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

Downtown Dayton

Mystery Night features “Clue” Movie Party

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Join Dayton Dinner Theater for a night shrouded in mystery, featuring themed food, drinks, music, trivia, and an interactive screening of the classic film Clue! This exciting event, held at The Brightside, includes creative pizza from Dayton Pizza Factory, a delightful salad, an appetizer, and dessert crafted by Baker Benji. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Award-winning and nationally known actor Andrew Mitakides will be leading an interactive murder mystery skit. Musician Matt will be performing live mystery songs and playing name that tune.

And of course, costumes are encouraged. Choose your favorite character to wear!

Doors open at 5:45 pm, with food and live music from 6 to 7 pm. The movie begins at 7 pm, followed by a brief intermission for dessert and trivia at 8 pm, concluding the film around 9:15 PM.

HOW TO GO?

Nov 24, 2024 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH

Tickets $28 – available here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/clue-mystery-movie-party

Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise we have open seating. For table reservations or other questions, please email   [email protected]

Exciting Local Music Showcase at The Brightside on Thursday, August 1st

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The Brightside Music & Event Venue is known for it’s Dayton Battle of the Bands series that showcases up-and-coming local musical talent. Last year’s DBB winners, crabswithoutlegs, a 9-piece jazz fusion band, is releasing their very first vinyl record and celebrating this achievement with their friends Six Foot Blonde and Eastwood.

 

Six Foot Blonde is a talented powerhouse coming from Bloomington, Indiana. They’re celebrating their own album release, And Then Some, with a major regional tour across the US. This stop in Dayton at The Brightside is extra special because they get to share the stage with their musical peers.

 

Eastwood, from Columbus, kicks off the evening at 7:30pm. They made their Dayton debut last year to high accolades, leaving local music fans wanting more! They are back and ready to knock our socks off once again.

 

Crabswithoutlegs members hail from both Dayton and Columbus, and have been wowing audiences across the state. Not only did they win Dayton Battle of the Bands, they won The Ohio State University Battle of the Bands too! If you have not yet seen them perform – this is your opportunity to see what all the hype is about.

 

This show is a also great opportunity to stock up on new music! Skeleton Dust Records, a local record shop, is posting up at The Brightside with crabswithoutleg’s vinyl. Six Foot Blonde will have merch and music available as well. Buying original music directly from the bands is a wonderful way to support local music!

 

✨ HOW TO GO? ✨
     August 1, 2024
     The Brightside – 905 E 3rd St, Dayton (inside the VodVil Bar)
     Doors open at 7pm / Music at 7:30pm
     Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door
     Get tickets in advance here: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/101382/orders/new#/
     All ages welcome!

Dayton Dance Initiative Presents: Unite and Ignite

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You’re invited to immerse yourself in a world of captivating dance performances during the highly anticipated “Unite and Ignite” showcase, hosted by The Dayton Dance Initiative on June 28th and June 29th at the PNC Arts Annex.

The Dayton Dance Initiative (DDI) is dedicated to fostering collaboration among dancers and choreographers from from the Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Mutual Dance Theatre, and Wright State University. During their summer off-season, these dancers come together to present their own original works, which is a real delight for Dayton arts fans!

DDI’s goal is to create a platform where they can explore innovative dance experiences that reflect the diverse talents within Dayton’s artistic ecosystem. This season the company is led by a new Artistic Director: Jennifer Sydor.

“Unite and Ignite” promises to take you on a breathtaking journey, highlighting a versatile repertoire of choreography that encapsulates the Dayton region’s artistic diversity. Each performance will offer a fusion of styles and storytelling, leaving you feeling inspired and connected to the artistic spirit of the community.

Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of Dayton’s dance community at the PNC Arts Annex. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of artistry and unity.


How to Go?
Dates: June 28th at 7:30pm and June 29th at 2pm and 7:30pm
Venue: PNC Arts Annex
Program: Eight original works of choreography performed by dancers and choreographers from Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Mutual Dance Theatre, and Wright State University
Tickets – $33.50, Students/$28.50
Dayton Live Box Office: (937)228-3630, https://www.daytonlive.org/events/unite-ignite/


Dayton Philharmonic announces new Music and Artistic Director: Keitaro Harada

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Photo of Keitaro Harada by Shin Yamagishi (Contributed)

The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) announced its appointment of conductor Keitaro Harada as the next Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO).

Maestro Harada will become the fifth Music Director in the orchestra’s 92-year history, preceded by founder Paul Katz (1933–1975), Charles Wendelken-Wilson (1975–1987), Isaiah Jackson (1987–1995), and Neal Gittleman (1995–present). Harada will begin his tenure during the 2024–2025 season as Music and Artistic Director Designate; he’ll assume the role of Music and Artistic Director on July 1, 2025. Harada committed to a five-year term with the option to renew.”

“DPAA is privileged to be working with such a stellar conductor with international scope and passion for local communities,” DPAA President and CEO Patrick J. Nugent commented about this announcement. “Maestro Harada has an impressive sense of artistic vision, community engagement, and commitment to our model of three arts in one organization. He also has a keen understanding of the business of the arts and can think in the language of finances and demographics as well as musical scores and artistic strategy. His technical and artistic abilities as a conductor are prodigious, and he electrifies audiences wherever he goes. He will be a major cultural force in Dayton, and we are delighted that he has agreed to lead the Philharmonic.”

Harada responded: “I am honored to join the DPAA family as Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. As the proud leader of two profound American institutions, I look forward to immersing myself in the DPAA community while I continue in my present role as Music and Artistic Director with the Savannah Philharmonic. And as I build new relationships in the Dayton community and deepen my relationships in Savannah, I believe both cities will benefit from this tandem experience. I will forever cherish the Savannah Philharmonic—the organization that provided me with my first Music Director opportunity—while wholeheartedly embracing the Dayton community as we bring the performing arts to life throughout the region.”

Photo of Keitaro Harada by the DPAA (Contributed)

“The DPAA stands out to me as it brings together three art forms I absolutely love: orchestra, opera, and ballet,” Harada continued. “Dayton’s rich history and vibrant art scene will provide us with the inspiration and imagination to build collaborations that can only be achieved at DPAA. Having recently performed together, we began to discover the endless possibilities of our music-making and great community. I am deeply grateful to serve as the next Music and Artistic Director.”

Keitaro Harada is a recipient of the prestigious 2023 Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award, and as Music and Artistic Director of the Savannah Philharmonic in Savannah, Georgia (a position he’s held since the 2020-21 season), Harada has transformed the quality of the orchestra and energized its audiences through his imaginative programs and charismatic presence.

In addition to his American posts, Harada also acts as Permanent Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra and is the Principal Guest Conductor and Artistic Partner of the Aichi Chamber Orchestra in Japan. Harada was Associate Conductor for four years at the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops, where he regularly assisted Music Director Louis Langrée (now Music Director Laureate) and collaborated with James Conlon and Juanjo Mena at the orchestra’s annual May Festival.

Harada was the top candidate among nearly 250 applicants from around the globe, according to Arts Consulting Group (ACG), which guided the extensive international executive search. ACG remarked that they had never before received such a response for an Artistic Director position. ACG screened applicants through a rigorous process that yielded a preliminary round of 57 candidates. After conducting initial interviews, ACG presented 27 candidates to the DPAA Search Committee for consideration. The diverse applicant pool represented 40 states and 26 countries and included a substantial number of candidates who self-identified as BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+.

Photo by Masatoshi Yamashiro (Contributed)

Barbara O’Hara, Chair of the DPAA Search Committee, said: “I feel certain that our Dayton community will heartily welcome and embrace Harada and his family, as will all the musicians, ballet dancers, opera performers, subscribers, future subscribers, donors, and young musicians. To me, a fitting description of Harada is that of a Renaissance man! His background is so varied covering classical music, opera, and ballet as well as contemporary and pops. His rapport with the musicians is outstanding—he challenges them and is respectfully demanding of them. While in Dayton, one of his great desires is to become an involved partner with other performing arts organizations. So, here’s to a wonderful and exciting musical future for the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance as we welcome Keitaro Harada, the next Music and Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic.”

Harada succeeds Neal Gittleman, who announced his intent to retire in May of 2022. Regarding Harada’s appointment, Gittleman said: “I’m excited to see where Maestro Harada leads the Philharmonic in the future. After 30 wonderful years on the podium, I look forward to enjoying what comes next from a seat in the audience. I sincerely hope that Harada finds, as I have, that the DPAA is a place to make great music and build great community. And wish I him, the musicians, and the audience all the best on their adventure together.”

Learn more about Keitaro Harada at kharada.com

Learn more at daytonperformingarts.org

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0D3UHyr5Yk

Dayton Battle of the Bands 2024 Line-Up Announced

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It’s here! The Dayton Battle of the Bands 2024 line-up has been announced! The 4th annual local music showcase features 6 weeks of playoff rounds starting on January 18, 2024, and a finale on March 9, 2024 at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.

The series was launched in 2020 pre-pandemic by The Brightside, Venus Child Productions, and Sound Valley Dayton. A few of the features that differentiate this showcase from other Battle of the Bands include: playoff rounds are decided by a mix of audience and judge’s votes, each week of the playoff rounds features a different genre of music, and plays down the idea of it being a “competition.”

Photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

Organizers explained that in this competition, simply participating is a “win.” All the bands who participate get to network with industry professionals, perform in front of area music bookers, and get professional photos from Jordan Lynn Freshour. The finalists who move on all get a cash prize, the opportunity to perform on the big stage at The Brightside, and get a live music video of one of their songs from Ashley Karsen, of Sound Valley Dayton. The grand prize winner gets all of the above, plus free pizza for rehearsals from Dayton Pizza Factory, custom band merchandise from Little Monster Printing, a performance next summer at Levitt Pavilion, and an EP recording session at Dayton Sound Studios.

Along with helping up-and-coming bands get to the next level in their music journey, the Dayton Battle of the Bands team is inspired to help introduce Dayton audiences to new music to love.

“People are busy, so it’s hard to keep up with what’s new with the local music scene,” organizer Libby Ballengee shared with us. “Having a curated showcase like this during the winter especially, when people have fewer other entertainment options, makes it more enticing to come out and check out new bands. We’re trying to stimulate Dayton’s curiosity about the music being created here. Plus the shows are 7:30-10pm, so plenty of time to get home and to sleep!”

FULL SCHEDULE:

Jan 18, 2024 – WEEK 1 – POP / ROCK

– Ace Slite, Arianna Holiday, Dukes of Owls, The Bruins

Jan 25, 2024 – WEEK 2 – AMERICANA / FOLK / SINGER-SONGWRITER

– Austin Wolfe, Jeff William Butcher, Mrs. Midwestern, The Nautical Theme

Feb 1, 2024 – WEEK 3 – HIP-HOP / R&B

– Blanch Robinson, Damac, D. Knight, Dos.Grandiose, MelinaMarie

Feb 8, 2024 – WEEK 4 – ALTERNATIVE / PUNK / METAL

– ATTN Deficit Squirrel, DayGloom, Sheller, Toxic Nobility

Feb 15, 2024 – WEEK 5 – COUNTRY / BLUEGRASS

– Controversy For Breakfast, Possum Creek Ramblers, The Barnharts, The Shady Pine

Feb 22, 2024 – WEEK 6 – FUNK / JAM / PROGRESSIVE / JAZZ

– EverybodyEats, Freakquency, Intergalactic Spaceforce, KindHost

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH

Tickets available at thebrightsidedayton.com by Jan 1, 2024

$10 advance / $15 day of show for the playoff rounds

7pm Doors open / 7:30pm – 10pm music starts

All ages welcome

More information: https://www.daytonbattleofthebands.com/

 

Dayton Dinner Theater presents Holiday Movie Classics

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Are you looking for fun holiday events to do this month? Dayton Dinner Theater is presenting three Christmas themed movie parties that are great for date nights, or small groups of friends & family: Elf, A Christmas Story, and Christmas Vacation.  See these classic holiday fils on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.
Before the movie starts enjoy live music and food that is directly inspired by the movie. The Brightside bar is open, and features themed drinks as well! During the movie, Dayton Dinner Theater features their famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although the movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly. Costumes are encouraged!
Schedule: Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm,  a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.
When: Elf – Sunday, Dec 3, 2023
             A Christmas Story – Sunday, Dec 17, 2023
             Christmas Vacation – Friday, Dec 22, 2023
Where? The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.
Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.

Jazz-Pop Concert Features Up-and-Coming Bands

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This year’s Dayton Battle of the Bands winners, Crabswithoutlegs, are a young 9-piece jazz-fusion band that has been impressing Dayton audiences since their debut last year. They’re back at The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Thursday, November 9th, with another up-and-coming Ohio band: Eastwood. 

Eastwood hails from Columbus, and is making their Dayton debut. The band effortless mixes pop, soul, and funk into an original sound that is absolutely engaging. Both bands inspire confidence in the next generation of the Dayton music scene. If you’ve been missing Gilly’s and Canal Street Tavern, this is an evening you will not want to miss!

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Doors 7pm

Show 7:30-10:30pm

All ages welcome

$10 advance / $15 day of show

Tickets available here: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/88622/orders/new

Featured photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

Art Parkd Music & Arts Festival features the Next Generation of Dayton Talent

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Eleanor Dakota performs at Art Parkd

Art Parkd is a grassroots music festival featuring Gen Z artists, and is one that Dayton music fans should really take note of. It’s located in Grafton Hill, and is happening this Saturday, October 7th and has a fantastic daytime schedule, running 3-9pm. No late nights for those who don’t like to be out late, and for those ragers out there, it’s a great pre-game before evening festivities.

Affordability is another other reason to buy a ticket to this festival. Pre-sale tickets are only $5! Even if you’re unsure if you can make this festival, buy a $5 ticket as a donation. Why? This festival features the next generation of Dayton talent, and they deserve all the support we can give them.

Art Parkd is the brain-child of the uber talented Sophia Munoz Daughtery, who is a local photographer and event organizer. Supported by her friend Jennifer Kash, the festival was launched last October to rave reviews. This year’s event promises to be even better!

If you want to see emerging talent that will delight and surprise you, please check out this event! More info and tickets available at: https://www.artparkd.com/

Musicians and bands performing include:

Frank Calzada

Proxy.Exe

Crabswithoutlegs

Isicle

Grandace

Dos.Gradiose

DJ Don

The Rosies

Jay Hill!

 

HOW TO GO?

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Time: 3pm – 9pm

Location: 609 W. Riverview, 609 W. Riverview , Dayton, United States

Buy $5 advance ticket here: https://allevents.in/dayton/art-parkd-dayton-music-and-art-festival/80002106649205?ref=smdl

An Evening of Latin Jazz kicks off The Brightside’s 2023-2024 Season

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Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini

Between the amazing sound system, chic decor, and friendly staff have contributed to fans, The Brightside has quickly become one of Dayton’s favorite indoor music and event venues. While the bulk of their events are private, typically weddings, they are excited to kick off the concert series this fall.

“We have so many amazing outdoor venues around town that are putting out great concerts all summer,” Libby Ballengee, the venue’s music booker said. “We don’t really want to compete with them. So we’re opting for more of a performing arts style calendar, with the majority of our public events happening September through early May.”

The Brightside’s 2023-2024 season kicks off on Wednesday, September 6th with a night of Latin Jazz in their VodVil Bar space. It has an intimate, jazz club feeling that gives old school Dayton music fans a Gilly’s or Canal Street vibe. The evening starts off with local guitarist Frank Calzada, who is reminiscent of early Carlos Santana. The headliners, Natalie Cressman and Ian Falquini, hail from New York City, and are making their Brightside debut.

Natalie is known for being part of Trey Anastasio’s Band, and touring major venues with that ensemble. This duo is her side project and one that’s dear to her heart. Hailed as a “rising star” in the jazz world, she is not only an amazing musician, she’s a fabulous singer too.

Frank Calzada (Photo by Fea Fotos)

Ian Faquini is a Brazilian composer, guitarist, and vocalist who was born in Brazil and has lived in Berkeley, California since the age of eight. He was a member of the renowned Berkeley High School Jazz program, and at the age of 15, Ian met the legendary Brazilian composer Guinga, who became his mentor and inspired him to pursue a career in music.

The combination of these two artists creates an intimate collaboration, drawing from impressionism, jazz, and the great Brazilian songwriting tradition. This is a concert that Latin and jazz fans alike will not want to miss!

The rest of the concert series at The Brightside continues to be eclectic, with a Korean-American folk singer headlining a female songwriter showcase on September 25th. You can find anything from Blues, Celtic, Jam, Rock, and Hip-Hop shows to Dayton Dinner Theater and fundraisers peppered throughout the Brightside’s season. Get tickets and information here: thebrightsidedayton.com

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St., Dayton)

Wednesday, Sept 6

Doors 7pm / Show 8pm

$18 advance or $25 day of show – https://www.venuepilot.co/events/81810/orders/new

All ages welcome!

 

 

Live music back at the Dayton Arcade on Thursday!

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Last summer, Culture Works, presented a 6-week local music series in the Tank space, which is located in the basement of the Dayton Arcade, under the Rotunda. This year, the series kicks off again on Thursday, July 27, 2023 with the Dayton Battle of the Bands winner: Crabswithoutlegs!

This series and show in particular is highly anticipated by the community because the Tank is such a unique entertainment space, and the band performing is such a phenomenal talent. This space and series is “inspired by Centerpoint Energy.”

What makes the Tank unique starts with its entrance, which is located at 35 W 4th St, between Main Street and Ludlow Streets in downtown Dayton. Look for the walls of glass coming out of the sidewalk. That marks the entrance! Go downstairs to a space with intentional, artist c reated graffiti, and into a cool space with blue neon lights leading you to a theater in the round. It’s like nothing you’ve seen before!

Eleanor Dakota will kick off the evening with a couple solo songs. Photo by Fea Fotos

The band is a 9-piece jazz ensemble of very young musicians (age 20-23), several of whom studied at Stivers School for the Arts and are currently studying music on the collegiate level. Led by singer Eleanor Dakota and bass player Carter Griffin, the band has been wowing audiences since they made their debut at The Brightside Music & Event Venue (also located in downtown Dayton).

What makes this concert even more special is that there will be 3 live artists paining in the lobby, curated by Culture Works, and a pop up photo booth by Fea Fotos. A bar is on site for patrons as well!

“This is the first of several concerts we are planning for the back end of the summer season,” Libby Ballengee shared with us. She is working with Culture Works on the music booking, and is a big supporter of live music downtown. “We’re looking forward to having an eclectic season again with jazz, hip hop, Latin, and rock bands. If you’ve been missing Gilly’s – this first show is a don’t miss event for sure!”

 

HOW TO GO?

July 27, 2023

At the Dayton Arcade’s Tank (35 W 4th St – look for glass entrance in stairwell)

Doors open 6pm

Music 7:30-9pm from Eleanor Dakota & Crabswithoutlegs

$10 cover at the door

18+

Find out more about the Tank here:

https://www.arcadedayton.com/arcade-events/category/the-tank-inspired-by-centerpoint-energy/

Get a preview of Crabswithoutlegs here:

 

UK band makes a stop in Dayton on US Tour!

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UK’s Project Blackbird is on their first US tour, and are prioritizing Dayton as one of their stops! You can see them Tuesday, July 18th at 8pm at The Brightside.

This “extraordinary” band, as BBC 6Music’s Tom Robinson has described them, offers an atmospheric, genre-fluid listening experience that draws equally upon intellect and emotion. They are made up of 5 core members are vocalist Ming Nagel (originally from the USA), multi-instrumentalist Jon Read (former trumpet player for The Specials), guitarist Alan Roberts, multi-instrumentalist Jamie Varley, and drummer Eddie Dublin.

“Imagine a party at Ronnie Scott’s,” one fan suggests, “where Sade, Björk, Jeff Beck, and David Byrne meet Portishead and then go for a late night curry to exchange ideas…sublime”.

Local support comes from Rude Scholar. On site food truck, Phat & Rich, will be on site!

HOW TO GO?

July 18, 2023

Doors 7:30pm

Show 8:15pm

All ages welcome!

$10 advance /  $15 day of show.  
Advance tickets: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/75846/orders/new

Venue address: 905 E 3rd St (free, on-site parking available)

Quest To Find The Long Lost $10 Lunch

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I am cheap. Frugal. Especially lunch. I am not looking for fine dining and I am not checking the consistency of size in my diced onions. I am looking for some protein and carbs to get me through the afternoon. Even the cheap Chinese buffets are $11 or more for lunch. Inflation is testing restaurant owners and wallet conscious diners alike.

10 years ago you could find a $10 lunch pretty easily. In this post-COVID new Downtown Dayton era the $10 lunch is hard to come by while simultaneously avoiding the chain fast food joints.

Taco Garcia Mobil food truck at Huffman and East 3rd has been my go to downtown since 2019. Their prices have gone up but you can still snag two or three tacos and a Coke for around $10 or less. My usual order is one carne and two chicken and chorizo mixed. The chorizo gives some life to the chicken and the chicken gives some structure to the soft chorizo. It’s the perfect street taco in my opinion.

If I am not feeling tacos I make a run to Falb’s. Located on the corner of Chapel Street and Kiser for almost one hundred years you can’t spend more than $10 if you try. Pork Tenderloin and a salad and a Coke, $10. Burger, chili and a Coke. $10. Sloppy Joe and onion rings with a Coke, about $10. Tell Joe and Dwayne we sent you.

photo by Jim Chrissis

Closer to downtown, near the Arcade’s 3rd Street entrance you can stop by Olive Mediterranean Grill and get a Gyro and a drink for $10. I get it to go with a side of hummus and pita, you guessed it $10. The falafel platter, $10. It’s a plate sized for lunch and sized for my wallet. This menu is super accessible for meat eaters and vegetarians alike.


I am most excited about what the new owners at Kramer’s are doing. Located behind UD on Irving the new owners made some changes that have put them on my map for lunch. Wings, fries, soda $10. Burger, fries, soda, $10. 7″ pizza and soda, $10. Every day they have a special highlighting the menu. A hot Italian sub, chips and cold drink, $10 on Wednesday’s always has my attention. Don’t get me started on the happy hour specials during the week. It feels like college again.


So tell me, when the budget is tight and you need lunch, where can I find you getting a bite for $10?

Downtown Housing Tour

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With hundreds of new housing units currently under construction, there’s never been a better time to think about living in downtown Dayton!

Find out why downtown is the hottest, most in-demand real estate market in the region during our free Downtown Housing Tour on Saturday, May 13, from 1 to 5 p.m., sponsored by AES Ohio, Centerpoint Energy, Dayton.com, Key Ads, Glasshouse Realty Group, and the Greater Dayton RTA.

DOWNLOAD THE EVENT MAP & BROCHURE

You’re invited to this showcase of downtown housing options in a variety of styles and locations. Take a sneak peek at some upcoming development projects and hear from downtown residents about why they choose to live downtown.

This is an open-house style event – there is no hard start or stop time! Start your tour at any of the tour sites, or at one of the information stations found on the map.

Metered parking spaces are free on the weekends and The Greater Dayton RTA has generously provided complimentary shuttles for quick transport between various tour locations. Guests are also encouraged to walk or use the Link Bike Share system to travel between destinations.

Experience the fun and convenience of downtown living, with restaurants, brewpubs, shops, performing arts, galleries and more just steps away.

Hop on and off the free tour shuttles, or see the tour on foot or bike.

DOWNTOWN RESIDENTS PANEL DISCUSSION

12:00 TO 1:00 P.M. ON MAY 13

AT GLASSHOUSE REALTY GROUP, 201 E. SIXTH ST.

Sponsored by Glasshouse Realty Group

What is it really like to live downtown? Find out from some of the people who live here! Join us for an informal panel discussion with downtown residents from a variety of age groups and backgrounds. Learn what they love most (or least) about being downtown and ask them your burning questions.

This event is free, but pre-registration is required for the panel discussion. Walk-ins accepted as space allows.

REGISTER FOR THE DOWNTOWN RESIDENTS PANEL DISCUSSION

 

GETTING AROUND

FREE SHUTTLES – Free housing tour shuttles, courtesy of the Greater Dayton RTA, will run during the event, making stops near each housing option on the tour. Hop on and off at any of the shuttle stops to check out as many or as few of the housing options as you like. A shuttle should be at each stop every 10-15 minutes.

WALKING – Walking is another great way to get around – most of the housing options on the tour are no more than a five minute walk apart.

BIKING – Or, try downtown’s Link bike share! Rent a green bike from one of the many Link stations throughout downtown and ride to another station near your next destination.

PARKING

Downtown has more than 13,000 parking spaces. You can find a list and map of garages and lots here, and street parking metered spots are free on weekends!

MORE DOWNTOWN HOUSING INFO

Our tour highlights just a few of the many apartments, condominiums, and traditional homes in downtown Dayton and its surrounding neighborhoods. For more info on downtown living, visit our directory of housing options and other resources.

The Big ShaBang Concert Features Exciting Regional Music

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The Big ShaBang is back! The concert showcase is the brain child of 19 year old local music phenom, Eleanor Dakota with support from Venus Child Productions. Dakota launched her first showcase last fall at The Brightside, and is back with a “Volume 2” edition. This spring showcase features awesome five musical acts: Six Foot Blond, Crabswithoutlegs, Frank Calzada, Keita, along with Dakota herself performing.

If you are looking for a fun night out that of new, hip music (that’s early – over by 10:30pm!) – this is the show for you! Head over to The Brightside for another special evening. The venue has quickly become one of the city’s favorite places to discover emerging talent.

This particular event includes the Dayton Battle of the Bands winners, Crabswithoutlegs, along with special guest Six Foot Blond from Bloomington, who are making their Dayton debut! The show kicks off with three special solo sets. Prepare for an eclectic evening that will remind longtime Dayton music fans of a night at Gilly’s or Canal Street Tavern.

There will be a food truck on site: Phat & Rich. Check out their Mexican inspired menu here: https://phatandrich.com/

Six Foot Blond is making their Dayton debut on May 11th at The Brightside

HOW TO GO?

Thursday, May 11, 2023

at The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH)

Doors open 7pm / Show starts 7:30pm / Ends at 10:30pm

All ages welcome!

Advance tickets $12 / Day of show $18

Direct link to tickets here: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/75151/orders/new

Note: The venue is handicapped accessible. There is free parking on either side of the building. For info about the venue visit thebrightsidedayton.com

Preview Crabswithoutlegs below!

This Must Be the Party hits the stage this Friday at The Brightside

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One of the most celebrated music events in Dayton during the last decade is back! This Must Be the Party is a local super group who performs a fantastic tribute to The Talking Heads. Fans love the complete recreation of the classic album and documentary film Stop Making Sense that they perform! Catch them for an exclusive show Friday April 14, 2023 at The Brightside, in downtown Dayton.

Few bands are as well-known in the music industry as the Talking Heads. The band, which was founded in the middle of the 1970s, contributed to the development of a new musical genre that would later come to rule the radio in the 1980s. The Talking Heads were one of the most innovative and forward-thinking bands of their period with their special fusion of rock, groove, and New Wave. It’s no wonder that Dayton audiences love this tribute show!

Due to the Covid shutdown, This Must Be the Party hasn’t performed since 2019, so this is a highly anticipated event! The best part is that part of the proceeds from this show go to benefit The Seedling Foundation, an organization that supports the arts magnet at Stivers School for the Arts. It’s a musical celebration to support music education!

If you’ve had the pleasure of seeing this amazing show already, you know how much fun to expect! (Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes!) This go around, there is a very special guest joining the show. Sammi Garett, from the national touring acts Turquaz, Cool Cool Cool, & The Bump Assembly, is flying in from Brooklyn to join the crew! She’s an absolutely fabulous singer and performer, and she’s excited to perform in Dayton for the first time.

Local original band, Intergalactic Space Force, is kicking off the show at 8:30pm, shortly after doors open. They were Dayton Battle of the Bands finalists last year, and always love an opportunity to perform at The Brightside.

After the Stop Making Sense headlining show, if you’re still ready to boogie, Freekbass will be making his Brightside debut with a “Solo Grooves” after party.

If you get hungry, the venue has coordinated with Phat & Rich to be on site to serve your needs. The Mexican inspired cuisine is a hit with concert goers, so go hungry and hang on the Brightside’s awesome patio between sets.

If you’re looking for a place to pre-game, organizers recommend going to Tender Mercy for their amazing cocktails. “Not only is Tender Mercy our neighbor, they are one of the primary sponsors of this event!” event organizer, Libby Ballengee told us. “Their sister restaurant Sueño, is an amazing spot for dinner too, but I’d get reservations first!”

This Must Be the Party promises to be one of the most memorable events of the spring!

*The band includes: Khrys Blank, Nathan Lewis, Patrick Himes, Brian Hoeflich, Erich Reith, Aaron Holmes, Matt Byanski, Eric Cassidy, Nathan Peters, Christopher Corn, Brian Spirk, with special guest Sammi Garett.

HOW TO GO?

When: April 14, 2023

Where: The Brightside Music & Event Venue, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH

– $30 Advance General admission tickets (highly recommend purchasing advance to guarantee spot)

– $35 Day of show

TICKET LINK: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/69946/orders/new

 

Dayton Music Rundown for March 2023

By

The Ballroom at The Brightside Music & Event Venue

Dayton Music Rundown for March 2023


1. Name of the concert: Jazz Jam
Event Location: Wholly Grounds
825 Wayne Avenue, Dayton, OH 
Date: March 2 , 2023
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Brief event description: NA
Cost of ticket: NA
Ages allowed: NA
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/jazz-jam/2023-03-02

2. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – Art Hops at Front Street
Event Location: Front Street
1001 East 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 3 , 2023
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Brief event description: Enjoy live music throughout the complex as you explore studios and galleries, open house style! Shop original artwork, handcrafted home decor, jewelry, clothing, and more from over 250 local artists and artisans. While you hop around campus, enjoy the murals, sculptures, and the architecture of our buildings. Our campus is family and pet friendly. Arthops are always free to attend and we offer free onsite and surrounding parking.
Cost of ticket: NA
Ages allowed: NA

3. Name of the concert: Clark DD Rockin’ Ball
Event Location: Clark County Fairgrounds
4401 South Charleston Pike, Springfield, OH 45502
Date: March 3 , 2023
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Brief event description: Celebrate DD Awareness Month with Developmental Disabilities of Clark County and the Deron Bell Band! Dance the night away with your friends to a mix of funk, Motown, blues, and rock hits. Refreshments will be available for sale.
Cost of ticket: $5 and at the door are $10
Ages allowed: 18+

4. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – Contra Dance
Event Location: The Michael Solomon Pavilion
2917 Berkley St., Kettering, OH 45409
Date: March 3 , 2023
Time: 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Brief event description: Let the rhythms lift your feet and your spirits! Join us on first Fridays to dance, socialize, or just sit and listen to some of the best bands and callers in the region. No experience is necessary, all ages are welcome and you don’t need to bring a partner. The caller teaches all dances before they start. Live music at every dance.

5. Name of the concert: MJ Live! – A Tribute to Michael Jackson
Event Location: Arbogast Performing Arts Center
500 S Dorset Rd, Troy, OH 45373
Date: March 4 , 2023
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Brief event description: As the #1 Michael Jackson tribute show in the world, MJ LIVE recreates the electrifying stage show of one of the greatest performers of all time. From iconic dance moves like the moonwalk to timeless hits like “Bad,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller” and “Beat It,” the spot-on show brings all the Gloved One’s staples to life. Dazzling lighting and effects, plus the MJ LIVE dancers and a live band, make this show a true spectacular fitting of the King of Pop. Relive the energy, excitement, spectacle and pure joy of this legendary superstar and his music.
Cost of ticket: $15-$55
6. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – Adult Prom 2023
Event Location: Dayton Arcade
35 W Fourth Street, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 4 , 2023
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Brief event description: It is a time to relive the glory days of High School Prom. Put your dancing shoes on, get your prom photo taken, and enjoy the night with friends.
Ages allowed: Adults only

Link: https://www.dubpub.com/st.-patrick-s-day-1.html

7. Name of the concert: Red Temple Pray
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 5, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

8. Name of the concert:  Chloé Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies LIVE
Event Location: Victoria Theatre
138 North Main St., Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 9 , 2023
Time: 7:30 PM
Brief event description: SYNCOPATED LADIES’ viral videos have amassed over 100 million views. They have worked with mega star Beyonce, Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance” as the winner of the first dance crew battle, performed on “Good Morning America,” at the U.S. Open, and they have also performed to sold-out audiences in their full-length concert, Syncopated Ladies: Live!
Cost of ticket: $20 – $35

9. Name of the concert:  Perspectives: War and Peace
Event Location: The Schuster Center
1 W 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 10, 2023 and March 11, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM
Brief event description: Dayton Philharmonic 2022–2023 Masterworks Series – Perspectives: War and Peace – Schuster Center, downtown Dayton.

10. Name of the concert: Amber Hargett, Jonah Leatherman
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402, United States
Date: March 10, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

11. Name of the concert: DAYTON BATTLE OF THE BANDS FINALE!
Event Location: The Brightside 
905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH
Date: March 11, 2023
Time: 6pm Doors / 7pm Show
Brief event description: The finale of the Dayton Battle of the Bands features 6 up-and-coming bands! 
Cost of ticket: $15 advance / $20 day of show
Ages allowed: All ages
Link: daytonbattleofthebands.com

12. Name of the concert: Decent Criminal, Vacation
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 11, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

13. Name of the concert:  The Mysterious Maestro
Event Location: The Schuster Center
1 W 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 12, 2023
Time: 2:30 PM
Brief event description: The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance Family Series: The Dayton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra presents The Mysterious Maestro at The Schuster.

14. Name of the concert:  Duane Malinowski Band
Event Location: American Czechoslovakian Club
922 Valley Street, Dayton, OH 45404
Date: March 12, 2023
Time: 3:00 – 7:00pm
Brief event description: Your favorite ballroom selections for your dancing pleasure
Cost of ticket: $10 Members, $11 non-Members

15. Name of the concert:  Dayton Dinner Theater: The Big Lebowski
Event Location: The Brightside Event & Music Venue
905 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 12, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM
Brief event description: Welcome to our movie party! Before the show … indulge in a Chef-inspired creatively-themed dinner from Brock Masterson catering. While you eat … enjoy live music and soundtrack presen
Cost of ticket: $35.00

16. Name of the concert: St. Patrick Day Dance with Duane Malinowski Band
Event Location: American Czechoslovakian Club
922 Valley St. Dayton, OH 45404 
Date: March 12, 2023
Time: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Brief event description: Duane Malinowski Band, St. Patrick Day Dance
Your favorite ballroom selections for your dancing pleasure!
Cost of ticket: $14 Members, $15 non-Members
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/st-patrick-day-dance-with-duane-malinowski-band

17. DUBLIN PUB 25 year Anniversary ST. PATRICK’S DAY
Event Location:  300 Wayne Ave, Datyon OH
Date: Marcy 17th 

4:30a Admission line pre-check at Wayne Ave entrance, ID’s must be 21 and $10 cover cash only.
5:30a Open serving Breakfast & Guinness – First 100ppl get free St. Patrick’s Day T-shirt.

5:30a Mix 107.7 Morning Show live remote

7a PAUL CULLEN from Ireland (inside stage 7a-10a) 7a JAMESON’S FOLLY, main stage (7a-10a)
10a Free Shuttle Bus starts from Dublin Pub to Flanagans10:30a Master of Ceremonies JIM BUCHER THE TV GUY Hosts Dublin Pub St. Patrick’s Day
10:30a Celtic Academy of Irish Dance, main stage
11a JAMESON’S FOLLY, inside church stage (11a-2p)1a JAMESON’S FOLLY, inside church stage (11a-2p)
11a Jameson Girls on main stage in tent
11a Jameson free photo booth till 5pm
12p MIAMI VALLEY PIPES & DRUMS, main stage
1p MCGOVERN IRISH DANCE main stage
2:30p FATHER, SON & FRIENDS, main stage (1:30p – 5:30p)
3p UNTIL RUST, inside church stage, rock covers (4p-8p)
3:30p MCGOVERN IRISH DANCE main stage
5p Guinness Girls main stage
5:30p CELTIC ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE – ADULTS
6p Jay Tieber tribute to those who have passed featuring Shawn MacIntyre Hall and “Amazing Grace” on bagpipes. Main stage
7p Jameson Girls Main Stage
8:30 9 CASTLE CLOSE, Celtic Rock, main stage
9p WHITE KNUCKLE WEEKEND, rock covers, inside church stage (9P – 1A)


18. Name of the concert:  St. Patrick’s Day at Yellow Cab
Event Location: Yellow Cab Tavern
700 E. 4th Street Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 17, 2023
Time: 7:00 PM
Brief event description: Green Dayton is a high energy, fun lovin’, hard rockin’ tribute to the band Green Day. Justin Roseberry on guitar and vocals, Bruce Hull on bass and vocals, and Brian Hoeflich on drums.

19. Name of the concert:  Hits! The Musical
Event Location: Victoria Theatre
138 North Main St., Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 17, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM
Brief event description: HITS! THE MUSICAL is a high energy production featuring America’s best young superstars. MAR 17 at the VICTORIA THEATRE, downtown Dayton.
Cost of ticket: $32-$102

20. Name of the concert: Saint Hellion ROCKS Wings for Saint Paddy’s Day! 
Event Location: Wings Sports Bar and Grille- Dixie
7902 N Dixie Dr, Dayton, OH 45414 
Date: March 17, 2023
Time: 2:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Brief event description: We are ROCKING 2 shows in one day!!! Join us at Wing’s for their ALL-DAY EVENT, where Saint Hellion will be headlining at 2pm!
We will then head over to the Courtyard in Englewood to finish them off with all that is ROCK at 7:30pm…
It’s gonna be a WILD DAY so come on out and don’t forget to wear that green!
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/saint-hellion-rocks-wings-for-saint-paddys-day

21. Name of the concert: Paddywhacker
Event Location: Star City Brewing Company
319 S. Second St. Miamisburg, OH 45342 United States
Date: March 17, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Brief event description: The second of two shows on St. Patrick’s day at Star City Brewing Company!!!
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/paddywhacker

22. Name of the concert: Giant St. Patrick’s Day Blues Party
Event Location: Hidden Gem Music Club
507 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Township, OH 45459 United States
Date: March 17, 2023
Time: 8:00 pm
Brief event description: The second of two shows on St. Patrick’s day at Star City Brewing Company!!!
Cost of ticket: $20 – $25
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/giant-st-patricks-day-blues-party

23. Name of the concert:  Branford Marsalis Quartet
Event Location: Victoria Theatre
138 North Main St., Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 18, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM
Brief event description: Branford Marsalis has stayed the course. From his early acclaim as a saxophonist bringing new energy and new audiences to jazz, he has refined and expanded his talents and his horizons as a musician, composer, bandleader, and educator – a 21st century mainstay of artistic excellence. The NEA Jazz Master, Grammy Award winner and Tony Award nominee is equally at home performing concertos with symphony orchestras and sitting in with members of the Grateful Dead, but the core of his musical universe remains the BRANFORD MARSALIS QUARTET.
Cost of ticket: $29 – $79
Link: https://www.daytonlocal.com/concerts/branford-marsalis-quartet.asp

23. Name of the concert: Left Lane Cruiser, The Whiteouts, The Most Falcons
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402, United States
Date: March 18, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

24. Name of the concert: Stake Driver, Repentless, Cadaverous, Yfel
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 19, 2023daytonbattleofthebands.com
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

25. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – TobyMac at the Nutter Center
Event Location: Wright State University Nutter Center
3640 Colonel Glenn Highway, Dayton, OH 45435
Date: March 20, 2023
Time: 7:00 PM
Brief event description: Multi-Platinum-selling artist TobyMac and the Awakening Foundation announce the 2023 TobyMac Hits Deep Tour artist line-up featuring TobyMac and the DiverseCity band with support from CROWDER, Cochren & Co., Tasha Layton, Jon Reddick, and Terrian. The annual arena tour features 30 dates and will be a night of music and fun for the entire family beginning on January 26th through March 31st.
Cost of ticket: $15-$89

26. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – Divas 3
Event Location: Centerville High School
500 East Franklin Street, Centerville, OH 45459
Date: March 20, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Brief event description: Three female powerhouse voices that sing the biggest hits of the greatest divas in this vibrant show. Spanning 4 decades of chart-toppings hits. Covers the ’60s through the ’90s.
Cost of ticket: $35 adults/$5 students

27. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – Anastasia
Event Location: The Schuster Center
1 W 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 21, 2023 – March 26, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM
Brief event description: Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical ANASTASIA is on a journey to Dayton at last!
Cost of ticket: $26 – $109

28. Name of the concert: Special Guest Wycliffe Gordon and the UD Faculty Jazztet
Event Location: Sears Recital Hall, University of Dayton
300 College Park, Dayton, Ohio 45459
Date: March 22, 2023
Time: 07:30 PM – 09:00 PM
Brief event description: Musical ambassador and interpreter of America’s music, Wycliffe Gordon experiences an impressive career touring the world performing hard-swinging, straight-ahead jazz receiving great acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
Link: https://www.wyso.org/community-calendar/event/special-guest-wycliffe-gordon-and-the-ud-faculty-jazztet-04-02-2023-07-40-37

29. Name of the concert: Neil Berg’s 50 YEARS OF ROCK’N’ROLL
Event Location: Hidden Gem Music Club
507 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Township, OH 45459 United States
Date: March 25, 2023
Time: 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Brief event description: With a cast of stars from Broadway’s greatest rock musicals, as well as incredible rock’n’roll singers, celebrated composer and lyricist Neil Berg shares the often-unknown songs and stories behind the fifty-year history of the music that changed the world!
Cost of ticket: $20 – $25
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/giant-st-patricks-day-blues-party

30. Name of the concert: Papalli, Too Soon Jokes, Endless Mike and The Beagle Club
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402, United States
Date: March 24, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

31. Name of the concert: Inferious, Monochromatic Black, Alukah
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 25, 2023
Time: NA
Brief event description: NA
Cost of ticket: NA
Ages allowed: NA
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

32. Name of the concert: Celebration of the Arts
Event Location: 1 W 2nd St
Dayton, OH 45402 United States
Date: March 29, 2023
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Brief event description: Spring department-wide showcase!
Link: https://dayton937.com/event/celebration-of-the-arts


33. Name of the concert: Joshua Goodloe, Karly Driftwood
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402, United States
Date: March 30, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367

34. Name of the concert: Dayton Ohio – Hearts on Fire Band
Event Location: American Czechoslovakian Club
922 Valley Street, Dayton, OH 45404
Date: March 31, 2023
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Brief event description: Dance to Hearts on Fire
Cost of ticket: $10 Members, $11 non-Members

35. Name of the concert: The Queers, Suzi Moon, Raging Nathans, House Ghost
Event Location: Blind Bob’s
430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
Date: March 31, 2023
Link: https://blindbobs.com/?p=367