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Coming Up in Dayton Theatre

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HRTC: The 39 Steps

Human Race Theatre Company: The 39 Steps

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

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

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

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

The Sugar Witch

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

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

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

Tickets: DTG Box Office or 937-278-5993

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

The Diviners

UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON

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

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

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

Messiah on the Frigidaire

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE (Edge of the Creek)

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

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

Tickets: Box office, 937-429-4737

More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

TOWN HALL CHILDREN’S THEATRE

The Story: When Piggsylvania’s highest court puts him on trial, things don’t look so good for Alexander T. Wolf when TH: Three Little Pigseveryone from judge Prudence Pig to the court reporter is rooting into the truth about his so-called terrible deeds! In this fresh musical adaptation of the familiar story, audience members (ages 4+) decide the way the story ends.

Dates: October 22 – November 7, 2010: Fridays at 7:00 pm, Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 pm, with a special family matinee on Saturday, October 23 at 11:00 am.

Tickets: Town Hall Theatre or 937-433-8957

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

Flash: A New Musical

CLARK STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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

Dates: October 29-31 & November 5-7

Tickets: 937.328.3874 or Clark State

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

The 39 Steps

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

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

Dates: October 21 – November 7, 2010

Tickets: HRTC Box Office

More information: Human Race Theatre Company, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Once On This Island

SINCLAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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

Dates: October 15 – 23, 2010

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

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

Moon Over Buffalo

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

The Story: In this farce set in 1953, after rumors begin to swirl that a famous Hollywood director will be auditioning fading acting couple George and Charlotte, misunderstandings ensue and merriment begins.

Dates: October 15 – 23; Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 pm, Sunday 2:00 pm

Tickets: Box Office, 888-262-3792

More Information: Playhouse South, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar, DMM feature

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

In the Spotlight

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

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

Performance: December 10, 2010

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

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

Ravenscroft

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

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

RavenscroftPerformances: January 7 – 23, 2011

Directed by Debra Kent

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

More Information: Dayton Theatre Guild: Ravenscroft

Christmas Belles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

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

Performances: December 17 – 19, 2010

Directed by Wade Hamilton and Brian Sharp

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

More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

The Second City: Fair and Unbalanced

THE VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

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

Date: October 23, 7:30 pm

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

More Information: Victoria Theatre Association, DaytonMostMetro Event Calendar

SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE

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

~KN

Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

Moon Over Buffalo – and FREE TICKETS!

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Moon Over Buffalo

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Playhouse South: And Never Been Kissed

Playhouse South: And Never Been Kissed

George and Charlotte Hay are an acting couple (well, theirs is not quite the Lunt-Fontanne partnership) on tour in Buffalo in 1953, performing a repertory of Cyrano de Bergerac and Private Lives. Just after their relationship is threatened when George dallies with a young ingénue, they learn that famed director Frank Capra is coming to Buffalo to see their matinee performance – and possibly star them in his movie remake of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately, it seems like everything that could go wrong does, and hilarious misunderstandings ensue.

This and next week, Playhouse South presents that story in the farce Moon Over Buffalo, written by Ken Ludwig (famed author of Lend Me a Tenor). The original production marked Carol Burnett’s return to Broadway and opened in 1995; since it’s been described as a combination of Waiting for Guffman and Noises Off, the show’s humor and success are not surprising.

A common element to Moon Over Buffalo, Waiting for Guffman, and those other shows I mentioned is the community aspect of theatre, which aligns well with PHS’s mission and goals. Actor Megan Cooper, who is new to PHS but very involved in other Dayton theatres (and in leadership with jumpstART), observed that every person in Moon Over Buffalo has a different reason for being in the show and brings a different level of experience, yet are brought together by their common passion for the collaboration and art of theatre. She added, discussing her positive experience with the show,

“People who have that much passion are great to work with.”

PHS considers itself a theatre that hinges on both the passion of participants and audience members, and strives to “get people involved in our love of theatre” (Rob Breving, Publicity).

Cooper (Roz Hay) and Breving (Paul Singer) are both cast members in this production, along with Geoff Burkman (George Hay), Joanne Augenstein (Charlotte Hay), Brad Bishop (Howard), Lisa Carter (Eileen), Terry Lupp (Ethel) and Rick Johnson (Richard Maynard). Dayton theatre veteran Jim Lockwood (2008 inductee into the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame) directs, and Dawn Roth-Smith produces. Not only are those involved in the production a community, but audience members will find one in this show as well. Breving said,

“Being theatregoers, the audience will relate with the characters or know people like them,”

which promises to make the show even more entertaining for those who come.Playhouse South

Alongside of that “community” emphasis, PHS is really working to move forward in quality and talent, and therefore recently named Dawn Roth-Smith and Human Race resident actor Alan Bomar Jones as co-artistic directors. The theatre hopes that Moon Over Buffalo will engage and connect with audience members and be one step towards achieving those goals.

Those things aside, this show promises to be funny and enjoyable. Breving described,

“The cast has worked very hard and is truly having so much fun… It’s a show for anyone that needs a good laugh and a reminder not to take ourselves too seriously.”

WIN TICKETS TO MOON OVER BUFFALO!

Playhouse South: Rent

Playhouse South: Rent cast

Playhouse South & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to this fun show!  We will be giving away up to three pairs of tickets! All you need to do is:

  • Share this post on Facebook or Twitter…we’ll give away a set of tickets for every 10 ’shares’ on FB/Twtr, up to 3 pairs of tickets.  Just click on the appropriate button below, it’s that easy!
  • Leave a comment, answering the following question…WHERE IS THE MOST UNIQUE PLACE YOU HAVE EITHER “MOONED” SOMEONE….OR BEEN THE UNFORTUNATE VICTIM OF A “MOONING”?
  • The deadline to enter is MIDNIGHT on SUNDAY, October 17th; tickets will be made available for the second weekend of the show.

    • (creativity counts in this forum…but we’ll be selecting winners randomly Monday morning when Bill rolls into the office!)

    Performance Information

    Moon Over Buffalo runs from October 15 – 23, with performances at 8:00 on Fridays/Saturdays and 2:00 on Sunday. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (over 60) and $7 for students. For more information and reservations, please call the Box Office at 888-262-3792 or visit http://www.playhousesouth.org.

    SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE

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

    ~KN

    onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.comKatherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

    Dirty Rotten – Murder Mystery (plus FREE TICKETS)

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    Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at La Comedia Dinner TheaterDirty Rotten Scoundrels

    La Comedia Dinner Theatre

    ‘Here I Am’ – In the wings with Lauren Morgan

    A Conversation with a cast member from La Comedia’s current offering – the hit musical comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

    I first met LAUREN MORGAN when I was seeking a choreographer for Encore Theater Company’s summer production of RENT.  She came highly recommended and boy – they weren’t kidding! I found her to be among the most professional, respected and thorough dance designers I’d ever worked with.

    Currently, you can catch Lauren among the cast of La Comedia’s staging of the David Yazbeck-penned musical comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels – based on the Steve Martin film of the same name. A contemporary hilarious musical – itself a love letter to the golden age of American Musical Comedy.

    onStageDayton sat down with Lauren recently to talk about the show, her training, and what’s next for this Dayton-bred star.

    Lauren Morgan

    [LAUREN MORGAN is a recent graduate of Wright State University with a BFA in Dance.  She began dancing at age 3 in her hometown of Middletown, Ohio.  She has performed throughout the area with many different companies including La Comedia Dinner Theatre, Dayton Ballet, Wright State University, and Middletown Lyric Theatre. Her regional performance credits includeFootloose, Beauty and the Beast, and A Chorus Line.  Her university credits include The Pajama Game, Titanic, Aida, Lady Be Good, and many dance concerts.  Recently Lauren has taken to choreography having staged her original work for the musicals The Wedding Singer, RENT, and Footloose.]

    OSD: Tell us about the training and experience you recieved in the Dayton region. How and when did theatre/dance come into your life?

    LM: I began dancing at age 3. In fourth grade I auditioned for The Nutcracker with Dayton Ballet and was cast as a toy soldier.  From then on I was hooked.  My first musical was The Wizard of Oz at Middletown High School where I was a Munchkin and a monkey.  My junior year of high school I auditioned at La Comedia for Footloose and was double cast as a teen ensemble member.  That was the first time that I realized that I needed to pursue theatre as a career.  Immediately after that I was cast in Beauty and the Beast or another eight week run.  I stopped taking dance my senior year of high school with the intention of being a musical theatre major in college.  For some reason I ended up at WSU as a dance major and it was the best thing that could have happened to me.  Wright State’s department of Theatre, Dance, and Motion Picture has given me more opportunities to perform than I could have ever asked for.  I was in six mainstage musicals including Titanic as ‘Kate Murphy’.  I had many choreographic and performance opportunities with concert dance and even participated with student films and voice overs.

    OSD: Many of our readers are probably familiar with the original source film of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”, but what can audiences expect from the musical adaptation?

    LM: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels the musical offers great laughs and singing, as well as a fantastic dancing ensemble that helps tell the story.  The cast has a lot of fun performing and audiences always leave with a smile on their face.

    OSD: In New York and on the road, it was a large show. How is it translating to the unique La Comedia space?

    LM: Even though the La Comedia stage is small, it doesn’t stop the story from being told.  The show starts off with a fantastical dance overture and follows all the twists and turns that any audience member who has seen the movie expects. The cast functions as the crew in some scenarios and each setting unfolds in front of the audiences eye.

    OSD: What’s next for you?

    LM: After the show I tell everyone I need to save money.  I’d like to end up out west performing and choreographing.  I love mountains and rock climbing so I find I need nature to help me create.  Graduate school is in the cards at some point in the near future.  I would like to have my master’s in choreography or directing as well as be qualified to teach the Alexander Technique.

    Performance Information:

    Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (through October 31 – various show times) visit LaComedia.com / (937) 746-4554 for ticket info, menu and show times.

    DB

    Die Mommie Die!Dayton Playhouse

    Dayton Playhouse

    Win Tickets to this show!       Keep reading for details!

    The Dayton Playhouse is delighted to present the second production of their 2010/2011 Mainstage Season, Die Mommie Die! by Charles Busch – opening Friday, October 8, 2010 and running through October 17.  Die Mommie Die! is a delightful send-up of film noir classics such as touch of Evil, Double Indemnity and in particular, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane. The production is directed for the Playhouse by Michael Boyd, lights by Anita Bachmann, costumes by Erin Winslow, stage management by Jeremy King and set design by Wade Hamilton.

    Die Mommie Die! The Plot:

    Set in 1967 Beverly Hills, this off-beat, “comic-thriller-melodrama” features the glamorous Angela Arden, a once grand, now fading diva of the recording industry.  She is trapped in a corrosive marriage to a overbearing film producer, Sol.  In her attempt to find happiness with her lover Tony, a much younger, out-of-work TV star, Angela murders her husband – in a most unusual manner!  Angela’s meddling, daddy’s-girl daughter Edith convinces her emotionally disturbed, secually ambiguous brother Lance to avenge their father’s death and to learn the truth about Angela by putting LSD in her coffee.  This triggers a wild acid trip exposing Angela’s dark, secret past!  Can anyone predict how the plot will twist?

    “This show is a blast.  It’s some kind of cross between film noir murder mystery and campy revenge story…” says Director Michael Boyd.  “We have a fantastic cast who understands the spirit of fun and homage.”

    Die Mommie Die! The Cast:

    The complete cast of Die Mommie Die! includes:  Cassandra Engber, Jonathan Berry, Jeremey Gingrich, Megan Grabiel, Richard Young and Cynthia Karns.

    Die Mommie DieYour Chance to WIN TICKETS to Die Mommie Die!

    The Dayton Playhouse & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to this fun show!  We will be giving away up to four pairs of tickets! All you need to do is:

    • Share this post on Facebook or Twitter…we’ll give away a set of tickets for every 10 ‘shares’ on FB/Twtr, up to 4 pairs of tickets.
    • Leave a comment, answering the following question…WHAT UNUSUAL MANNER DO YOU SUPPOSE ANGELA ARDEN USES TO MURDER SOL?
    • The deadline to enter is MIDNIGHT on FRIDAY, October 8th

    (You don’t have to have a  correct answer to win the tix!  We will draw the winners from the entire group of entries.)

    Performance Information:

    Die Mommie Die! (October 8-17) visit DaytonPlayhouse.com or call  (937) 424-8477 from 10am – 2pm Monday through Friday for ticket information and show times.

    SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE

    Would you like to submit theater news for Dayton Most Metro’s onStageDayton features?  Email Shane, Dave & Katherine at [email protected]

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

    This Week in Dayton Theatre

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    Alice in Wonderland - THCT

    Alice in Wonderland at Town Hall

    WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010 – TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2010

    Shows in the greater Dayton metropolitan region this week are set in two centuries and four different decades (and written in them, too), feature four genres (comedic musical, children’s musical, comedic classic, and intense drama), and describe numerous vastly different characters. With all of those combinations, there’s something everyone will enjoy seeing up this week. So, come see a show (or two or all four). Then, go out and audition for one yourself…

    Another Openin’, Another Show

    …SHOWS OPENING THIS WEEK

    The Importance of Being Earnest

    CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

    By Oscar Wilde
    September 30 – October 9

    Gwendolyn and Cecily are in love with romantic, handsome, beguiling young men named “Ernest” … or at least they Importance of Being Earnest - CUthink they are! And Jack and Algernon, bachelors who may have finally fallen victim to romance, seem to be caught between the wiles of the female sex and the allure of freedom. The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People is a romantic delight that entertains audiences, satirizes the hypocrisy of social obligations, and comments on society’s foibles — all in the midst of mistaken identities and some mysterious business with a handbag in a train station.

    I saw a preview performance last week, and the show was already wonderful! Written in 1895, this comedy remains one of the most widely produced plays in the English language. Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays each evening at 8:00 pm, with additional 2:00 pm matinees on Saturdays, in the Cedarville University DeVries Theatre (located at 251 N. Main St., Cedarville, along Rt. 72). Visit the Cedarville season website for more information, and box office to purchase tickets.

    …SHOWS STILL UP

    August: Osage County

    HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY & WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

    August: Osage County

    photo credit: Scott Kimmel

    By Tracy Letts
    September 23 – October 10

    A pill-popping mother, a vanished father, and a family that personifies dysfunctional combine in this intense yet humorous drama, a collaboration between the collegiate and professional and the first production since the show’s Broadway run. Look at my feature article, or  view basic information in last week’s post . Curtain times vary; check the performance calendar. Tickets are available through the WSU Box Office at (937) 775-2500. Don’t miss it!

    Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

    LA COMEDIA DINNER THEATRE

    Book by Jeffrey Lane; Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek; based on the film by Frank Oz
    September 8 – October 31, 2010

    Read last week’s column here for a synopsis and full description of this show! But, here’s basic ticket information: Arrival times for Wednesday to Sunday evening performances are 5:30 – 6:00 pm; Wednesday and Thursday matinees and Sunday brunch, 10:30 – 11:00 am. For more information or tickets, call 1-800-677-9505 or (937) 746-4554 or visit http://www.lacomedia.com. Also check out the DMM event page here.


    …SHOWS TO CATCH BEFORE THEY CLOSE

    Alice in Wonderland

    TOWN HALL THEATRE – Landmark Children’s Theatre

    September 17 – October 3, 2010

    This is the last weekend of Town Hall’s production of Alice in Wonderland, Jr., featuring performers in grades 2 through 12! Read a more detailed synopsis and see pictures from previous shows in last week’s post.

    To recap: the show runs 70 minutes and is recommended for children ages 2 and up. Performances will be held on Fridays at 7 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 3 pm; additional matinee performances are scheduled on Thursday, September 23 and 30 at 4:30 pm. Reserve tickets online at http://www.townhalltheatre.org or call 937-433-8957.

    Part of it All

    …AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

    The Last 5 Years

    SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

    Auditions: October 16, 2010 – 10:00 am (callbacks later, same day, if necessary)
    Performances: February 10 – 12, 2011

    Directed by James Straley & Tom Kushmaul

    Playwright/composer: Jason Robert Brown
    The Story: Cathy is a struggling actress; Jamie is a rising writer. Over the course of five years, they fall in and out of love, The Last 5 Years chronicling that journey in an emotionally powerful and intimate song cycle.

    The Characters:
    Cathy – mid-20s, an actress struggling to find jobs and maintain some sense of self esteem. Mezzo-soprano.
    Jamie – mid-20s, a novelist swept up in the whirlwind of life, especially his rising career. Tenor.
    Visit the website below for specific information about what to prepare for each character.

    Please prepare a contemporary musical theatre selection (not from this production) that showcases your vocal ability, familiarize yourself with the music from the show, and follow additional character information described at http://www.springfieldstageworks.org/auditions .

    Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

    TOWN HALL THEATRE – Landmark Children’s Theatre Company

    Auditions: Saturday, October 2, 2010
    Performances: December 3 – 19, 2010Junie B Jones - TH

    Last week, I wrote about this exciting audition opportunity for those in grades 2 through adult; read the post for that information.

    Remember, those interested in auditioning for the show must register in advance of the audition date online at http://www.townhalltheatre.org or by calling the box office at (937) 433-8957. Actors must prepare (1) one-minute memorized monologue only (no song is necessary). Headshots or photos are required and resumes are encouraged.

    ~KN

    onStageDayton ...with Shane & Dave

    Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

    “This Madhouse is My Home”

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    August: Osage County

    HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY & WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY
    September 23 – October 10, 2010

    August: Osage CountyWarning: This play contains strong language, alcohol abuse, stronger language, legal drug abuse, really strong  language, illegal drug abuse, sibling rivalry, verbal abuse, latent pedophilia, patent nastiness, strong psychological tension, sordid dramatic subplots, and enough laughs to cause possible severe injury to persons inclined toward knee-slapping.

    Well! Considering that disclaimer, it’s not surprising that August: Osage County has been talked about so much lately. Besides being provocative but scathingly funny, August has also received numerous awards, and this performance marks the first collaboration between the Human Race Theatre Company and Wright State University as well as the show’s regional premiere.

    August: Osage County, by Tracy Letts, explores the story of three generations of the Weston family of Oklahoma, who unexpectedly reunite after the disappearance of the family patriarch. Repressed and August: Osage Countyunsettled secrets are revealed in this searchingly powerful portrait of the dysfunctional American family at its finest – and absolute worst.

    The show enjoyed a highly successful Broadway run, winning five Tonys, the Pulitzer, and Time Magazine’s “Play of the Year” designation. The HRTC/WSU production is making national news, as well: this is the first staging (throughout the entire United States) of August: Osage County since it left Broadway.

    Just as the script is a perfect combination of pain and pathos, this production is a smooth blend of the professional and collegiate. The cast of 13 includes seven professionals (including two who understudied August’s Broadway production) and six WSU August: Osage Countystudents, with technical responsibilities also shared evenly. This, the first such collaboration, has been a successful experience for both sides: HRTC Resident Artist and August co-director (with HRTC Artistic Director, Marsha Hanna) Scott Stoney observed,

    “Relationships are starting to happen. I think the students are impressed with the professionals, and the professionals appreciate the students’ enthusiasm and talent.”

    Playwright Tracy Letts, originally from Oklahoma and since 2002 a resident at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre Company, is only too familiar with the hardship and family dysfunction prevalent in August. New York Times writer Patrick Healy described,

    Tracy Letts (playwright)“A recovering alcoholic and former pack-a-day smoker who could have majored in profanity had he not dropped out of college, [Letts] has a well-earned dark side that mixes with a surprising sweetness and exuberant humor.”

    His family members strongly influenced his writing: the August: Osage Countycharacter of Violet, the drug-addicted and abusive matriarch of the Weston family, is distinctly modeled after Letts’ own grandmother (listen for the line in the play about Violet’s method of stealing pills; her tactic Letts directly observed in his grandmother. Toss that bit of trivia out to your date during intermission and enjoy looking impressive).

    In its explosive combination of pain and pathos, this is definitely not a production for the faint-at-heart: besides everything in the disclaimer above, its running time is 3 ½ hours (with two intermissions). But during that time, August: Osage County will grab hold of you, if it hasn’t already, and refuse to let go.

    Tickets and showtimes: http://humanracetheatre.org/1011aoc.shtml

    *all photos courtesy of Scott Kimmins

    ~KN

    Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

    A Tragedy in South Park…and Idina Flies into Cincy!

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    Romeo & Juliet - Shakespeare in Historic South ParkRomeo & Juliet

    SHAKESPEARE IN HISTORIC SOUTH PARK

    A few years ago I met up with my family in Columbus to attend a Shakespeare in the Park production in German Village.  While not a huge fan of “The Bard,” I still completely enjoyed the experience.  The acting was terrrific, it was a perfect atmosphere-a great sense of community and idyllic summer evening under the stars with my family watching the Tempest.  Fast forward a couple of years and the neighborhood in which I now reside in Dayton has the same great tradition.

    This weekend marks the third outdoor Shakespeare production in the Historic South Park neighborhood in as many years.  The passionate and dedicated troupe of actors and other volunteers have previously produced A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM (2009) and MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (2008).  The 2010 Shakespeare in South Park Company will tackle it’s first tragedy in  what will surely be a unique setting for the classic ROMEO & JULIET.   As in past productions, a significant number of cast and crew are Historic South Park neighborhood residents.

    From the Official Press Release:

    Director Daniel Wilson has set the famous story of star-crossed lovers shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War and placed it near the border state region in a spot historically similar to Montgomery County, Ohio. As students of history know, it was a time when sympathies still ran hot. The Montagues (Romeo’s family) are depicted as Union soldiers and officers; Juliet’s Capulets as Confederates.

    The director explains his choice for the play’s setting: “The Civil War’s causes are complex, but…those involved came to believe the only way to resolve their differences was through violence. Romeo and Juliet is a play about…non-violence. Friar Laurence (“Mother Laurence” in this production, played by Judi Earley), the only character respected by [both the Montaguesand Capulets], consistently preaches the need for balance and peace.”
    Romeo & Juliet - Shakespeare in South Park
    By setting the play 150 years ago in America, Wilson finds renewed relevance in a 400-year-old play written in England and set in Italy. The divisive politics of today have left people unwilling to compromise. Shakespeare’s play reminds us that if we are unwilling to find peaceful solutions to our differences, our children will pay the price.

    Dayton Skyline as viewed from South Park GreenThe venue for Romeo & Juliet will once again be the South Park Green, an intimate park located on Hickory Street.  The troupe reports that they will be utilizing a historic two-story carriage house in the bordering property as a backdrop.  This setting also provides a terrific opportunity for the famous “Balcony Scene,” utilizing a second story window and the foliage below.

    A unique South Park presence in Romeo and Juliet will be the antique sword carried by Lord Montague. Made in Cincinnati about 1900, it was found in the attic of 130 Alberta Street during a mid-1980s rehab, and has remained with the house, passed to each successive homeowner.

    Midsummer Nights Dream - 2009 - Shakespeare in South Park

    Midsummer Nights Dream - 2009 - Shakespeare in South Park

    Show times are 8:00 PM Friday through Sunday, September 17-19 at South Park Green on Hickory Street in the Historic South Park neighborhood.

    Shakespeare in South Park productions are free to the public, while contributions are gratefully received and used to defray costs of the show. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket.

    The weekend is calling for some gorgeous weather, with just a slight chance of rain on Sunday. If it does rain, don’t worry, the play will be staged at Hope Lutheran Church, 500 Hickory Street.

    For more information, visit the Historic South Park website at historicsouthpark.org, or call 937-603-4893.

    SA

    Win Tickets to Idina Menzel & the Cincinnati Pops!

    Encore Theater Company’s MusicalWorld Podcast & DaytonMostMetro.Com’s onStageDayton team up to offer you an exciting opportunity to WIN TICKETS to see

    Idina Menzel to perform with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra

    IDINA MENZEL

    IN CONCERT WITH THE CINCINNATI POPS ORCHESTRA

    SEPTEMBER 24-26, 2010

    Tony Award winner Idina Menzel has a diverse career on the stage, in films and in music. Menzel recently joined the cast of GLEE, the Fox juggernaut where she plays the coach of rival glee club Vocal Adrenaline, McKinley High Glee Club’s main competition. Last year, Menzel concluded a national tour promoting her album, I Stand. A skillful songwriter, Idina writes and performs her own music. She released the Glen Ballard-produced album for her record label, Warner Bros. Records, and played to sold out houses around the United States. Menzel performed her show in New York as part of the Mastercard Soundstage series, which aired on PBS. PBS also aired the concert version of Chess: The Musical, recorded at the Royal Albert Hall where Idina shared the stage with Josh Groban. In film, Idina appeared opposite Susan Sarandon, Patrick Dempsey and Amy Adams in Disney’s hit, ENCHANTED as well as Chris Columbus’ film version of the Pulitzer and Tony Award winning musical RENT, in which she reprised her role as Maureen. This was on the heels of her co-starring role in Robert Towne’s ASK THE DUST, opposite Salma Hayek and Colin Farrell.

    In television, Idina recently completed an arc on the Grey’s Anatomy hit spin-off, PRIVATE PRACTICE on ABC.

    Menzel completed her Tony Award winning performance, for Lead Actress in a Musical, in WICKED in December 2005.  Helmed by Tony Award-winning director Joe Mantello, WICKED has played to packed audiences at the Gershwin Theatre since it opened in October 2003. Additionally, Menzel was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for her role as the misunderstood green girl.

    Idina received a Tony nomination for her Broadway debut performance as Maureen, in the original production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning hit RENT. She also earned a Drama Desk nomination for her performance as Kate in Manhattan Theater Club’s Off- Broadway original musical THE WILD PARTY.

    …but how do I win the tickets…?

    REGISTER TO WIN

    1. Become a Facebook fan of Facebook.com/MusicalWorldEncoreTheater

    2. Post on our wall why you are “Idina’s Biggest Fan” -OR- post a YouTube video on our wall of yourself singing “Defying Gravity” or another Idina Menzel song (this one counts as two entries in our drawing!).

    3. All entries will be entered into a drawing for TWO tickets to see IDINA MENZEL with the Cincinnati Pops September 24-26, 2010.  (note:  winner will need to make arrangements early next week with the onStageDayton staff for retrieval of the ticket voucher for the Idina Menzel tickets).

    HURRY! – DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS

    11:59pm on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

    This Week in Dayton Theatre

    By 1 Comment

    WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2010 – TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2010

    The Spitfire Grill - Beavercreek Community TheatreThis week is an exciting one in the arts, because September 12 – 18 marks the first national Arts in Education Week. Because four shows are up this weekend, it’s also a busy one in the Dayton region theatre scene. Those shows range from a children’s show to a Shakespeare, so no matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s definitely something to pique your interest.

    Between the national observation and all the opportunities, then, it’s pretty much a perfect weekend to get out and see some of the great theatre that’s around Dayton!  Here’s an overview of what’s going on this week…

    Another Openin’, Another Show

    …SHOWS OPENING THIS WEEKEND

    Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr.

    TOWN HALL THEATRE – All Children’s Theatre

    September 17 – October 3, 2010

    Town Hall Theatre - Cinderella (2009)When a sleepy Alice tumbles down the rabbit-hole and into Wonderland, her madcap adventures are just beginning! From chasing the White Rabbit to racing the Dodo Bird, to having tea with the Mad Hatter and rapping with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, Alice meets one zany character after another while discovering some important things about herself.

    Alice in Wonderland opens the Town Hall Theatre’s 19th season, and features performers in grades 2 – 12. Performances will be held on Fridays at 7 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 3 pm; additional matinee performances are scheduled on Saturday, September 18th at 11am, and Thursday, September 23rd and 30th at 4:30 pm. The show runs 70 minutes and is recommended for children ages 2 and up.

    Town Hall Theatre is located at 27 North Main St. in the “Heart of Centerville,” directly beside Panera Bread. For the September 18 performance, the theatre is partnering with that Panera for “Taste of the Show,” where guests will be served a show-themed tea party (http://www.townhalltheatre.org/html/tasteOfTheShow.html ; $5, reservations required). Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors, and $6 for children 12 and under; all day of show tickets are $10. Reserve tickets online at www.townhalltheatre.org or call 937-433-8957.

    Romeo and Juliet

    SHAKESPEARE IN SOUTH PARK

    By William Shakespeare
    September 17 – 19, 2010: 8:00 pm

    During the Elizabethan era, settings of Shakespearean plays varied widely through different times and places, based largely on whatever costumes (donated from the rich and prominent members of society) the acting company had available. Appropriately, then, Shakespeare in South Park has chosen a more recent setting for their production of the classic romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Director Daniel Wilson has set the famous story of star-crossed lovers shortly after the Shakespeare in South Park - Romeo and Julietconclusion of the Civil War and placed it near the border state region in a spot historically similar to Montgomery County, Ohio; by doing so, he finds renewed relevance in the themes, providing apt reminders that if we are unwilling to find peaceful solutions to our differences, our children will pay the price.

    This weekend is your only chance to see the performances, so don’t miss it. The play is staged outdoors at South Park Green at the intersection of Hickory and James, with a minimalistic set that takes advantage of a real two-storey carriage house at the back of the performance space (perfect for the famous balcony scene!). Make sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Admission is free, but contributions are gratefully received and used to defray costs of the show. Parking is available at Hope Lutheran Church (also the location in case of rain; 500 Hickory St) or Emerson Academy. For more information, visit the Historic South Park website at historicsouthpark.org or call 937-603-4893. Also, expect a special onStageDayton feature article soon about the show!

    The Spitfire Grill

    BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

    Music & Book by James Valcq; Lyrics & Book by Frank Alley; based on the film by Lee David Zlotoff
    Beavercreek Community Theatre - the Spitfire GrillSeptember 17 – September 26, 2010

    Following the feisty Percy Talbot’s release from prison, she follows her dreams and an old travel book to Gilead, Wisconsin, not realizing the town is a struggling one with little to offer. She gets a job at Hannah’s Spitfire Grill, the only local eatery, which happens to be up for sale; when it won’t sell, she suggests raffling it off in an essay contest. Things start heating up pretty quickly!

    Performances of The Spitfire Grill are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, and Sundays at 3:00 pm, at Beavercreek Community Theatre in the Lofino Center (3868 Dayton-Xenia Rd, Beavercreek). Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for students, seniors, and BCT members. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (937) 429-4737, email [email protected], or visit http://www.bctheatre.org.

    …SHOWS STILL PLAYING

    Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

    LA COMEDIA DINNER THEATRE

    Book by Jeffrey Lane; Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek; based on the film by Frank Oz
    September 8 – October 31, 2010

    Read last week’s column here for a synopsis and full description of this show! But, here’s a recap of ticket information:

    Arrival times for Wednesday to Sunday evening performances are 5:30 – 6:00 pm; Wednesday and Thursday matinees and Sunday brunch, 10:30 – 11:00 am. For more information or tickets, call 1-800-677-9505 or (937) 746-4554 or visit http://www.lacomedia.com. Also check out the DMM event page here.

    Part of it All

    …AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

    Wit

    DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

    By Margaret EdsonWit, by Margaret Edson
    Auditions: Monday, September 20 & Tuesday, September 21 – 7:00 pm
    Performances: November 12 – 21, 2010

    Auditions are this week! Last week’s column included a synopsis, cast breakdown, and special audition notes, so refer back to that for specific information. But remember that auditions will be held at the Dayton Playhouse (1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton), and auditionees should be prepared to read from the script. Resumes/headshots encouraged, but not required. Visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.com for more information.

    ~KN

    Katherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

    This Week in Dayton Theatre

    By 1 Comment

    WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 – TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2010

    Glengarry Glen Ross - Springfield StageWorksExcited about SEED Theatre’s upcoming production of Grey Gardens, I was listening to the Original Broadway Cast recording earlier. In the song “Goin’ Places,” Joe sings to Edie, “Kid – we’re goin’ places, goin’ places you’ve never really seen… All the signs are good, so knock on wood, we’re gonna be a-okay! ‘Cause the place we’re goin’, we’re goin’ all the way.”

    Well, onStageDayton is going places, too.

    My name is Katherine Nelson, and I’m a senior theatre performance major at Cedarville University and also a literary intern with Encore Theater Company. For a while, Shane and David at Encore have been writing occasionally to feature various shows and organizations, and now, we have a lot of plans to make onStageDayton even better. We all would like this to become not just another website to check, but the central place to go for everything pertaining to Dayton stages, a nucleus for theatre and arts professionals, participants, and spectators alike.

    So, I’ll be publishing a column on Wednesday of each week, centrally including:
    –          The upcoming weekend’s shows opening, reminders of what’s still playing, and things not to miss before they close – and where to get tickets for all of those.
    –          Any special arts events, such as the upcoming Urban Nights celebration.
    –          And, auditions and casting calls for the next several weeks, so you can plan ahead.

    Additionally, we’ll continue to write feature stories to highlight events, shows, volunteers, organizations, and more. Comments are accepted on the stories, so join the conversation and let us know what you’re thinking! We’d love to get your input.

    So… onStageDayton is definitely going places! But for now, here’s a post, like what you’ll be able to expect from me and onStageDayton every Wednesday. Here’s to many more!

    Another Openin’, Another Show

    …SHOWS TO CATCH BEFORE THEY CLOSE

    The Producers

    DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

    Book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan; Music & Lyrics by Mel Brooks
    September 10 – 12, 2010

    What happens when a down-and-out producer and his mousy accountant realize that they can make more money on Broadway with a flop than a hit? They option the rights to “a gay romp with Adolf and Eva” in a guaranteed disaster of a show called “Springtime for Hitler!” What they didn’t plan on is that flop becoming a runaway hit… Find out what happens as the Dayton Playhouse presents its season opening musical comedy The Producers.

    This is the final weekend of performances, so make sure to see it before it closes! Curtain is Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm and Sunday at 2:00 pm.

    The production is directed by Chris Harmon, with choreography by Annette Looper and musical direction from Ron Kindell.

    Dayton Playhouse is located at 1301 E. Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton, Ohio.  Tickets may be purchased online at http://www.DaytonPlayhouse.org or by calling the Box Office at (937) 424-8477 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Monday thru Friday.

    Glengarry Glen Ross

    SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

    by David Mamet
    September 9 – 11, 2010

    Small-time, cutthroat real estate salesmen try to grind out a Glengarry Glen Ross - Springfield StageWorksliving by pushing plots of land on reluctant buyers, the scramble for their share of the American dream never ending. Described as a “scalding comedy,” Glengarry Glen Ross (by legendary playwright David Mamet) took Broadway and London by storm, winning Tony nd Pulitzer awards. Now, Springfield StageWorks is entering their second and final weekend of performances of this gripping work.

    Directed by Josh Katawick, Glengarry Glen Ross is at the historic State Theatre in downtown Springfield (19 S. Fountain Ave). Curtain is at 8:00 pm each night, and tickets are available for $10 at the door. Go to http://www.springfieldstageworks.org/home for more information.

    …SHOWS OPENING THIS WEEKEND

    Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

    LA COMEDIA DINNER THEATRE

    Book by Jeffrey Lane; Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek; based on the film by Frank Oz
    September 8 – October 31, 2010

    In this hilarious musical comedy, two fraudsters living on the French Riviera discover the small town they live in isn’t big enough to support two scammers. They agree that the first person to successfully steal $50,000 from a young tourist will get to stay, so thus begins a contest that will keep you guessing and laughing the whole way!

    To accommodate for dinner before the show, arrival times for Wednesday to Sunday evening performances are 5:30 – 6:00 pm; Wednesday and Thursday Matinees and Sunday brunch, 10:30 – 11:00 am.

    For more information or tickets, call 1-800-677-9505 or (937) 746-4554 or visit http://www.lacomedia.com. View the DMM event at Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. La Comedia Dinner Theatre is located on 765 W. Central Ave., Springboro, OH.

    Part of it All

    …CASTING CALLS AND AUDITIONS

    Wit

    DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

    Auditions: Monday, September 20 & Tuesday, September 21 – 7:00 pm
    Performances: November 12 – 21, 2010

    Directed by Matthew Smith

    Playwright: Margaret Edson
    The Story: Vivian Bearing, Ph.D., a renowned English professor, has been diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. Her approach to her literary studies: aggressively probing, intensely rational. But during the course of her illness—and her stint as a prize patient in an experimental chemotherapy program at a major teaching hospital—Vivian comes to reassess her life and her work with a profundity and humor that are transformative both for her and the audience.

    Roles:
    Vivian Bearing, PH.D. – 50; Professor of Seventeenth Century Poetry at the University
    Harvey Kelekian, M.D. – 50; Chief of Medical Oncology, University Hospital (Also plays Mr. Bearing.)
    Jason Posner, M.D. – 28; Clinical Fellow, Medical Oncology Branch
    Susie Monahan, R.N., B.S.N. – 28; Primary Nurse, Cancer Inpatient unit
    E.M. Ashford, D. Phil – 80; Professor Emerita of English Literature
    Lab techs/clinical fellows/students/code team

    Auditions will be held at the Dayton Playhouse (1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton). Those wishing to read should be prepared to read from the script. Resume/headshot encouraged but not required. Go to http://www.daytonplayhouse.org for more information.

    Special note: those wishing to be considered for the role of Vivian Bearing should understand that there are the possibilities of nudity and hair alteration (including shaving).

    One Short Day

    …Special Events for the Artistically Minded

    URBAN NIGHTS

    September 10, 2010 – from 5:00 pm on
    Urban NightsUrban Nights is a free event showcasing downtown’s dining, nightlife, art, music, retail, and urban living options. Described as an all-inclusive street party that overtakes downtown Dayton, there’s definitely something for everyone to see. Close to 100 creative places and spaces participate, including locations throughout downtown, the Artists of Front Street, the Oregon District and the Wright-Dunbar Business Village. Free trolleys help transport people to the more distant venues, but many of the locations are within walking distance. Courthouse Square is the central starting point and the main stage for artistic performances, but there are also roving entertainers and smaller stages throughout downtown.

    Come explore the city, check out art, peek inside a cool loft, enjoy live entertainment by amazing community artists, eat at a restaurant you’ve never been to, and party ‘till the break of dawn. You’ll see that it’s possible to make every night an urban night downtown!

    We at Encore are particularly excited, because at 8:00 pm will be our performance of Come Together - Encore Theater CompanyCOME TOGETHER, an original musical starring Amy Geist and JJ Parkey. The show is free, and will be on the stage next to the Trolley Stop in the Oregon District at the corner of 5th and Wayne. Don’t miss it!

    For more information and performance listings, visit http://www.downtowndayton.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11

    ~KN

    We are excited to introduce you to another contributor to onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com.  Katherine Nelson, a senior theatre major at Cedarville University, will be posting a weekly update of shows opening or closing that weekend, along with audition notices and other notices.  Welcome, Katherine, to the DaytonMostMetro.com family of contributors!

    Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

    OnStageGuide: 2010/2011

    By 1 Comment

    onStageDayton ...with Shane & Dave

    Top 14 Picks for the 2010-11 Local Theater Season

    Shane Anderson & David Brush

    So there is all this talk about how great the arts are in Dayton.  You keep hearing how that for a city of it’s size, Dayton is like numero uno for arts organizations, but you never know quite for sure what show you should attend…something that you know you’ll like and it won’t be a waste of time and money for you.  Well, here you go, this is a guide to the local theater season, but we’ve narrowed it down a bit.

    Whether your a regular theatre-goer, a novice, or just hate musicals (how could you!), there is something on this list for everyone. So rather than overwhelming you with the more than 85 plays and musicals that will grace area stages this season, Shane and Dave have compiled our most-anticipated Top 14 highlights of the season complete with pop cultural references to help you navigate! But we don’t want you to just take OUR word for it – so we’ve included the website links to the OTHER offerings for each organization for those of you who dare venture away from the path. (PS – We encourage such venturing!)

    Dave’s Top 7 Picks

    August Osage County - Human Race Theatre & Wright State TheatreAugust: Osage County

    by Tracy Letts
    Human Race Theatre Company and Wright State University

    Stellar Cast. Amazing venue. First regional production since Broadway. This has the makings of setting the bar high right away in the fall. People can’t seem to get enough of this darkly comic play about family dysfunction. This is not a light evening at the theatre but it IS a rewarding one.

    September 23-October 10, 2010 – www.HumanRaceTheatre.org & www.Wright.edu

    If you like O’Neill’s ‘Long Day’s Journey Into Night’, you’ll LOVE ‘August: Osage County’

    Dirty Rotten Scoundrels - La ComediaDirty Rotten Scoundrels

    Book by Jeffrey Lane
    Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek
    based on the film by Frank Oz
    La Comedia Dinner Theatre

    It had a successful Broadway run and a troubled national tour. But it’s post-Broadway life is seeing some light primarily thanks to the hilarious original source material (the fantastic film starring Steve Martin) and a smart composer in David Yazbek who has a flare for comedy. The comedy centers on a pair of con-men competing for the affections (and money) of Beumont Sur Mer’s upper crust. When the con goes on a little long, hilarity and chaos ensue. There’s a great twist at the end (I won’t spoil it for you) and the entire show is really very smart. It should be fascinating to see it in a more intimate setting like La Comedia.
    September 8-October 31, 2010 – www.LaComedia.com

    If you like ‘The Full Monty’, you’ll LOVE ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’

    Romeo & Juliet - Shakespeare in South Park

    Romeo & Juliet

    by William Shakespeare
    Shakespeare in South Park

    Huh? “Gone with the Wind”? “Romeo & Juliet”? Yes, the Shakespeare in South Park troupe has decided to return to their original concept of setting W.S. classics in a post-war setting, this time in a border state in the years following the Civil War.  Everyone is still wearing their uniforms and bent out of shape about loyalties brought about by war.  We hear that the scenic elements will include an actual historic carriage house neighboring the park where the show will be performed. (hmmm? Balcony scene????)…and the good news is…this show is FREE- but I’m sure donations will be gratefully accepted!

    September 17-19, 2010 – www.HistoricSouthPark.org

    If you like ‘Gone with the Wind’, you’ll LOVE ‘Romeo & Juliet’


    The Spitfire GrilleThe Spitfire Grill

    Music and Book by James Valcq
    Lyrics and Book  by Fred Alley
    Based on the film by Lee David Zlotoff
    Beavercreek Community Theatre

    You may remember this quiet little brilliant film from the 90’s about a young female ex-con who discovers a new life in a small town. The film was powerful and darkly heartwarming and seemed unlikely material for a musical. But Valcq and Alley do a gorgeous job of capturing the heart of the film with a colorful transcendent country-flavored score. One of my personal favorite nights at the theater. I’d been hoping to see it produced again since I first saw it some years ago and I’m even more pleased to see it under the direction of of one the areas most respected directors – Doug Lloyd.

    September 17-26, 2010 – www.BCTheatre.org

    If you like redemption stories like ‘Eat. Pray. Love.’,  you’ll LOVE ‘’The Spitfire Grill’

    Grey Gardens - SEED Theatre ProjectGrey Gardens, the musical

    Book by Doug Wright
    Music by Scott Frankel
    Lyrics by Michael Korie
    Based on the 1975 documentary by Albert & David Maysles
    SEED Theatre Project

    When you think of the list of most unlikely source material for a musical, it’s hard to not move Grey Gardens to the top. On the surface, the true story of an aged recluse and her daughter living in squalor in an East Hampton mansion (where the cat population far outweighs the human one) seems like the stuff of reality TV. But when you consider that these two were once at the height of New York City’s most exclusive circles of wealth and prestige, it is even more shocking. Oh yeah – and did I mention they are related to Jackie Kennedy Onassis? This is the ultimate “black sheep in the family” story and like any good train wreck, you just can’t turn away.

    November 5-6, 2010 – www.SEEDTheatreProject.org

    If you like the TLC’s Hoarders, you’ll LOVE ‘Grey Gardens’

    Wit at Dayton PlayhouseWit

    by Margaret Edson
    Dayton Playhouse

    Anyone whose life has been touched in some way by cancer (and whose hasn’t?) will be moved by this tour-de-force. HBO loved it so much they cast Emma Thompson in the film several years ago. Dayton Playhouse is coming off a fabulous season and no doubt this will be a welcome addition.

    November 12-21, 2010 – www.DaytonPlayhouse.org

    If you like Showtime’s new series THE BIG C, you’ll LOVE Wit

    The Drowsy Chaperone by Victoria Theatre Association & The Human Race Theatre Co.The Drowsy Chaperone

    Book by Bob Martin & Don McKeller
    Music & Lyrics by Lisa Lambert & Greg Morrison
    Victoria Theatre Association & Human Race Theatre Company

    There is something at once nostalgic and contemporary about this Tony-Winner from a few years back. Basically – here it is in a nutshell: A musical theatre fan plays his favorite cast album (yes – album!) and the characters, story and shenanigans come to life right in his one-room apartment. PLUS – produced under the care of The Human Race makes this is both a surefire hit AND a Dayton Original.

    March 8-20, 2011 – www.VictoriaTheatre.com & www.HumanRaceTheatre.org

    If you like ‘The Carol Burnett Show’,  you’ll LOVE ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’

    Shane’s Top 7 Picks

    Glengarry Glen Ross by Springfield Stage WorksGlengarry Glen Ross

    by David Mamet
    Springfield StageWorks

    It won the Pulitzer. It won the Tony. The playwright is legendary. and still this 1982 play about the illegal and unethical activities of a Chicago real estate outfit remains vital and edgy -particularly in our current economic climate. Fair warning: Mamet’s favorite word is four letters and starts with an ‘F’ – SO MUCH SO that during the making of the film adaptation, the cast affectionately subtitled the play, Death of a “F*&^*& Salesman.”

    September 2-11, 2010 – www.SpringfieldStageWorks.org

    If you like AMC’s ‘’Mad Men’, you’ll LOVE ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’


    Once On This Island - Sinclair TheatreOnce On This Island

    Music by Stephen Flaherty
    Book & Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
    Sinclair Theatre

    A Caribbean-flavored romance where two star-crossed lovers – one lower class native and one French upper class – must find a way to be together despite the pressures of their feuding families, Once On This Island uses dance, music, and folklore to spin this timeless tale.  This show will likely be a joyful, colorful event for the whole family.  The music for the show – from the creators of Ragtime and Seussical – is spirited and melodic and the themes of survival amidst peril feel contemporary again in light of recent tragedies in Haiti.

    October 15-23, 2010 – www.Sinclair.edu

    If you like ‘Pippin’ and ‘Romeo & Juliet’, you’ll LOVE ‘Once On This Island’

    The Second City: Fair & Unbalanced - Victoria Theatre

    The Second City:  Fair & Unbalanced

    Victoria Theatre Association

    With an alumni list that includes Alan Alda, Dan Akroyd, Chris Farley, Jim & John Belushi, Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert…who can resist a night of “LMAO” comedy?  While the touring cast does not include any of these big stars, you never know if there might just be a future Gilda Radnor on stage (We’re not sure if there is any relation, but there is a young Belushi listed in the cast of this ensemble).  You never know, you might just witness comedy history on the stage of the Victoria in October!

    October 23, 2010 – www.VictoriaTheatre.com

    If you like Saturday Night Live,  you’ll LOVE ‘The Second City: Fair & Unbalanced’

    Flash: A New Musical by Dan Hunt at Clark State Community College

    Flash: A New Musical

    book, music & lyrics by Dan Hunt
    Clark State Community College

    Honestly, we know very little about this new show about to premiere at Clark State, but we LOVE the fact that they are willing to take a chance on a brand new musical!  The premise is that Ed, a seemingly normal guy revisits his past (in a musical form) during a horrific moment when all of the highs and lows of his life flash before his eyes.  The show was conceived, written & directed by Springfield resident Dan Hunt, technical director and theatre professor at Clark State.

    October 29-November 7, 2010 – www.ClarkState.edu

    If you like J.J. Abrams’ shows, you’ll LOVE ‘Flash:  A New Musical’

    An Evening with Sutton FosterAn Evening with Sutton Foster

    accompanied by Michael Rafter
    Springfield Arts Council

    How can one even begin to explain the joy that IS Sutton Foster?  Foster first claimed her fame as the chorus girl plucked out of obscurity to save the show and become the star…which led to her infamous 2002 Tony-winning run on Broadway in “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”  She has been compared to three comediennes/actresses listed below, and her natural goofiness combined with an incredible vocal talent has made Sutton Foster into the “it girl of Broadway.”  You won’t want to miss this simple evening of Foster and a pianist giving you some “melt your face off” belts and rolling in the aisle laughter.

    November 13, 2010 – www.SpringfieldArtsCouncil.org

    If you like ‘Mary Tyler Moore, Carol Burnett or Julie Andrews’, you’ll LOVE ‘An Evening with Sutton Foster’

    Mauritius - Dayton Theatre GuildMauritius

    by Theresa Rebeck
    Dayton Theatre Guild

    Cincinnati native Rebeck’s play, “Maurititius” is often described as a comedy thriller dealing with suspense, lies, deceit, greed, mystery, intrigue and….stamps.  It centers around the rivalry of two sisters faced with dividing up their recently deceased mother’s belongings and the discovery of two rare stamps from the nation of Mauritius and unscrupulous dealers pursuing them.  While you might question going to the theatre to watch a philatelic thriller, the play has been a hit all over America since it’s debut on Broadway in 2007.

    May 13-29, 2011 – www.DaytonTheatreGuild.org

    If you like Bogart’s ‘The Maltese Falcon’, you’ll LOVE ‘Mauritius’

    right next to me - The Human Race Theatre Co.right next to me

    book,music & lyrics by Gregg Coffin
    The Human Race Theatre Company

    Dayton’s Human Race Theatre Company, under the leadership of Kevin Moore & Marsha Hanna has been raising the bar for several years in a national movement to develop new works of musical theatre.  Through their unique programs of workshops, residencies and collaboration with composers, Dayton theatre audiences have been fortunate to see pieces like Convenience, Was, Fetching Water and many more.  This season, they tell a NEW story from Greg Coffin – the creator of Convenience- A  story about the distance between people and the space love leaves behind when it goes.

    May 26-June 12, 2011 – www.HumanRaceTheatre.org

    If you like ‘We Were Soldiers’, you’ll LOVE ‘right next to me’

    …& keep watch for exciting news about:

    ZOOT Theatre Company. They haven’t announced their season yet, but this innovative puppet & mask troupe consistently puts together cutting-edge productions of classic tales. www.ZootTheatreCompany.org

    Encore Theater Company. We’ve got some exciting things in the works as well, including our Litehouse New Musical Reading Series, our Summer 2011 MainStage Series, MusicalWorld podcast and a new Concert Series that will premiere this fall! www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com

    Idina Menzel in Concert with the Cincinnati Pops. Yes!  The almighty green one will be flying into southwest Ohio at the end of September (fresh from her stint on GLEE)…and YOU just might get a chance to go watch this icon of the Broadway stage defy gravity!  onStageDayton, MusicalWorld & DaytonMostMetro.com are teaming up with an opportunity for you to win a pair of tickets to this concert (valued at $100!). Keep watching onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com for details!

    onStageDayton. We will be introducing you to another contributor to onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com.  Katherine Nelson, a senior theatre major at Cedarville University, will be posting a weekly update of shows opening or closing that weekend, along with audition notices and other notices.  Watch onStageDayton for Katherine’s first post soon!

    Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

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

    …a play without boundaries

    By Leave a Comment

    The Syringa Tree - SEED Theatre ProjectThe Syringa Tree

    THE SEED THEATRE PROJECT

    This weekend, The SEED Theatre Project will present the regional premiere of The Syringa Tree, by Pamela Gien.  The thought provoking play is performed by one actress, Robin Smith, who portrays twenty-four different characters, all of whom speak, and sing, in a variety of languages & dialects.  To further complicate this actress’ task, she performs without physical scenery and props, allowing the voices of her characters free to tell the story of Elizabeth Grace with only the external impact of light and sound to place these people in a time and place.

    I spoke with Robin, along with Adam Leigh (director), Amy Brooks (dramaturg/assistant director) & Michelle Leigh (production manager) last weekend about The Syringa Tree.  I am curious about the concept of this show, and I am very much looking forward to attending the performance to hear this amazing tale spun by so many characters on an empty stage with only one actress.

    A description of the show, provided by SEED:

    The Syringa TreeThe Syringa Tree is a personal, deeply evocative story of an abiding love between two families, one black, one white, and the two children that are born into their shared household in the early 1960’s South Africa. Seen first through the eyes of a child, six-year old Elizabeth Grace, as she tries with humor and sometimes palpable fear, to make sense of the chaos, magic and darkness of Africa, we follow their destinies in a story that spans four generations, from early apartheid to the present day free South Africa.

    Robin Smith - THE SYRINGA TREE - The SEED Theatre Project Resident Artist Robin Smith will portray twenty-four very different characters (black, white, old, young, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Zulu, English, Jewish, etc.) in the telling of this story.

    The SEED crew is highly passionate about this piece, pointing out the similarities of the time & place of the story with our lives in Dayton, 2010.  The play takes place in apartheid-bound Johannesburg, South Africa from the 1960’s through the mid-1990’s, as apartheid was lifted.  The production staff points out that even as the characters in this play live in a world where boundaries are all they know, there is a love in this script that defies all racial boundaries…the play becomes timeless and boundless.  It concerns itself more with the interconnectedness of people in a time and place where the disruption of apartheid created a disconnectedness with the land.

    The Syringa TreeIn their research on this work, Adam & Michelle Leigh began looking into the South African community within the Miami Valley.  They were surprised to find out how many refugees are living in the Dayton area, some by choice and some by force.

    “…it’s not over in South Africa.  It’s not on the 6:00 news, but it still exists.  Americans know apartheid exists, but not the details.”

    Adam Leigh, the show’s director and founder of SEED states that their mission is to present entertainment, but at the same time taking the audience on a journey so that when they leave, they understand that we, in Dayton, experience the exact same issues today.  The SEED Theatre productions will feature an Enter-Action Forum following each performance.  The forum will be a time for the audience, the actors, the staff and other guests to discuss the issues presented in the play.

    For more Information & Tickets, visit:

    The SEED Theatre Project, Dayton, OhioTHE SYRINGA TREE (8pm, August 20-21 at the Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center) Tickets: $12  Call (937) 823-0081 or by visiting their ONLINE BOX OFFICE:  ShowTix4u.com.

    Please Note: This production contains adult language and themes. Viewer discretion is advised.

    Visit http://www.seedtheatreproject.org for more information about the organization.

    Visit The Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center for information about this amazing community center now open in Dayton. The Kroc Center is located at 1000 North Keowee Street, Dayton, Ohio  45404.

    The Syringa Tree will be the first theatrical production to take place in the center.  The staff of SEED Theatre indicated that they were very fortunate to the gracious people of the Kroc Center.

    SA

    Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

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

    Accidentally Coming of Age

    By 4 Comments

    The Cast of Encore Theater Co.'s production of NEXT THING YOU KNOWNext Thing You Know

    ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

    Encore Theater Company in association with Sinclair Community College will present a developmental production of the new musical NEXT THING YOU KNOW written by Drama Desk Nominees JOSHUA SALZMAN & RYAN CUNNINGHAM August 12-14, 2010 at Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theatre. (Note…there is an opportunity for you to win tickets to this show.  Details are found at the end of this post!)

    Joshua Salzman & Ryan Cunningham, writers of Next Thing You KnowJoshua Salzman (music) and Ryan Cunningham (book and lyrics) met at the NYU Tisch Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program. Their thesis musical, I Love You Because went on to be professionally produced Off-Broadway, earned a Drama Desk nomination for the team, spawned a cast album on PS Classics and garnered a licensing deal with Theatrical Rights Worldwide, resulting in productions both nationally and internationally including Encore Theater Company’s own regional production several seasons ago.

    “The opportunity to see our show developed outside of NY, under a dedicated and enthusiastic team of actors and directors, is invaluable”, says composer Joshua Salzman, “The nurturing and safe environment ETC provides for musical theater writers to hone their craft is essential to the creative process of developing a new musical”.

    Salzman & Cunningham spent several days in Dayton developing the show which the creators describe this way:

    “Real life comes real fast. One day you wake up, and instead of a hangover, you have a job. Instead of a fling, you have a live-in girlfriend. And instead of naïve dreams, you have reality. For four artists in New York City, discovering yourself can take a lot longer than you think. The little joys and compromises that bring us into adulthood are brought to life in this all-new musical”.

    The cast of ETC's production of Salzman & Cunningham's NEXT THING YOU KNOWThe cast for the Dayton engagement of NEXT THING YOU KNOW includes: Amy Leigh (Waverly), Matthew D. Curry (Luke), BethAnn Wipprecht (Lisa) and JJ Parkey (Darren). Production staff include David Brush (Director), Shawn Storms (Assistant Director), Jackson Gallagher (Lighting Design), Nathan Dean (Sound Design), and Ally Wetz (Stage Manager).

    The cast and staff of NEXT THING YOU KNOW shared some thoughts with me about working directly with the writing team, and what it means to originate a character in a brand new piece of musical theater.  Excerpts are below, but you can read more of their thoughts on the production blog at NextThingYouKnowDayton.wordpress.com and listen to an interview with the cast and writing team at MusicalWorld.us .

    As the weekend with the writer’s approached in July, what did you feel most anxious about?

    Amy LeighAmy Leigh:  “I was nervous that Josh and Ryan were seeing us do the entire show just after we’d blocked it, before we had time to settle into the scenes. I wanted to prove to them that, although we might stumble on lines, lyrics, or notes here and there, that we honor the original intent of their show. But they were anything but judgmental. They seemed to truly appreciate seeing the show on its feet, and having their input really completed the experience for me.”

    JJ Parkey and Amy Leigh of ETC's NEXT THING YOU KNOWJJ Parkey: “I was afraid that their presence in the room would be really intimidating, but as it turns out, Ryan and Josh are absolutely WONDERFUL to work with. They were so very supportive of what we were all doing, and the entire weekend was a very positive experience. Ryan and Josh brought about a sense of grounding to the project for me.

    Describe the experience of working directly with the creators of a new piece of theater.

    Matthe Curry in ETC's production of Salzman & Cunningham's NEXT THING YOU KNOWMatthew D. Curry:  “Having Josh there to guide us through deeper meaning of our music, and Ryan giving us hints and clues to where our character’s thoughts lie, weather we thought we had it or not, gave me personally a truer look into Luke. And that’s an experience you never get with just a script and our own analysis of the writer’s words.”

    What has it been like, leading a team of actors through the discovery of new characters that have never before been seen on stage?

    Shawn Storms, assistant director of ETC's NEXT THING YOU KNOWShawn Storms, assistant director:  “I have found this process easier than the work I have done with new plays. I feel that it has much to do with the extremely talented cast of this show. They have been open and eager to try new things; go with the flow. I feel that without that beautiful collaborative spirit, this show would never have evolved in the many ways it has.

    It has been a pleasure to witness each character’s evolution. To see the script change, new moments discovered, and songs soar. I hope that our audiences see what a gem this show is!”

    Why did ETC choose a new musical, one that nobody in Dayton has even heard of before, as the finale for it’s summer theatrical season?

    David Brush, director: “This kind of development is what new shows need – a long term commitment to walk a show from one step to the next and allow creators to make changes, additions and deletions along the way. This gets at the very heart of ETC’s mission and we are thrilled to kick off the program with two amazing young, fresh talents like Ryan and Josh.”

    NEXT THING YOU KNOW is part of Encore Theater Company’s New Musicals In Development program which includes a focus on developing new work through podcasts, readings, and development productions.

    For more Information & Tickets, visit:

    NEXT THING YOU KNOW (August 12-14) Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 on the day of the performance.  Please note:  this show contains adult language and situations.  Visit http://www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com for tickets.

    WIN TICKETS TO Next Thing You Know!

    Encore Theater Company & DaytonMostMetro.com are giving away a pair of tickets to NEXT THING YOU KNOW.  It’s really easy to enter. The deadline to enter is Noon on Wednesday, August 11th.

    1.  In the comment section below, answer this question…WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE OMELET INGREDIENTS? (Yeah, we know…it doesn’t make sense, but if you come see NTYK it will!)

    2.  Share this DMM post on Facebook!  At the bottom of this post there are buttons to like, tweet & share this…Please share it!  For every 10 FACEBOOK SHARES of this post, we’ll add  a pair of tickets (up to 6 pairs!). The more people who share this, the more chances there are to win!

    Dayton Area Casting Calls:

    Grey Gardens: The Musical

    THE SEED THEATRE PROJECT Open Auditions

    Continuing the 2010-2011 theatrical season with the SEED theatre project will be the area premier of Scott Frankel, Michael Korie & Doug Wright’s musical Grey Gardens. Grey Gardens: The Musical will be directed by Adam J. Leigh. In addition, Judy Mansky serves as music director while Shayne Thomas Petty serves as assistant director.

    Grey Gardens at SEED Theatre ProjectFresh from Broadway where it was nominated for ten Tony Awards in 2007, this new musical was inspired by the 1975 Maysles brothers documentary of the same name. Grey Gardens tells the entertaining and poignant story of two unconquerable women, Edith Bouvier Beale and her adult daughter Edie, the eccentric aunt and cousin of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Once known as two of the brightest stars in the social register, these two women became East Hampton’s most infamous “reclusive inhabitants”, sharing their rundown 28-room mansion with 52 stray cats and rabid raccoons. From the glittering high society of 1940s New York to the tabloid headlines that rocked the Kennedy clan in 1970s, Grey Gardens hurls you into American royalty and poses the questions: When do private lives become public fascinations? How much is too much? And where does it stop?

    The SEED Theatre Project, Dayton, OhioOpen Auditions for this show will be held on Tuesday, August 10th and Wednesday, August 11th. They will begin at 7pm each night. Auditions will be held at The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center – 1000 N. Keowee Street – Dayton, OH 45420. Performers will only need to attend one night of auditions for consideration.

    Performance dates are Friday, November 5th and Saturday, November 6th, 2010.

    For more information please contact Adam Leigh via phone at (937)219-7835 or via email at [email protected] or visit SEED’s website for casting requirements and additional audition details:  www.SEEDtheatreproject.org

    The Sugar Witch

    THE DAYTON THEATRE GUILD Open Auditions

    Sugar Witch at The Dayton Theatre GuildThe Dayton Theatre Guild announces open auditions for it’s upcoming production of THE SUGAR WITCH by Nathan Sanders.

    Auditions will take place August 23rd & 24th, 2010 at 7 pm in The Dayton Theatre Guild’s  Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape at 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton, OH 45410.  Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script

    The show, directed by Doug Lloyd and produced by Debra Kent is set in the Florida swamp country of the Watchalahoochee River unfolding an at times eerie, weird and often very funny story of what’s left of the Bean family, Moses and Sisser, along with Annabelle, the Sugar Witch. And yes, there may be flying cats, casting of spells, country music, not to mention a few possible surprises.

    Performance Dates:  October 22nd – November 7th, 2010

    Casting Requirements:

    Sisser – Female – Late 20’s to late 30’s – Southern, Obese, and somewhat mad. A wheel chair bound lover of little Debbie Snack cakes. She is capable of anything – even murder.

    Ruth Ann Meeks – Female – Late 20’s to Mid 30’s – Southern, Racist, and half insane. A “church-goer”, plain, not necessarily pretty, most likely the product of incest.

    Annabelle – African-American Female – Mid 40’s to 50’s – Southern swamp mystic and conjure woman. She brews magical potions from sugar cane molasses. Annabelle is the last in a long line of powerful “Sugar-Witches”.

    Moses Bean – Male – mid 20’s – Southern, Handsome and boyish. He is a mechanic at the local Texaco station. Innocent and virginal; a gender reversed “Sleeping Beauty”.

    Hank Hartley – Male – 30’s – Southern, handsome and strong. He is the play’s “gentleman caller”. He has recently returned to Sugar Bean to take over his family funeral home business. Hank is madly “in-love” but yet hiding a dark secret.

    Granddaddy Meeks – Male – 60’s to 70’s – Southern, redneck, racist, abusiveand mean. He is Ruth Ann’s Grandfather.

    Additional information about The Dayton Theatre Guild can be found online at www.DaytonTheatreGuild.org

    Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC are currently in the midst of their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the upcoming new musical in development Next Thing You Know.

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

    http://musicalworldpodshow.mevio.com/

    Yeah… but can it play Dayton?

    By 8 Comments

    [title of show] - Encore Theater Co. - Dayton CastDayton, Ohio:  a hotbed for the development & performance of new musical theatre?

    YES.

    “It is a hopeless endeavour to attract people to a theatre unless they can be first brought to believe that they will never get in.” – CHARLES DICKENS, Nicholas Nickleby

    Musical Theatre Workshop:  Festival 2010

    THE HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

    During the 1940’s and 1950’s, American Musical Theatre was developed right in the heart of it all – Manhatten. After all, that’s where all the great theatre was happening. PLUS – it wasn’t nearly as expensive to produce a big Broadway musical as it is today. (Wicked has just recently recouped its $40 million investment and THAT’S a runaway hit). Add to that the fact that the vast majority of Broadway audiences are tourists, then you can see why so many writers of new musical theatre are hungry to test their work in an “everyman” market. After all, those are the folks buying tickets.

    Events here in our city over the next two weekends suggest to me that New York writers might just begin asking themselves –“Yeah, but will it play Dayton?” Without a doubt, Dayton is becoming a new Midwestern Mecca for new musical theatre development.

    Human Race Musical Theatre Workshop 2008

    "The Black Crook Project" 2008

    Consider this. Downtown at The Loft theatre this coming weekend, THREE new musicals will premiere. One of those – PLAY IT BY HEART – features the work of Brian Yorkey (2009 Tony-Winner for Next To Normal). Another – TENDERLY – was written by the same team that created the wildly popular GREEN GABLES that played the Victoria in 2005. And the third – being written as we speak by local students – will make its national debut – right here in Dayton (The Lovewell Project). This is coming on the heels of the stellar Human Race production of Adam Gwon’s new musical ORDINARY DAYS. There is simply no excuse not to catch one of these shows. Not to mention, the schedule for the festival weekend makes it so easy. PLUS there are opportunities to meet the creators and party with the Race.

    Do yourself a favor and make time for this festival weekend.
    MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP: FESTIVAL 2010 FULL SCHEDULE

    Friday, July 16

    8pm               Play It By Heart @ The Loft Theatre
    Followed by an After-Show Reception @ The Dayton Racquet Club

    Saturday, July 17

    1:15pm          Meet the Play It By Heart writers @ The Loft Lobby
    2pm                Play It By Heart @ The Loft Theatre
    7pm               Lovewell Show @ The Loft Theatre
    Followed by an After-Show Reception The Loft Lobby
    8pm                Tenderly @ Creativity Center

    Sunday, July 18

    2pm                 Lovewell Show @ The Loft Theatre
    2pm                 Tenderly @ Creativity Center
    6:15pm           Meet the Tenderly writers Creativity Center
    7pm                 Tenderly @ Creativity Center
    Followed by a Wrap-Up Party @ a Location TBA

    Synopses:

    Play it By Heart tells the story of a female country music star battling her family and a changing industry. Taylor, who penned such hits as Tammy Wynette’s “Another Chance” and Johnny Cash’s “The Baron,” calls it “the quintessential story of family in country music.”

    Tenderly is about a real musical legend, one of the most famous entertainers ever to come out of the Southwest Ohio/Northern Kentucky region, Rosemary Clooney. The show includes such Clooney hits as “Come On-a My House,” “Mambo Italiano” and “Hey There.”

    For more Information & Tickets, visit:

    Musical Theatre Workshop: Festival 2010 (July 16-18) will be celebrated at both the 219-seat Loft Theatre at 126 N. Main St. and the approximately 60-seat Caryl D. Philips Creativity Center at 116 N. Jefferson St. Tickets ($15 per performance) are available at the door. Visit http://www.humanracetheatre.org for more information.

    If we seem to have a particular passion for developing NEW and innovative work, it because we do! After all, the same weekend as the MTW Festival at the Loft, Encore Theater Company is presenting local premiere of the 2009 Tony-Nominated musical [title of show] – trust me – a comedy like no other!

    DB

    [title of show]

    ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

    What do you get when you gather four friends, four chairs, a keyboard, some monkeys, vampires, drag queens and a fresh batch of rice crispy treats?  Why [title of show] of course!

    How do you explain a show that has an ingredient list like that?  How about “a show that really [BEEEEEEP]’ing ROCKS!”

    Shawn Hooks as "Jeff" in [title of show] - Dayton, Ohio But really, all poor grammar aside, this show really does ROCK!  Just ask Dayton native Susan Blackwell, an original cast member of the Broadway, Off-Broadway and New York Musical Theater Festival productions of the little show that could. Not only was Ms. Blackwell an original cast member…she is also a character in the show.

    Angele' Price as "Susan" in [title of show] - Dayton, OhioConfused? Don’t be, here’s the premise-[title of show] is a hilarious new musical written by 2 struggling writers about 2 struggling writers writing a hilarious new musical. word.  Essentially, art imitating life imitating art imitating life.  Get the picture? Oh, and Susan was a great pal & agreed to be in their show.

    Chris Smyth as "Hunter" in [title of show] - Dayton, OhioWith a song list that includes such classics as “Untitled Opening Number,” “Monkeys & Playbills,” “I Am Playing Me,” “Nine People’s Favorite Thing,” and  “Die Vampire, Die!” how could you possibly consider missing this opportunity to catch this show?

    Nora Coyle as "Heidi" in [title of show] - Dayton, OhioWell…here’s good news!  You can win Tickets to [tos]! YAY! DaytonMostMetro & Encore Theater Company are giving away three pairs of tickets to [title of show].  All you need to do is give the show’s director a good DRAG QUEEN name! Yes, that’s right, brainstorm a great drag queen name for the director of the show…and suggest it in the comment section below (everyone else in the cast/crew has a DQ name already…you can check them out HERE).

    We will announce winners on Wednesday night.  You will have a choice of performances (Thursday, Friday or Saturday at 7:30pm).

    Help DOUBLE the number of tickets that we will be giving away!  We will announce three additional winners, if we can help DaytonMostMetro reach 2,000 fans by midnight Wednesday! Go to the DMM Facebook Fan Page, become a fan if you are not already, then share it with all of your friends, family & FB lurkers.

    [title of show] will be performed at 7:30pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday (July 15-17) at Blair Hall Theatre on the campus of Sinclair Community College.  Visit www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com for more information about Encore Theater Company & [tos].

    For more Information & Tickets, visit:

    [title of show] (July 15-17) Call Blair Hall Box Office at  (937) 512-2808 or visit http://www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com for information and links to the online box office.  Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door.  Please note:  [title of show] contains adult themes and language.

    SA

    Encore Theater Company welcomes the writers of Next Thing You Know to Dayton, July 23-25

    Joshua Salzman & Ryan Cunningham - Next Thing You KnowOn the “developing new musical theatre in Dayton, Ohio” front, ETC would like to mention the exciting fact that the writers of NEXT THING YOU KNOW will be traveling from New York to work with the Dayton cast on the show.  Joshua Salzman & Ryan Cunningham (who penned the Off-Broadway hit I LOVE YOU BECAUSE) have been developing NTYK for a potential New York run, and will be utilizing the Encore Theater Company production as an opportunity to test some changes and make some creative decisions in the development process.

    In an effort to help cover Josh & Ryan’s expenses, ETC kicked off the 30 for 30 for New Musical Theater campaign last week.  The response was great from the Dayton arts community…making this opportunity a reality!  If you would like to contribute to the fund, and an opportunity to meet the writers, please email the ETC staff at [email protected] for information about how you can participate in the campaign.

    While Salzman & Cunningham are in town, they will also conduct a workshop for Dayton actors about auditioning for musical theatre productions.  This workshop will take place on Saturday, July 24th in the Oregon District Arts Collaborative space above the new SideBar (400 East Fifth Street, Suite A).  Email the ETC staff at [email protected] for information.

    Next Thing You Know will be performed at 7:30pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday (August 12-14) at Blair Hall Theatre on the campus of Sinclair Community College.  Visit www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com for more information about Encore Theater Company & NTYK.

    For more Information & Tickets, visit:

    Next Thing You Know (August 12-14) Call Blair Hall Box Office at  (937) 512-2808 or visit http://www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com for information and links to the online box office.  Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door.  Please note: NTYK contains adult themes and language.

    Update: NEXT THING YOU KNOW by Salzman & Cunningham

    Joshua Salzman & Ryan Cunningham traveled from New York to Dayton last weekend to work with the ETC cast of NEXT THING YOU KNOW.  The writers continued to mold & shape their show into what they envision it to be.  This was a thrilling experience for everyone at Encore Theater Company.

    While Salzman & Cunningham were in town we took some time to sit down with them, and the cast of NTYK to record a MusicalWorld episode.  Look for that episode below.

    We also hosted a reception for the writing team at the home of Dr. Michael Ervin, followed by a trip to the new SideBar in the Oregon District.  Much thanks go out to Dr. Ervin, Kevin Moore (artistic director of The Human Race Theatre Co.), the donor’s in the “30 for 30” campaign, the folks at Toxic Brew Company (keep watching DMM for info about this cool Dayton start-up), Bill & Shannon from Dayton Most Metro and representatives from other local organizations & theatre companies.  Look for a video about that reception below.

    http://www.mevio.com/episode/241734/mw66-salzman-amp-cunningham-next-thing-you

    SA

    Spitfire Grill

    BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

    The Spitfire Grill - Beavercreek Community TheatreWhile not a brand new piece of musical theater, SPITFIRE GRILL is a rarely performed show.  The last performance in Dayton was the excellent production by The Human Race Theatre a few seasons ago.

    Doug Lloyd will helm the Beavercreek Community Theatre production of Spitfire Grill September 17th through the 26th.  He will be joined on staff by Stacey Gear (choreographer) and Dr. James Tipps (music director).  BCT recently held auditions for the show.  The result was what looks to be a terrific cast for this heartwarming show.

    Percy Talbott – Sydney Lanier

    Shelby Thorpe – Katie Storost

    Hannah Ferguson – Pam McGinnis

    Effy Krayneck – Teresa Connair

    Sheriff Joe Sutter – Max Monnig

    Caleb Thorpe – Brad Mattingly

    The Visitor – Nick Vanderpool

    Synopsis:

    A feisty parolee follows her dreams, based on a page from an old travel book, to a small town in Wisconsin and finds a place for herself working at Hannah’s Spitfire Grill. It is for sale but there are no takers for the only eatery in the depressed town, so newcomer Percy suggests to Hannah that she raffle it off. Entry fees are one hundred dollars and the best essay on why you want the grill wins. Soon, mail is arriving by the wheelbarrow full and things are definitely cookin’ at the Spitfire Grill

    Mark your calendars and plan to attend what will surely be a terrific production of  Spitfire Grill.

    For more Information & Tickets, visit:

    Spitfire Grill (September 17-26) Call Beavercreek Community Theatre Box Office at  (937) 429-4737 or visit http://www.bctheatre.org for information and links to the online box office.

    SA

    FINALLY – be sure to check out the latest MusicalWorld Podcast that features an interview with Susan Blackwell (who was in the original cast of [title of show] on Broadway!

    onStageDayton…DMM’s online hub for all things theater!

    By 4 Comments

    onStageDayton...with Shane & Dave

    onStageDayton...with Shane & Dave

    Introducing the latest addition to the DaytonMostMetro.com line-up of contributers: “onStageDayton…with Shane & Dave”

    onStageDayton will serve as your online hub for all things theater in Dayton & the Miami Valley.  Check back often to find out about:

    • productions opening & closing soon
    • how to get tix for great theater in Dayton
    • upcoming auditions for local theater organizations
    • interesting stories about local theater organizations, premieres, outreach projects, workshops/classes & the all of the terrific people involved in local theater-making it happen.

    If you work with a local theater organization, please add us to your Press Release list, so we can get all the info into our blog here at DMM!  In addition, please be sure to add your events to the DMM Calendar!

    Send all of your updates to us via email:  [email protected]

    (this week’s ridiculously cheesy sign-off:)

    While we are waiting for the Overture to begin and the cast to take the stage…why not head on over to the DaytonMostMetro Forum and start up a conversation in the Theater thread…

    S.A.

    Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC are currently preparing for their upcoming Summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton: Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & Next Thing You Know (a developmental production of a new musical by NYC-based writing team of Salzman & Cunningham)