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The Rubi Girls

RubiGirls aim to ‘Save the Queens!’

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There is a lot of pushback on Drag Queens in America these days. Most bans and restrictions have been halted in the name of Free Speech…but in an effort to keep Drag Alive, Dayton’s beloved RubiGirls are bringing a Brunch to Tender Mercy on Sunday, April 30! The theme….‘God Save the Queens!’ One of the RubiGirls Founders, Dana Sintell, gave us the scoop….it went something like this…

The RubiQueens looking for ‘Mercy!’

D9: So, Rubi to the rescue once again, eh?

DS: Kind of, yes. Look. we fear what we don’t quite understand..that’s human nature. What is not human nature is to keep others from pursuing their best life by imposing ours on them! That’s not Democracy, nor is it protecting Free Speech. The RubiGirls get what’s happening…and we hope people will join us at Brunch to celebrate. We are all about FUN and ‘Fun’draising. This is another opportunity to help others in the area!

D9: The show benefits East End Community Services…right?

DS: That’s correct. The RubiGirls have helped raise somewhere around 2.5 million dollars for non-profits and charities. I think that’s one thing people need to know. Why would you ever want to shut down those who are helping others….strange really.

D9: So, ‘God Save the Queens!‘ What should we expect?

DS: Craziness….tenderness….fun….games….purpose! All of it. AND A GREAT ENGLISH BRUNCH! I think ‘God Save The Queens‘ lends itself to many meanings. Helping communities understand what we can do when we ALL work together is one. It also brings to mind an English flare which Tender Mercy is incorporating in the day. And let’s not forget, we are all Queens in our own little worlds….moms who need to get out and see a show; college students who need a Sunday filled with laughs and entertainment; and people who just want a way to support Rubi as we aim to help others…that’s pretty majestic, don’t you think?

Dayton’s RubiGirls have raised over $2,000,000!

D9: Which Girls will we see on the 30th?

DS: Ileasa Plymouth, Fonda Peters, Tara Misu, Taj Mahal, Minnie Skirt and India Summer. I’ll be hosting the mayhem…and yes, we will have our signature RUBIngo games as well. We always try to amp things up and make things a little different. The numbers in these Tender Mercy shows are always a bit different as we all support each other in each song….it’s like group numbers from start to finish!

D9: Any details we need to know?

DS: Yes. 12:30pm the doors open. Tickets are $30, which includes an English Brunch Plate! Tender Mercy is at 607 East Third!

D9: Sounds like a hoot….and the idea it benefits East End Community Services is really awesome. Folks, the RubiGirls sell-out…get your tickets, ASAP! Thanks Dana….

Dana Sintell Hosts the Event!

DS: Thank you…and ‘God Save The Queens!!’

For tickets…and more info…https://www.exploretock.com/tender-mercy-dayton/checkout/signup

Looking for another RubiEvent? Catch them at the SORG Opera House in Middletown!! Here’s the Link: https://www.cincyticket.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=6190

You can always donate to the RubiGirls through their website at http://therubigirls.com

The RubiGirls are 501c3. If you would like information on how to book or more about their mission info can be found at their website listed above!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Local Couple Launches Streaming Platform

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In response to a growing appetite for genuine local connection, the team behind IndigoLife TV has announced today that they are evolving their popular digital streaming platform into a collaborative, multi-faceted digital and in-person experience called Nearu TV.

Popular flagship programming including Decoding Dayton, I Am, The Voices Project, Behind the Drag and Revolutionist will become foundational programming on the new digital streaming platform, which will both replace the Indigo Life Network and evolve the experience into one that goes well beyond the traditional digital streaming experience.

“Nearu TV is more than a window into the stories of our community, it is an opportunity to come a little closer and be a part of it,” said co-founder Andrew White, who worked with his partner Lauren White to launch the new experience. “We wanted to create a platform that gives people a chance to celebrate what is near them, engage in content that captures the region, share stories, connect with neighbors and participate in events.”

Lauren and Andrew White

White said part of this transition is a vision to celebrate and support other local creators producing regional video content. Creators will be able to submit their finished works to be considered by a community advisory panel for syndication. Accepted content will then receive complimentary marketing via the channel, as well as a portion of subscription revenue.

“The true story of a community comes from including many different perspectives,” Lauren White said. “Nearu TV is a collaborative platform. We are actively engaging other producers, local filmmakers, documentarians and creatives to join the platform as a way to syndicate and share their content as well, and we have high hopes that this will evolve to be a way to access inclusive stories from all areas of the community.”

White said the launch of the new platform times perfectly with the addition of new programming like the FonDana Show and a spinoff of Decoding Dayton focused on Nature coming this summer.

Hosts of The FonDana Show

The FonDana Show, a collaboration with The Rubi Girls will launch on Nearu TV this spring. The premiere of the new series will be celebrated with a drive-in screening inviting members of the community to watch the first episode during a safe and social distanced in person event on April 13 at 8:00pm in the parking lot at Top of the Market.

These types of shows and experiences are just one example, White said, of the type of collaboration and connection Nearu TV is hoping to achieve in the future.

White said especially in the past year, there’s been a huge push for digital experiences that open the door for people to feel more deeply connected to both their communities and each other. Nearu TV is a platform that pulls that all together.

“One of the most exciting things about Nearu is the opportunity to connect digital experiences with in-person events,” Andrew White said. “It’s easy to become too attached to a screen and forget that these stories are windows into real life. One of the driving forces behind the evolution of Nearu TV is that ability to discover online and connect offline. We can’t wait to invite connections through real life experiences using the digital content as a catalyst.”

“We all have a story,” Lauren White said. “And that story can impact others around us. While the screen has the power to share that story to many viewers, it’s also an opportunity for us to connect on a human level. If we can use the screen as a catalyst to invite people to come a little closer, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do.”

For more information about Nearu TV, to start watching and engaging with content or for information about how to submit your own content for consideration for syndication, visit NearuTV.com

‘DRAG’ging Dayton Through The ‘MUD’lick!

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Dayton has many icons. Rob Lowe, Allison Janney. Jonathan Winters. Nancy Cartwright….many more. Two of Dayton’s biggest iconic Drag Queens are joining forces to kick-off a new ‘talk/info/game’ show entitled ‘The FonDana Show!’ And it looks to be a ‘HOOTENANNY!’

Fonda Peters and Dana Sintell, two of the founding members of Dayton’s legendary ‘RubiGirls’ are stepping into new roles as show hosts. “It’s a little bit ‘The View” mixed with a touch of “The Price is Right” wrapped in a Sunday Afternoon informercial.’ says Peters. ‘There will be some laughs, some learning…oh and some great cocktails!’

The show films at Mudlick Tap House and will feature signature drinks prepared by Thomas Morris, a Mudlick Mixologist. ‘I can’t wait!’ says Morris. ‘It’s gonna be whacky!’ The cocktails will be shared with the guests….and the line-up of guests is stellar for the first taping.

‘We put an all-call out on Facebook, and it blew up!’ Says Sintell. ‘Our first taping features Darryl Demure (TV Star) , Amelia Robinson (Columbus Dispatch) , Michelle Kaye (PNC), Kevin Tunstall (Arcade), Alexis Larsen (DAI), Eva Buttacavoli (The CO) & Philip Drennen (D2D). These are all local heavy-hitters and they have much to share with the Dayton Community!’ The initial taping will take place on 3/8 with an announced premiere to come.  We’re looking forward to having a live audience, once Covid ends.

Fonda Peters and Dana Sintell

The FonDana Show actually evolved. ‘It’s true. So, a couple of the RubiGirls were on vacation in NY. A phone call from LA came through and they wanted to talk to Dana about doing a business make-over show along with India Summer.’ Peters continues. ‘COVID postponed that, but it got us thinking…let’s do something here in Dayton! From there, along came Indigo Life Media‘s Andrew and Lauren White! They are spectacular to work with. They get our MoJo and together, we see a terrific show in the making! People have been saying forever,’The RubiGirls need a show…and here we are!’ Other RubiGirls will appear from time-to-time with Minnie Skirt and India Summer each having a recurring role.

Joshua (Dana) Stuckey and Tim (Fonda) Farquhar

The actual show gives guests a chance to talk about their special part in the Dayton Community. Along with that, each and every guest gets a chance to raise money for their favorite charity through games. ‘This is the kind of crazy I love!’ says Sintell. ‘To know we are helping people is the RubiGirl Way! We have had very successful virtual events, and with the professionalism of this production team, we are PUMPed! It’s exciting to know something good came out of the last year…and I think this show will be good for our community!’

If you are interested in taking the stage on the FonDana Show for their May taping, send your pertinent info to [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

The Rubi Girls Show Must Go On- A Little Differently This Year

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It’s become a Dayton tradition, that the Saturday after Thanksgiving The Rubi Girls host a big comedy drag show. This year they will be filming The Show Must Go On on Saturday, November 21st at 7:30 PM EST at the Brightside Music and Event Venue.  The show will be shown virtually on Sat, Nov 28th at 7:30pm.

In compliance with the State of Ohio COVID-19 mandate for large gatherings, the Rubi Girls are offering a VERY LIMITED VIP LIVE EXPERIENCE.

Attendees of the LIVE EXPERIENCE will be seated at tables for 2, socially distanced where they will be asked to only leave their seats to use the restroom. Attendees will be able to order drinks from the bar from their smart phones and clear paths will be outlined to ensure one-way traffic flow.

The Show Must Go On VIP LIVE EXPERIENCE (2 tickets) runs $500

Includes:

  • A  Link to the Show Must Go On VIRTUAL EVENT
  • 2 2021 Rubi Girls Calendar, 2 Rubi Slipper Cocktail from Tender Mercy (6 servings)
  • 2 Charcuterie Board from Salt Block Biscuit Company (feeds 4-6 people)
  • Rubi Girls Swag Bag (includes 2 Rubi Girls Masks, 2 Rubi Girls Clack Fans & 2 Rubi Girls cocktail glasses)

Get your tickets online before they sell out!

Sat, Nov 28th. 7pm Virtual Showing

 

The Show Must Go On Virtual Event Ticket $25

Includes a link to the Virtual show at 7:30 PM, Saturday, November 28th.  Plus, your very own 2021 Rubi 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.

 

The Show Must Go On Party for One $75

 

Includes

  • A link to The Show Must Go On Virtual event, a 2021 Rubi Calendar
  • A Rubi Slipper Cocktail from Tender Mercy (3 servings)
  • AND A Charcuterie Board from Salt Block Biscuit Company (feeds 1-2 people)

Items must be picked up at the Rubi Girls clubhouse (1207 Wayne Avenue) on Friday November 27th from 11-2pm or Saturday November 28th from 11-2pm.

The Show Must Go On Party Pack $175

 

Includes

  • A  Link to the Show Must Go On VIRTUAL EVENT
  • A 2021 Rubi Girls Calendar, 2 Rubi Slipper Cocktail from Tender Mercy (6 servings)
  • 2 Charcuterie Board from Salt Block Biscuit Company (feeds 4-6 people)
  • Rubi Girls Swag Bag (includes 2 Rubi Girls Masks, 2 Rubi Girls Clack Fans & 2 Rubi Girls cocktail glasses)

Items must be picked up at the Rubi Girls Clubhouse (1207 Wayne Ave.) on Friday November 27th from 11-2pm or Saturday November 28th from 11-2pm.

Get these tickets here.

 

 

The mission of The Rubi Girls is to see an end to HIV/AIDS, an end to discrimination, and an end to intolerance and injustice. We look forward to a day when everyone can live a more fulfilling life while being the person they were born to be.

 

$2,000,000 in Donations Later, the RubiGirls Remain Humble

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Saturday, November 30th, the RubiGirls take the stage for their 23rd Annual ‘The Show Must Go On!’ The show, which was originally titled ‘To Care is To Cure,’ has become, for many, a Holiday Tradition.

‘What better way to give than to be entertained, laugh a lot and know your donations are helping people right here in the Miami Valley.’ says RubiFan, Brad Justice. ‘It’s exciting to be part of the energy at the show! Who doesn’t love Dana, Fonda and all the other Crazies!’

This year’s event takes place at the Brightside Event Space. Doors open at 7pm and the show kicks off at 8pm. The theme this year is ‘The RubiGirls in GAY as HELL!’

‘We had a record-breaking sell-out.’ says Brent Johnson, aka India Summer. Within 10 days we sold 90% of our tickets. ‘It’s humbling to know that people love our mission and see beyond the frivolity to the philanthropy!’

Speaking of Philanthropy, the RubiGirls were just awarded the Association of Fundraising Professionals Philanthropy Award. ‘It’s really a big deal.’ Says Tim Farquhar, Rubi’s Fonda Peters. We have worked really hard! We were never looking to receive awards or accolades, but just to keep our eyes on helping people.’ And help they have.

On the 30th, the RubiGirls will take in their 2,000,000th dollar. Driven by their mission, the RubiGirls have branched out from HIV/AIDS only donations, to helping all kinds of people across the Dayton Area…and beyond.

‘So many people know our history. Thirty-Five years in the making, we were here during the HIV crisis, through the fight for marriage equality and now, our hope is to change the atmosphere of intolerance and injustice in the US.’ Josh Stucky stated. Stucky is the sole RubiGirl to be with the group all 35 years. Farquhar took a brief break in the 90’s.

‘I feel like for Tim and me, we’ve seen the best of Rubi and the harder times. The harder times were those years when we wanted people to take us seriously as we asked for money in women’s clothing! I believe it was the persistence and the laughter that made it possible to help so many folks!’ he adds.

Many people have worried that the RubiGirls would fade away as the years past. ‘Heck no!’ says Jacob Sams, aka Jackie O. ‘The elder Girls have taught us all about fund-raising, philanthropy and the gift that Rubi really is to the community!’ O is one of the newer, younger RubiGirls, hell-bent on seeing it through for another generation. ‘There are always going to be people who need and we want to provide!’

This year’s show looks to be another hoot! New choreography, more parody and even a little classic Rubi will complete the line-up. ‘We are keeping it fresh, but we realize there are staples to these shows!’ says Alex Everett, Rubi’s Minnie Skirt.

The RubiGirls never seem to lose sight of their vision. Through dedication, cooperation and eyelashes these Daytonians have become models for performance groups across the country.  ‘A Different Way to Make A Difference,’ is their battle-cry, and they certainly live by it!

The RubiGirls are a non-profit 501c3. To donate to the RubiGirls simply go to their Facebook Page or therubigirls.com. Merchandise is also available through their Website!  You can also reach the RubiGirls by email at [email protected].

The Rubi Girls Present: The Show of the Century!

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JUST ANNOUNCED! The Rubi Girls return to the Dayton Art Institute on August 10, with a special benefit performance for the museum’s centennial! This event is sure to sell out – get your tickets early!

In 2013 & 2015, The Rubi Girls performed at the DAI in front of sold-out crowds each time. To celebrate the Dayton Art Institute’s 100th anniversary, they’re back, hosting an all-new show. The evening begins with a pre-show cocktail hour in the Great Hall from 6:30 – 8:00, followed by a Rubi Girls performance in the Mimi and Stuart Rose auditorium from 8:00 – 10:15. Proceeds from ticket and bar sales will help support the museum’s centennial celebrations!

An after-party will be hosted at Mudlick Tap House from 10:30 pm – midnight, with a percentage of the after-party sales also benefiting the museum.

More Info >> http://bit.ly/rubi-centennial

General admission tickets are $50; a limited number of VIP tickets (include reserved seating and two drink tickets during the cocktail hour) are available for $100.

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22 Years Ago…The RUBIGIRLS became a Holiday Tradition!

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RubiGirls star in The Show Must Go On!

‘The Birdcage’ was the movie everyone rushed to; ‘Baby Alive’ was the toy for all kids; DVD’s were launched; Gas was $1.09; and Lenny Kravitz and the Spice Girls topped the charts. It was 1996. For Fonda Peters and Dana Sintell, of the World Famous ‘RubiGirls’, an idea was growing. ‘We need a fundraiser that brings people from all walks of life to a drag show, with a goal of raising $1000 for HIV/AIDS research.’ says Fonda Peters.

The show idea was an actual extension of ‘To Care is to Cure,’ a Dayton Drag Show that took the best of Dayton’s Queens, and did shows at all the bars in the area. ‘Those were remarkable shows. Drag Queens literally rode on buses from bar to bar and did these super fun shows! They were all serious about changing the HIV trajectory…enough people had died.’ says Peters (AKA Tim Farquhar).

Fonda Peters has been doing shows for 34 Years.

For his cohort, Dana, the bus rides won’t ever be forgotten. “Honestly, I’m not sure how many of us are still alive from those days…Lord it was a long while ago! I remember one year, early on in 90’s, I was doing a number at 1470 West, and a very beautiful, young man brought a dollar and said, ‘I have AIDS. I’ve been so sad, feel like giving up. I needed this laugh more than you know.’ ‘I hugged him…held him…and there were tears…It changed me….forever! People needed a reason to celebrate the Gay Life….there was too much negativity surrounding our community’ says Dana Sintell (AKA Joshua Stucky).”

The Legendary Dana Sintell, RubiGirls emcee.

From those early days, the RubiGirls knew there was an opportunity to help…change the conversation. After lengthy talks and a few catfights, the Girls settled on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. ‘It felt right. Everyone’s home, people that have nowhere to go would have an outlet, and families could come and celebrate with us! I will be honest, the first year shocked us….we sold out and made well over our goal. It was that night we knew…THE SHOW MUST GO ON!’ says Peters.

For Peters and Sintell, the 22nd Anniversary is amazing, but they’ve been in dresses for 34 years. ‘No doubt, one of our favorite parts of any year is the BIG SHOW in November. Tim and I get to be on that stage one more year. One more standing ovation. Although we’ve talked about leaving, talked about passing the torch, I think we both feel we meant what we said when we committed to seeing an end to HIV. Can’t quit….especially when things have gotten so much better.’ says Stucky.

Magestik always brings the beat to the shows.

Today’s RubiGirls are definitely well-versed in ‘The Show Must Go On.’ Magestick (AKA Matthew Swisher) says,’This is THE show of the year. We rehearse a ton, drink afterward, and new ideas fly. I am beyond proud to be part of the RubiGirls and this special night. Every dollar is going to help someone, educate someone and make a better day for people with HIV. Truth is, crazy as they are, Tim and Josh, actually all of the more seasoned Girls, are iconic in this town. Not because they are beautiful, or dress to the 9’s or whatever….it’s because they stuck to their vision. They really want to do good things for people.’

 

The RubiGirls appear all over the Dayton area!

The RubiGirls are on the verge of helping raise $2,000,000 for charities. ‘Um, we had no idea this would ever happen.’ Sintell adds. ‘The support of the Dayton community surpasses every city, even bigger ones, around the country. When I tell people we do banquets, parties, grand openings, bingo, church performances, nursing homes, trivia, kids’ birthdays….etc, etc, they are stunned! RubiGirls are something special. And we take that very seriously. We always want to be cutting edge, but remain respectful. It’ s a fine line…but people are more apt to donate when they laugh and feel good.’

Peters concludes, ‘There have been over 50 or so RubiPerformers over the years. It’s a legacy. We’ve been performing longer then some of these new girls have been alive. That says a lot. We just hope that this continues, as long as possible, with great laughs, bigger crowds and MORE DONATIONS! Long live the RubiGirls!’

 

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

is set for Saturday, 11/24, with doors opening at 7pm.

It is in a brand new downtown venue, The Brightside,
located at 905 East Third Street Suite B, Dayton, Ohio 45402.

Tickets are on sale by clicking on link, or at the door for $40, if still available!
And don’t forget to bring a few bucks for tipping!

 

Be sure and follow The RubiGirls  on Facebook!

 

 

Dayton Celebrates PRIDE At Courthouse Square

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FriPride300The annual Pride Festival that celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ culture in Dayton, recognized as the “Queersest City in the Nation” by The Advocate, kicks off Friday, June 5th with a brand new event. The Affair on the Square will kick off at 5pm and features the infamous and ever colorful Rubi Girls on the PNC stage.   Guests can enjoy food from Zombie Dogz, Hunger Paynes, Jimmies StrEATery and Go Cupckae as well as beverages from the Bud Light Beer Truck.

Title Sponsor PNC’s Dave Mellon, Dayton Market Regional President will officially open the PRIDE festivities with remarks on why fostering an inclusive work environment is a business advantage e and improves staff morale for PNC.   The Greater Dayton LGBT Center will then honor local businesses that are Champions of Equality.

10346298_862458463765809_306331806018025819_n1This is a weekend you will not want to miss! “The LGBT community is made up of many individuals from all walks of life, so come out and show your PRIDE in being an individual,” states Randy Phillips, President of the Greater Dayton LGBT Center. “The goal of Pride is for every individual to have freedom to be who they are. That is not the case in Russia, among other places,” Phillips said. The average attendance over the past several years has been 3000 for the parade and festival.

Saturday, June 6th kicks off with a Pride Breakfast at MJ’s on Jefferson at 9am (suggested donation $5), followed by the PRIDE Parade, which steps off at noon from Cooper Park and ends at Courthouse Square. Grand Marshall’s Michelle Kay of PNC and Bella Harlow, Miss Diva US of A 2015, will lead over 30 participants including local businesses, organizations, churches, drill teams, and other LGBTQ supporters.

 

Mayor Nan Whaley will officiate at the annual commitment ceremony that the Greater Dayton LGBT Center has presented each year, until marriage equality is honored for all citizens in Ohio. Pride will continue on the PNC Stage with entertainment featuring the best in live vocals and local celebrity entertainment in a family friendly setting. The Festival plaza is sold out again with over 50 vendors including LGBTQ organizations, local businesses and varie39ae989d09530ee7a750cadeface7587ty of food, will l be on hand until 4pm.

At 8pm the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus will perform along with Tonya and Grammy winning superstar Jennifer Holliday at the Victoria Theatre in a Broadway Revue.

 

Wheat Penny Oven and Bar will host a special, once-a-year Sunday BruncDSC_0407-copy1h on Sunday, June 7 from 10am -2pm. Breakfast Pizzas, Egg and Sausage Poorboys, Liz’s famous Fried Chicken and Waffles with Spicy Rosemary Honey, Cocktails galore and who knows what else! Can’t wait to see everybody! Proceeds benefit the Greater Dayton LGBT Center.

Volunteers are still needed to help with PRIDE, you can sign up to help online here.

 

A Newbi Rubi Will Be CROWNED!

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rubigirlsThe search for New Rubi Girls is on! Will they have what it takes?

This will be a show everyone will be talking about.
YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS!

The Rubi Girls have been entertaining Greater Dayton and raising money for non-profit organizations for over 25 years — including raising  hundreds thousands of dollars for AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio).

And now, this fun-loving, talented, and glamorous bunch of girls is looking for a NEWBI RUBI to replace those girls who have moved away, those who have retired from the lavish lifestyle, or some who are (as Dana Sintell says) “just plain tired”.

You’ll see them walk the runway in the Parade of Nations, learn about the “girls” as they share a song from their favorite show, lip sync for their life, and finally strut their stuff in gowns and glamour for the final Q & A before we crown a brand new Rubi Girl!

And yes, The Rubi Girls will also be performing several numbers, too!newbi

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2015

Show at 8pm, Doors open at 7pm.

IUE-CWA Union Hall
313 South Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio

General Admisson tickets are only $20,   order yours online now.
VIP TICKETS ARE SOLD OUT!

*As part of the competition, all Newbi Rubi contestants are asked to help raise funds for ARC Ohio. Some are hosting fundraisers — like using online tools like Everyday Hero to help support our life-saving services. Your support of the Newbi Rubi contestants helps us continue to provide our clients access to a comprehensive, coordinated, and cutting-edge response to HIV, from prevention to diagnosis and treatment.

Human Race Takes On Torch Song Trilogy **Ticket Contest**

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TORCH SONG TRILOGY publicity photo with Jamison Stern, Jon Hacker, Patricia Linhart, Philip Thomas Stock and Jamie Cordes. Photo by Scott J. Kimmins.

The Human Race Theatre Company starts 2014 with Harvey Fierstein‘s award-winning and rarely-produced three-act play, Torch Song Trilogy. Poignant and filled with witty, sharp humor, Fierstein’s deeply personal story of self-discovery redefined an era in gay America. What begins as a chance encounter in a New York nightclub leads drag-queen Arnold Beckoff in a hilarious, yet touching, pursuit of love, happiness and a life of which he can be proud. From a failed affair with a reluctant lover, to a committed relationship with a young model and the promise of a stable family, Arnold’s struggle for acceptance meets its greatest challenge in his intolerant mother.

Torch Song Trilogy originated as a series of one-act plays ­- International Stud, Fugue in a Nursery and Widows and Children First! – that premiered individually Off-Off-Broadway at La MaMa ETC beginning in 1978, when actor/writerHarvey Fierstein was just 23 years old. The three plays were then united under the umbrella title Torch Song Trilogy and presented Off-Broadway in 1981 at the Actors’ Playhouse, where it received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The production then transferred to Broadway in 1982, ran for 1,222 performances, and won Fierstein Drama Desk and Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Actor. Fierstein has been an icon for Gay America since the 80s and is well-known to audiences for his gravelly voice and witty dialogue. In addition to his early success with Torch Song Trilogy, he also wrote the books for the Broadway musicals La Cage aux Folles (for which he won a second Tony Award), A Catered Affair, Newsies and Kinky Boots. He has performed onstage in such Broadway shows as La Cage aux Folles, Hairspray and Fiddler on the Roof, as well as in numerous films and television shows.

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TORCH SONG TRILOGY publicity photo with Jamison Stern as “Arnold” and Patricia Linhart as “Mrs. Beckoff”.

“Torch Song was written in a time before AIDS, before the debate over Marriage Equality,” says Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore. “Revisiting this amazing script was not a political choice, it was a ‘human’ choice. This story speaks volumes about our individual struggles for love and acceptance – and it applies to any era. By setting the play in its original time period-the late 1970s to early 1980s-we are given a chance to see both how far we have come…and not come.”

Director and Human Race Resident Artist Scott Stoney (Next to Normal; Caroline, or Change; August: Osage County) leads The Human Race’s production with a talented cast of six actors: Jamison Stern (Broadway’s By Jeeves and How the Grinch Stole Christmas, national tours of Beauty and the Beast and Little Shop of Horrors) as “Arnold”, Resident Artists Jamie Cordes (Next to Normal, right next to me) as “Ed” and Patricia Linhart (Becky’s New Car, The Drowsy Chaperone) as “Mrs. Beckoff” and “Lady Blues”, Lisa Ann Goldsmith (Macbeth, Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s As You Like It) as “Laurel”, Jon Hacker (Next to Normal, Wright State University’s Oklahoma!) as “Alan” and Stivers School for the Arts student Philip Thomas Stock (Muse Machine’s All You Need Is Love, Dayton Theatre Guild‘s Lost in Yonkers) as “David”.

388809_359266167432627_1468161317_nThe Dayton-based drag performance group The Rubi Girls will serve as hosts for the Friday, January 31 opening night performance. The Greater Dayton LGBT Center has partnered with The Human Race to present “LGBT Pride Night at The Loft Theatre” for the Tuesday, February 11 evening performance. Center members can purchase discounted tickets through its website: www.daytonlgbtcenter.org.

Ticket Contest:
DMM will be sending 2 lucky winners and a guest to see Torch Song Trilogy as our guests.  To enter our contest, just like this article, tell us why you should win in the comments below and fill out this form. We’ll post our winner Tues after 9pm. 

Congratulations to our ticket winnerss Shelly Hulce & Brian Coleman

The Show Must Go On- The Rubi Girls- One Night Only!

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11204_812160505476522_680203231_nThanksgiving- the kind of holiday where you slave in the kitchen, spend time with the family, eat turkey for dinner, express thanks for the great people in your life, eat turkey sandwiches, shop, eat more turkey,  watch football and start to really wonder how you are related to those people!

So lets face it, by Saturday night you’re going to need to get out! May we suggest you make plans to head downtown and catch The Rubi Girls as they make their traditional Thanksgiving appearance with The Show Must Go On.   For those of you who haven’t seen one of their shows (gasp)  we should warn you- they are a little risque (and sometimes as the night goes on they can get just downright nasty (but in a good way)!

Grown men dressed as women, dancing, singing and performing in a way that will have you laughing and screaming!  Together over 25 years The Rubi Girls perform only to raise funds for AIDS related causes.  Having to helped raised over $1,000,000  with their shows and calendars, The Rubi Girls have a cult following in Ohio.

Rumor has it that this may be the largest cast for a Rubi Girl Show ever!  With over 14 Rubi Girls, who range from their 20’s to their 50’s,  the “ladies” will  perform to holiday classics as well as some of the latest pop hits.  The costumes alone are works of art. and you always have to wonder what the newest version of The Rubi Dance will be…

VIP seating, which is the front 5 rows is already sold out, but you can reserve your general admission tickets online for just $10, they’ll be $15 at the door- if still available.

Saturday, November 30, 2013

UE-CWA Union Hall- doors open at 7pm, show begins at 8pm
313 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OHBenefitting AIDS Resource Center Ohio
 

Masquerage 2012- What’s the theme?

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The most frequently asked question of anyone involved in the planning, organizing and production of the AIDS Resource Center extravaganza known as Masquerage is “What’s the theme going  to be?”   Well, here’s YOUR chance to be one of the first to know!

An announcement of this magnitude deserves more than a simple post on the Masquerage web site.   It deserves a crowd of enthusiastic revelers to join Dayton’s own Rubi Girls at the fabulous Club Masque for a special style show produced by Square One Salon to help give you idea’s on how to dress for this year’s theme!  So join ARC Ohio  on Fri, August 3rd, 2012 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Club Masque and be amongst the first to know the theme for the 11th annual Masquerage.
In the past 10 years over 6500 attendee’s at Dayton’s Party of Parties For A Cause has helped the organization raise over $1,000,000 so ARC Ohio can continue to lead the fight against HIV/AIDS .  Specifically funding raised through Masquerage help  provide:

  • Outreach and prevention to individual at risk for infections
  • FREE HIV testing, counseling and referral services
  • Case management and support to HIV-infected individuals and their loved ones
  • Advocay concerning issues that affect the HIV community

Masque Nightclub will open it’s doors early just for Masquerage fans.  Here’s your chance to visit one of the midwest’s most talked about nightclubs to start off your First Friday.  Your $20 advance tickets include the exclusive reveal of the 2012 theme, appetizers, special drinks prices and other surprises. Tickets will be $25 at the door.  Masque is located at 34 N. Jefferson Street, Dayton, OH 45402.
As a special incentive to Theme Release Attendees, if you purchase your ticket for the Oct 20th Masquerage event at Club Masque that night, you may apply the $20 ticket to your ticket purchase price.  General admission tickets will be $50 and Red Ribbon Lounge VIP Tickets will run $150.  Tickets can be purchased online or by phone at 937-461-2437 x 2029.

Mad Molly & Batty Bonnie from Masquerage 2011

“Masquerage has become a signature event of AIDS Resource Center Ohio.  It brings people together for a spectacular evening while generating greater awareness about HIV/AIDS.  It also raises much-needed funds to benefit those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS” said Bill Hardy, executive director of AIDS Resource Center Ohio.   This year, he anticipates that the organization will provide assistance to nearly 4,000 individuals living with HIV and their loved ones, and reach thousands more at risk of HIV infection.  “We provide care and services for those already infected with the virus and help to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS”.

This year, the goal is to raise over $150,000 and and a sold out crowd is expected.  Each year a committee of dedicated volunteers work to coordinate a new theme, so that the event is bigger and better than the year before.

Guests can purchase a general admission ticket to the event for $50 in advance or $60 at the door, which includes a welcome drink courtesy of Jagermiester, dancing, entertainment and munchies. For a VIP experience, Ribbon Lounge tickets will again run $150 and include general admission amenities plus complimentary valet parking by Lexus of Dayton, the spectacular views from the 2nd floor lounge, mask painting,  open bar, appetizers and the always coveted swag bag.

Masquerage 2012 is made possible by: Levin Family Foundation, Jagermeister, Lexus of Dayton, CareSource, The Light Fantastic, Square One Salon, Premier Health Partners and MJ’s Cafe- the hosts of the official After Party.  Additional sponsorship opportunities still exist, contact ARC Ohio for more information.

 

 

MV Pride Week – Thank You For Being A Friend

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The Miami Valley Pride Partnership is planning a weeklong celebration of Pride for 2011. According to their website:  “As we celebrate pride we are ever mindful of our friends and allies that have helped us to achieve the rights and freedoms we now enjoy. It is to our friends and allies that we offer our theme for our 2011 pride celebration: Thank You For Being A Friend”.

The 2011 Dayton Pride Festivities will begin on Memorial Day, May 30th, with a celebration at The Stage Door.  On Tuesday May 31st the party moves to The Right Corner. On Wednesday June 1st the fun and frivolity extends to Club Masque for a night of exciting Drag. Thursday the celebration continues at MJ’s Cafe for an exhilarating evening of fun and entertainment.  And as the weekend approaches the events get bigger:

Fri, June 3rd 6:30pm  RoofTop Rubi

This dynamic, close-knit troupe of professional men has been performing since the late 1980’s. Comprised of elementary school teachers, an occupational therapist, a clinical counselor and business owners, the group began performing for one another in an attic during college.  Now over 20 some years later, the Rubi Girls have  traveled the country raising over $300,000 for HIV research and education.

Join Ann Roberts & John Smith as they host RoofTop Rubi  benefit for The Miami Valley LGBT Pride Partnership.   The evening will begin with drinks and food provided by The Dayton Women’s Club. Throughout the evening enjoy our fun filled Monte Carlo games and bid on our array of fabulous items during the silent auction.

$15.00 General Admission
$100.00 VIP Admission (Includes Admission for 2, Swap Bag and Sponsorship Listing)
For Ticket Information email: [email protected] or call (937) 697-1190

Sat, June 4th

Breakfast at 9am at MJ’s Cafe with the parade line up at 11AM.
10am: Rededication of Natalie Barney Historical Marker

Noon: The Parade:
The Dayton chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) has been selected as Grand Marshalls of the 2011 LGBT Pride Parade and Festival on June 4th 2011. PFLAG will feature, in the grand marshall’s car, the family of Mary and Kevin Kirkendall along with their daughter Lillie and Elizabeth Gillespie, a proud PFLAG family who support their gay son and big brother, Noah. PFLAG Dayton has been active in the Miami Valley since 1989 offering support, education and advocacy. PFLAG seeks to promote health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons, their families. They offer support to help families cope with an adverse society. PFLAG offers education to enlighten an ill-informed public all the while advocating to end discrimination and secure equal civil rights.


If you would like to walk in the parade, please download and fill out the Parade Application. Once complete email to: [email protected]

Sat, June 4th , HIV Testing, Dayton Library 12-5pm

AIDS Resource Center Ohio is proud to offer an orally administered,
rapid result HIV test.  The test is free, painless, and quick!  The test is administered confidentially and anonymously by request and requires only a swab of cheek cells from inside your mouth.  Twenty minutes later and under normal circumstances, you will be presented with preliminary positive results about your current HIV status.   And did we mention that the test is free?

Sat June 4th Courthouse Square Entertainment Line-Up

12:30 – 1:00 Parade arrives at Courthouse Square

1:00 – 1:30  BLESSING OF THE DAY: Liz Stutzman
1:00 – 1:30 READING OF THE PROCLAMATION: Josh West and Bret Wendell
1:30 – 1:45 Ohio Royalty: Alexis O’Hara, Brent Fabian, Sinthia D’Meanor, Rob Austin
1:45 – 2:00 Sashay Lorez, Elegance Black Lourdes, Aleksandra Grimm, Summer Day, Daray Lorez
2:00 – 2:15 MJ’s Café
2:15 – 2:30 MJ’s Café
2:30 – 2:45 AWARDS: Kris Jackson

The 2011 Theme Award Recipient is The Honorable Rhine McLin

The 2011 Frontier Award: Recipient is The Honorable Lt. Wendy Stivers.
2:45 – 3:00 Host: Amaya Sexton, Macy Kirkland, Justin Pryde, Endurance, Queen B, Claudia Cruiz

3:00 – 3:30 TBA

3:30 – 3:45 Cherry Poppins, Jenni Hoag, Foxxie Lane, Tasha Salad, Tramp Towers

3:45 – 4:00 Sky Black and The Kings of Dayton

4:00 – 4:15 Delta Blake, Shampaine Lopez, Maqualia Jaa, Arykah Alvarez, Howard Wayne

4:15 – 4:30 Jackie O’Toole, JJ Lopez, Rachel Torrez Kolbe, Niomi Necoll Onassis,

4:30 – 4:45 Diamond Black, Daray Lorez, Ashton Brooke, Patterson Michaels

4:45 – 5:00 TBA

Sat, June 4th Prdeapoloza 1-6pm Masque Parking Lot

Special appearance by  recording artist Pepper Mashay! A family friendly event with entertainment, food, games, and more!! Plus Pepper and the Masque Hostess show that night!!!

Sat, June 4th 8pm  Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus @ Victoria

THE ULTIMATE BOY BAND REVIEW
Get ready to scream and faint with excitement as the DGMC thrills fans of all generations with a musical look at America’s singing heartthrobs – the boy bands! The chorus has scanned the decades from the ’50s to the ’00s and everything in between to find your favorite songs; you know, the songs you crank up and sing along to while you’re in the car. They are all here for you from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to the Beatles, the Osmonds, Crosby Still Nash & Young, the Village People, the Bee Gees, the Temptations.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door and can be purchased through  www.ticketcenterstage.com or from a chorus member.

Pride Night At The Neon

Sun, June 5th  2- 6pm Family Potluck Picnic

Ernst Park at 1030 E David Road will be the location for the family friendly cookout.  Hot dogs and hamburgers will be provided.  Bring along a side dish or dessert. Fun and games will be planned for all ages to have a blast.

Thurs, June 16th  Pride Night at the Neon 7pm

We Were Here is the first documentary to take a deep and reflective look back at the arrival and impact of AIDS in San Francisco. It explores how the City’s inhabitants were affected by, and how they responded to, that calamitous epidemic.

Though a San Francisco-based story, We Were Here extends beyond San Francisco and beyond AIDS itself. It speaks to our capacity as individuals to rise to the occasion, and to the incredible power of a community coming together with love, compassion, and determination.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jCb68ZkwG0&feature=player_embedded’]

Sat, June 25th  Pride Dinner 7pm, Sinclair

The Greater Dayton LGBT Center is celebrating its 35th anniversary by hosting the annual Pride Dinner.   Featuring bawdy comic Suzanne Westenhoefer and  Dayton Police LGBT liaison Sgt. Wendy Stiver to act as key note speaker.  In both serious and light hearted ways, these two women will help the Pride Dinner celebrate Pride 2011. The evening begins at 5 PM with an impressive business and non-profit exposition with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. At 7 PM dinner begins and is followed by awards and recognitions, Sgt. Wendy Stiver’s keynote speech, and Suzanne comedy show. The evening ends with the annual Big Gay raffle drawing for many prizes.
Tickets are $45.00 with an early bird special of $40 per person or $400.00 per table of 10 if purchased by May 1, 2011.  Contact the Center for more info at 274-1776


Jane’s Best Bets (11/24 – 11/28)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

As it is Thanksgiving week, I want to take a minute to say how very thankful I am to all of you for reading Jane’s Best Bets!  And thank you to DaytonMostMetro.com for giving me the opportunity to write on a topic I am so passionate about!  Here’s to another great week in Dayton!

On Wednesday, consider getting a FREE t-shirt by donating blood at the You’re The Ticket To Saving a Life at Community Blood Center! Don’t worry…you’ll be eating plenty of food tomorrow, so I’m guessing your blood supply will be okay.  At PNC 2nd Street Market, do your last minute Thanksgiving shopping as part of their Stock-Up Wednesday event.  And in the evening, be sure to catch the UD Flyers’ next win as they play Florida A&M at the UD Arena.  And if you want to get in the spirit of Thanksgiving and have a good laugh, check out the Thanksgiving Eve Show at Wiley’s.

On Thursday, with it being the Thanksgiving holiday, I’m going to keep it brief.  Consider participating in the The 32nd Annual Turkey Trot in downtown Miamisburg to counteract all the delicious food you’ll be eating later in the day.  And from what I’ve been told, you DON’T have to be a runner…walking is perfectly acceptable!  Over at the Dayton Convention Center, attend Thanksgiving in Dayton ‘A Feast of Giving’, in which several sponsors are helping to continue the Beerman family Thanksgiving dinner tradition.  Regardless of where you go, have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING and eat some turkey for me!  Gobble Gobble!

On Black Friday, set your alarm clock early so you can catch some of those fabulous deals.  Just be sure I don’t see you on the news later because you got into a fight over a super deal on the Emerson 32” LCD HDTV they’re selling at Wal-Mart! If you’re not up for fighting the crazy crowds, there are many other ways to officially kick off the Christmas season on Friday so let me fill you in one little secret…Downtown is THE place to be!  If you want to burn off some of those calories from all that turkey you ate the day before, head to the MetroParks Ice Rink Grand Opening Weekend at Riverscape.  Visit Santa and allow your kids to do a little shopping of their own at The Tike’s Shop, as well as see the Wonderland Windows (the old Rike’s holiday displays) at the Schuster Center.  Check out some amazing gingerbread houses as part of the Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays Contest at the Old Courthouse.  Over at Kettering Tower (which is actually in downtown, not Kettering!), bring the kids to the Holiday Village, which will include festive crafts and games.  Also for the kids, The Junior League of Dayton will be sponsoring their 2010 Holiday Hunt.  In addition to all these great events, there will also be a Street Fair on Third with free carnival rides, a McPherson Town Holiday Home Tour, and a Sounds of the Season concert at Fifth Third Center, where Culture Works brings together several local choirs for a free holiday concert!  And finally while you’re downtown, you won’t want to miss the Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights (Dayton Holiday Festival) at Courthouse Square.  Oh…and if your legs are exhausted from doing all that shopping early in the morning, take one of the Horse-drawn Wagon Rides to get from location to location!  Or if you want to kick your feet back and enjoy a show where others are doing all the legwork, head to the Schuster Center to see Cirque Dreams – Holidaze, which is a holiday musical with an international cast of acrobats, aerialists, singers, dancers, and musicians!  Whew, I’m exhausted!  If you don’t remember everything I said about Friday, don’t worry – just remember the word “downtown” and the rest will take care of itself!

On Saturday, head back downtown for one of the many things you may have missed, since after all, how could you possibly fit it all in on one day?!?!  There will be The Tike’s Shop, Wonderland Windows, and Cirque Dreams – Holidaze at the Schuster Center; Carriage Rides and ice skating as part of MetroParks Ice Rink Grand Opening Weekend at Riverscape; the Virginia Kettering’s Holiday Train Display at Kettering Tower; and the McPherson Town Holiday Home Tour.  Also, check out the PNC 2nd Street Market and bring a non-perishable item or two to donate to the Foodbank as part of the Food for Friends event.  At Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm, they will have a Holiday Art Fair and Open House.  If you are looking for a Christmas tree, head out to Choose & Cut Christmas Trees at Young’s Jersey Dairy.  Bring your dancing moves to the Dayton Mall and participate in Dance Along Nutcracker…all are welcome!  And finally in the evening, support the AIDS Resource Center by watching The Rubi Girls present ‘The Show Must Go On’ at Club Masque.

On Sunday, to be perfectly honest, I’m probably going to need to rest due to all the hustle and bustle from the previous days!  But if you’re game, there will still be many events going on strong in the wonderful Dayton region!  Have “Some-Fun” at the Schuster Center with crafts, entertainment, and more.  While there, be sure to check out Wonderland Windows and The Tike’s Shop if you didn’t get a chance to see them earlier in the weekend.  Or, check out the Cirque Dreams – Holidaze show.  If you’re no Peggy Fleming, attend Fundamentals of Skating at Riverscape.  And finally, if you’re a beer lover, attend the Tapping Dogfish Head Burton Baton at Chappy’s.

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

Why did the police arrest the turkey?

They suspected it of fowl play.

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

Have a great week Dayton!