Zoot Theatre Company

Saluting Dayton’s 2015-16 Theater Season

June 29, 2016 By Russell Florence, Jr.

America’s independence, murderesses at odds, family dysfunction upended by a gentleman caller, brave children thriving on creativity to survive the horrors of a concentration camp, and disheartened young adults navigating a post-9/11 world are some of the stories that bolstered Dayton’s 2015-16 theater season.

Looking back, let’s start with the bold, risk-taking Playground Theatre, a millennial-focused troupe changing the landscape of Dayton theater with an edgy off-Broadway vibe. Case in point: An exceptionally acted, up close and personal local premiere of Reasons to Be Pretty, Neil LaBute’s scathing account of image, regret, deception, and disillusionment directed with razor sharp tension and riveting intimacy by David Brush. Fine premieres thrived elsewhere at community theaters thanks to the Dayton Theatre Guild’s lovely Outside Mullingar and Last Gas as well as Young and Heart Players’ kooky, introspective Circle Mirror Transformation. As for musicals, Dayton Playhouse scored with challenging classics 1776 and Carousel while Beavercreek Community Theatre offered highly engaging accounts of The Addams Family and Spring Awakening

Collegiate theaters also hit the mark with a solid slate of musicals. Wright State University’s Chicago, The Music Man and Miss Mayor showcased the superior quality audiences have come to expect while Sinclair Community College notably produced an infectious, playful and soul-stirring Wiz. Drama standouts included University of Dayton’s captivatingly poignant staging of the Holocaust drama And A Child Shall Lead (co-produced by Zoot Theatre Company), Sinclair’s terrifically ensemble-driven One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and Clark State Community College’s commendable Angels in America: Millennium Approaches.

On professional stages, the fantastic return engagement of The Lion King gave the Victoria Theatre Association late-season momentum, but the production was actually one of an assortment of outstanding national tours this season including A Night with Janis Joplin, Once, Pippin, The Book of Mormon, and The Bridges of Madison County. Human Race Theatre Company specifically excelled with a wonderfully haunting and heartfelt Glass Menagerie. Feminine-centric Magnolia Theatre Company produced a splendid local premiere of the engrossing one-woman show K of D, but also greatly entertained with the delightful cabaret Broadway Beveled. Dare to Defy Productions pulled out the stops with American Idiot, but also impressed with the hilarious Great American Trailer Park Musical and snazzy, dance-heavy Wild Party.
Assessing the 65 shows I saw this season, I congratulate the following winners (in bold) and nominees.

Jennifer Joplin, Claire Kennedy and Scott Hunt in the Human Race Theatre Company’s production of “The Glass Menagerie” (Photo by Scott J. Kimmins)

(l to r) Brett Hill, Jenna Burnette, Christopher Hahn, and Kaleigh-Brooke Dillingham in “Reasons to Be Pretty” (Photo by Rachel Katz)

BEST TOURING PRODUCTION
The Book of Mormon, Victoria Theatre Association
The Bridges of Madison County, Victoria Theatre Association
Disney’s The Lion King, Victoria Theatre Association
Once, Victoria Theatre Association
Pippin,Victoria Theatre Association
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Victoria Theatre Association

BEST PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
The Glass Menagerie,Human Race Theatre Company
The K of D, An Urban Legend, Magnolia Theatre Company
Master Class, Human Race Theatre Company
Steel Magnolias, Human Race Theatre Company

BEST LOCALLY-PRODUCED PROFESSIONAL MUSICAL
A Christmas Story: The Musical, La Comedia Dinner Theatre
American Idiot, Dare to Defy Productions
The Full Monty, Human Race Theatre Company
The Great American Trailer Park Musical,Dare to Defy Productions
The Wild Party,Dare to Defy Productions

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
Circle Mirror Transformation, Young at Heart Players
Fools,Undercroft Players
Last Gas,Dayton Theatre Guild
Outside Mullingar, Dayton Theatre Guild
Reasons to Be Pretty, Playground Theatre

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL
1776, Dayton Playhouse
The Addams Family,Beavercreek Community Theatre
Carousel, Dayton Playhouse
Spring Awakening, Beavercreek Community Theatre

BEST COLLEGIATE PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
A Streetcar Named Desire, Wright State University
And A Child Shall Lead, University of Dayton with Zoot Theatre Company
Angels in America: Millennium Approaches, Clark State Community College
The Great Gatsby, Wright State University
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Sinclair Community College

BEST COLLEGIATE PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL
Chicago, Wright State University
Miss Mayor, Wright State University
The Music Man, Wright State University
Once Upon a Mattress, University of Dayton
The Wiz, Sinclair Community College

Dayton native and Wright State University grad Annie Pesch Contributed photo

BEST SPECIAL THEATRICAL EVENT
A Night with Janis Joplin, Victoria Theatre Association
American Mosaic, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Dayton Opera, Dayton Ballet, Human Race Theatre Company, Muse Machine, DCDC, and Bach Society of Dayton
An Evening with Jason Robert Brown, Wright State University Musical Theatre Initiative
Mary Poppins, Muse Machine
Tarzan,Epiphany Lutheran Church

BEST LEADING ACTOR IN A PLAY
Mike Beerbower as Anthony Reilly, Outside Mullingar
Saul Caplan as Roy Cohn, Angels in America: Millennium Approaches
Tommy DiMassimo as Stanley Kowalski, A Streetcar Named Desire
Christopher Hahn as Greg, Reasons to Be Pretty
Scott Hunt as Tom Wingfield, The Glass Menagerie
David Shough as Joseph Alsop, The Columnist (Dayton Theatre Guild)

BEST LEADING ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Christine Brunner as Truvy, Steel Magnolias
Jenna Burnette as Steph, Reasons to Be Pretty
Teresa Connair as Rosemary Muldoon, Outside Mullingar
Jenna Gomes as Becky, Slowgirl (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Ellie Margolis as Blanche DuBois, A Streetcar Named Desire
Annie Pesch as The Girl, The K of D, An Urban Legend

BEST LEADING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
Christian Johnson as Bert, Mary Poppins
Nathan Robert Pecchia as Harold Hill, The Music Man
Layne Roate as Johnny, American Idiot
Andrew Samonsky as Robert Kincaid, The Bridges of Madison County
Jeff Sams as Billy Bigelow, Carousel
Cody Jamison Strand as Elder Cunningham, The Book of Mormon

BEST LEADING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL

Pictured: Carolyn Popp, Christine Brunner, Caitlin Larsen, Patricia Linhart and Maretta Zilic

Kaitlyn Davidson as Ella, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella
Mackenzie Lesser-Roy as Girl, Once
Gabrielle McClinton as Leading Player, Pippin
Bailey Rose as Roxie Hart, Chicago
Brianna Russ as Mary Poppins, Mary Poppins
Elizabeth Stanley as Francesca Johnson, The Bridges of Madison County

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY
Eric Arntz as Martin Lowy, And A Child Shall Lead
Sean Frost as Louis Ironson, Angels in America: Millennium Approaches
Cody Lewis as Harold “Mitch” Mitchell, A Streetcar Named Desire
Dave Nickel as Tony Reilly, Outside Mullingar
John Spitler as Dr. Zubritsky, Fools
Drew Vidal as Jim O’Connor, The Glass Menagerie

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Megan Cooper as Theresa, Circle Mirror Transformation

The cast of Dayton Playhouse’s production of “1776” (Photo by Art Fabian)

Kaleigh-Brooke Dillingham as Carly, Reasons to Be Pretty
Claire Kennedy as Laura Wingfield, The Glass Menagerie
Caitlin Larsen as Ouiser, Steel Magnolias
Pam McGinnis as Freida, The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife (Dayton Playhouse)
Rachel Wilson as Cherry-Tracy Pulcifer, Last Gas

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
Tim Rezash as John Dickinson, 1776
John Rubenstein as Charles, Pippin
Tyler Simms as Amos Hart, Chicago
J. Gary Thompson as Jigger Craigin, Carousel
Malcolm Walker as The Wiz, The Wiz
Richard Young as Benjamin Franklin, 1776

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Cecily Dowd as Winifred Banks, Mary Poppins
Lisa Glover as Whatsername, American Idiot
Priscilla Lopez as Berthe, Pippin
Krissy McKim-Barker as Carrie Pipperidge, Carousel
Tia R. Seay as Betty, The Great American Trailer Park Musical
Megan Valle as Jacqueline “Jacq” Greer, Miss Mayor

(left to right) Rob Willoughby, Angie Thacker, Tori Kocher, Tia R. Seay, Eric Julian Walker, and Hayley Penchoff appear in Dare to Defy Productions’ presentation of “The Great American Trailer Park Musical.” (Contributed photo; not pictured Lisa Glover)

BREAKTHROUGH MALE PERFORMANCE
Evan Benjamin as Jack, Into the Woods (Dare to Defy Productions)
David E. Brandt as The Lion, The Wiz
Brett Hill as Kent, Reasons to Be Pretty
Dakota Mullins as Tommy Djilas, The Music Man
Thomas Cole Schreier as St. Jimmy, American Idiot
Eric Thompson as Enoch Snow, Carousel

BREAKTHROUGH FEMALE PERFORMANCE
Bryana Bentley as Rose, Fences (The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show/Sinclair Community College)
Caroline Chisholm as Velma Kelly, Chicago
Natalie Girard as Evelyn “Evie” Ensler (a.k.a. Helen Hensler), Miss Mayor
Adrienne (Adee) McFarland as Julie Jordan, Carousel
Vanae Pate as Dorothy, The Wiz
Madeline Sensenstein as Myrtle Wilson, The Great Gatsby

BEST DIRECTION OF A PLAY
Kimberly Borst, The K of D, An Urban Legend
David Brush, Reasons to Be Pretty
Greg Hellems, The Glass Menagerie
David Shough, Outside Mullingar
Jerome Yorke, And A Child Shall Lead

BEST DIRECTION OF A MUSICAL
Marya Spring Cordes, The Music Man
Joe Deer, Chicago
Chris Harmon, The Wiz
Megan Wean Sears, Tarzan
Angie Thacker, American Idiot

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Lula Elzy, Mary Poppins
Lisa Glover, The Wild Party
Kimberly Isaacs, American Idiot
Teressa Wylie McWilliams, Chicago
Rodney Veal, The Wiz
Dionysia Williams, The Music Man

BEST SCENIC DESIGN OF A PLAY
Bruce Brown, Last Gas
Matthew J. Evans, And A Child Shall Lead
Chris Newman, The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife (Dayton Playhouse)
Chris Newman and David Shough, Outside Mullingar
Terry Stump, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

BEST SCENIC DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Dick Block, The Full Monty
Adam Koch, Chicago
Pam Knauert Lavarnway, The Music Man
Terry Stump, The Wiz
Ray Zupp, Tarzan

BEST COSTUME DESIGN OF A PLAY
Donna Beran, And A Child Shall Lead
Carol Finley, The Columnist (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Mary Beth McLaughlin, The Great Gatsby
Janet G. Powell, Steel Magnolias
Emily Sollinger, A Streetcar Named Desire

BEST COSTUME DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Kathleen Carroll, 1776
Kathleen Hotmer, The Wiz
Maria Klueber and Lori Watamaniuk, Tarzan
Christie Peitzmeier, The Music Man
Michelle Sampson, Chicago

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UD’s production of AND A CHILD SHALL LEAD. Photo by: Tony Beran

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN OF A PLAY
Jadon Bischoff, Slowgirl (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Daniel Brunk, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
Jessica Ann Drayton, A Streetcar Named Desire
Matthew J. Evans, And A Child Shall Lead
Jessy Henning, The K of D, An Urban Legend

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Matthew Benjamin, American Idiot
Jacob Brown, The Music Man
Sammy Jelinek, Into the Woods (Dare to Defy Productions)
Gina Neuerer, The Wiz
John Rensel, Mary Poppins

BEST SOUND DESIGN OF A PLAY
Megan Banfield, And A Child Shall Lead
Jay Brunner, The Glass Menagerie
Emily Hutton, The K of D, An Urban Legend
Alex Koker, A Streetcar Named Desire
K.L. Storer, Last Gas

BEST SOUND DESIGN OF A MUSICAL
Daniel Brunk, The Wiz
James Dunlap, Chicago
Emily Hutton, The Music Man
Chris Pentecost, Tarzan
Ben Selke, A Night with Janis Joplin

BEST ORCHESTRA
A Night with Janis Joplin (Music Director: Mark Berman)
The Bridges of Madison County (Music Director: Keith Levenson)
Chicago (Music Director: Scott Woolley)
Mary Poppins (Music Director: Claude Lucien Thomas)
The Wiz (Music Director: David McKibben; Conductor: Dr. Kenneth Kohlenberg)

BEST PROPERTIES
Jason Hamen and Adrienne Ausdenmoore, Tarzan
Jennifer Kramer, The Wiz
Heather Powell, Steel Magnolias
Shannon Sellars, Mary Poppins
Mo Stinehart, And A Child Shall Lead

ADDITIONAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

David Alfano’s video and projection design for And A Child Shall Lead
Lynn Baudendistel, Robin Brown, Toni Donato Shade, and Alisa Vukasinovich’s costume coordination for Mary Poppins
Brad Bishop as Gomez Addams and Becky Barrett-Jones as Morticia Addams in The Addams Family
Jay Brunner’s incidental music for The Glass Menagerie
David Brush and Chris Harmon’s respective reconfigurations of the Mathile Theatre and Beavercreek Community Theatre for Reasons to Be Pretty and Spring Awakening
Steven Burton and Tim Grewe’s wig design for 1776
The Tony-winning creative team for The Lion King: Director/designer Julie Taymor, scenic designer Richard Hudson, lighting designer Donald Holder, and choreographer Garth Fagan
The creative team for Miss Mayor: Christian Duhamel (music and lyrics), Ellie Margolis (book) and Greg Hellems (concept/additional book)
Micah Koverman as Colin in The Secret Garden (Playhouse South)
Bob Crowley’s Tony-winning scenic design, Natasha Katz’s Tony-winning lighting design, John Tiffany’s Tony-winning direction, and Steven Hoggett’s movement for Once
Tristan Cupp’s puppet design for And A Child Shall Lead
Cicily Daniels, Tawny Dolley, Q. Smith, and Jennifer Leigh Warren as the Joplinaries in A Night with Janis Joplin
Mary Bridget Davies’ Tony-nominated portrayal of Janis Joplin in A Night with Janis Joplin
Elis Davis, Jordan Adams, Connor Lysholm, and Kyle Krichbaum as The Quartet in The Music Man
Jonathan Deans and Garth Helm’s Tony-nominated sound design, Paul Kieve’s illusions, Dominique Lemieux’s Tony-nominated costumes, Scott Pask’s Tony-nominated scenic design, Diane Paulus’ Tony-winning direction, Kenneth Posner’s Tony-nominated lighting design, Gypsy Snider’s circus creation, and Chet Walker’s Tony-nominated choreography for Pippin
Jasmine Easler as Oprah Winfrey in Miss Mayor
Carol Finley’s costumes for Five Women Wearing the Same Dress (Beavercreek Community Theatre)
TJ “Tyler” Fortson, Katelyn Gross, Ashlee Ferrell, and Maximillian Santucci in Quid Pro Quo (Sinclair Community College)
Mierka Girten as Maria Callas, musical director Sean Michael Flowers’ accompaniment and Cassi Mikat as Sharon Graham in Master Class
Jose Gutierrez del Arroyo as Franklin Shepard in Merrily We Roll Along (Beavercreek Community Theatre)
Chris Harmon’s scenic design for California Suite, Five Women Wearing the Same Dress and Spring Awakening (Beavercreek Community Theatre)
William Ivey Long’s Tony-winning costumes and Josh Rhodes’ choreography for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella
Jeffrey Mack as Tarzan in Tarzan
Gary Minyard’s fight choreography for She Kills Monsters (Sinclair)
Wendi Michael’s scenic design for Slowgirl (Dayton Theatre Guild)
Jared Mola as Nat Paradis and Rick Flynn as Guy Gagnon in Last Gas
The Murderesses of “Cell Block Tango” in Chicago (Caroline Chisholm, Alex Caldwell, Haylee Dobkins, Alyson Snyder, Megan Valle, and Meredith Zahn)
Chris Newman’s scenic design for The Diary of Anne Frank (Dayton Playhouse)
Casey Nicholaw’s Tony-winning choreography of The Book of Mormon
Annie Pesch and Fran Pesch’s rendition of “No More” in Broadway Beveled: A Feminine Cabaret
Micah Stock as Tom Wingfield (The Glass Menagerie) in American Mosaic
Matthew Tabor’s Hungarian dialect coaching for Chicago
Deborah Thomas’ dialect coaching for The Great Gatsby
André Tomlinson, Bryana Bentley, Greyson Calvert, and Rebecca Henry as The Yellow Brick Road in The Wiz
ZFX, Inc.’s flying effects for Tarzan

Zoot Theatre Company Names Executive Director

February 1, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro

Zoot Theatre Company, a forward-thinking theatrical design company, specializing in puppets and masks, has announced the selection of Emily von Stuckrad-Smolinski as its new Executive Director.

“We are ecstatic to welcome Emily as our new Executive Director.” reported Natasha Randall, Zoot Theatre Company’s Board Chair. “We feel that we have found the perfect person to lead Zoot into its next phase of growth. Emily will bring a fresh perspective, passion and creativity to Zoot, building upon its strengths and deep sense of commitment to our region’s arts sector. She has served nonprofits at all technical levels and has a breadth of perspective and experience. We look forward to what the future holds.”

“I feel that Emily’s love and understanding of the arts and its importance in the community will strengthen Zoot’s presence here in Dayton and abroad. Emily has the enthusiasm and the creative thought to take this unique company on a wonderful journey,” mused Tristan Cupp, Artistic Director.

Emily’s resume includes over 17 years of theatrical and arts management throughout Dayton’s major arts leaders. She spent the majority of her time with the Victoria Theatre Association advancing tours that graced the Victoria’s stage working with IATSE Local 66. She also took great care of the Rike’s Animated Figures. Prior to that, she filled her days at Memorial Hall before the stage fell dark. Emily volunteers with Dayton Visual Arts Center and serves on the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural Board of Directors. She also serves on the Board for Zoot Theatre Company.

“I look forward as I continue to serve and partner with the area’s non-profit organizations in this new capacity,” remarks Emily. “I am dedicated to Zoot Theatre Company because it provides cultural enrichment and enlightenment to our community and is one of the few theatrical touring companies in Dayton.”

Since the enactment of the “Reboot Zoot” campaign in 2014, ZTC has been restructuring itself to put a focus back on collaboration and touring and 2015 showed signs of how strong the company could be in both sectors. With puppets in Town Hall’s production of BUNNICULA, full production design of Mid-Ohio Opera’s ELIXIR OF LOVE in Mansfield, caroling puppets at WOODLAND LIGHTS, a performance art piece called IRRECONCILABLE DIFFERENCES in collaboration with University of Dayton, a stunning original work for TEDX DAYTON, a mini-tour of Miami Valley Libraries for children, and our original touring production of GOBLINS that traveled all over southern Ohio, Zoot is ready to continue the path toward fiscal health and artistic integrity.

We’re excited to announce that 2016 will see Zoot getting back to the roots of what has made it one of the most exciting companies in Dayton. ZTC will be reviving their critically acclaimed AND A CHILD SHALL LEAD as part of a semester long University of Dayton residency with Tristan Cupp. They will also be restoring “Zoot Tales,” puppet short stories that they can offer in an array of venues & prices, continue their legacy of collaboration with the best arts organizations and artists in the Miami Valley and, of course, continuing to add new titles to their touring line-up, playing to an ever growing collection of venues in Dayton and beyond. The Zoot Theatre Company.

Coming up in Dayton theatre, 10/23 – 11/3

October 23, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Welcome back! You know, whenever I type that phrase, I think of the theme song to the 1970’s sitcom “Welcome Back, Kotter!” Only, in this case, your dreams aren’t your ticket. Your tickets are your dreams. And in each one of the pieces I’m synopsizing for you, there are dreams a’plenty. For safety, for glory, for happiness…and maybe just for a really good-looking man.

Was that too much? I may be waxing poetic. Probably best, then, just to dive right in!

Limited Engagement!

War Horse

The Schuster Center

The Skinny: A heart-warming tale of loyalty and friendship, War Horse is based on the 1982 novel of the same name. The plot heart-warming tale of loyalty and friendship, War Horse tells the story of young Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, set amid the horrors of the first World War. And features puppetry you must see to believe.

Dates:

Tickets: Tickets are available at the Victoria Theatre Association website, www.victoriatheatre.com

Opening This Weekend!

Deathtrap

Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: A writer of thrillers, who has seen his unsuccessful plays greatly outnumber his smashes, receives a nearly perfect thriller in the mail from a fan. After inviting the fan to his home, the question becomes…what would you do for a taste of glory? This is a dark comedy that will make you laugh, and gasp, and keep you guessing.

Dates: Deathtrap opens 10/25 and will run through 11/03.

Tickets: Please visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Dog Sees God – Confessions of a Teenaged Blockhead

Beavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny: An “unauthorized parody,” the play imagines characters from the popular comic strip Peanuts as teenagers. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion, sexual relations and identity are among the issues covered in this drama. Not for the younger set, as this is produced by BCT’s more-adult “Edge Of The Creek” season.

Dates:

Tickets: Please see the Beavercreek Community Theatre website at www.bctheatre.org

Oklahoma!

Wright State University

The Skinny: This beloved Rogers & Hammerstein classic tells the story of the denizens of the Oklahoma territory, just as it is poised on the cusp of statehood. You know it, you love it. It’s a guaranteed good time in the theatre.

Dates: Oklahoma opens Thursday, 10/24 and will run through 11/10.

Tickets: Please visit the Wright State box office page, here.

Currently In Production!

The Rocky Horror (Puppet!) Show

Zoot Theatre Company

The Skinny: The sweet transvestite and his motley crew will take the stage in an entirely new way and for the first time ever at the NCR Renaissance Auditorium. A much different take on this classic, yet campy musical this deliberately kitschy rock ‘n’ roll sci-fi Gothic is more fun than ever and let’s face it…it’s going to be done like ONLY Zoot can do! Caution: adult themes and strong language are used. Recommended for those ages 16 and up.

Dates: RH(P)S is currently in production, having opened last weekend, and will run through 11/2.

Tickets: Please call the Zoot box office at 937.512.0140

Opening Next Weekend!

Fiddler On The Roof

The Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Based on the short stories of Sholem Aleichem, Fiddler is the tale of Tevye the milkman and his family. The shtetl of Anatevka seems safe and peaceful, but the sweeping changes facing Russia in 1905 bring strife and worry even to its smallest pockets. Fiddler juxtaposes the large changes rocking the world with the intimate, beautiful and sometimes heart-breaking changes that can rock a family.

Dates: This production will open on 10/31 and run through 12/1.

Tickets: Please visit the Human Race Theatre Company website at www.humanracetheatre.org

‘The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show’ Review – Zoot Theatre Company –A Strange, Sexual & Unforgettable Journey

October 17, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. 8 Comments

JJ Parkey as Dr. Frank ‘N’ Furter in Zoot Theatre Company’s production of “The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show” (Contributed photo by Dawn Ruggles)

Babies, don’t you panic. Over at the Frankenstein place (a.k.a. the Dayton Art Institute), Zoot Theatre Company’s production of Richard O’Brien’s “The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show” is a totally commendable experience absolutely blessed by a singular sensation in high heels and fishnets.

O’Brien’s envelope- pushing yet enduring 1973 tale of an innocent couple’s sexual awakening inside a demented castle is so full of sci-fi gobbledygook and campy silliness that it’s imperative for an ensemble to completely dive in no holds barred. The balancing act of staying rooted in character while not taking anything seriously is the key to inhabiting this thin, outlandish romp. Thankfully, director/musical director John Faas assembles an amusing, eager, passionate and vocally admirable team who spiritedly attack the material for all its worth. I question Faas immediately exaggerating tone by having the cast interact with each other and the audience during the nostalgic opener “Science Fiction Double Feature” (which oddly detracts from his inspired addition of projections and show credits displayed center stage), but he shapes a smoother, hilariously carnal course thereafter that aims to please.
In fact, the course at hand, which rightfully encourages audience participation, is brilliantly taken to another dimension the jaw-dropping moment JJ Parkey arrives as Dr. Frank ‘N’ Furter, the mad scientist and sex-craved megalomaniac thrilled to have created the perfect man. Decadently costumed by Ayn Wood as a glam rock god and strutting around the stage as if it’s his own personal runway, Parkey, totally aware that Frank craves attention and respect, sends the pulsating “Sweet Transvestite” through the roof to fearsome, commanding and delectably bitchy degrees. It is a truly astonishing moment that not only seems to stop time, but remarkably recalls the uninhibited raw power of his fierce, haunting portrayal of Hedwig in Encore Theater Company’s 2011 production of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.” Still, the most alluring aspect of his thrillingly domineering and delightfully comedic embodiment of Frank is his freedom to be as assertively over-the-top as he wants without the risk of overpowering his fellow actors. He can simply savor the role for the showy spectacle it was intended to be. By time he raises the roof again late in Act 2 with a soaring rendition of “I’m Going Home” while channeling the divas of yore with old-fashioned Hollywood glamour, you’ll find it hard to imagine anyone else leading this show.
Elsewhere, the bespectacled, multi-tasking Ray Zupp is a naturally endearing and humorously dopey Brad Majors, who shares Walter White’s fondness for tighty whities. The equally pleasant Beth Conley is a genuinely green and gullible Janet Weiss, but her “Touch-A-Touch-A Touch Me” epiphany could be more vigorously vivacious. Anyone who saw Riley Able’s breakthrough performance as handsome, shirtless, muscular drifter Hal Carter in Wright State University’s 2011 production of “Picnic” will not be surprised he’s playing the handsome, shirtless, muscular Rocky. There is more to Able than his physique (seven months ago he was a sophisticated Baron in WSU’s dazzling “Grand Hotel”), but right now he’s turning heads as a thoroughly entertaining doofus in tight gold shorts and that ain’t no crime. Matt Zanfagna (Riff-Raff), Alison Koch (Magenta) and Stephanie Jenkins (Columbia) are a fittingly creepy, mischievous and subservient trio although the committed Koch has a tendency to scream-sing, leaving most of her lyrics incomprehensible. Natalie Houliston is an unbridled joy exhibiting sharp comedic timing in the dual roles of Dr. Scott and Eddie, particularly leading a rousing “Hot Patootie” that is among the many exuberant numbers choreographed by Shawn Storms. Julia Gomez, Chelsea Hauptsteuck, Philip Stock and Ben Tracy keep the debauchery alive with seductive magnetism as the Phantoms. Eric Antz, Juliet-Howard Welch and Michael Stockstill are the silently proficient trio operating puppets (designed by Zoot artistic director D. Tristan Cupp) representing the remnants of Frank’s bizarre handiwork. Andrew Ian Adams also exhibits skilled puppetry while fluidly guiding the proceedings with engagingly ghoulish glee as the Narrator.
J. Gary Thompson’s sound design proved very problematic at the performance attended, but Wood’s sexy costumes, Zupp’s efficient sets, John Rensel’s atmospheric, Technicolor rock concert lighting, and Edward Wooten’s satisfying band are more gratifying technical components.
Bound to please die-hard fans and curious newbies, this “Rocky” will be remembered for expanding Zoot’s artistic capabilities and allowing the phenomenal Parkey to deliver one of the best performances of 2013.

“The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show” continues through Nov. 2 in the NCR Renaissance Auditorium of the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton. Performances are Oct. 25-27 and Nov. 1-2; Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. There will also be a special midnight performance Oct. 26. Act One: 40 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $12-$20. Visit www.zoottheatrecompany.org for tickets or more information. Patrons are advised the musical is recommended for ages 16 and older due to strong language and adult themes.

DMM has 3 pairs of tickets to give away to some of our lucky winners to see The Rocky Horror (Puppet) Show. If you’d like to be our guest just like this review and comment on why you should win and fill out the form below! We’ll post our winners here Thursday night!

Congrats to our winners: Harvey from Huber Heights, Debbie from Kettering and Beth from Springfield! Enjoy the show!

Zoot Theatre Company Presents “And a Child Shall Lead” + TICKET CONTEST

April 2, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Zoot Theatre Company, Dayton’s only professional puppetry and mask company will produce Michael Slade’s AND A CHILD SHALL LEAD at the Dayton Art Institute’s NCR Renaissance Auditorium April 5-14, 2013.

Michael Slade is no stranger to Dayton. He has been in the area twice in the past year, both times at The Human Race Theatre Company, which produced Slade’s UNDER A RED MOON and more recently a reading of GINGERBREAD CHILDREN. Michael was able to stop by the Zoot Studios to get a glimpse of Zoot’s puppets that will tell this moving and heart-wrenching story.

AND A CHILD SHALL LEAD is the true story of children coming of age in Terezin, the “Jewish city” established by the Nazis as a way station before the death camps. In the face of unspeakable horror, these children use their determination and creativity — playing, studying, making art, and writing an underground newspaper — all at the peril of being executed. Their actual poems and stories are woven into this fast-paced drama.

The Zoot Theatre Company brings its beautiful and amazing puppet artistry to life on the stage of the NCR Renaissance Auditorium as a new resident company of The DAI in 2012!

All Zoot MainStage performances are held on Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. in the museum’s NCR Renaissance Auditorium.

Season subscriptions for Zoot’s 2012-2013 MainStage Series are on sale now and priced at $45 for adults, $42 for seniors and students, $33 for children 12 & under. Individual tickets go on sale August 27, and will be priced at $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, $12 for children 12 & under.

Special Offer!
Combine with Arts Night Out for even better savings!
Zoot has partnered with The Dayton Art Institute for a special subscription package that combines the MainStage Series with DAI’s brand-new Arts Night Out series! The combined subscription package (6 shows) is just $110 for adults, $108 for seniors & students!

ON STAGE DAYTON REVIEW: A Christmas Carol (Zoot Theatre Company) – Holiday Whimsy

December 13, 2012 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

A CHRISTMAS CAROL -John Gary Thompson, JJ Parkey, Heather Atkinson and Lizzy Miller (Photo: Scott J. Kimmins)

Excellent puppetry boosts Zoot Theatre Company’s production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at the Dayton Art Institute.

As the familiar, redemptive Christmas Eve journey of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge transpires, adapted and helmed by Aaron Vega, it’s difficult not to be amazed by puppet designer D. Tristan Cupp’s artistry. Every marvelously detailed creation brims with personality from Ebenezer’s beak-like nose and thin frame to an adorably diminutive youngster with a penchant for caroling. Most eye-catching is his clever reimagining of the Ghost of Christmas Past (recounting Ebenezer’s history in the form of a film projector) and the Ghost of Christmas Present (a humorous copper conception). Due to the slight monotony of Vega’s narrative-driven adaptation, which emotionally resonates but could have been better paced without an intermission, Cupp’s contributions, which also include fine illustrations, are vital to selling the story in a fresh, unexpected fashion.

Still, Vega sprinkles the proceedings with inspired moments including the wonderful reveal of Ebenezer’s late partner Jacob Marley (expertly lit by John Rensel) and the spooky use of videography for the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come. His decision to place the actors in shadow late in Act Two is a notable misstep (the actors are occasionally unintelligible which slows the action), but his staging is atmospheric, fluid and playful nonetheless.

Exhibiting great versatility as puppeteers, the compatible cast, adopting decent British accents and nicely costumed with a Victorian sensibility by Shirley P. Wasser, features the welcomed return of Wright State University theater graduates Ryan James Imhoff and JJ Parkey along with Heather Atkinson, Lizzy Miller and J. Gary Thompson. The tall, striking Imhoff is a terrifically conflicted Young Ebenezer and an absolutely earthy delight as the boozy Ghost of Christmas Present. Parkey, bubbly and expressive as ever, is a funny, genial and warm Bob Cratchit as well as a fittingly ominous Marley. Atkinson and Miller, a charming pair, respectively shine as Mrs. Cratchit and the Ghost of Christmas Past. Oddly, Thompson, comfortably strapped to the Ebenezer puppet akin to Julie Taymor’s visualization of Timon in “The Lion King,” is more cranky than colorful, lessening his appeal in a role with numerous layers. Even so, he endearingly reiterates the joy permeating throughout Ebenezer’s chuckle-inducing transformation, which remains the ultimate heartwarming hallmark of this enduring tale.

“A Christmas Carol” continues through Dec. 15 in the NCR Renaissance Auditorium of the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Act One: 45 minutes; Act Two: 48 minutes. Tickets are priced at $18 for adults, $15 for students and seniors and $12 for children 12 and under. For tickets, visit www.daytonartinstitute.org. For more information, visit http://zootttheatrecompany.org.

Coming up in Dayton theatre, 12/14 – 12/23

December 13, 2012 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Hello again, one and all. I can’t believe that this edition will bring us right up to the edge of Christmas and, ergo, nearly to the dawn of 2013. Things do tend to slow down a bit as we coast into the Holiday Season, most shows are done with their runs before Christmas and new ones don’t really start up again until we get into January. But there are still several offerings out here for you to sample. For starts!

Closing This Weekend!

12 Dancing Princess

Xenia Area Community Theatre (X*ACT)

The Skinny:X*ACT bills this production as a “Holiday family show,” and indeed this story is one that will please the youngest among us. Based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, it follows the 12 daughters of a king who are locked in their bedroom each night, and yet appear each morning with shoes worn out from dancing.

Dates: Closing on the 16th.

Tickets: Tickets are available at the door, for more information please visit the X*ACT website, here.

A Christmas Carol

Zoot Theatre Company

The Skinny: Dayton’s puppet theatre company takes on Dickens seasonal classic, delightfully retelling this classic morality play as only Zoot can.

Dates: Closing this weekend, on the 15th.

Tickets: Tickets are available at the Dayton Art Institute website, here.

Scrooge

The Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: Adapted from the Charles Dickens classic, “A Christmas Carol,” this musical closely follows the classic story with the miserly Ebenezer undergoing a profound experience of redemption over the course of a Christmas Eve night, after being visited by the ghost of his former partner Jacob Marley and the Spirits of Christmas past, present and future.

Dates: Three performances left, closing on 12/16.

Tickets: Tickets are available at the Dayton Playhouse website, here.

Annie

Troy Civic Theatre

The Skinny: The famous musical version of Lil’ Orphan Annie is,indeed, a Christmas-set offering. This show is a heart-warming favorite, sure to please families with kids, or without.

Dates: One more weekend, closing on the 15th.

Tickets: Tickets are available for reservation by calling 937-339-7700. Pricing information can be found at the Troy Civic Theatre website, here.

Continuing!

Oliver!

The Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Christmas Eve in London, 1838. A small group of working-class, wayward souls gather in a tavern to celebrate when a small, unexpected guest prompts a spontaneous telling of the popular Oliver Twist. With traditional music-hall flair, they delve into Charles Dickens’ haunting moral tale as the lines between story and reality blur. Sized perfectly for The Loft Theatre, this reimagining of the classic Tony Award®-winning musical will touch your heart and challenge your spirit. It’s Oliver with a twist, indeed! Dayton Most Metro’s Russell Florence reviewed Oliver! Click here to read it!

Dates: You’ve got several more chances to catch this wonderful production, which runs through the 22nd.

Tickets: Tickets are available through the Human Race Theatre Company website, here.

One Weekend Only!

In The Spotlight!

Playhouse South

The Skinny: Playhouse Souths annual revue-style evening of musical theatre selections, this year entitled “At The Movies” and featuring numbers from musicals, TV shows and movies.

Dates: Two performances only, December 2oth and 21st.

Tickets: Tickets are available at the Playhouse South website, here.

So, that all gives you plenty to see up to Christmas eve eve eve (12/22)! Remember, a night at the theatre is not only a wonderful date, it’s also a splendid holiday gift! There’s 9 days til Christmas and 2 nights of Hanukkah left…head to your favorite theatre box office and buy tickets!

Coming up in Dayton Theatre, 11/30 – 12/9

November 29, 2012 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Welcome back, theatre lover! Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We’ve gotten into the cinematic heavyweight season now, with all the studios releasing their highly anticipated pieces, hoping to garner little golden statues. But remember, there are also pieces of theatre in the area just as highly anticipated and every bit as delightful!

Closing This Weekend!

White Christmas

The Schuster Center

The Skinny: Irving Berlin’s classic Christmas tale comes to the Schuster Center stage in all it’s glory!

Dates: Only a few performances left, closing on Sunday, 12/2!

Tickets: All ticketing information is available online, here

Now Running!

A Tuna Christmas

The Dayton Theatre Guild

The Skinny: It’s Christmas time and local radio personalities Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie tell us all about the annual Christmas lawn display contest that Viola Carp keeps winning (14 times), the troubled local production of A Christmas Carol and along the way introduce us to a host of colorful characters, each one funnier than the last, in this little mythical Texas town. Two actors portray more than twenty roles in this hilarious production.

Dates: A Tuna Christmas runs 2 more weekends, closing Sunday the 9th. The Saturday performances for this weekend and next are at 5 pm.

Tickets: Ticketing information is available via the DTG website, here.

Opening This Weekend!

Oliver!

The Human Race Theatre Company

Dates: With a run extended past it’s original dates, Oliver! now opens Friday, 11/30 and runs through 12/22, making it a perfect Christmastime date.

Tickets: Tickets are available online at the Human Race Theatre Company website, here.

Scrooge

The Dayton Playhouse

Dates: Opening on 11/30 and running three weekends to close 12/16.

Tickets: Tickets are available online at the Dayton Playhouse website, here.

A Christmas Carol

Zoot Theatre Company

The Skinny: Dayton’s puppet theatre company takes on Dickens seasonal classic, retelling a familiar story in the way only Zoot can.

Dates: Opening 11/30 and running 3 weekends, closing December 15th.

Tickets: Tickets are available for purchase online at the Dayton Art Institute website, here.

Annie

Troy Civic Theatre

The Skinny: The famous musical version of Lil’ Orphan Annieis,indeed, a Christmas-set offering. This show is a heart-warming favorite, sure to please families with kids, or without.

Dates: Opening 11/30 and running 3 weekends, to close on 12/15.

Tickets: Tickets are available for reservation by calling 937-339-7700. Pricing information can be found at the Troy Civic Theatre website, here.

One Night Only!

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Tipp City Players

The Skinny: Another Christmas-themed offering; Tipp City is bring a readers-theatre rendition of the Dr. Seuss morality play of a green man whose heart “grew three sizes that day.”

Tickets: Admission is free, but donations are warmly appreciated. Information is available on the Tipp City Players website, here.

Theatre Reviews: The Hobbit – Zoot Theatre Company AND The Taming of the Shrew – Sinclair Community College

October 6, 2012 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

The Hobbit

THE HOBBIT

Zoot Theatre Company, Dayton’s enchanting puppet/mask troupe, supplies a wonderfully inventive and imaginative production of “The Hobbit,” adapted by Patricia Gray from J.R.R. Tolkein’s novel and whimsically co-directed by D. Tristan Cupp and J. Gary Thompson at the Dayton Art Institute.

This humorous, inspiring road trip through Middle-earth, propelled by fine original music by Thompson and brief moments of eye-catching stagecraft recalling Julie Taymor (“The Lion King”), concerns an unlikely heroic homebody and a merry, opinionated band of 13 dwarves determined to defeat the evil dragon Smaug and retrieve great treasure. The fanciful material’s adventurous magnetism is bolstered by Cupp and Thompson’s decision to dress and conceal the cast in black, allowing the audience to view the story simply through the eyes of various puppets, superbly designed with meticulously distinctive character by Cupp.

Led by an effortlessly winning and sympathetic Darren Brown as the humble Bilbo Baggins, the uniformly strong ensemble features solid supporting work by an authoritatively comedic Jeff Sams as Gandalf, the delightfully gruff Natalie Houliston as Thorin and the terrifically animated Andrew Ian Adams as the simultaneously sly and frustrated Gollum. Eric Arntz, Lisa Bernheim, Michael Favors, Juliet Howard-Welch, Austin Smith, CJ Suchyta, Nicole Thompkins and Ria Villaver complete the cast. Andy Balmert’s evocative lighting, Cupp’s efficient set, Shirley P. Wasser’s skillful costumes and Jon Lamm’s firm sound execution are additional pluses.

“The Hobbit” continues through Oct. 14 in the NCR Renaissance Auditorium of the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes. Tickets are $12-$18. For tickets or more information, visit ZootTheatreCompany.org.

Haley Penchoff and Isaac Hollister in The Taming of the Shrew (Photo by Patti Celek)

THE TAMING OF THE SHREW

Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” the comedic battle of the sexes between hot-tempered Katherina and cunningly indomitable Petruchio heightened with brutishness, feistiness, impudence and mistaken identity, receives an uneven treatment at Sinclair Community College.

Director Nelson Sheeley’s breezy pace and effective Elizabethan touches (attractively aided by scenic designer Terry Stump, costumer Kathleen Hotmer and music director John Parcell) cannot hide the interpretative inconsistencies within his cast, amiable performers lacking a cohesive grasp of the language, nuances and rhythm in the colorful script. Some actors connect with vibrant adeptness and refreshing wit (Charles Larkowsi in particular is the finest Baptista I have seen) while others hurriedly recite lines without meaning or depth. Instead of fine-tuning key performances, Sheely seems to have been more concerned with thrusting the show into an all-out farce. However, his attempts are more forced than inspired, especially when it comes to flatulence, urination and a bejeweled codpiece.

Still, compatible and commendable leading players Hayley Penchoff and Isaac Hollister establish a convincingly combative rapport that keeps the action engaging and entertaining. The cast also includes Aeriel Aniballi, Samantha Creech, William G.L. Courson, John Dunn, Jordan Duvall, Jordan Huber, Destre Inlow, Rick McClintic, Zach Mills, Lucas Plum, John Ray, Rebecca Sebree, Tray Shelton, Josh Smith and Alayna Spence.

“The Taming of the Shrew” concludes tonight at 8 p.m. at Sinclair Community College, Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Act One-Three: 65 minutes; Act Four-Five: 55 minutes. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit Sinclair.edu.

Coming up in Dayton Theatre: September 14th – 30th

September 14, 2012 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Before I get started, I just want to take a moment to thank everyone for their continued support and readership of On Stage Dayton and Dayton Most Metro. Please be sure to link and share any content you like. Additionally, please make sure that you’re suggesting to your friends that they “like” both Dayton Most Metro and On Stage Dayton so that they, too, can get updates and information. Alright, earnest plea for free promotion out of the way! On to the business at hand!

Closing This Weekend

Musical Chairs

Beavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny: BCT’s season opener is an ensemble piece about an audience watching the most reason offering by a struggling playwright who is, lets just say, not having the best night.

The Dates: Musical Chairs closes this weekend, on Sunday the 16th

Tickets: Tickets are available online at www.bctheatre.org

Opus

Dayton Theatre Guild

The Skinny: DTG’s season opener about a world-class male string quartet, and their controversial decision to bring on a female member, closes this weekend.

DTG Podcast of Opus

The Dates:Opus has its last 3 performances this weekend. Bear in mind, Guild 2nd and 3rd Saturdays are always at 5:00 pm. Sunday matinees are 3:00 pm.

Tickets: Ticket reservation and purchases can be made online at www.daytontheatreguild.org

Noises Off

Brookville Community Theatre

The Skinny: This delightful “backstage” farce is a perennial favorite among actors and audience members alike. It takes place during the stressful rehearsal and disastrous road-tour of a production of the fictional comedy “Nothing On.”

The Dates: Noises Off concludes its run this weekend, on September 16th.

Tickets: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling the Brookville Flower Shop at 937.833.3531

Side By Side By Sondheim

The Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: This 1977 Tony Award-winning musical is a revue of songs written by the patron saint of American Musical Theatre, Stephen Sondheim.

The Dates: Side By Side closes Sunday September 16th.

Tickets: Tickets are available online at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Opening This Weekend!

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

Town Hall Theatre

The Skinny: After she strikes a terrible bargain with the evil sea-witch, Ursula, Ariel must convince the handsome Prince Eric that she is the girl with the enchanting voice who rescued him.

The Dates: The Little Mermaid opens September 14th and 2 weekends, to close September 30th.

Tickets: Tickets are available online, here.

Continuing!

Managing Maxine

The Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: The Human Race opens its season with this new comedy about silver-aged love and late-life sexiness.

The Dates: Managing Maxine runs through September 23rd.

Tickets: All information can be found at the Human Race website, www.humanracetheatre.org

Coming Soon!

The Taming of the Shrew

Sinclair Community College

The Skinny: This classic is the tale of a merchant’s two daughters. The younger, prettier, Bianca, cannot be married before her strong-willed sister, Katherina. Trickery ensues as a young adventurer from Verona decides to woo and win Katherina bringing new meaning to love, honor and obey.

The Dates: Friday, Saturday and Sunday the 28th – 30th are at the typical 8 pm, 8 pm and 2 pm times. Then there is a performance Wednesday, October 3rd at 10:00 am. This slot is typically for school audiences but open to the public as well. There is also a performance on Thursday, October 4th at 7:00 pm. Friday and Saturday, October 5th and 6th are both at 8 pm.

Tickets: Sinclair’s box office can be reached online here: Sinclair Box Office.

The Hobbit

Zoot Theate Company

The Skinny: Dayton’s only puppet theatre company returns, this time with their take on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved (or should we say “precious”?) “The Hobbit.” All performances will be at the NCR auditorium at the Dayton Art Institute.

Dates: The halflings, wizards and dwarfs will premier on September 28th and run weekends through October 4th.

Tickets: Tickets are available at the Dayton Art Institute website: here.

Auditions

Scrooge

The Dayton Playhouse

Dayton Playhouse will hold auditions for the musical Scrooge at 7:00 PM, September 24 and 25 in the lobby at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414.

Please prepare 32 bars of a standard musical theater piece, or a verse of your favorite Christmas Carol; an accompanist will be provided.

Be prepared to do cold readings and to provide information about dance experience. There will be no general dance audition. In addition to the many roles available, the director is looking for a male tap dancer/singer to play Tom Jenkins.

Performances will be November 30 December 16.

For additional information contact director Craig Smith at [email protected].

Jane’s Best Bets (4/20 – 4/24)

April 19, 2011 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Easter is this coming Sunday, so here’s to an EGGcellent week!

On Wednesday, head to Bruning’s Wine Cellar for their Big-Ass Beer and Cab Tasting. For the record, those are their words, not mine. Or make your way to Nick’s Restaurant for the Rock and Roll Wine Tasting. If you haven’t yet, be sure to sign up to network with other young professionals as part of Generation Dayton’s Speed Networking at the Racquet Club. Interested in photography but don’t know where to start? Head to the K12 Gallery for Young People’s Camera Class. By young, I believe they mean for the young and young at heart. Over at Fifth Third Field, catch the Dragons as they play the Bowling Green Hot Rods. And finally, get your tickets to see Permanent Collection at The Loft Theatre. Don’t let the name fool you…the show won’t be running permanently.

On Thursday, all you green lovers will want to participate in the Dayton Metro Library’s Earth Day Extravaganza at their East Branch. Over at the Dayton Art Institute, learn how to draw by attending the Third Thursday Drawing Workshop with James Pate…hopefully the event will be a big draw for the museum. Sing your heart out at with Karaoke Thursdays at Champps Americana or at Karaoke Night at Therapy Café. And over at the amazing Schuster Center, catch the Zoot Theatre Company’s Phantom Tollbooth at Schuster Performing Arts Center.

On (Good) Friday, all you environmentally conscious people will want to attend the ‘Dump the Pump’ Kickoff at Wright Stop Plaza Transit Center. It’s the last day of “no meat” during Lent this year, so bring your significant other to The Melting Pot for their Couples Seafood Fondue Dinner. And if you don’t have a significant other, you can just have lots of leftovers! I’m sure that the Beatles would want you to catch the Dayton Theatre Guild’s performance of Blackbird. If you don’t care about what the Beatles would like, other performances for Friday include Permanent Collection at The Loft Theatre and Zoot Theatre Company’s ‘Phantom Tollbooth’ at the Schuster Center.

On Saturday, learn about Wines for Easter at Jungle Jim’s. Make your way to church a day earlier (Southminster Presbyterian Church) for Gustafer Yellowgold’s Infinity Sock, An All-New Multimedia Experience. The New York Times described it as “a cross between Yellow Submarine and Dr. Seuss.” Art lovers should make plans to attend the Dayton Art Institute’s Sound Bites: Short Talks about Art. In theater news, you will be able to catch Blackbird at Dayton Theatre Guild or Permanent Collection at The Loft Theatre. Listen to the music of three legendary songwriters at Victoria Theatre in the performance, Soundtrack of Your Life – featuring Jimmy Webb, Barry Mann & Paul Williams. Support the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) with Dayton Acoustic (A Benefit Show) at Blind Bob’s Tavern. While you’re down in the Oregon District, you can also head to Oregon Express to catch the music of Uncle Rico.

On Easter Sunday, after church and after hunting for Easter eggs, it’s all about eating good food. There are numerous places offering Easter brunch, including The Caroline, The Winds Café and Bakery, the Hilton Garden Inn, C’est Tout, McCormick & Schmicks, The Hawthorn Grill, Yankee Trace Golf Club, Fleming’s, and Barleycorn’s. In addition, L’Auberge is offering a 3 Course Easter Sunday Supper. I hope you all have a wonderful Easter with your family!

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

Why did the Easter egg hide? He was a little chicken.

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

Have an eggcellent week Dayton!