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Raiders of the Lost Ark and Discount Days + TICKET CONTEST

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Hello Dayton! This week brings a special event that’s on the IMAX screen at the Greene.  For those of you who haven’t seen an IMAX movie…it’s awesome! Stunning visuals on a gigantic screen with an excellent sound system, it’s definitely something to try! Now on with the show….

On September 7 to September 13th, 2012 The Greene 14 will be showing Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark for a one week special engagement only. The original film has been completely digitally remastered with stunning visuals. Add in the one of a kind sound system IMAX provides and audiences are able to feel that they are actually part of the movie…that’s a BIG boulder Indy!

In the story, Indiana Jones, an archaeology professor who finds himself in the midst of exciting, edge of your seat adventures, goes in search of an old relic to be able to obtain the power of the Lost Ark before the Nazi’s beat him to it. Originally released in June 1981 and winning four Oscars, this one week event is sure to be a fun adventure for everyone involved.

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DISCOUNT DAYS AT RAVE CINEMAS

Did you know Rave Cinemas offers a bunch of discount days for everyone? With today’s economy, everyone is looking to save wherever they can and Rave is providing ways for people to still catch the latest movie while keeping some cash in your wallet!

For the early risers, Rave Cinemas offers Early Bird specials. The shows before noon (on weekends and weekdays when available) are only $5 each ($8 3D)!

Not an early riser? Come to $5 Tuesday at Dayton South or Huber Heights or $5 Wednesday at the Greene. Any 2D movie all day long is only $5! For 3D it’s only $8. That’s a saving of over 50%! The Greene also has IMAX deals on Wednesday too!

If you have a student/military ID we offer you a lower pricing daily.

And finally…Senior Day! Any 2D movie is $5 for those patrons 55+ and $8 for any 3D movie on Wednesday at Dayton South only.

ALCOHOL AT RAVE CINEMAS      

The Greene also has a full service bar and Dayton South has four selections of draft beer, five red and white wines, and frozen margaritas/Bacardi and cokes. These tasty treats allow patrons to be able to relax and have a drink while enjoying the show.

That’s all for now but stay tuned to look for more upcoming events and specials! Have a great week everyone!

For showtimes… http://ravecinemas.com/theater.aspx?id=47

ENTER TO WIN TWO MOVIE PASSES!

this post and fill out the form below (don’t forget to answer the trivia question), then leave a FB comment telling us that YOU want to win a pair of movie passes from Rave Cinemas Dayton South. From the list of correct trivia responses with post, we will randomly draw a winner and notify same. Contest closes Wednesday 08/29/12. Passes awarded will be valid for 30 days from close date at Rave Cinemas Dayton South only and must be used by then or will be forfeited. Valid for any showing, except special events. Please bring ID to verify your name and just ask for a manager when attending informing them you won the Dayton Most Metro contest.

Trivia Question: In the beginning of Raiders of the Lost Ark, the Paramount Studios logo dissolves into a real mountain – in what real country is this jungle?

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to Janie Hummel – she is this week’s winner!

Urban Arts Showcase Takes the Stage This Friday

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HBO Def Poet Black Ice will headline this Friday's "The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show."

HBO Def Poet Black Ice will headline this Friday's "The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show."

Oral Funk Poetry Productions will launch its fifth season of “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” at The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., from 9 to 11 p.m. this Friday, April 20.

The season-opening performance will be a celebration of National Poetry Month. The theme will be Jamaican and Caribbean culture through spoken word, dramatizations, live music, vocalists, visual arts and more.

Featured performers include Tony Award-winning HBO Def Poet Black Ice, who appeared on six seasons of the popular show and starred in Def Poetry on Broadway. He’s lent his voice to hip-hop projects by such artists at Method Man and opened for Mary J. Blige on her 2006 world tour. Black Ice also has appeared on BET’s Live 8 Concert Special, Rap City the Basement and 106th & Park, as well as on NBC’s Showtime at the Apollo.

Joining Black Ice will be singer and poet Scorpio Blues, who also has appeared on HBO’s Def Poetry. Her recent CD, Scorpio Rising, features her soul music and some poetry, while her first CD, Blue Blushin’, was an acclaimed poetry work. In 2006, Scorpio Rising became the first female and the first African-American to win the Ill List Poets championship. She also has her own spoken word and music entertainment, management and promotions company called Hot Water Cornbread.

The Flex Crew Reggae Band, a popular group from Columbus, will perform live music. Its seven members hail from a variety of musical backgrounds, resulting in a versatile and high-energy band with an array of musical styles, including funk, R&B, soul, hip hop and roots reggae. In addition, local spoken word poet I Witness Life will emcee.

Tickets cost $20 and can be purhcased at www.ticketcenterstage.com, by calling 937-228-3830 or at the door.

Poet Scorpio Blues also will perform during The Signature.

Poet Scorpio Blues also will perform during The Signature.

Oral Funk Poetry Productions has partnered with De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St., for the event. The restaurant, located across the street from the theater, will offer special Jamaican and Caribbean menu items and drinks.

During its first four seasons, “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” featured local and national poets, musicians, actors, vocalists, dancers and visual artists presenting numerous forms of self-expression ― often to sold-out crowds.

“We’re so excited to continue producing our show at The Loft Theatre after moving the production to this great venue last year,” said Sierra Leone of Oral Funk Poetry Productions. “This location has more seating for our shows, which often sell out, and has allowed us to kick up the performance a notch thanks to access to more professional production equipment and capabilities in the theater. We also have appreciated the opportunity to work with and learn from the professionals at The Human Race Theatre Company.”

Shocking Stories From Beyond The Stars With Carrie Fisher

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An Interview With Actress Carrie Fisher

Debbie Reynolds, Carrie, Todd and Eddie Fisher

(see details on our ticket give-away to Carrie Fisher’s show “Wishful Drinking” below the article)

It seems apropos that the daughter of Hollywood’s Royalty would eventually take up her predestined mantle as a Princess. Yet, for whatever charms that galaxy far, far away might hold,  Carrie Fisher’s real life is more of an epic tale than anything Lucas could ever deem to dream. From awakening to Republican Party media adviser R. Gregory Stevens’ lifeless body lying next to her (a victim of an OxyContin/cocaine overdose), to having the father of her daughter leave her for another man, Carrie Fisher’s life make the cantina scene in Star Wars look about as interesting as a seminar on new accounting techniques.

Carrie was born on October 21st, 1956 in Beverly Hills,California to America’s Sweethearts, singer Eddie Fisher and actress Debbie Reynolds. When Carrie was only two, Eddie Fisher left the house to console Elizabeth Taylor after the death of her husband Mike Todd (who was also Eddie’s best friend and whom he named his son after) and he never came back. The next year, Carrie’s mother Debbie married shoe magnate Harry Karl, whose penchant for roaming about without pajama bottoms and an acute case of chronic flatulence added yet another odd character in Carrie’s galactic menagerie.

            Sometimes, there are those born into celebrity who, through no fault of their own, do not realize that their lives are much different than that of the average person. During a recent telephone interview, I asked Carrie when she became aware that her life was vastly unlike the lives of others and what her perception of her early years were.

“Obviously it’s nice to live comfortably and I really didn’t know that there was another way to live until I was like ten. People would say, ‘You think you’re so great because you’re Debbie Reynolds’ daughter!’ I was embarrassed of that.” Carrie paused, rolling over in bed as she had just returned from a celebrity meet and greet in Japan. She went on to say that, “I did know that other people didn’t live like this and I didn’t like it because that separated me from being like everyone and I couldn’t fit in. I wanted to fit in, and none of this stuff makes you fit in. I wanted to have the option to join up. Anything that made me different…I don’t know…I lived mostly in my head, so I don’t know that I was very aware of my surroundings. I was extremely introverted.”

At seventeen, Carrie landed a role in Shampoo with Warren Beatty and Goldie Hawn. In 1973, as Carrie puts it, “George Lucas ruined my life” by casting her in the iconic role of Princess Leia Organa in his upcoming sci-fi movie, Star Wars – released in 1977. In reflecting on the deal that was made at the time, Carrie has been quoted as saying that, “We signed away our likeness, so when I look in the mirror, I have to pay George a couple of bucks.” Following Empire Strikes Back (1981) was Return of the Jedi (1983) in which Carrie once again reprised her role as Princess Leia, becoming the gold plated bikini babe – slave to and amorphous arm candy of the gelatinous villain Jabba the Hutt. It was this revealing representation that launched Carrie into the stratosphere as a sex symbol, a position that she was uncomfortable with and an image that she unwittingly didn’t realize at the time would follow her throughout her whole career.

Having been inundated and interrogated throughout the years pertaining to her experiences with George Lucas and the Star Wars empire, I wanted to only briefly touch on that topic. I asked if she felt that there was a weight from living under the legacy of such an iconic movie so early in her career, to which she replied:

“I mean, I never really wanted…I was never much of an actress. It was never really what I wanted to do. If I had wanted to be an actress, it would have been bad.”

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Carrie has been oft quoted as saying she never really wanted to become a celebrity as she had seen firsthand what fame such as that had wrought. The ensuing years after Star Wars were fraught with drug addiction and psychological problems, becoming overly apparent both on and off the screen, as evidenced in her appearance on the Star Wars Holiday Special in 1978. Her erratic behavior and rampant drug use even led to her almost getting fired from the set of The Blues Brothers, where she was unable to turn in a decent performance due to her intoxication.

After entering rehab and cleaning herself up (with a few admitted slips here and there) it seemed that Carrie eventually returned to the refuge that she had found in her teenage years: writing. I asked Carrie if she found that writing became a part of her self-therapy.

“Well, I never did it for that reason, but when I was young, I guess I did.” After a slight pause, she went on to say that, “My thoughts would get all kind of crowded, so it kind of became a way of kind of organizing the crowd.”

I Always Suspected This...

I was curious as to whether Carrie felt more comfortable writing about her life veiled behind the safety net of fiction or if it was easier to just write it all down without having to think up scenarios and plots to introduce one event or another.

“Fictionalized!” Carrie said, without hesitation. “Well, it’s a different kind of writing. Your tone with first person prose is much more conversational, so it’s hard to get more descriptive. There’s a certain kind of way that I like to write that doesn’t suit itself to a first person narrative.”

Was it easier to tell the whole truth about something that happened to herself and the people involved in a situation when it was couched behind the shroud of fiction?

“I don’t know about myself, but I would never say anything that would make anyone uncomfortable that was obvious, no. I don’t want to do anything like that.” Carrie said. “I have probably made people uncomfortable with certain things, but I do my best not to do that. It’s easier in fiction because you make up stuff and you use stuff and you disguise stuff.”

While still appearing in acting roles (When Harry Met Sally, Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery, Scream 3), a large portion of her creative energy seemed to go into her writing, whether it be fictional (Postcards From The Edge, Surrender The Pink, Delusions Of Grandma), screenwriting (These Old Broads, The Young Indian Jones Chronicles) or non-fiction (Wishful Drinking, Shockaholic). In 2006, Carrie debuted her screenplay of Wishful Drinking as a one woman show, replete with videos, photos and more anecdotes that you could shake a light saber at.

In a world saturated with reality entertainment, it seems as if celebrities’ bad behavior is sometimes an intentional ploy for attention or a casting call for the next Lifetime Network show, yet in Carrie’s case this is not so. Most of her life was not lived out in front of the camera lens, like most other celebrities bent on revealing their day to day lives. When you read or watch Wishful Drinking, you are left with the impression of a woman coming to the realization of what the events in her life meant and accepting the repercussions that her decisions and actions have produced. It is also not a ‘woe is me’ pity fest, yearning for the audience’s sympathy in a desperate maneuver to gain forgiveness and acceptance. I did wonder if performing her own life out night after night desensitized and somewhat separated her from the integral epochs of her past.

“God I wish! What it does is, it makes me own it and I’m not ashamed of it. It makes you feel brave. It certainly makes you feel not ashamed and sometimes it can make you feel like, ‘Look at me motherfucker! I used to not even be able to talk about this!’” Carrie went on to define what she meant by saying, “Well, I mean, if I’ve gotten through the stuff I’ve gotten through, you can get through anything. I look for the ordinary in the extraordinary, whether it being bi-polar or a celebrity or the child of a celebrity or any of that.”

At the age of forty, Carrie had a full blown breakdown which required her to be admitted into a psychiatric hospital. Over the course of time, medications were tried and therapies instituted, but the real breakthrough came when electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was applied. In Carrie’s words, it was as if there was cement obstructing her mind and the ECT treatment seemed to break all of that away. There has been some short term memory loss, indicated by her answering machine, which asks callers to leave their name, number and how they know Carrie. She has some problems with remembering names or some events, but she highly recommends ECT, stating that it is not how it is depicted in movies like One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.

“I would recommend it to other people if they were in a massive depression, but the way it’s depicted” She paused before going on, “…I saw it on a preview of that show Homeland, and it’s not like that! I mean, maybe they do it like that in some places, but from my experience, they put you out and…it’s just weird. Anyway, I would recommend it or any measure you needed to take to deal with a massive depression, but of course, I tried everything else first.”

For a taste of what it’s like living life on the edge, collecting the postcard and coming back, check out Carrie Fisher’s one woman show, Wishful Drinking. Also, read her short follow up book, Shockoholic, which details some of the funnier anecdotes from her life. AS we wrapped up our interview, I asked Carrie what I should tell Daytonians about the show and what to expect. She stated that there was a lot of audience interaction, making each show a unique experience. Carrie signed off by simply saying…

“I do involve the audience, so come and see me and tell me some stories!”

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Ticket Giveaway

We have a pair of tickets to see Carrie Fisher’s Wishful Drinking on Tuesday April 10, courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association!  Simply this article, On Stage Dayton and then in the comment section below, tell us your favorite Carrie Fisher role and why (make sure it posts to your FB page as well).  We will randomly draw one winner on Monday 4/9 at 3pm.  GOOD LUCK!

Sleepless in Stratford-upon-Avon…errrr, Dayton

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24-7 of Shakespeare to Benefit Relay for Life Free Shakespeare! aims to read all of the Bard’s work during one week in October. Dayton, Sept. 7, 2011 ― Free Shakespeare! and Optum Nurses for a Cure, a registered team with the Centerville chapter of Relay for Life, will present Shakespeare for Life, a marathon relay reading of the Bard’s works, starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, and running 24 hours through 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14, at the Blue Sky Gallery, 33 N. Main St., in downtown Dayton. The event will start with a reading of Julius Caesar, with the goal of reading all 37 plays, 154 sonnets and five poems credited to William Shakespeare. While the readings will be organized into four-hour segments with some assigned readers, the public is invited to stop by anytime and read ― or just listen. Participants are asked to gather at least $25 in pledges to benefit a both Optum Nurses for a Cure and Free Shakespeare! A silent auction also will be held during the event. “We intend to read every word Shakespeare ever wrote,” said Chris Shea, founding artistic director of Free Shakespeare! “My father died from colon cancer, so I really wanted to find a way to help find a cure for cancer. “Cancer is everywhere and affects everyone, and on the lighter side of that, Shakespeare is everywhere and affects everyone,” Shea added. “Once I made that connection, this seemed a natural fit. This also is a community outreach and educational event. We want to raise awareness about Shakespeare and cancer prevention, while raising money for two great causes.” To volunteer for Shakespeare for Life, contact shakespearerelay@gmail.com. Free Shakespeare! is a sponsored project of Involvement Advocacy. Contributions can be made at the event or by mailing a check, made out to Involvement Advocacy (memo: Free Shakespeare), P.O. Box 10506, Dayton, OH, 45402-7506. Free Shakespeare! is a professional, nonprofit theater company devoted to presenting performances of the works of William Shakespeare. The company strives to make these works accessible to a contemporary society and deepen the understanding of our linguistic and cultural origins. We are committed to projects either penned by Shakespeare or inspired by his work. ###SHAKESPEARE FOR LIFE

Free Shakespeare!

24-7 of Shakespeare to Benefit Relay for Life

Dayton, Sept. 7, 2011 ― Free Shakespeare! and Optum Nurses for a Cure, a registered team with the Centerville chapter of Relay for Life, will present Shakespeare for Life, a marathon relay reading of the Bard’s works, starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, and running 24 hours through 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14, at the Blue Sky Gallery, 33 N. Main St., in downtown Dayton.

Free Shakespeare! aims to read all of the Bard’s work during one week in October.

Free Shakespeare! SHAKESPEARE FOR LIFE - Dayton, OHThe event will start with a reading of Julius Caesar, with the goal of reading all 37 plays, 154 sonnets and five poems credited to William Shakespeare. While the readings will be organized into four-hour segments with some assigned readers, the public is invited to stop by anytime and read ― or just listen. Participants are asked to gather at least $25 in pledges to benefit a both Optum Nurses for a Cure and Free Shakespeare! A silent auction also will be held during the event.

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Chris Shea & Allison Husko in Midsummer Night Dream, Summer 2011 – Photo by Alisha McDarris

“We intend to read every word Shakespeare ever wrote,” said Chris Shea, founding artistic director of Free Shakespeare! “My father died from colon cancer, so I really wanted to find a way to help find a cure for cancer.

“Cancer is everywhere and affects everyone, and on the lighter side of that, Shakespeare is everywhere and affects everyone,” Shea added. “Once I made that connection, this seemed a natural fit. This also is a community outreach and educational event. We want to raise awareness about Shakespeare and cancer prevention, while raising money for two great causes.”

To volunteer for Shakespeare for Life, contact [email protected].

Free Shakespeare! is a sponsored project of Involvement Advocacy. Contributions can be made at the event or by mailing a check, made out to Involvement Advocacy (memo:  Free Shakespeare), P.O. Box 10506, Dayton, OH, 45402-7506.

Free Shakespeare! is a professional, nonprofit theater company devoted to presenting performances of the works of William Shakespeare. The company strives to make these works accessible to a contemporary society and deepen the understanding of our linguistic and cultural origins. We are committed to projects either penned by Shakespeare or inspired by his work.
-FS! Press Release

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

Camp Rock opens in Centerville

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Town Hall Theatre presents CAMP ROCK, THE MUSICALCamp Rock, the Musical

LAND MARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

at TOWN HALL THEATRE

The competition heats up in the “Heart of Centerville” this Friday at Town Hall Theatre! When glitzy Camp Star opens across the lake, the competition is on! Will Camp Rock beat its new rival in the summer’s ultimate musical showdown?

The Landmark Children’s Theatre Company presents Camp Rock, the Musical, based on the hit Disney Channel Original Movies Camp Rock and Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam at Town Hall Theatre in Centerville September 16th – October 2nd, 2011.

When Camp Star moves in across the lake, Camp Rock knows it’s in trouble. The glitzy Camp Star has everything Camp Rock doesn’t; better pay, fancier costumes; even air conditioned cabins! When most of the staff and campers leave Camp Rock for the glamour of Camp Star, it’s up to the true “rockers” Mitchie and the gang to get themselves into top shape for an ultimate musical showdown that will determine the fate of Camp Rock!

The production is presented by the Landmark Children’s Theatre Company, the theatre’s premiere series featuring professional and volunteer adult actors performing with young people. It is directed by Chris Harmon, who previously directed Pinkalicious, A Year with Frog and Toad, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and Disney’s Geppetto and Sonfor Town Hall Theatre.

Mr. Harmon says he’s “thrilled to be directing the regional premier of Disney’s Camp Rock. The cast is really rising to the challenge of bringing intense Rock & Roll music, dance and attitude to the Town Hall stage!”

Playing the “Gray” brothers made famous in the movies by the Jonas brothers are Montana Iverson as Shane, Brendan Plate as Nate, and Matthew Perkins as Jason Gray. Centerville natives Cecily Dowd and Addi Helms alternate asMitchie and Autumn Gensheimer and Abby Cates alternate as Dana and Sydney Fowler and Anna Hilnomaz both perform Tess.  The show’s battling camp directors include adult actors Ed Iverson as Axel Turner and C.J. Suchyta asBrown Cesario.

Camp Rock, the Musical at Town Hall Theatre

-TH Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

TOWN HALL THEATRE logoDisney’s CAMP ROCK, the Musical – September 16 through October 2 (Fri/Sat/Sun)

(Times Vary:  Click HERE)

Tickets Prices: $10 children 12 & under / $13 students & seniors / $15 adult / ALL day of show tickets are $15.

Location:  Town Hall Theatre – 27 North Main Street,Centerville (MAP) next to Panera Bread in the “Heart of Centerville”

Reserve tickets online at www.townhalltheatre.org or call 937-433-8957.

The show runs 70 minutes and isrecommended for children ages 4 and up.

For more information on this production and to find out more about our class offerings, please contact the Box Office at(937) 433-8957 or log on to our website at www.townhalltheatre.org.

On Stage Dayton Theatre Guide: 2011-12

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Every new theater season in Dayton seems to be ripe with variety. It’s one of the great joys of the Dayton theatre scene that the ‘something for everyone’ cliche actually rings true. 2011-2012 is already proving to be among the most eclectic yet. This season promises……

  • parents behaving badly (God Of Carnage) AND children behaving badly (Spring Awakening)
  • romance of the sweet and fun kind (Hairspray) and of the creepy kind (The Phantom of the Opera)
  • true stories of tragedy (The Laramie Project) and of triumph (Jersey Boys)
  • journeys down familar roads (The Wizard of Oz) and unexpected ones (Caroline, Or Change)
  • wistful nostalgia (Lost in Yonkers) and celebratory joy (In The Heights)
  • even swashbuckling adventure (How I Became A Pirate) and cartwheels on Austrian mountainsides (The Sound of Music)

Below you’ll find On Stage Dayton’s picks for the most anticipated offerings for the 2011-2012 Dayton Theatre Season. It’s just a small sampling of a very full year of stage work. And with this official launch, you can count on OSD to be there all season long.

Russell’s Picks

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY Caroline or ChangeIf you like ‘The Help’ you’ll like…

Caroline, or Change

The Human Race Theatre Company offers the overdue local premiere of this dynamic 2004 Tony Award-nominated musical from librettist/Pulitzer Prize winner Tony Kushner (“Angels in America”) and composer Jeanine Tesori (“Thoroughly Modern Millie”). A potent study of race relations set in 1963 Louisiana, “Caroline, or Change” chronicles the testy yet engaging relationship between a headstrong African-American maid and her Jewish employers. Tesori’s sublime music encompasses klezmer, opera and Motown.

The Human Race Theatre Company

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION, SCHUSTER CENTER Jersey BoysIf you like ‘Mamma Mia!’ or ‘The Sopranos’ you’ll like…

Jersey Boys

The local premiere of “Jersey Boys,” the sleek, sharp and surprisingly tender story of pop legends Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, is the hallmark of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Good Samaritan and Miami Valley Hospitals Broadway Series. One of the most popular jukebox musicals of the last decade and the recipient of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, “Jersey Boys” features such timeless numbers as “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.”

Victoria Theatre Association

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD Dividing The EstateIf you like ‘Dallas’ you’ll like…

Dividing the Estate

Academy Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Horton Foote’s authentic, relevant 2009 Tony Award-nominated portrait of a Texas clan at odds will receive its local premiere courtesy of the Dayton Theatre Guild. Centered on a tough traditionalist matriarch and her squabbling children, “Dividing the Estate” uncovers the harsh realities that arise when economics and legacy threaten to tear a family apart.

Dayton Theatre Guild

CLARK STATE UNIVERSITY Dirty Rotten ScoundrelsIf you like ‘The Full Monty’ you’ll like…

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

Clark State Community College provides the local collegiate premiere of librettist Jeffrey Lane and composer David Yazbek’s 2005 Tony Award-nominated musical based on the 1988 film of the same name. Yazbek, an outstanding songwriter, had great success with his critically acclaimed adaptation of “The Full Monty,” co-created by Terrence McNally, and the con artist-driven “Scoundrels” shares an appealingly naughty kinship. The “Scoundrels” national tour failed to connect four years ago at the Schuster Center, but perhaps Clark State will give the hilarious material the solid treatment it deserves.

Clark State

MUSE MACHINE Wizard of OZIf you like the Muse Machine you’ll like…

The Wizard of Oz

Dorothy’s ruby slippers will sparkle once more thanks to the Muse Machine, Dayton’s premier arts education organization celebrating its 30th year. The memories of Muse’s 1996 “Oz” production remain indelibly etched in my mind (the Broadway caliber performances of Tyler Maynard as the Scarecrow and Tory Ross as the Wicked Witch of the West were particularly extraordinary), but it will be refreshing to see a new generation tackle the iconic musical. Expect another Muse hit you will not want to miss.

Muse Machine

Continue to read David’s picks…

Breaking News: 6 ft. White Rabbit on the loose in Beavercreek!

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Beavercreek Community Theatre - HARVEY by Mary ChaseHarvey

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

Beavercreek Community Theatre continues the run of it’s opening production of the 2011-2012 season with Mary Chase’s “Harvey,” directed by Jim Lockwood of Huber Heights.

The big invisible rabbit, in the title role, and his eccentric friend, Elwood P. Dowd, played by John Bukowski of Washington Township, will “appear” on the BCT stage through this weekend with 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday performances and 3 p.m. Sunday matinees.

THINGS TO DO IN DAYTON. THEATRE: Beavercreek Community Theatre - HARVEY by Mary Chase - l-r, John Bukowski as Elwood P. Dowd rehearses a scene with Deborah Sasser as Mrs. Chauvene, Ellen Ballerene as Myrtle Mae and Terry Larson as Veta Louise.Dowd’s invisible friend, an over six foot white rabbit, is a social embarrassment to Dowd’s sister and niece, who live with him. They are portrayed by Terry Larson of Beavercreek and Ellen Ballerene of Yellow Springs, respectively.

His sister’s attempt to get Dowd committed to a mental institution leads to a comedy of errors, which in turn leads to a mending of some family wounds and some unexpected romance.

The cast also includes Deborah Sasser of Beavercreek, Rick Johnson of Centerville, Cathy Long of Oakwood, Nathan Hudson of Dayton, Carly Porter of Fairborn, Averio Perugini of Kettering, Donald McKenny of Tipp City and Bill Reagle of Enon.

The show’s producers are Anne Heitker and Linda McLarty, both of Beavercreek. Heitker is also the costumer and Hans Unser, of Beavercreek, is the stage manager. The set designer is Chris Harmon of Beavercreek and the lighting designer is John Falkenbach of Dayton. Tony Fende of Dayton is the sound designer.

THINGS TO DO IN DAYTON. THEATRE: Beavercreek Community Theatre - HARVEY by Mary Chase - John Bukowski, as Elwood P. Dowd, has a conversation with the mentalnstitution's Dr. Sanderson, played by Rick Johnson of Centerville, and Nurse Kelly, played by Carly Porter of Fairborn, in a scene from "Harvey."

-BCT Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

Beavercreek Community Theatre LogoMary Chase’s HARVEY – through September 4th

8pm on Fridays & Saturdays / 3pm on Sundays

Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for BCT members, students, and senior citizens.

A group discount of $1 per ticket is available to groups of 10 or more purchased at the same time for the same performance.

Tickets can be reserved by calling (937) 429-4737 and leaving a message or by e-mailing [email protected]. For more information, visit the theater’s Web site at www.bctheatre.org where tickets can also be purchased online with a credit card.

Credit cards are not accepted at the theatre.

Beavercreek Community Theatre is located within the Lofino Adult Enrichment and Cultural Arts Center at 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road in Beavercreek.

The Dayton Power & Light Foundation is BCT’s season sponsor.

BCT offers a Flex Pass, a season ticket for 3, 5 or all 7 shows. Three shows, of the patron’s choice, are $37 for adults and $30 for seniors and students; five shows are $59 and $44 respectively. For all seven shows, the season pass costs $78 for adults and $60 for seniors and students.

Win Free Tickets

DaytonMostMetro.com has three free pairs of tickets to lucky readers – just fill out the form below to enter (no purchase necessary, not that we sell anything here anyway).  Good luck!

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“The Oldest Profession” has found it’s way to Wayne Ave.

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The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel - Dayton Theatre Guild - through September 11

The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel

The Oldest Profession

THE DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

NOTE:  Audition Info for “Lost In Yonkers” below!

The Dayton Theatre Guild run of The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel, continues through Sunday, September 11, 2011, with Friday performances at 8:00 p.m., Saturday shows at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m.  It is directed by Greg Smith and produced by Barbara Jorgensen.

Once the toast of Storyville, the infamous red-light district of New Orleans, five very senior ladies of the night have transferred their talents to Reagan-era New York City.   They now find both their clients and their own appearance slipping away with time.  But every girl has a right to go out in her own style, doesn’t she?  Don’t miss the laugh-filled chronicle of five very special ladies – how they lived the life and how they say goodbye.  Warning: This production contains strong language and adult content.  (Raunchy, racy and fun!)

The Oldest Profession by Paula Vogel - Dayton Theatre Guild - through September 11

L to R: Marcia Nowik, Ellen Finch, (back) Jackie Engle, Marcella Balin, Patty Bell

The cast includes Jackie Engle from Dayton (Wallis, Pygmalion), Ellen Finch from Kettering (Kimberly Akimbo, Fuddy Meers, Hallelujah Girls), Marcia Nowik from Yellow Springs (Independence, God’s Favorite, and Octette Bridge Club at Beavercreek Community Theatre), Patty Bell from Dayton (Brooklyn Boy,) and Marcella Balin from Xenia, who makes her acting debut with The Oldest Profession.

-DTG Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

Dayton Theatre GuildPaula Vogel’s THE OLDEST PROFESSION – through September 11 (Fri/Sat/Sun)

(Times Vary:  Click HERE)

Tickets Prices: $10 student / $15 senior / $17 adult

Location:  Dayton Theatre Guild at The Caryl D. Philip’s TheatreScape – 430 Wayne Ave. Dayton, Ohio  45410 (MAP)

No one under the age of seven will be admitted.

Tickets are on sale now through DTG’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 278-5993 (due to a volunteer staff, phones are not monitored continually).

For more information about Dayton Theatre Guild’s entire 2011-12 season, visit www.DaytonTheatreGuild.org

Dayton Theatre Guild at the Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape

Dayton Theatre Guild at the Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape

AUDITION INFORMATION: Lost In Yonkers by Neil Simon

September 6 & 7, 2011

The Dayton Theatre Guild will hold open auditions for Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 6 and 7, at 7:00 p.m.  It is directed by Fran Pesch and produced by Deirdre Bray Root.

The Lost in Yonkers production dates are October 21 through November 6, 2011.
Simon’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning laugh-filled piece tells the tale of two young boys left by their widowed father in a strange world called Yonkers.  Their father must travel to pay back loan sharks, so the boys are entrusted to a tough-minded grandmother and a child-like aunt.  The aunt, now in love with a man who is just as unable to cope with the boys’ care as she is, tries to figure out the next step in this funny, touching and unforgettable drama.

The director is looking to cast seven actors of varying ages:

  • JAY KURNITZ – mid-teen or older, able to play 16
  • ARTY KURNITZ – mid-teen or older, able to play 13
  • EDDIE – 41, Jay and Arty’s father
  • BELLA – mid-30’s, Eddie’s sister
  • GRANDMA KURNITZ – 70+, Eddie’s mother
  • LOUIS – 36, Eddie’s brother
  • GERT – mid-late 30’s – Eddie’s sister

Lost in Yonkers is a dialect play.  Grandma Kurnitz speaks in combination Yiddish/NYC dialect.  All other roles speak in NYC/Yonkers dialect.  Actors will be asked to read from the script (with dialect.) Head shots & résumés are not required but are encouraged.  PLEASE NOTE:  If this is your first time auditioning for the director, be prepared to present a one-minute contemporary monologue.  Dialect not required for monologue.
The cast meeting and read-through will be Thursday, September 8th at 7 p.m.

Additional casting information may be found on the website at www.daytontheatreguild.org or by calling (937) 654-0400.

ABOUT THE DAYTON THEATRE GUILD:

The Dayton Theatre Guild opened with “Outward Bound” at the Dayton Art Institute in 1945.

The 1963-1964 season opened with “Night of the Iguana” at 2330 Salem Avenue, the Guild’s home for over 45 years, where “Outward Bound” was performed as a part of the final season at that location.
The 2009-2010 season opened with “Les Liaisons Dangereuses” at the Guild’s new home at the Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape at 430 Wayne Avenue in Dayton’s historic Oregon District in August 2009. Over 400 plays have been produced, utilizing all-volunteer casts, crews and administration. You may reach the Dayton Theatre Guild at 937.278.5993 or www.daytontheatreguild.org.

The BARD is on the loose!

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A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Photo by Alisha McDarris=

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Free Shakespeare!

In many communities around the world, a treasured summer activity is outdoor performances and festivals devoted to classic Shakespeare plays (Shakespeare Fellowship List).  Two of the most well-known in Ohio are  Cincinnati Shakespeare Co. which tours two shows in fourteen different parks and Actor’s Theatre which is celebrating it’s 30th season presenting shows in Schiller Park in Columbus’ German Village.  Suddenly in the past few years there is much interest in this terrific tradition right here in the Miami Valley, ranging from a small neighborhood troupe near downtown (Historic South Park – currently rehearsing for their 4th presentation) and the touring company known as Free Shakespeare! the brainchild of director Chris Shea.

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

“The experience with GreenStage was incredible. To have a free arts program not only survive, but flourish, for over twenty years, well, it gave me faith that the arts are alive and well. I want to bring that same energy here to Dayton. There really is nothing like a picnic and a play, and the price is right, too” -Chris Shea

Shea, a graduate of Kettering-Fairmont High School, spent time studying acting in the Pacific Northwest.  Inspired by the GreenStage Theatre Company’s offering of free outdoor Shakespeare, he decided to bring the concept to the Miami Valley in 2010 in the form of Free Shakespeare!  The troupe is described as a traveling community of artists with the goal of creating an event where people can rediscover the power and beauty of language and art.  Shea wanted to take the performances to multiple venues throughout the region over a series of summer weekends – and free to audiences.

Shea launched his vision for a theatre company in 2010 with Hamlet, which was received enthusiastically during it’s tour of four venues in Dayton and Yellow Springs.  2011 brings a new production, this time the ever-popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream. After opening last weekend at Antioch Amphitheatre in Yellow Springs, Shea and his team of 14 actors will continue to bring the bard’s best-loved comedy to Dayton stages over the next several weekends.  They can be seen at the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14).   All performances are outdoors and weather permitting and begin at 7PM.  Admission is free with donations accepted after the performance to pay the actors.

 

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Photo by Alisha McDarris

The cast of A Midsummer Nights Dream includes Allison Husko (Titania), Chris Shea (Oberon), Will Hutcheson (Demetrius), Travis Cook (Lysander), Amy Brooks (Hermia), Megan Cooler (Helena), Kes-lina Luoma (Puck), Jason Antonick (Theseus), Lauren S. Deaton (Hippolyta), Zach Schute (Nick Bottom), Juliet Howard-Welch (Peter Quince & Peaselblossom), David Harewood (Francis Flute & Cobweb), Philip Titlebaum (Snug & Mustardseed), and, after a 48 year absence from the stage, Bill Styles as Egeus.

The group has recently partnered with Involvement Advocacy, an umbrella organization which fosters community initiatives. Involvement Advocacy’s partnerships include, among others, the Blue Sky Project and the Dayton Arts Project. Involvement Advocacy will act as Free Shakespeare’s! fiscal agent, allowing supporters of Free Shakespeare! to make tax deductible donations to the theatre company.

http://www.involvementadvocacy.org/On the partnership, Free Shakespeare! founder Chris Shea had this to say, “We are very grateful to Peter Benkendorf and the folks at Involvement Advocacy for their tremendous support of our organization. This partnership is the perfect bridge for us as we make arrangements to form our own non profit corporation.”

A Midsummer Nights Dream - Free Shakespeare! - Summer 2011 - Photo by Alisha McDarris

Photo by Alisha McDarris

“Our purposes shall be proud, our garments poor; For ’tis the mind that makes the body rich” The Taming of the Shrew, Act IV, sc. iii

-SA, Free Shakespeare! Press Release & website.

-Photos by Alisha McDarris (copyright 2010) – submitted by Free Shakespeare!

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

 

Tickets & Performance Information:

Free Shakespeare! A Midsummer Nights Dream

Weekends through August 14, 2011

Tickets Prices: FREE (donations accepted after the show to pay actors)

Locations:  Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14)

For more information about Free Shakespeare!  visit http://freeshakespeare.com/

Back to the FutureFest

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Dayton Playhouse - FutureFest 2010 - Dancing Backwards by John Fiorillo

Dancing Backwards by John Fiorillo - FutureFest 2010

FutureFest 2011

Dayton Playhouse

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

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

Dayton Playhouse - FutureFest 2010 - How It Works by Carey Pepper

How It Works by Carey Pepper

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

Dayton Playhouse - FutureFest 2010 - Refuge by Marc Comblatt

Refuge by Marc Comblatt

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

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

2011 FutureFest Performance Schedule

Friday, July 29

8 p.m.

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

Playwright: Mark Eisman of New York City

Cast: Mark Jeffers, Annie Pesch and Rachel Wilson

Director: Matthew Smith

Production format: Fully staged

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

~Mark Eisman

Saturday, July 30

10 a.m.

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

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

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

Director: Saul Caplan

Production format: Staged reading

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

~Michael Feely

3 p.m.

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

Playwright: Richard Etchison of Los Angeles, California

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

Director: Fran Pesch

Production format: Staged reading

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

~Richard Etchison

8 p.m.

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

Playwright: Dayton resident Nelson Sheeley of Sinclair Community College

Cast: Michael Boyd, Matt Curry and Cheryl Mellen

Director: Nick Moberg

Production format: Fully staged

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

~Nelson Sheeley

Sunday, July 31

10 a.m.

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

Playwright: Stacey Luftig of New York City

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

Director: Richard Brock

Production format: Staged reading

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

~Stacey Luftig

3 p.m.

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

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

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

Director: Ray Gambrel

Production format: Fully staged

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

~Carl L. Williams

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

-RF

-Photos by Art Fabian (copyright 2010) – submitted by Dayton Playhouse

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

Dayton Playhouse21st Annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest

July 29-31, 2011

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

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

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

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

Photo Highlights of 2010 FutureFest

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

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

Whodunit? The Mystery of Edwin Drood

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The Mystery of Edwin Drood - Beavercreek Community Theatre - June 10-19, 2011The Mystery of Edwin Drood

Beavercreek Community Theatre

Win Tickets! Read on!

One hundred forty one years ago today (08 June 1870) Charles Dickens suffered a stroke.  The next day:  dead.  His last novel:  unfinished.

Flash forward those 141 years (+a couple days):  the audiences at Beavercreek Community Theatre will get an opportunity to determine how the plot of  Dickens’ incomplete The Mystery of Edwin Drood concludes.

The Mystery of Edwin Drood - Beavercreek Community Theatre - June 10-19, 2011The novel was adapted into a Tony Award winning musical comedy in the mid-eighties by Rupert Holmes.  The playwright put a unique twist on the show, by writing multiple endings that requires the audience to make choices about various characters and actions, choosing a murderer, a detective and other various participants and events that lead up to the ending.  This sounds like an entertaining whodunit musical for the audience, but on the other side of the curtain…it sounds like a lot of work! Multiple endings to learn, different songs to perfect, and multiple sets of blocking and choreography to refine all must lead to hours upon hours of rehearsal devoted just the last few minutes of the production.

The show is described as a hilariously loony Victorian musical troupe takes over the stage for its production of a flamboyant rendition of an unfinished Dickens mystery.

It’s the story of John Jasper, a Jekyll-and-Hyde choirmaster portrayed by Jonathan Berry of Centerville. He is madly in love with his music student, the fair Miss Rosa Bud, played by Bethany Reid Locklear of Englewood. She, in turn, is engaged to Jasper’s nephew, young Edwin Drood, portrayed by Amy Leigh of Kettering.

onStageDayton contacted director and scenic designer Chris Harmon with a few questions about the show:

onStageDayton:  The Mystery of Edwing Drood is not a title commonly found on season schedules in the area, what drew you to the script?

Chris Harmon, director

Chris Harmon, director

Chris Harmon:  I saw The Mystery of Edwin Drood performed at the Victoria by the Human Race around 1995, I went out and bought the original Broadway cast cd and have listened to it ever since.  Last year I became a member of the play selection committee at BCT and it happened to be on the list and I was immediately interested in directing it.

oSD:  The show has a few unique aspects, such as the audience participation and the “show-within-a-show” concept. What kind of complications did these create for rehearsals?

CH:  The audience gets to choose the detective, murderer and lovers in the show. There are so many possible combinations which make the show’s ending fresh and new every night. I am lucky to have amazing actors who took the initiative to learn their possible parts so well. The endings can’t help but to be under-rehearsed, since it would be impossible to run them all every night. It saddens me that only having 6 performances, some of the possible murderer’s will not even get a chance.

oSD:  You have developed a terrific reputation as a director and scenic designer in the Miami Valley…what was your approach in your designs for this show? How did you come up with the concept & how do you go about making your design come to life?

The Victoria Theatre stage, Dayton, OHCH:  Drood is set just before the turn of the century in “The Music Hall Royale”.  My inspiration for the set was actually the first place i saw the show, The Victoria Theatre. Drood is a show within a show, so the Grand Drape is used for the scene changes, so I created a music hall thrust to have enough playing space for the actors in front of the curtain. I am a very visual person and when reading a script or listening to the music, I get a picture in mind instantly, the hard part is figuring out how to execute the designs within budget and time frame.

oSD:  What is your next project?

CH:  My next project is directing Camp Rock at Town Hall Theatre (where i am the resident scenic artist).  In community theatre I am directing Evil Dead and Chicago at BCT next season and could not be more excited about it.  I am thrilled to be working with Annette Looper as choreographer for both of these.

The cast of unique and zany characters also includes Bryan Wilcox of Riverside, Jeremy D. King of West Carrollton, Jim Lockwood of Huber Heights, Lindsay Sherman of Bellbrook, Matt Owens of Beavercreek, Tara Nichole Murphy of Miamisburg, Pam McGinnis of Oakwood, Charles Larkowski and Megan Vander Kolk of Fairborn and Dayton residents, Dean Swann, Jenna Burnette, Jennifer Wilson, Michael J. Stockstill, Nicole Dine, Thomas Cole Schreier and Shawn Hooks.

Besides Chris Harmon, the production staff includes Annette Looper of Centerville as choreographer, Dr. James Tipps of Beavercreek as music director, and Kristie Lickliter of Fairborn filling the role of stage manager.

John Falkenbach of Dayton is the lighting  designer,  Brad Mattingly of Franklin is the orchestra director, Hans Unser of Beavercreek is the stage assistant and assistant set builder and Diana Blowers of Beavercreek is the producer.

-SA/BCT Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

Beavercreek Community Theatre LogoTHE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD – June 10 – 19

8pm on Fridays & Saturdays / 3pm on Sundays

Tickets are $12 for adults and $11 for members, students and senior citizens.

A group discount of $1 per ticket is available to groups of 10 or more, when purchased at the same time for the same performance.

Tickets can be reserved by calling (937) 429-4737 and leaving a message or by e-mailing [email protected]. For more information, visit the theater’s Web site at www.bctheatre.org where tickets can also be purchased online.

Beavercreek Community Theatre is located within the Lofino Adult Enrichment and Cultural Arts Center at 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road in Beavercreek.

The show, which will be presented at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays from June 10 through June 19, is actually a show within the show.

Win Free Tickets!

Beavercreek Community Theatre & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to The Mystery of Edwin Drood! We will be giving away up to SIX pairs of tickets…We’ll select 1 winner (of a set of tickets) for every 5 FB/Twitter Shares! All you need to do is:

  • Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page.
  • Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
  • The deadline to enter is Noon on SATURDAY, June 11th.
  • Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

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…Go In Peace – Bernstein’s Mass Graces the Schuster Stage

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Leonard Bernstein's MASS: a Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers - Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra & Wright State University Music, Theatre & Dance Departments, 2011Leonard Bernstein’s MASS:  A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers

Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra

Wright State University Departments of Music, Theatre, and Dance

A famous reclusive American novelist once mused that “art and controversy seem to be joined at birth”.  Indeed every generation has its authors, songwriters, painters, sculptors, dancers, and creators exploring the darker side of human nature and in so doing, challenging the moral center of American life.  Whether its a ‘Catcher In The Rye’ – style uproar or a team of protestors on a mission to take down a certain boy wizard, controversy has been at the center of some of the greatest artistic achievements of our time.  Why? Well, often its because the best art challenges us to look at ourselves differently and with a critical eye – and let’s face it, Americans don’t like that! This weekend, a once deeply controversial work opens in Dayton in a new, glorious production sure to inspire a new following of fans (and protestors) alike.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Leonard Bernstein entering the Kennedy Center Opera House for a performance of Mass in 1972 (photo from the Library of Congress)

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis & Leonard Bernstein at Kennedy Center, Sept. 8, 1971

Forty years ago, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis selected the famed Leonard Bernstein to compose a monumental work to memorialize her late husband and 35th President of the United States,  John F. Kennedy.   The piece was to premiere on September 8, 1971 at the official opening of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.  The piece  follows the structure of a Roman Catholic Mass, but includes elements of many styles typical of the contemporary American musical landscape of the period:  Blues, Rock, Showtunes and Opera.  While the liturgical text of Mass is in Latin, Bernstein and collaborators Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Children of Eden) and Paul Simon (as in Simon & Garfunkel) contributed additional English texts.

The piece examines faith, specifically crisis in faith.  Considering the political landscape, Vietnam war, and the assassinations of the 1960’s, including that of JFK, the concept of addressing a personal crisis of faith through art was not necessarily anomalous, yet Bernstein’s Mass was not without controversy.  With it’s  anti-war themes,  it is no wonder this piece was received with both joyful acclaim and turbulent disdain in the fall of 1971.

This collaborative production between the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and Wright State’s Music, Theatre and Dance departments is likely to be awe-inspiring.  The piece itself is complex.  It is symphonic & theatrical.  The musical elements will surely be accompanied by the most amazing visual imagery possible- breathtaking choreography, costuming and scenery.  The creative forces behind this production will surely give you something thrilling to discuss over coffee after the performance, and in the days to follow.

Bernstein's Mass - Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra & Wright State Music, Theatre & Dance - May 13-14, 2011

Bernstein's Mass - in rehearsal on the Schuster Center's Mead Theatre Stage

Official Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Press Release: Dayton Philharmonic Logo

The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s 2010-2011 Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Hospitals Classical Series will conclude in spectacular fashion with performances of Leonard Bernstein’s MASS: A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers on Friday and Saturday, May 13 & 14, 2011, both performances at 8 p.m. at the Schuster Center.

Bernstein's MASS - Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and Wright State University Music, Theatre & Dance - May 13-14, 2011

This production will fuse the talents of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra with faculty and students from Wright State University in an unprecedented way.  Neal Gittleman, Music Director of the DPO, will conduct.  Greg Hellems of the WSU Department of Theatre is stage director and Gina Walther, of WSU’s Dance Department, is choreographer.  Staging has been designed by WSU’s Pam Knauert Lavarnway and choral forces are being prepared by WSU’s Hank Dahlman.  The production is under the overall artistic supervision of WSU’s W. Stuart McDowell, chair of the WSU Department of Theatre, Dance, and Motion Pictures.

All instrumental musicians – on stage and in the pit, and including rock and blues bands as well as traditional orchestral configurations – will come from the ranks of the DPO, while all actors, singers, and dancers – more than 100 in total – will be WSU students.  The production will also include the Kettering Children’s Choir under the direction of Natalie DeHorn and noted tenor John Wesley Wright in the crucial role of The Celebrant.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts - Washington, D.C.Leonard Bernstein’s MASS: A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers was commissioned by former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy for the opening of the national arts center named in honor of her late husband, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.  The work premiered as part of the Kennedy Center’s opening festivities on September 8, 1971.

Bernstein’s MASS is based on the Tridentine Mass of the Roman Catholic Church, but is not at all a traditional concert setting.  Although there are liturgical passages that are sung in Latin, MASS also includes additional texts in English written by Bernstein, Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz (of Wicked fame), and pop/folk singer Paul Simon. Leonard Bernstein

According to the composer’s daughter, Nina Bernstein: “The piece follows the liturgy exactly, but it is juxtaposed against frequent interruptions and commentaries by the Celebrant and the congregation, much like a running debate. There is stylistic juxtaposition as well, with the Latin text heard electronically through speakers or sung by the chorus, and the interruptions sung in various popular styles including blues and rock-and-roll. On the narrative level, the piece relates the drama of a Celebrant whose faith is simple and pure at first, but gradually becomes unsustainable under the weight of human misery, corruption, and the trappings of his own power.”

“MASS is an enormous piece. It calls for a large pit orchestra, two choruses plus a children’s choir, a Broadway-sized cast (with ballet company), and a rock band. It may seem ironic that such multitudes are marshaled for a work that celebrates a man’s “Simple Song”: his love and faith in God. But in the end, that simplicity is shown to be all the more powerful because of it.”

Bernstein's MASS - Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and Wright State University Music, Theatre & Dance - May 13-14, 2011

Bernstein's Mass - in rehearsal at Wright State University

Two years after its premiere, MASS was first performed in Europe (Vienna) by the Yale Symphony Orchestra. In the orchestra pit was young violinist and Yale student, Neal Gittleman.

This groundbreaking collaboration between the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and Wright State University promises to be the regional performance event of the season, if not the decade.

-SA/DB/DPO Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

Dayton Philharmonic LogoLeonard Bernstein’s MASS – May 13-14 – (8pm)

Location:  The Mead Theatre inside The Schuster Center

WSU TheatreTickets Prices: Range from $9 to $59

Tickets are on sale now through TicketCenterStage.com, or via phone at (888) 228-3630

For more information visit www.DaytonPhilharmonic.com

onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com

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The Best of Times

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La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownLa Cage aux Folles

Dayton Playhouse

Win tickets to this delightful show! Read on…

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownDayton Playhouse has entrusted director Doug Lloyd with bringing the St. Tropez nightclub and it’s cast of female impersonators to life on their stage over the next three weekends.  With the success Lloyd has had on the Playhouse stage in recent years with very popular productions of Urinetown and Hair, I am sure that La Cage aux Folles will be a smash hit.

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownThe cast of La Cage is anchored by stage veterans Michael Boyd and Richard Croskey.  Boyd, playing Georges, was in the 1989 Playhouse production of La Cage and has been acting and directing every since.  Croskey, last seen in the Playhouse production of Victor/Victoria, has been a professional dancer and choreographer for the last 30+ years.  The Cagelles, the “showgirls” of the La Cage aux Folles, include Playhouse executive director Wade Hamilton,  features playhouse regulars Tony Fende, Ian Manuel, Stacey Ward and Allie Eder and also include some new Playhouse faces Nick Brown, Ty Mentz and Sean Metcalf.  Playing Jean-Michele is the Playhouse’s golden voice Zach King.  The cast is rounded out with Jeff Campbell, Karen Righter, Sarah Parsons, Duante Beddingfield, Mike Frazier, Joe Meyer, Chris Hammond, Ginger Hubbs, Brandon Saldivar, Alexandra Grizinski and Tim Behnken.

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

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. Brown

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

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownDoug Lloyd:  Well first of all the show is just plain “fun” it has great comedy and wonderful music, but it also a great love Story. I like that fact that it shows what in this age we would call an “alternative” family, has as much love caring and nurturing as a traditional family.

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownDL:  We stayed true to the script, & score. The score we are working from is from the original Broadway production, with the exception of “Anne On My Arm” where they sent the music to the “new” version from the recent revival production with Kelsey Grammer. We did try to make an extra effort to show the true love and connection between Georges, Albin & Jean-Michel as well as show how the employees of La Cage are almost their extended family

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownDL:  The cast has taken to their characters quite well. We had an extensive character development session, and they all walked away from that with a true feeling for each of their characters. Again we were searching for a true family feel as well as a closeness in the entire community

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

La Cage aux Folles - Dayton Playhouse - May 13-29, 2011 - Photo by Bruce W. BrownDL:  Many people don’t even realize “Bird Cage” was taken from “La Cage” when I tell them we are doing it they say what’s that. While the story line is  the same, they took many liberties with the La Cage script when writing “Bird Cage”. There are several characters that appear in the movie that aren’t in the stage show, including the role of Sybil, John-Michel’s natural mother that was played by Christine Buransky. Sybil is referred to in La Cage but never appears. Both shows are funny but being a theatre person I’m partial to the La Cage script.

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

The Big Picture at Beavercreek Community Theatre, 2012DL: My next project will be back at my home theatre in Beavercreek and will be the world premiere of a new musical written by local author David Brush and the music was composed by local musician Jim Farely. The show is called “The Big Picture.”  Set in the summer of 1962, it is about college freshman Billy Carson who is spending his first summer home with his mom and best friend. With only a few items to provide clues, Billy sets out with a renewed interest in discovering the father he never knew – B-Movie script writer and war hero, Jack Carson. When old wounds are opened and new loves are discovered, Billy realizes that coming home is more difficult and ultimately more enlightening than he ever imagined and the sleepy town of Pine Springs, Illinois may never be the same.

-SA/DB/DP Press Release

Photos by Bruce W. Brown.

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

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

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

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

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

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

Win Free Tickets!

Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to La Cage aux Folles!  We will be giving away up to FOUR pairs of tickets for the second weekend of the show…We’ll select 1 winner (of a set of tickets) for every 10 FB/Twitter Shares! All you need to do is:

  • Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page.
  • Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
  • Leave a comment on this post, answering the following question…a revival of one of our more popular ticket contest questions…What’s your favorite Drag Queen Name? (i.e. “Julie Mandrews,” “Anita Cocktail,” etc.)
  • The deadline to enter is Midnight on SATURDAY, May 14th.
  • Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

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Permanent Collection

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Permanent Collection by Thomas Gibbons - Human Race Theatre Co. - April 15 - May 1 - Dayton, OH

Alan Bomar Jones and Scott McGowan

Permanent Collection

The Human Race Theatre Co.

An art museum may not be the first place you’d think of when it comes to workplaces with intense conflict, but in Thomas Gibbons’ Permanent Collection the Morris Foundation has as much head-butting as an NFL game. And unlike in an NFL game, the production by The Human Race Theatre, Dayton’s own professional theatre company, doesn’t provide the players with helmets and pads.

Eccentric collector Alfred Morris pretty much guarantees the collisions when his will stipulates both that his museum go to an historically black college and that the displays be kept precisely as they are – leading to an inevitable battle over African artworks that have been kept in basement storage.

Permanent Collection by Thomas Gibbons - Human Race Theatre Co. - April 15-May 1 - Dayton, OH

Alan Bomar Jones

The Morris Foundation is loosely based on the Barnes Foundation of Philadelphia, a real-life private museum with a real-life eccentric owner, Barnes is the subject of the film documentary The Art of the Steal, though the film and Permanent Collection cover entirely different aspects of the aftermath of the collector’s death.

Permanent Collection is directed by Dayton native and current New Yorker Schele Williams, who did a masterful job at the helm of Ethel Waters: His Eye Is On The Sparrow two years ago. It is part of the 2010-2011 Eichelberger Loft Season of The Human Race, which will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of its incorporation during the run.

An Evening at the Museum with More Drama Than Night at the Museum

The college which inherits the collection hires African-American businessman Sterling North as director. North is played by Human Race Resident Artist Alan Bomar Jones, most recently seen at The Loft in A Christmas Carol, who recently garnered rave reviews for the Columbus one-man-play as folk artist Ezra Pierce, Pierce to the Soul.

Permanent Collection by Thomas Gibbons - Human Race Theatre Co. - April 15-May 1 - Dayton, OH

Melissa Joyner and Scott McGowan

North’s discoveries lead to the battles with the museum #2, Paul Barrow, played by New York-based Scott McGowan, who has won awards for performances in Miss Saigon and Evita, so he knows about culture clashes. The two men draw in the office staff, played by New Yorkers Sharon Hope (who has done numerous Law & Order episodes, so she knows verbal fracases) and Melissa Joyner (whose many credits include a turn as a student in Carrie II, so she know about the results of anger), into the fray.

A reporter who gets interested in the story is played by Christine Brunner of Middletown, who was in Human Race productions of A Christmas Carol and has appeared in many other shows in the region, and who has been a hand model in commercials for both Charmin and Bounty, so she knows when people have made a mess of things.

The imaginative set – you have to be imaginative when depicting a few billion dollars’ worth of art – is by Tamara L. Honesty. Costumes are by Janet Powell, lighting by HRTC Resident Artist John Rensel, sound by Matthew P. Benjamin, with Heather Jackson as Production Stage Manager.

Among the participants in the While We’re On The Subject talkback after the April 24 matinee, to which audience members are invited, will be Dayton Art Institute Chief Curator Will South.

Production sponsors are Rob and Leesa Comparin, Richard and Marni Flagel, Tyree L. Fields, Larry S. Glickler – Bradford-Connelly and Glickler Funeral Homes, Jon and Diana Sebaly, Maryann and Jack Bernstein, Alan and Marsha Pippenger, and John and Tamara Clough.

-Human Race Theatre Co. Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

http://www.humanracetheatre.org/PERMANENT COLLECTION by Thomas Gibbons

April 15 – May 1 – various performance times (note…there will be an additional “preview night” performance on April 14)

at the LOFT THEATRE – map

More information and tickets are available through www.humanracetheatre.org, by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or toll free (888) 228-3630.  Tickets can be purchased in person at the Schuster Center box office, or at the box office at The Loft two hours before curtain.

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

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24 – WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 2011

Rainbow Bricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

Bill W. and Dr. Bob

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Bill W & Dr. Bob: DPH

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

The Boys Next Door

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

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

Joseph: PHS

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

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

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Pinkalicious!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Photo Credit: Mike Long

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

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Encore Theater Company: Summer Mainstage Season

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

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Avenue Q

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

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

~KN

An Emerging ‘Hot Mess’ Comes To Town

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Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Saturday, February 12, 2011

Cait Doyle

Cait Doyle’s “Hot Mess in Manhattan”

presented by Encore Theater Co. & Sinclair Theatre

One Night Only! Win Tickets!  Read on…

Cait Doyle will bring her award-winning cabaret act-turned-New York-bound musical comedy “Hot Mess in Manhattan” to Dayton courtesy of Encore Theater Company Saturday, February 12 at 8 p.m. in Building 8 of Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St.

Described as “an honest, hilarious, contemporary and touching look at one woman’s interaction with the city that never sleeps,” “Hot Mess” contains songs from 12 burgeoning musical theater composers such as Adam Gwon (“Ordinary Days”) and Ryan Cunningham and Joshua Salzman (“I Love You Because,” “Next Thing You Know”). Doyle, her creative team and fellow cast members will also rehearse the show and partake in a developmental residency February 8-13 at Encore’s artistic home in the Oregon District. Under the direction of David Ruttura, “Hot Mess” will incorporate Jeremy Pasha (“Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Seussical”) and Tim Shelton (“Brigadoon,” “Twelfth Night”) in multiple roles along with music director Vince Peterson and cellist Dan Delaney.

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 - EncoreTheaterCompany.comDoyle, a Syracuse University graduate and fan of “Sunday in the Park with George” and “Crazy for You,” received the 2009 MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs) Award for “Hot Mess,” which was performed at New York’s Duplex. The New Jersey native recently made her Lincoln Center debut in John Znidarsic’s Songbook Series. In addition to the San Francisco premiere of “The Last 5 Years” and the New Hampshire premiere of “John & Jen,” her eclectic credits include “The Wizard of Oz,” “Underwear: A Space Musical” and “All Men Are Asses, All Women Are Crazy.”

onStageDayton recently caught up with Doyle to discuss her show as she prepared to leave the Big Apple for the Gem City.

onStageDayton: What inspired the creation of “Hot Mess in Manhattan”?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCait Doyle: The first thing that inspired “Hot Mess in Manhattan” was “Sex and the City.” “Sex and the City” the first movie, to be exact. I believe on opening weekend that movie made a billion dollars. I thought, “My life is more realistic, but just as interesting/funny as ‘Sex and the City.’ I should make a billion dollars!’

OSD: And the show is based  on your experiences?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCD: Yes. I once sublet from a global pop star and accidentally almost killed her poodle. I managed Dylan’s Candy Bar and two guys came in (and) convinced me they were Dylan’s brothers so I gave them $80 from the register. I held a dog hostage from a guy I was dating so he would pay attention to me. I’d have these long narrative tales I’d tell at dive bars and everyone would tell me that it had to be a show – that it ‘sounded like a show.’

OSD: Was it difficult choosing the right songs? Did you purposefully select up-and-coming composers?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCD: I was really lucky with how organically the right songs and composers evolved. From the beginning, however, I was committed to (specifically) using only the emerging composers of New York City with the exception of Mike Mahler, but he wrote his contribution ‘Starbucks’ when he was living in the city. I also thought shoving 12 different composers/styles into one show would help musically reflect what is the story of the ‘Mess.’

OSD: What is it about New York City that sparks creativity?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCD: I think it’s true that there are some wildly ridiculous, cinematic moments that happen only in New York. Where else can block by block appear to be a whole different world? As someone who grew up in and around NYC, I didn’t understand the allure of ‘New York’ tales until I started working on ‘Hot Mess in Manhattan.’ People seem to be really fascinated by it.

OSD: Can you describe the challenges inherent to turning what was essentially a cabaret act into a full scale book musical?

CD: I think getting the first draft out and on its feet will be the hardest part. After doing this trial (with) Encore Theater, I think the revisions and future incarnations will be easier. If it’s not I’m going back to managing the candy store.

OSD: You have appeared in such shows as ‘John and Jen’ and ‘The Last 5 Years.’ What is it about musical theater that speaks to you?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCD: I enjoy seeing and performing musical theater because it brings emotion out of me; something about a situation being so important and full that it needs to transcend from speaking to singing. I started doing musical theater in high school because I wasn’t good at anything else. (I) was obsessed with being in clubs for my college applications, and I saw a sign in the hallway that said ‘Spring Musical meeting. No auditions, and free pizza.’

OSD: When did you become familiar with Encore Theater Company?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCD: I learned about Encore Theater when they reached out and had me do a podcast on MusicalWorld. ‘Hot Mess in Manhattan’ involves several composers they are interested in so it was a natural progression.

OSD: What are the future plans for ‘Hot Mess in Manhattan’? More readings and workshops? Perhaps a fully staged presentation in New York?

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCD: We absolutely plan on both! This is truly the first incarnation of what the show will be. We’re hoping to see what works in Dayton, what the audience responds to, and then cement in the things that work. Post Dayton there are plans to do a couple other drafts/workshops with the ultimate goal of an off-Broadway run and having it licensed for productions elsewhere. Once the songs are set we are moving on to a cast recording distributed by Sh-K Boom Records.

Tickets & Performance Information:

Cait Doyle's HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN - Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 EncoreTheaterCompany.comCait Doyle’s HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN (One Night Only)

Hot Mess in Manhattan will be performed Saturday, February 12 at 8 p.m. in Building 8 at Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St. Advance tickets are $15 each or $55 to purchase a cabaret table of four. All tickets are $18 on day of show.

Tickets are available at  the Sinclair Theatre Box Office by calling (937) 512-2808 or by visiting www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com

For more information about Cait, visit www.hotmessinmanhattan.com

Win Free Tickets!

The Encore Theater Company, Sinclair Theatre & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN!

We will be giving away a pair of tickets to the show…BUT…if we get  25 Facebook shares, we’ll make it a TABLE OF FOUR! If we get to 50 FB shares, we’ll throw in a $25 gift certificate for an Oregon District Restaurant for food/drinks after the show! All you need to do is:

  • Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page (The more shares, the better the prize).
  • Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
  • Leave a comment below, answering the following question…Cait Doyle’s show is about all the crazy things that happen to her while living in the Big Apple…Tell us the craziest thing you’ve ever experienced in the Gem City (No Names please…to protect the innocent/guilty).
  • The deadline to enter is NOON on THURSDAY, February 10th.
  • Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

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