance one more time with the Puzzle of Light

8. See a show at the Loft

9. Go to a UD game

10. See a show at Canal Street Tavern

Top 10 favorite people:

1. Joe Deer (WSU Theatre)

2. Tristan Cupp (Human Race Theatre Co./Zoot Theatre Co.)

3. Ann Rassmusen (C{Space)

4. Mike Elsass (Artist/The Color of Energy Gallery)

5. Peter Benkendorf (Blue Sky Project)

6. Kristen Wicker (Downtown Dayton Partnership)

7. Russel Florence, Jr. (onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com)

8. Brian Sharp and Wade Hamilton (Dayton Playhouse)

9. Gina Nuerer (Sinclair Theatre)

10. Susan Byrnes (Artist/UD’s ArtStreet)

My Top 10 Spots I am taking with me!

1. Lihn’s

2. South Park Pizza Tavern

3. Tanks

4. Oakwood Starbucks

5. Christopher’s

6. Palermo’s

7. Cedarland Bakery

8. 5th Street Deli

9. Boston Stoker (iced tea)

10. Brixx Cafe

Photos by Sarah Babcock & Kidtee Hello

-SA

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

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

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre – 11/25 – 12/08

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2010

Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells (Town Hall Theatre; Photo Credit - Mike Long)

Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season for many Americans. We take it as an opportunity to spend time with family members, enjoy more food than we’ve eaten in the past week, and get a head start on holiday shopping. Unfortunately, it often becomes stressful as we attempt to ensure everything is ready and perfect and everyone is happy.

I’m grateful for the thriving arts base we have in the greater Miami Valley region, and for the power of theatre. Not only is theatre cathartic, it can be a wonderful experience for family and friends, to bring all of us closer together and remind us of the important things in life. Whether you need a break from slaving over a stove and want to step back in time to the ‘70s, are trying to teach your children important lessons about generosity and the “reason for the season,” or are just in the mood to laugh and enjoy a good show, there’s a great one for you over the next couple of weeks. Put down the TV remote and take a break from the thousands of things you’re trying to get done, gather some friends or family, and spend some time enjoying a show and growing closer together.

And, to all our onStageDayton readers, Happy Thanksgiving!

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

8-Track: the Sounds of the 70s

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

A Christmas Carol

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE – CHILDREN’S 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: Look for my children’s theatre feature next week, and go to Beavercreek Community Theatre and the DMM Event.

Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

TOWN HALL THEATRE: LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

(Photo Credit: Mike Long)

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 watch for an OSD feature article next week!

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Basics: Featuring an international cast of acrobats, aerialists, singers, dancers, and musicians, in this show, ornaments come to life as costumed characters perform astonishing feats that celebrate the holiday season.

Dates: November 26 – 28, 2010

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage

More Information: Victoria Theatre Association: Cirque Dreams Holidaze, DMM Event

SUBMIT PRESS RELEASES

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 basedEncore 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.

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

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

Dayton Playhouse: W;t

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 THEATRETown Hall: Three Little Pigs

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

WSU: Anything Goes

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

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

Sutton FosterThe 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 DPO: Broadway RocksDayton 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

onStageDaytonKatherine 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.

Turning the Table on the Critic

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Russell Florence, Jr. Theatre Critic - Dayton, Ohio - onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.comA Discussion with Russell Florence, Jr.

DaytonMostMetro.com/onStageDayton’s newest contributor!

We are pleased to announce our newest contributor to DaytonMostMetro.com, Russell Florence, Jr.!  The addition of Russell to the onStageDayton team means that DMM will not only be the place to go for previews and announcements about Dayton area theatre activities and events, but also your destination for theatre reviews as well!.

We are certainly honored that Russell has chosen to work with us at onStageDayton.  He is well known around the Miami Valley theatre scene, having written for such publications as Dayton Daily News, Impact Weekly and, most recently, Dayton City Paper.  In an effort to introduce Russell Florence, Jr. to our DMM readers, we asked him to respond to a few questions.

Russell, Welcome to DaytonMostMetro.com! We are thrilled that you will be joining our group of onStageDayton contributors. We’d like to take a couple of moments to “turn the tables” on you…and ask YOU a few questions!

OSD:  You have been a pretty recognizable personality around the local theatre scene for quite some time now.   What was the first review you wrote in a major Dayton area media outlet? What memories do you have of that experience?

Titanic - a new musical - logoRF:  My first review was in 2001 courtesy of Impact Weekly, formerly the Dayton Voice. I reviewed the national tour of Titanic at the Victoria Theatre. The production definitely struck a chord. I’ve always loved Maury Yeston’s grand, operatic score.

OSD: In your years reviewing productions in the area, what changes have you witnessed in the Dayton area theatre scene?

RF:  Primarily, Dayton’s theater community has been more open and receptive to risk, which I find extremely refreshing. At one time, there were only a handful of theaters willing to break from mainstream tastes, but multiple troupes, from the suburbs to downtown, are embracing challenging, thought-provoking, and edgy material. Many organizations are currently planning their 2011-2012 seasons as well. I’m excited to discover what’s in store!

OSD: Every community would love to know that their local theatre climate is a microcosm of the national one…in what ways is this true (or untrue) of the Dayton community?

RF:  The ongoing support and encouragement of new voices in musical theater has been particularly wonderful. From professional theaters to collegiate and community theaters, Dayton audiences are being treated to important works and witnessing the rise of many up and coming composers with clear potential. It’s great that there are so many theater organizations in the Gem City with close connections to some of the best and brightest talents working in the industry.

OSD: What are two currently running shows in New York (Broadway or Off-Broadway) that make you feel optimistic about the future of American theatre?

Scottsboro Boys - logoRF:  John Kander and Fred Ebb’s The Scottsboro Boys and Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning Next to Normal are two examples of compelling, conceptually dynamic musical theater that will hopefully inspire other artists to pursue the same.

OSD: You’ve had the opportunity to interview quite a few big names in theatre…who still makes you “starstruck”?

Stephen SondheimRF:  I’m very fond of my 2002 interview with producer Cameron Mackintosh (who was in Dayton for the non-equity launch of Miss Saigon at the Victoria Theatre), but in terms of “starstruck,” I’ve crossed paths with and spoken briefly to Stephen Sondheim on two occasions and couldn’t move afterward!

OSD: Tell us, and our onStageDayton readers, a guilty pleasure that you just might be a little bit ashamed to admit…

RF:  Waiting at the stage door to have my Playbill signed and chat with cast members after seeing a Broadway show remains tempting!

Make sure you visit DaytonMostMetro.com – onStageDayton regularly for the latest in theatre news!  Russell will be contributing his first preview later this week, and reviews of local productions will begin soon!  Additionally, David, Shane & Katherine will continue to highlight upcoming local performances and audition notices.

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

SA/DB

onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com - Shane Anderson, David Brush, Katherine Nelson & Russell Florence, Jr.Russell Florence, Jr. is a member of the American Theatre Critics Association and the Drama League. In addition to his role as arts and culture editor of Dayton City Paper and theater critic for Dayton City Paper and Impact Weekly, he served as a Dayton Daily News freelance writer and editorial page contributor. He has also written features for such theater publications as Spotlight Ohio and The Sondheim Review.

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.

Meet Your MetroParks

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As a former journalist, the election season has always been an exciting time for me, but when I took up my mantle with Five Rivers MetroParks, I would be on the other side of the proverbial punch card. No longer simply an observer, I kicked off my new career with a tall order—volunteer with the MetroParks levy campaign. Through those months of phone calls and canvassing, I discovered that many Dayton area residents knew of the MetroParks closest to their home, but weren’t aware of the total number of parks, or the number of acres we protect. I thought it would be appropriate today to give you a little overview of each of our facilities.

  • Aullwood Garden MetroPark: This 31-acre garden situated on the edge of Englewood MetroPark is the former home of John and Marie Aull, whose world-wide travels inspired this luxurious shade garden. Lenten roses and other choice shade plants are featured at this estate garden.
  • Carriage Hill MetroPark: Take a trip back in time at this preserved 1880s historical farm.

    Photo by RA Makley: Check out the Riding Center at Carriage Hill MetroPark. Weekend trail and pony rides start again in April!

    Children love to learn about agricultural and professional skills popular during the turn of the 20thCentury. This 900-acre park, located in Huber Heights, also offers hiking and equestrian trails as well as fishing ponds, a 14-acre lake, and the nearby Carriage Hill Riding Center, where trail and pony rides are offered April through October.

  • Cox Arboretum MetroPark: Mature forests populate this 189-acre park south of Dayton near Moraine and Miamisburg, along with diverse gardens, such as the Edible Landscape Garden and the Clematis Arbor. The Butterfly House is a favorite summertime destination to view native butterflies and moths in various stages of metamorphosis.
  • Deeds Point MetroPark: The landscape beds this park perched downtown along the Great Miami River offer visitors a floral garden paradise in an urban setting.
  • Eastwood MetroPark: Paddle in the 185-acre lake, ride the Mad River bikeway, fish in the lagoon or river or hike 3 miles of wooded and open meadow trails in this park just off State Route 4 near Riverside. Both the Buckeye and North Country National Scenic trails run through this park. This is the site of the annual GearFest recreation celebration, which takes place in the fall.
  • Englewood MetroPark: The potential for recreation is endless in this 1,900-acre park. Choose from 12 miles

    Enjoy 18 holes of disc golf at Englewood MetroPark.

    of scenic trails, 3.5 miles of bridle trails, paddling on the Stillwater River, and great spots for fishing. This park also boasts a unique feature—an 18-hole disc golf course. Disc golf is an easy-to-learn activity that involves throwing flying discs into a “basket” situated a distance from the starting point.

  • Germantown MetroPark: The size, quality and age of the woodlands make this 1,665-acre park the most diverse of the natural areas. The park also contains large open grasslands, cedar glades and dry hillside prairies. One popular weekend attraction (particularly for birders) is the Nature Center with its Window on Wildlife.
  • Hills & Dales MetroPark: This Olmsted-designed park has 63 acres of native plants and landscaped areas situated in the crux of Kettering, Oakwood and Dayton. Recently renovated to restore its former beauty, this park boasts 2 miles of wooded trails, including the Adirondack boardwalk that gives visitors a tour of the wetlands.
  • Huffman MetroPark: One of the most prominent amenities of this park located just east of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is MoMBA, the MetroParks Mountain Biking Area. About 8 miles of track snake their way through this wooded sub-facility. MoMBA’s trails are constructed to help the novice gain mountain biking confidence and challenge the most experienced rider.
  • Island MetroPark: Towering sycamore and cottonwood trees lend shade to those seeking respite from the bustling city in this 33-acre park, located just north of downtown Dayton. Landscaped beds, a seasonal water playground, picnic shelters and the historic bandshell are other hallmarks of this park.
  • PNC 2nd Street Market: Pick up farm-fresh produce, meats,cheeses, eggs and dry goods as well as flowers, wine, jewelry, soaps,gifts and more. The Market highlights the growers, producers and

    Find farm-fresh produce at the PNC 2nd Street Market

    artisans we have right here in the greater Dayton region. Regular hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

  • Possum Creek MetroPark: Head southwest of downtown Dayton to find this 556-acre park and enjoy its many amenities, such as Polly Possum’s Math Farm, fishing ponds, historic Argonne Forest, 100-plus-acre planted prairies and the sustainable farm.
  • RiverScape MetroPark: Downtown Dayton’s favorite hangout has become an indelible icon with its fountains and renovated amenities. The covered pavilion provides shade for summer concert and festival-goers in the summer and doubles as an outdoor skating rink in the winter. Cyclists who commute or ride for recreation have welcomed the new bike hub. Children can splash around in the interactive fountains or get a brief history on Dayton’s innovative past while traveling the Dayton Inventor’s River Walk.
  • Sugarcreek MetroPark: This diverse area—with all stages of succession, mature forests, a trio of 500-year old white oaks, varied topography, a planted prairie, meadows and scenic Sugar Creek—is located near the Bellbrook area. Its trails are popular among trail runners, dog walkers and equestrians.
  • Sunrise MetroPark: The walkways of this tiny urban oasis, conveniently located just north of downtown Dayton, are filled with stunning views of the city’s skyline. Prairie plantings and wildflowers draw in wildlife from the adjacent river habitat, and make the park a serene spot for relaxing. Catch a glimpse of the large and graceful blue herons that frequent the area.
  • Taylorsville MetroPark: There’s no shortage of history or nature to encounter along this 1,300-acre park’s 13 miles of trails, nestled just outside Vandalia. Visitors also can link up with the Buckeye and North Country

    Have you visited Sunderland Falls at Taylorsville MetroPark?

    trails. The Buckeye Trail completely encircles Ohio and is over 1,200 miles long. The North Country Trailextends into seven states and will be the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States when completed.

  • Twin Creek MetroPark: This 1,000-acre park situated in the southwest corner of Montgomery County is home to 20 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and ample access to the Twin Creek, one of Ohio’s cleanest waterways. Hike the Twin Valley Trail, a 22-mile backpacking trail connecting Twin Creek and Germantown MetroParks.
  • Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark: With about eight different formal garden areas, this north Dayton park is a haven for plant lovers, featuring something in bloom nearly year-round. The Children’s Discovery Garden here offers fun and learning through the joy of gardening. Visitors can also enjoy paved bikeways and the Marie Aull Nature Trail.
  • Wesleyan MetroPark: Home to Adventure Central, a program aimed at getting urban youth engaged in the outdoors, this 55-acre park offers its west Dayton neighbors a place to enjoy nature, whether hiking on 1.5 miles of trail, cycling along the Wolf Creek Bikeway, playing on the playground equipment or fishing in Wolf Creek.

Now that you know a little bit about each park and its respective subfacilities, plan your next adventure today.

Training Tuesday: Running Taboos & Etiquette

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Running is simple right? How could you screw up something that millions of people do every day, without incident? LOTS OF WAYS. Many of us runners take for granted the certain disgusting things we do when we run and the certain things that we are doing horribly wrong. So please, before you start running all willy-nilly, please consult my list and save yourself from imminent embarrassment and humiliation.

Nope, not that kind of granny.

1. You are probably tying your shoes wrong

Your shoelaces should be tied in a horizontal or “Reef Knot” fashion and not in “Granny Knot” style. Watch this video from Runner’s World to see what I am talking about. Why use this technique? Your shoelaces will not come undone as easily and you will be less susceptible to injuries on your ankle and blisters on your heel. Do it right.

2. Please be wary of your breathing “technique”

I once was running alongside someone who was breathing so ridiculously loud that I could hear him over my music in my headphones! Now that’s when you need to just calm down and take it easy. His breathing made it so hard to concentrate that I had to run faster to get away from him, which could have thrown my pace off. Many people use the 3:2 method to control their breathing, or three second inhale and two second exhale. This method also helps ward off nasty cramps that can beat even the best runners.

3. Stop chewing gum

Some people think that chewing gum while you run controls your breathing, including myself in the past, but it really hurts more than it helps. Chewing gum is one of the easiest ways to get gas buildup in your stomach and can give you heartburn while running. I think I get enough of that from the food I eat at school. There is of course the choking hazard of swallowing your gum while you are running, but I think we can all manage to avoid that.

The savior

4. Chafing

Come on people. Stop trying to combat chafing with ridiculous remedies and go out and buy some BodyGlide. It works.

5. The water stop

Water stops are usually my best friend during a long race like a half marathon, and can be physically uplifting when you see one up ahead, but people still manage to screw up something simple like drinking water. The water and sometimes sports drink, is given out in plastic cups that are tricky to drink out of on the run for the untrained runner. But a quick squeeze of the cup in the middle makes the cup pour only a small stream into your mouth, therefore eliminating the common error of spilling it all over yourself or choking on the water. If you’ve ever drank from a water station, I guarantee you’ve messed this up at least once.

6. The Farmer’s Blow (proceed with caution)

It’s a cold day and your breathing becomes blocked through your nostrils. Well, you better be able to execute the farmer’s blow properly, or you might end up looking like a fool. This is expertly done by placing your index and middle finger on one nostril, and blowing out the other with plenty of force. Repeat for the other nostril if needed. But please be wary of where you are aiming, no one wants to get blindsided by that. Seriously.

Warning: Not for use on any indoor track.

This may be more appropriate for some of us

7. Water belts

Don’t make fun of the runner with the water belt, because they will probably beat you anyways.

8. Indoor tracks

My biggest pet peeve on an indoor track is people who spit on the track. Please don’t ever do that, it’s just disgusting. Also you aren’t outside, so don’t pass gas and just think that everything will be okay. Because it won’t.

Races this week

Tuesday October 26

*Ghosts and Goblins 5k @ 6:30 p.m. (Register at Antioch Shrine Center, 107 East First St., noon-6:15 p.m.)*

Friday October 29

Kettering Rotary’s Run for Your Life 5K @ 6:15 p.m., 2917 Berkley Street, Kettering, Ohio Register here

If you have any pieces of running etiquette or horror stories you would like to share, please comment!

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre

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HRTC: The 39 Steps

Human Race Theatre Company: The 39 Steps

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010 – TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2010

This is the week for theatre, evidently… looking at the show dates below, you could see a different show during every performance time on every weekend day, and still not be able to catch everything that’s up. Six shows are opening this weekend, and those could keep you busy from now until my next onStageDayton update, let alone trying to fit in closing shows or special events!

So, what are you waiting for? Go get tickets to one (or two or all) of these great shows! After all, there are plenty to choose from…

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

The Sugar Witch

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: Dark family secrets are revealed and unusual passions are Sugar Witchignited as a family is forced to confront madness, truth, and the destructive legacy of racism, while the spirits of the dead walk the dark Florida Swamp, haunting the hearts of all who reside there.

Dates: October 22, 23, 29 & November 5 at 8:00 pm; October 30 & November 6 at 5:00 pm; October 24, 31 and November 7 at 3:00 pm

Tickets: DTG Box Office or 937-278-5993

More Information: http://www.daytontheatreguild.org/, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

The Diviners

UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON

The Story: In a small Depression era farming community, a boy with the gift of divining water develops a friendship with a drifting, charismatic but disillusioned preacher; when the townspeople embrace the drifter as the answer to their prayers, the choice leads to a tragic climax.

Dates: October 22-23 and 28 – 30, 8:00 pm; October 24, 7:00 pm, in the Kennedy Union Boll Theatre

Tickets and More Information: Kennedy Union box office, 937-229-2545

Messiah on the Frigidaire

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE (Edge of the Creek)

BCT Spitfire GrillThe Story: After the image of Jesus appears on a trailer park refrigerator, a frenzy of conflict, communion, and good old fashioned commerce is set in motion, as three friends are forced to come to grips with their lowly status in the caste system of the rural south.

Dates: October 22 – 31, Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 3:00 pm

Tickets: Box office, 937-429-4737

More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

TOWN HALL CHILDREN’S THEATRE

The Story: When Piggsylvania’s highest court puts him on trial, things don’t look so good for Alexander T. Wolf when TH: Three Little Pigseveryone 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: October 22 – November 7, 2010: Fridays at 7:00 pm, Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 pm, with a special family matinee on Saturday, October 23 at 11:00 am.

Tickets: Town Hall Theatre or 937-433-8957

More Information: Town Hall Theatre: The Three Little Pigs, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

Flash: A New Musical

CLARK STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Story: In the premiere of this new musical by CSCC professor and Springfield resident Dan Hunt, Ed, a seemingly normal man, revisits his past when all the highs and lows of his entire life flash before his eyes.

Dates: October 29-31 & November 5-7

Tickets: 937.328.3874 or Clark State

More Information: CSCC: Flash, Flash: the Musical official site

The 39 Steps

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

HRTC: The 39 StepsThe Story: Four performers (and 150 characters), an innocent Englishman caught in a deadly ring of spies, and a pair of handcuffs that won’t seem to come off make this combination of Alfred Hitchcock and Monty Python “one of the funniest shows to hit the stage this millennium”!

Dates: October 21 – November 7, 2010

Tickets: HRTC Box Office

More information: Human Race Theatre Company, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Once On This Island

SINCLAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Story: Ti Moune, a peasant girl, rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of the island; when he is returned to his people, the fantastical gods and rulers of the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred, and death. (And, ETC/onStageDayton’s very own David Brush directs this musical!)

Dates: October 15 – 23, 2010

Tickets: Sinclair Box Office, (937) 512-2808 or (937) 512-2076

More Information: Sinclair: Once On This Island, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

Moon Over Buffalo

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: In this farce set in 1953, after rumors begin to swirl that a famous Hollywood director will be auditioning fading acting couple 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, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar, DMM feature

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

In the Spotlight

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Auditions: October 25 & 26, 2010 at 7:00 pm, at the Clark Haines Theatre, 3700 Far Hills Dr.

Performance: December 10, 2010

The Basics: Featuring the talents of dancers, singers, actors, and performers of all ages, this show highlights PHS’s 50th Anniversary/2010 season while giving a taste of what’s to come in 2011.

More Information: 888-262-3792, Playhouse South, and DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

Ravenscroft

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

Auditions: November 1 & 2, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave.

RavenscroftPerformances: January 7 – 23, 2011

Directed by Debra Kent

The Story: In this comedy about deception and the nature of truth, when Inspector Ruffing is called to a remote English county manor house to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke, he becomes involved in the lives of five alluring and dangerous women who lead him through an evening of contradictory versions of Patrick’s demise, including ghosts, skeletons, and much more than he bargained for.

More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild: Ravenscroft

Christmas Belles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Auditions: November 1 & 2, 2010, at Dayton Playhouse, 1301 Siebenthaler Dr.

Performances: December 17 – 19, 2010

Directed by Wade Hamilton and Brian Sharp

The Story: A church Christmas program spins hilariously out of control in this Southern farce about squabbling sisters, family secrets, a surly Santa, a vengeful sheep and a reluctant Elvis impersonator.

More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

The Second City: Fair and Unbalanced

THE VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

The Basics: The Second City’s Fair & Unbalanced takes unbridled comic pleasure in the Second City: Fair and Unbalancedfoibles of our politicians, celebrities and even our significant others. No institution escapes the satiric eye of The Second City – from the blowhards of the Beltway to the Hollywood elite. Ripped from the stages of Second City’s legendary theatres in Chicago and Toronto, The Second City’s Fair & Unbalanced improv-based sketch comedy is a hilarious ride through present day America.

Date: October 23, 7:30 pm

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage, (937) 228-3630, or (888) 228-3630

More Information: Victoria Theatre Association, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

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.

Training Tuesday: Surviving the Cold Run

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Now that summer has been over for a few weeks, and cold fall temperatures are creeping in, it’s important to get into some good habits when it comes to preparing for cold weather runs. If living in Dayton for the past three years, and Cleveland for the first 18, has taught me anything it’s that the weather in the fall can be wildly unpredictable. It can be 20 degrees and snowy one day while soaring to a balmy 40 degrees with soul-crushing wind. There are some easy things to take note of, however, to take to make your lovely fall run more bearable.

Dressing for the part

Think Under Armour, but with no logo

You’ve seen them. I’ve seen them. I am one of them. That’s right, I’m talking about runner’s wearing running tights. Women may not think twice about wearing them as they a part of a regular wardrobe, but some guys may think that they are losing a little bit of their masculinity by donning skin tight compression tights. Despite what you may think, running tights are just one of the many essentials for any serious runner. While most stores like Champs Sports and Dick’s Sporting Goods often advertise them at more than $70, you can get a great pair that will do the job in the same way at Target or Walmart for around $10. This goes the same for long sleeve compression shirts, if you get the off brand you can save 70% while getting the same quality.

Your extremities are also extremely important as they are the parts of your body which get cold first, and are most susceptible to frostbite. Usually in temperatures above 45 degrees with little wind, there should be no need for a hat or gloves. Anything below that with wind can leave you with the possibility of frostbite, so it’s always good to have gloves handy. My personal favorite are these Nike running gloves, which include a small pocket for your keys. Most experts say that between 30-40% of your body heat is lost through your head, this becomes evident on a cold day when you see steam coming from your head, so a small cap or knit hat will work great.

Where/How to run

When running on a colder day, you should definitely approach your run differently than you would if there were more

Runner on the right: Cold weather dress fail

favorable weather conditions. First of all, if you are running in the snow or rain, make sure to consider the road/path conditions. Try not to start a new route that you haven’t experience before, as getting lost or injured in the cold can increase the dangers of frostbite tenfold.

If you are running a long distance, try to figure for the wind. If you are running a loop, try and make the run end with you running with the wind, as this will decrease the chances of getting hypothermia. Also, if you choose to run in the snow or rain, try not to run very long with wet clothes, as this will greatly increase the chances of you getting hypothermia or frostbite.

Races This Weekend

Saturday October 23

Blaze of Glory 5k Run/Walk @ 9 a.m., 401 Albert Road, Brookville, Ohio Register Here

MooreHeart 5 miler  @ 9 a.m., Springboro Junior High, Springboro, Ohio Register Here

Fairbrook Foxes 5k @ 9 a.m., Fairbrook Elementary School, Beavercreek, Ohio Register Here

Germantown Country Classic 17k (10.6 mi.) @ 8:30 a.m., Kercher Park, Germantown, Ohio (only $9!)  Register Here