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

Events

Brooklyn’s Jonathan Scales Fourchestra Performs at The Brightside

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Brooklyn’s Jonathan Scales Fourchestra is in town on Thursday November 18, 2021 performing at The Brightside (905 E 3rd St, Dayton). This inventive crew delivers complexities for the modern ear. It promises to be a joyous evening of steel pan jazz fusion!

Jonathan Scales is one of the most innovative steel pannists on the planet, and is redefining and challenging traditional expectations of his signature instrument. In his hands, the sonic palette of an instrument often associated with cruise ships and tropical resorts is radically expanded to mimic the role of horns, piano, vibraphone or marimba due to his stunning, virtuosic technique. Scales’ mesmerizing compositions have captivated listeners and elevated him to the status of a true composer, forging new territory in the medium of instrumental music.

This concert will take place in the Brightside’s cozy Vodvil Bar. $12 advance. $15 day of show. All ages are welcome. Thursday November 18, 2021. Doors open at 7pm. Music from 8-10pm. Tickets can be purchased at this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jonathan-scales-fourchestra-tickets-204834614847

Covid Policy: The Brightside wants everyone to enjoy music safely, so they ask that patrons wear masks while moving through the building, unless patrons wants to optionally show proof of vaccination, or a negative covid test. The venue has installed UV-C air filters to sanitize superbugs, like covid.
To learn more about The Brightside’s concert season, visit thebrightsidedayton.com

Dayton Dinner Theater launches new season on Sunday with “Star Wars”

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Dayton Dinner Theater is back! This fun Sunday tradition starts back on November 21, 2021, with the showing of Star Wars (A New Hope) at The Brightside Music & Event Venue from 6-9pm.

“I think it’s the perfect cure for the winter blahs,” says Dayton resident John Boucuvalas and founder of the Dayton Dinner Theater which opens back up on Sunday, after being shut down last year due to Covid. “I think it’s important to have something fun to look forward to when the days are short and the weather is cold and grey.”

The time off has allowed time for exciting new upgrades and partnerships such as having the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble to feature live music before the movie. They’ve also partnered with local caterer Brock Masterson, to create themed food and drinks specific to each film.

“We were getting some big crowds and momentum when Covid hit, and now we are ready to be back and better than before,” says Boucuvalas. “Partnering with UD and Brock Masterson’s is great and adds a touch of class and familiarity for folks around here.”

With a full Sunday liquor license at The Brightside, the fully stocked bar features our signature $5.00 themed drinks along with a wide variety of mixed drinks, wines, and beer.

During the movie, Dayton Dinner Theatre features their famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, with a trivia contest during intermission. They truly make movies a social and interactive experience.

This year’s lineup mostly features comedies and quotable classics that line up with the interactive nature of the event. Tickets are $35 and must be purchased in advance. More information can be found at www.daytondinnertheater.com. Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance to allow for accurate food preparation.

Dayton Dinner Theater Schedule

Sunday, Nov 21, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Star Wars & live jazz

Sunday, Dec 5, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Christmas Vacation & live jazz

Sunday, Dec 12, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Elf

Sunday, Jan 16, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Wizard of Oz & live jazz

Sunday, Jan 30, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring The Princess Bride & live jazz

Sunday, Feb 6, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Caddyshack & live jazz

Sunday, Feb 27, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Airplane & live jazz

Sunday, March 13, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring The Holy Grail  

Sunday, March 27, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Napoleon Dynamite

Sunday, April 10, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring The Big Lebowski & live jazz

 

Live music is back at The Brightside – featuring locals Gabe Maas, Mariah J, & Isicle

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On June 3rd the mask mandate lifts in Ohio, and that means it’s a lot easier to get back to the fun things we’ve been missing since the pandemic shutdown. One of the types of gatherings people have been missing the most is seeing live music. Local venues, like The Brightside, are excited to be hosting concerts again.

The Brightside started hosting music in 2019, and just as they approached their one-year anniversary, the COVID shutdown went into effect. The independent venue located on East 3rd St, near the corner of Keowee, pivoted to weddings, sold merchandise, and hosted virtual events over the past year.

“We’re grateful to the community for their support during this challenging time,” music booker Libby Ballengee, told us. “Our biggest goal was to keep improving the venue and when it’s safe, get back to hosting music events. Those events are so joyful!”

The improvements have included adding UV filters to the ductwork in order to clean the circulating indoor air. The venue was also able to add a patio, where they can host outdoor concerts.

The venue’s first show back since the mask mandate has been lifted features three up-and-coming local musicians who perform an eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Pop & Electronic music: Mariah J, Gabe Maas & The Bruins, and Isicle. These artists are pushing boundaries in their respective genres, and are thrilled to be performing for Dayton audiences again. This show is planned to be outdoors on patio unless inclement weather.

Learn more about The Brightside’s upcoming shows at: TheBrightsideDayton.com

HOW TO GO:

Where: The Brightside at 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402

When: Thursday June 3, 2021 from 7-10pm

Cost:  $10

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-music-with-mariah-j-gabe-maas-the-bruins-isicle-the-brightside-tickets-156363237653

 

 

Spice up your holiday with a special “Holiday at Home” feature with DCDC

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After a year that’s kept us all at home, streaming our entertainment, I think it’s safe say we’re feeling a little Netflixed out. We’ve seen it ALL. Well, if you’re looking for something holiday themed, original, fabulous and local – check out the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s virtual “Home for the Holidays” performance this weekend.

Whether you’re new to modern dance, or a connoisseur, this show is both an opportunity for new patrons experience dance, as well as a dose of what longtime arts fans have been missing this year. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the holidays with our own world-class dance company through cheerful dance and song!

How to tune in? That’s the best part: it’s at your convenience. Buy a ticket and enjoy a single viewing of the performance sometime from Saturday, December 26, 2020 until Tuesday, December 29, 2020.

“This production will beckon us towards the memories that remind us of the things we treasure most: family, community, and home,” the company stated. They invite the community to “let this moving, joyful experience warm your family’s heart during the holiday season.”

Not only is this cozy production a great way to break up the online monotony with something cultural and original, purchasing access to this performance is also a great way to support this treasured local arts institution. All performing arts organizations could greatly use the community’s support during this challenging time.

After the performance, there will be a special feature where DCDC’s dancers perform their favorite holiday fireside stories. The company invites you to follow along with their special craft making session, which is perfect for the entire family. This is an up close and personal way for the dancers to share their memories of hope and joy with the community.

Ticket Information

Get your tickets at daytonlive.org or call 937-228-3630. $26.50 each.

This broadcast will be available for a single viewing between 12 a.m. on Saturday, December 26, 2020 and 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, December 29, 2020. Information about how to access the stream will be included on your email confirmation.

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company: www.dcdc.org

The Rubi Girls present “The Show Must Go On” virtually

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The Rubi Girls in the “Show Must Go On 2020” at The Brightside

Every nonprofit has had to pivot their fundraisers to online events, and The Rubi Girls are no exception. The group has awarded millions to a variety of local charities, and they’re determined to keep giving, especially now, when the need is greatest.

The Rubi Girl’s annual Thanksgiving production “The Show Must Go On” will be presented online on Saturday November 28th at 7:30pm and will also be accessible anytime after it starts.

The Rubi Girls were formed over 35 years ago, when a small group of friends started putting on drag shows for their own amusement. They later became a 501c3 dedicated to helping others. They’ve truly shown that giving to others can be outrageously fun and rewarding!

The tickets to the virtual performance and fundraiser are $25, which comes with your own copy of the 2021 Rubi Girls calendar. Calendars can be shipped anywhere in the US or picked up at the Rubi Girls Clubhouse on Friday November 27th from 11-2pm or Saturday November 28th from 11-2pm.

TO BUY TICKETS: https://www.therubigirls.com/shop

 

New patio opening with live music at The Brightside

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New patio at The Brightside

The Brightside, one of Dayton’s newest music and event venues, has been fighting to come back since their COVID shutdown mid-March. Although they’ve hosted private events and weddings, as well as some exclusive virtual concerts this summer, they’ve been pretty quiet.

Owners Carli and Hamilton Dixon used the “downtime” to focus on continuing to improve the building. They took the formerly abandoned coal warehouse at the corner of 3rd and Keowee, and have transformed it into one of the coolest event spots in downtown Dayton. This summer, they repainted the entire exterior, added a new mural and signage, finished a brand new loft space, and most recently, added a patio.

The patio’s first use is happening on Thursday October 22, 2020 with live music from local blues band Wolf Moon Revival from 7-10pm. There will be a food truck on site on what promises to be a lovely, warm evening in late October. The band plans come to back the following Thursday as well (October 29). The venue and the band are making the most of new patio while the weather holds out. Both events are no cost to attend but donations for musicians appreciated.

Dixon’s Violin performs at The Brightside on Sunday October 25th

“We saw the weather was going to be pretty nice the end of October and thought, why not put the new patio to use now?” the venue’s music booker, Libby Ballengee of Venus Child Productions, told us. “We are so excited to have outdoor space to utilize, and couldn’t wait to have live music back!”

 

They also have planned to bring back Dixon’s Violin, a mesmerizing musical act the venue hosted last year to critical acclaim. He will also be performing outdoors at The Brightside on Sunday October 25th from 4-6pm. Dixon, who is no relation to the owners, has performed at Burning Man, TED and Eletric Forest, to name a few. He is sure to delight audiences of all varieties! Tickets are required to attend Sunday’s show, which are $20 in advance, $25 day of show.

The new mural at The Brightside

If weather does not hold out for those shows, they will be pulled inside to the Brightside’s voluminous ballroom, where patrons will be spaced out 6′ apart and be able to order drinks from a contactless ordering system. The venue has also added UV cleaning systems to filter the air in all of their HVAC units.

“We’re doing everything we can to ensure our guest’s safety,” Ballengee continued. “That’s one reason we’ve held off hosting live music. We want to make sure we can host in a way that is safe for our guests, staff and musicians.”

Guests are required to wear masks if they are standing, and are asked to practice social distancing. For more information visit the venue’s website at thebrightsidedayton.com

HOW TO GO:

Thursday October 22, 2020: Wolf Moon Revival

Music 7-10pm

Address: 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

Food truck: Phatty Wagon

No cover – tips for musicians appreciated!

All ages!

 

Sunday, October 25, 2020: Dixon’s  Violin

Music 4-6pm (Doors 3pm)

Address: 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

Tickets required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dixons-violin-outside-concert-dayton-4-pm-show-tickets-125024909871

All ages!

 

Thursday October 29, 2020: Wolf Moon Revival

Music 7-10pm

Address: 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

No cover – tips for musicians appreciated!

All ages!

Muse Machine presents “In The Heights” with bonus Pre-Show Celebration!

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One the Dayton’s most valuable assets is its robust arts community, from visual art, music, and all forms of performing arts. We cultivate that talent in our youth, through innovative programs like Muse Machine, which serves over 75,000 students in southwest Ohio.

Every January, Muse Machine presents a musical that features more than 100 young people from across the Miami Valley. I was re-introduced to these musical performances last year, and I was simply blown away by the talent these teenagers display. There is no doubt, several . are bound for Broadway!

This year Muse Machine presents “In the Heights“, a musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda (creator of Hamilton). The story explores three days of the characters’ lives in the NYC Latino neighborhood of Washington Heights. On the brink of change, friends and family bring their hopes and dreams to life. The score features hip-hop, salsa, meringue and soul music.

The Muse Machine musical has been praised by The Dayton Daily News as “a performing arts all-star effort,” while The Oakwood Register has called it “an evening of true theatrical joy… ” You can see it for yourself Thursday January 16th through Sunday January 19th at the Victoria Theatre in Dayton, Ohio, January 16-19, 2020. Tickets available now through Ticket Center Stage.

Of course attending the performance is a fantastic way to support the organization. If you want to go above and beyond, and have some pre-show fun with fabulous people, consider attending Muse Machine’s annual Social & Show from 5:30 – 7:30 on Friday, January 17, 2020.

There you’ll enjoy cocktails & heavy hors d’oeuvres at Table 33. Each ticket will include food and two drink tickets with choice theatre seating.  It’s an evening you won’t want to miss!  Ticket sales for the Social & Show end January 11, 2020, so don’t delay!

HOW TO GO?

Social & Show Pre-Show Party / Fundraiser

Friday, January 17, 2020

5:30 – 7:30pm
Cocktails & heavy hors d’oeuvres
Table 33 (130 W 2nd St, Dayton OH 45402)

Muse Machine presents the hit musical
IN THE HEIGHTS at 8pm
From Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of HAMILTON
Victoria Theatre (138 N Main St, Dayton OH 45402)

Each ticket includes food, two drink tickets and deluxe theatre seating (seats will be assigned on a first come, first served basis). $45 Ticket for Social only / $100 Social & Show

For info and registration: http://musemachine.com/social/

In the Heights performances:

Thursday January 16, 2020 7pm

Friday, January 17, 2020 8pm

Saturday, January 18, 2020 3pm

Saturday, January 18, 2020 8pm

Sunday January 19, 20020 2pm

Tickets start at $27 and can be purchased here:  https://my.ticketcenterstage.com/overview/6144?fbclid=IwAR04TtWvd-b5JrnGUPpTueUuNmU0tlgtFZOS2nboT3JzjTZBIG_wUJYA77w

GRAMMY award winning jazz comes to The Brightside Sunday October 20th!

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The Brightside Music & Event Venue invites you to another intimate evening of world class jazz-funk-world music from 3x Grammy award winning guitarist Bob Lanzetti, of Snarky Puppy fame!

Bob Lanzetti is a Brooklyn, NY based professional guitarist, composer, producer, and educator. He has performed and recorded with many artists throughout the NYC area as well as played in over 40 countries with the three time Grammy Award Winning jazz/funk collective, Snarky Puppy: Best R&B Performance in 2014 (“Something” featuring Lalah Hathaway), and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album in 2016 and 2017 (“Sylva” with Metropole Orkest and “Culcha Vulcha”, respectively).

Bob Lanzetti’s group consists of a collective of old friends who have been playing together in a variety of settings for over a decade. The band is able to move as one, effortlessly changing styles as well as weaving between composition and improvisation. The group draws inspiration from many genres of music. In a given performance you can hear hints of Americana, jazz, avant-garde, rock, afro-beat, country, and free improvisation, sometimes all within the same tune. Currently the group consists of Jordan Perlson on drums (Adrian Belew, Banda Magda, Becca Stevens Band) and Matt Aronoff on bass (Banda Magda, Fred Hersch, Kenny Werner).

Bob released his debut record as a leader entitled, Whose Feet are These That are Walking, in fall of 2017 to positive reviews and has done a number of US tours in support of the album.

HOW TO GO?

Sunday October 20, 2019

at The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St

Doors 7pm. Show 8-10pm

Advance tickets $10 (https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4372687)
Day of show $15

All ages Welcome!

World Class Jazz-Funk Duo performs at The Brightside on Wed Sept 18th!

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The Jennifer Hartswick & Nick Cassarino Duo makes their Dayton debut on Wednesday September 18, 2019 at The Brightside.

The world-class jazz-funk fusion duo Jennifer Hartswick and Nick Cassarino, set out on a limited engagement tour this fall, and have picked The Brightside Music & Event Venue in downtown Dayton, to be one of the featured and exclusive performances on this debut tour! You can sit in on this intimate set this upcoming Wednesday September 18, 2019.

Trumpeter and vocalist, Jennifer Hartswick is one of the most exciting performers in music today. She exudes confidence and joy and brings her own refreshing spirit to the stage every time she performs. Jennifer’s music is honest, soulful and comes with a maturity far beyond her years. She is joined by Nick Cassarino, an incredible guitarist from Brooklyn, who blew Dayton audiences away earlier this spring with his powerhouse band The Nth Power. This duo is doing a limited engagement fall tour, and have made a special stop to downtown’s newest listening room!

Bonus! Dayton’s own guitar virtuoso, Chris Houser (from The Werks) kicks off this dynamic evening that jazz , funk, and jam fans alike won’t want to miss! Music runs from 8-11pm, which is ideal for a week night out. Pre-sale tickets are available here.

Making it extra special? This show is presented by Venus Child Productions – and is doubling as a birthday party for the Venus Child herself – Libby Ballengee!

How to go?

Wednesday September 18, 2019
The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St Dayton OH 45402

Doors 7pm. Music 8pm – 11pm.
Chris Houser at 8pm / Jennifer Hartswick & Nick Cassarino Duo 9-11pm
All ages welcome!

Pre-sales just $15! Day of show $18.
https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4299698

Dayton Porchfest offers free music in a beautiful neighborhood!

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Dayton Porchfest is an annual event occurring the final Saturday of August in St Anne’s Hill. PHOTO BY LIBBY BALLENGEE

Dayton Porchfest is back for a third year! It’s a day where music fills the streets and porches of St Anne’s Hill, one of Dayton’s most charming historic neighborhoods. It’s a free, family friendly event that runs from 1:30-7pm on Saturday August 24, 2019.

​Dayton has a rich musical history and active music scene, which continues today. Dayton Porchfest is committed to reflecting that in its selection of musical artists, from funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old timey that has deep Appalachian traditions here. The event also celebrates the ethnic diversity of the region, a reflection of our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade.

​Dayton Porchfest is an initiative of The Collaboratory, a civic innovation lab that moves ideas to action. The Collaboratory provides infrastructure for people and organizations to collaboratively develop community initiatives that generate new economic, civic and creative opportunities and value. The result is a healthier, more thriving region. All proceeds from Dayton Porchfest go to support the work of The Collaboratory.

How to Go?

When: Saturday August 24, 2019. 1:30pm kickoff. 2-7pm music. Link to full . schedule – click here or see below

Where: Throughout St Anne’s Historic Neighborhood (E 5th St, just east of Keowee). Link to map – click here or see below

Who: All ages welcome!

Cost: Free (tips for musicians accepted!)

 

Bar Granada reopens downtown with eclectic cultural events!

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An inside view of the newly remodeled Bar Granada located in downtown Dayton at the corner of Main & Monument Streets.

Bar Granda, the new bar and restaurant at the corner of Main & Monument downtown, has rebranded itself and reopened with an exotic flair! The decor and menu have been refreshed with a warm and cozy Mediterranean vibe, and food coming from the Latin Arepas Truck (indoors). They are equally as proud of their craft tequila menu, as their delicious mocktails for those choosing to stay sober.

The other big change to the venue is the addition of curated pan-cultural events. This Friday, they start their “Last Friday” series with The Dayton Salsa Project, who performs live Latin music (salsa/merengue/bachata/bolero) for your listening and dancing pleasure. Not sure how to dance Latin style? Watch and learn, and start with the merengue! You’ll be swaying your hips in no time. 9pm-12am. $10 cover. 21+

Later this summer, they are hosting a very special evening on Wednesday August 28th with The Flamenco Company of Columbus. Enjoy food, music and dance in a format rarely seen in Dayton – flamenco! Tickets include tapas & wine before the performance and dessert and Cava before final performance. What a wonderful cultural experience that will be! 7-10pm. $48 via Eventbrite. 21+

This flair of culture on the northern end of downtown is just the spark that area needs! Be sure to show your support of this new business next time you are planning a happy hour meet up, a date night or solo adventure downtown!

 

The Flamenco Company of Columbus will perform at Bar Granada on August 28, 2019.

More about Bar Granada

Bar Granada is located at 5 W Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402

Please note that parking lot adjacent to building is just $1 upon exit after 8pm.

Hours: Wednesday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Thursday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Friday 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM / Saturday 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Find out more: https://www.bardayton.com/

Enjoy the first Songwriter Showcase at The Brightside!

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Dayton’s newest music venue, The Brightside, is presenting its first Songwriter Showcase this Wednesday May 8th, 2019. The venue has two spaces for music, a large ballroom for larger concerts and events, and a smaller listening room, that is ideal for intimate evenings such as this special showcase.

The evening starts off at 8pm with Jack Ballengee Morris performing his all original songs, accompanied by Peter Fox on cello. Morris, a 4th-generation Appalachian singer-songwriter, originally from Clay County, West Virginia. His music is planted firmly by his roots but allows for the influences of Ramblin’ Jack, John Prine, Bob Dylan and Daniel Johnston.

At 9pm, Dayton’s own Amber Hargett takes the stage. Amber received raved reviews from her recent album release performance, and has been in the Top 5 Best Sellers at Dayton’s Omega Music record store. Amber Hargett blends folk, rock, pop, roots and soul sounds into her unique storytelling style. Her writing attempts to balance honesty with empathy and reflect truths about faith, life, and relationships.

The evening closes with a 10pm set from Closest Relative, coming to Dayton for the first time from Columbus. After a 2015 motorcycle accident took two fingers from his left hand, longtime guitarist Jack O’Connell adopted a new playing style and started performing solo as Closest Relative. His music is characterized by intricate two-fingered guitar work, and earnest lyrics. His latest EP “This Tree is Base” expands on his previous EP “Messes” and unfurls his songwriting in unexpected directions.

Making this show extra special is the live art happening on site. Artists Etch and Tiffany Clark will be creating the Dayton skyline outside the venue as a permanent art piece! Very cool. This promises to be a Wednesday evening out that you won’t want to miss!

How to Go?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue

Wednesday May 8, 2019

Doors 7pm. Show 8-11pm.

$7 admission.

All ages welcome

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s Golden Anniversary Celebrated with the Dayton Philharmonic!

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The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, under the leadership of Artistic Director and Conductor Neal Gittleman, is honored to be a part of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s 50th Anniversary celebration for a special DCDC Golden Anniversary Concert on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton.

Founded in 1968 by the late Jeraldyne Blunden, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) is the oldest modern dance company in Ohio. DCDC serves as a cultural ambassador to Dayton, the state of Ohio, the Midwest, and the nation. The company holds the world’s largest archive of classic African American dance works and one of the largest of any kind among contemporary dance companies worldwide. Noteworthy choreographers who have worked with the company include Alvin Ailey, Talley Beatty, Donald Byrd, Bill T. Jones, José Limón, Donald McKayle, Ray Mercer, Bebe Miller, Doug Varone, and Kevin Ward.

Together, the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company and the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will present a thrilling performance to honor DCDC’s 50th Anniversary as the region’s outstanding modern dance company rooted in the African American experience. The evening’s performance will consist of three engaging pieces that celebrate the artistry and athleticism of the full DCDC company of dancers.

The first of the three pieces presented will be the World Premiere choreographed by former DCDC artistic director Kevin Ward. The new work is entitledand each day you mean one more and is set to brand new music by composer and musician Derrick Spivey, Jr. and performed by the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. Neal, Derrick and Kevin–conductor, composer, and choreographer–have worked closely together over the last several months to bring this work to life.

and each day you mean one more is partly inspired by the poem “The Low Road” by Marge Piercy, which addresses the challenges faced by the lone actor for societal good and how, with the gradual attraction and enlistment of like-minded individuals, a real force for change can be built that can resist destructive reactionary forces. In creating the dance, choreographer Kevin Ward was inspired by many lone actors such as Fanny Lou Hamer, David Hogg, Fred Rogers, James Baldwin, Malala, Claudette Colvin, and many nameless actors, such as the U.S. prisoners who staged a massive strike against systematic abuse, even though it resulted in the cruelest solitary confinement, and how their efforts inspired millions to follow suit.

DCDC will also perform a signature work from their history called Children of the Passage. This work was co-created for DCDC by world-renowned choreographer Ronald K. Brown and Tony-nominated choreographer Donald McKayle, who passed away just over a year ago this April. The work follows a party of decadent lost souls that are haunted and later rescued by spirits that reconnect them to their ancient and ancestral character. The composition is a cadence that is drawn from the traditional marching jazz bands of New Orleans, with the grind and groove of the contemporary jazz and soul music. The language of movements is translated from the visual poetry of African and African American dance and the celebration of cultural rituals of yesterday and today.

The third work on the program is American Mo’, created by choreographer and DCDC Associate Artistic Director Crystal Michelle Perkins. The dance is a celebration of triumph over adversity. Dancers express freedom, courage and joy to Duke Ellington’s “Three Black Kings,” composed in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This work originally premiered on September 19 & 20, 2015 as part ofAmerican Mosaic, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts and was performed with accompaniment by Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra at the Schuster Center. DCDC has performed the innovative piece in New York City, Kazakhstan, and the Bolshoi in Moscow.

How To Go!

Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Schuster Center
Tickets for DCDC Golden Anniversary Concert begin at $15.50 and are available for purchase by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonperformingarts.org. 
For more information on the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, including by Dayton Philharmonic, Dayton Opera and Dayton Ballet, visit www.daytonperformingarts.org.
For more information on Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, visit www.dcdc.org.

Get cultured at Fine Art Final Fridays at new downtown gallery

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We hear a lot about First Fridays downtown, but less so about Final Fridays. Edward Dixon who owns a new independent gallery downtown is celebrating Fine Art Final Fridays and I am here for it!

The Edward A. Dixon Gallery is a hidden gem on Ludlow, just show of 3rd St and Courthouse Square. On Final Fridays you’ll find lots of local and international art for your viewing pleasure, along with light appetizers and beverages and live music. Bringing music and visual art together, is absolutely one of my favorite things!

Senior Art Majors from Central State University will also be at the gallery with Professor Erin Smith-Glenn. Students will be gaining experience at a commercial art gallery, interacting with the public as emerging artists and being interviewed by the gallery owner.

Artwork from several local and international artists will be on display and available for purchase. The special exhibit this month features glass mosaic art from Philip Payne and abstract photography from Bill Franz. Entertainment provided by pianist & keyboardist, Denzel Hollis.

Also, look for other great events on Ludlow Street during Final Friday including Something’s Afoot at The Arts Collaboratory (2nd & Ludlow), Latin Dance at Hannah’s and music and spirits at Third Perk Coffee House.

How To Go?

Fine Art Final Fridays at Edward A. Dixon Gallery

The gallery is located at 12 South Ludlow Street – Dayton, OH 45402 near the corner of  Third and Ludlow.

Occurs final Friday of each month from 5-9pm (April 26 – June 28)

NOTE: Free parking after 6pm at meters!

The gallery is available by appointment most days including weekends by calling 937-985-2115 or emailing info@eadgallery.com.

Enjoy an early evening of folk music with Ellis Paul!

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Enjoy an early evening and intimate performance with the one and only, Ellis Paul at Brightside Music Room this Sunday April 14, 2019. It’s going to be a true Sunday Funday with doors opening at 5pm with food from Twisted Taco food truck, and music from 6-8pm. Cozy, early evening that is perfect for Dayton music fans!

Ellis Paul is a renowned troubadour, singer/songwriter, folky, and storyteller. He’s been inspired by the likes of Woody Guthrie, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and James Taylor, and their spirits seem to occasionally grace his work. With an acoustic guitar in hand, he weaves intimate, provocative, and romantic tales of lives that were obviously witnessed by a most-talented voyeur.

Based in Massachusetts, Paul has been called the quintessential Boston songwriter more than a few times and has garnered the recognition and awards to back up that claim, including a shelf full of Boston Music Awards. Since coming onto the scene in 1993 with his independent debut, Say Something, Paul hasn’t slowed or weakened as a performer or a writer.

Spending two-thirds of most years on the road has helped him perfect both crafts, with a lot of practice on-stage and a lot of people whose stories he retells in song.  Over the years and albums, his songs have gotten more personal. Paul is on tour celebrating his 20th and latest studio album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase.

How to Go?

Sunday April 14 at Brightside Music & Event Venue (903 E 3rd St).

Doors 5pm. Show 6-8pm. Tickets $20 each (available online and at the door).

Rockin’ out to support Ronald McDonald House of Dayton!

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This weekend, April 12-13, 2019, you can rock out to a 2-night music event and fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House. Come for one or both nights of this special event at the new Brightside Music & Event Venue!

Friday night serves as the pre-party for Saturday night’s main event. There you’ll enjoy an extra special Happy Hour, which kicks off at 4:30pm, featuring a tasting from Cutwater Spirits and food available from Godfather’s Pizza. Music starts at 6pm with Last Call Trio, featuring special guest Danny Voris. At 8pm you can witness the 6 year old piano sensation Avett Ray (as seen on CBS News, Good Morning America, People, Inside Edition). At 8:30pm, the Kerry Smith Band rehearses for their big show on Saturday. Tickets are $10 advance, $15 at the door. VIP ticket $30 (includes Saturday night ticket too + reserved seating) More info here.

Saturday night is the main event! Doors open at 6pm. Harvest Mobile Cuisine will be here and have food available for purchase. Avett Ray is back with another performance at 7pm. At 8pm, the Kerry Smith Band takes the stage for this rare reunion show. General admission tickets for Saturday are $15 advance, $20 at the door. VIP ticket $30 (includes Friday night ticket too + reserved seating.) More info here.

This is going to be a fantastic weekend for rock’n’roll fans, and a fabulous way to support Dayton’s Ronald McDonald House!