Things to Do

Urban Nights showcases some of the best that downtown Dayton has to offer, and since we have a lot to offer, deciding what to see and hear can be a bit overwhelming.  So I’ve compiled a list of some of the musical highlights Friday has to offer:

*The official Urban Nights program includes entertainment on a main stage at Courthouse Square and several satellite stages.  My picks for main stage entertainment are the Reece Lincoln Band (6:00-6:45 p.m.) and  The Rev. Cool Arkestra & Dance Ensemble (7:00-7:45 p.m.).  Reece Lincoln is one of Dayton’s rising musical stars and puts on a high energy show that combines elements of blues and classic rock and roll.  The Rev. Cool Arkestra & Dance Ensemble is the brainchild of WYSO host Rev Cool (Around the Fringe).  It’s a unique combination of live music, DJ mixes and dance that’s not to be missed.  The satellite stages include everything from local jazz, rock and roll covers and a preview of the Encore Theatre Company’s production of RENT to a spotlight on Sinclair’s musical offerings.  A full schedule and a printable program and map can be found here.

* Friday is the first day of Side Show V, which features a wide variety music, performance and art.  This year’s showcase takes place at the Armory building on E. Sixth Street and Friday’s musical highlights include Noah Wotherspoon and Jessi Bair (6-6:30pm), c.wright’s Parlour Tricks (8:40-9:30pm), Sohio (10:10-10:40pm) and Outside Residential (10:50-11:20pm).  For a better idea of what the Side Show is all about, check out J.T. Ryder’s featured article right here on Dayton Most Metro.  The full lineup for both days of Side Show V is available on their Myspace page.

* Friday also marks the start of the 2nd FilmDayton Festival.  This year’s festival is bigger and better, and in addition to featuring more films than last year, there’s also more music!  Lisa Grigsby’s post here on Dayton Most Metro features the full festival lineup.  There are two great great musical offerings on Friday night:  Gladgirl will present “Dayton Rock and Roll Home Movies,” a free kickoff event at the old Greyhound Station on Fifth Street that’s been transformed into the festival lounge.  This event will feature music videos from current and past local bands and live music from Flotation Walls.  Later that night, the Lab Partners will perform at the first festival after-party at Gilly’s with the Now Device (headed by Springfield native Rod Hatified) providing a video and light show.

*As if that weren’t enough, A World A’Fair also begins on Friday at the Dayton Convention Center with tons of music, dance and delicious food from around the world.  A full performance schedule can be found at their website.

*The Ohio Coffee Company is providing Urban Nights entertainment for a good cause.  Hugs for Maya is a musical showcase to benefit Maya Claude, a 5 year old girl who recently had a brain tumor removed.  Local artists will be selling donated pieces and a host of local musicians have donated their time including Suicide Hill, Eric Cassidy, Rob Young and more.

*If you miss Noah Wotherspoon at the Side Show, he’ll also be performing at the Oregon Express beginning around 9:30pm.

*While you’re in the Oregon District, be sure to stop by Practice Yoga.  Local singer-songwriter BJSR will perform from 6 to 10pm.

*Down the street, the Eric Jerardi Band will be headlining the Trolley Stop beginning at 9:30pm.

*Over at Canal Street Tavern, the Spikedrivers will perform with Luther Wright.  It’s the perfect place to go after checking out the Urban Nights showcase at the Southern Belle loft (right next door to Canal Street Tavern).  This will feature the work of many local artists and musicians including music from local ukulele folk artist Henrique Couto.

*And although it’s not music-related, audiophile will want to stop by the StoryCorps airstream trailer parked in front of the Schuster Center.  The mobile recording booth will  be open until 7:30pm on Friday night for tours.

So what’s your must-see event this Urban Nights?  Any tips for beginners on the best way to get the most out of the evening?  Share your thoughts, tips, tricks and anything I may have missed in the comments.