He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Dayton in MJ, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award®-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. It’s thrilling sold out crowds on Broadway, in cities across North America, and in London’s West End… and now MJ is startin’ somethin’ in Dayton as it makes its premiere at the Schuster Center.
Arts & Entertainment
Oh Yes, Oh Yes, Oh Yes….This is the “CHICAGO” You Were Hoping For!
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Let’s face it, CHICAGO is a mainstay of Broadway shows… and TheatreLab Dayton is bringing you the CHICAGO you are hoping for. Punchy, funny, poignant, and true to the script….they are giving you the energy you need! Giving us a minute of their time, Mackensie King (Director) and Abby Kress (Roxie) sat down to talk about the upcoming stage staple.
937: Hi ladies, thank you for taking some time with us. I can tell you, from the outset, I love CHICAGO, but in its intended form, not the contemporary, less showy versions. I understand; you’re intentionally bringing it back to the Chicago we love. How did all of this come to pass?
MK: We really wanted to embrace the vaudeville spirit at the heart of the show. It plays with the classic ‘show within a show’ trope, and we’re intentionally breaking the fourth wall to invite the audience right into the fantasy unfolding on stage. The script itself has plenty of humor, but this cast has taken it to another level — they’re truly leaning into the comedy and delivering some big, belly laughs. And then there’s the choreography: Gage Wayne has created some absolutely stunning numbers. I think audiences will be tapping their feet and wishing they could jump up there and join in.
AK: This is a beloved musical by many so I hope audiences walk out having that classic Chicago itch scratched. I also hope they can identify the similarities this heightened, vaudevillian world has with the current political and social scenes we experience today.
937: Abby, I know Roxie is a beloved and coveted role….how are you feeling about it? And congratulations to you!
AK: Roxie is a dream role to take on, and challenging for sure. Physically of course, as the entire show is driven by song and dance numbers. Unlike other leading ladies, Roxie’s redeeming qualities are not heavily apparent in the script, that’s Chicago! As an actor, this poses another challenge to justify her choices throughout the show in order to deliver an authentic performance in the heightened world we’ve created.
937: Awesome….so ecited to see it. With that in mind, Mackensie, this season for TheatreLab has been interesting. How does CHICAGO fall into the theme?
MK: Reflecting on this season, one theme shines through: the powerful act of reclaiming one’s story. Chicago slots seamlessly into that narrative—giving center stage to women who not only find their voices but boldly rewrite the script. I’m always drawn to stories led by deeply flawed, complex characters. They invite us to see the world through their lens, challenging our assumptions and stirring empathy. Because really—who among us is perfect?
937: You have elevated those stories for sure this season. LIZZIE, FULL MONTY….people making their place in the world!! Ladies, what are you hoping people leave that theater feeling, or thinking?
AK: This show has a beautiful combination of TheatreLab veterans and fresh new faces! This cast is dynamic, talented, and so eager to entertain you. Chicago is the 2nd longest running show on Broadway, gripping audiences for over 25 years for a good reason. We are so excited to put a Dayton touch on a renowned favorite!
MK: She’s right….and beyond that, Now more than ever, we’re seeing just how much media — and our level of media literacy — shapes the way we view the world. With this piece, I really wanted to remind people that things aren’t always what they seem. Just because something is beautifully worded doesn’t mean it’s truthful. Art has always been one of the most powerful mirrors of our time, and I think it’s essential to dig deeper and find meaning, even in the material we think we already know.
937: Wow….what a great way to wrap this all together. Break many legs, and best to all of you! For more details:
https://www.simpletix.com/e/chicago-tickets-214975
The show runs
- June 26 – 29, 2025.
- The Beautiful Northmont Community Auditorium, 4916 National RoadClayton, Ohio 45315
Dayton Dance Initiative CoLab II
Dayton Dance Initiative proudly presents CoLab II — back by popular demand after the success of Making Moves: The CoLab in 2023! Now in its seventh season, DDI invites you to witness a dynamic celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community.
CoLab II is a fusion of Dayton’s most vibrant multidisciplinary artists, coming together to ignite the stage with six brand-new, original dance works featuring live and original music, costume design, film, creative non-fiction, dramaturgy, and more, all crafted by the incredible talents living and working right here in our city.
This year’s powerhouse lineup of dancers, choreographers, and artists hails from iconic local institutions including Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company 2, Wright State University, Cincinnati Ballet Academy, University of Dayton, Sinclair Community College, Discover Classical, and the Dayton Daily News.
Fueled by the generous support of the Montgomery County Arts District (MCACD) Special Projects Grant administered by Culture Works, CoLab II is more than a performance — it’s a bold statement of artistic unity, innovation, and the boundless power of creative collaboration.
Join us and experience the magic — where dance meets every corner of Dayton’s artistic heartbeat.
Reading: Vignettes of The Belonging Project
join us for a public reading of the second draft of Vignettes of The Belonging Project at The Loft Theatre on Tuesday, June 17th!
The Kettering Foundation will host a reception with light refreshments at 6pm. The reading will begin at 7pm and a discussion will follow the presentation.
It’s free to attend. Please RSVP to democracyandthearts@kettering.org.
Gem City Groundlings Reimagined Macbeth to Premiere at ‘Glass!’
Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy has been reimagined for a modern age in Dayton’s most thrilling venue, The Roger Glass Center for the Arts. The Gem City Groundlings, Dayton’s premier Shakespeare company, is proud to present a riveting new production of Macbeth, opening Thursday, June 19th and running through Saturday, June 27th at The Roger Glass Center for the Arts and The Levitt Pavilion.
This fierce 90 minute adaptation distills the essence of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy into a searing, suspenseful thrill ride of ambition, prophecy, and power. With a lean cast, minimalist design, and visceral performances (and oh yes, the fighting!), the Groundlings promise a Macbeth that is as haunting as it is unforgettable.
“Something wicked this way comes—fast, sharp, and dangerously close,” says Andrew Mitakides (Cofounder and Executive artistic director). “This production strips away the pomp to reveal the raw psychological terror beneath the crown.” Mitakides is also playing the lead role.
Featuring a cast of local and national talent—including performers from Washington, DC—this Macbeth reimagines the Scottish Play for a 21st-century audience while remaining faithful to the Bard’s original language.
This production is one of the first local theatre companies to play the ‘Glass’ with more to come in the future. The ‘Glass’ has shown great interest in presenting community and professional theatre projects that are produced in the area!
Don’t miss Macbeth!
Performance Dates:
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Opening Night: Thursday, June 19 at 7:30 PM
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Weekend Performances: Fridays & Saturdays at 2pm and 7:30 PM; Sundays at 2:00 PM
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Levitt performances June 26th and 27th at 7pm. Closing June 28th
Tickets:
General Admission: $25 | Students/military and first responders 20
Available now at www.gemcitygroundlings.com/
More About the Groundlings can be found here:
Gem City Groundlings is Dayton’s newest and most innovative Shakespeare company, committed to producing bold, text-driven theatre that connects timeless stories with modern audiences. From visceral tragedies to raucous comedies, we bring the Bard to the heart of the Miami Valley with passion, wit, and purpose.
Contacts andrew@gemcitygroundlings.com or Riki@gemcitygroundlings.com
Dayton Dines by Design: Art, Design, and Philanthropy Unite
Prepare to be inspired: the inaugural Dayton Dines by Design is set to take center stage on June 25–26, 2025, bringing dazzling design, culinary elegance, and creative spirit to the heart of Dayton. Hosted in support of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA), this two-day fundraising celebration invites guests into a world of breathtaking tablescapes, curated by some of the region’s most talented designers, florists, artists, and design boutiques.
Dayton Dines by Design supports the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Photo of Keitaro Harada by the DPAA (Contributed)
Dayton Dines by Design will feature a stunning gallery of immersive tablescape installations, each a one-of-a-kind artistic vision, transforming traditional dining into a visual experience. This elegant affair begins with a festive Cocktail Reception on Wednesday, June 25, followed by an inspired Luncheon Event on Thursday, June 26. Tickets are sold separately for both events.
At the heart of the luncheon is keynote speaker Corey Damen Jenkins, a nationally acclaimed interior designer known for his bold, sophisticated work. Named to the prestigious AD100 and Elle Décor A-List, Jenkins has been featured in House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and his celebrated book Design Remix. His keynote promises to be as dynamic and stylish as his interiors.
Proceeds from Dayton Dines by Design will directly support DPAA’s education programs in ballet, opera, and orchestra—helping cultivate the next generation of performers and arts lovers throughout the region.
The Dayton Ballet & Dayton Opera are supported by Dayton Dines By Design proceeds.
“This event is about more than beautiful tables—it’s a celebration of creativity and community,” said Allyson Danis, Committee Chair “By supporting Dayton Dines by Design, you’re also supporting the young musicians, dancers, and vocalists who will shape our cultural future.”
Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a patron of the arts, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Dayton Dines by Design invites you to take a seat at the table—and be part of something beautiful.
HOW TO GO?
Cocktail Party & Tour of the Tables | Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 5pm to 7pm
Luncheon & Keynote Presentation | Thursday, June 26, 2025 | 10:30am to 2pm
Location for both events: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, OH 45409
Tickets & More Information: https://daytonperformingarts.org/dayton-dines/
DGMC’s ‘The Power of Love’ celebrates Pride Month.
The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus is presenting their Pride Concert titled, “The Power of Love!” The June concert is always important because it is the DGMC’s way to show excitement and appreciation of Pride Month. The DGMC felt it would be important to focus on “The Power of Love” to push back against some of the negativity that has unfortunately become so strong in our country and world.
The concert will daringly focus on all aspects of love, including romantic love, brotherly love, love of country, and love for our community. All of this through the strong, solid performances, people have come to love about the DGMC.
The concert will be a 1st as they perform at the Roger Glass Center for the Arts. The space in the Glass being utilized is actually designed for vocal performance. Surely, this will only enhance an already dynamic chorus.
Tickets can be purchased at the door or at the website: https://www.daytongaymenschorus.org/
Performances are on Saturday, June 14. There are two shows, 2 pm and 8 pm.
Don’t miss the show, which features favorites like “Love Shack,” “Defying Gravity,” and “Wannabe” as well as some lesser known pieces that are sure to get an emotional response from the crowd. See you at the Glass!Pastime™ Film – World Premiere Red Carpet Screening + Cast Q&A
With over two years in development, it’s Pastime™ we announce the first full-length feature film by Dayton based film Director, Corinthian Campbell (PastAfter Pictures) and Associate Producer, Johnny Catalano (Catalano Film, Co. LLC / Catalano Film Festival).
This has been an exciting ‘passion’ project and we’d like to invite you to join us for the upcoming World Premiere Red Carpet Screening at the Air Force Museum Theatre Saturday, June 14, 2025. This is going to be a great event followed by a Q&A with the Cast – Hosted by Associate Producer, Johnny Catalano (Catalano Film Festival).
Trust you’re able to join us and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. In the meantime, check out and share the trailer: https://pastimefilm.com and appreciate your help getting the word out as our Premiere is open to public!
Heartsiq’s Third Annual “Mixtape” Festival is this Saturday with Two Stages, Vendors, and Art at The Brightside
Heartsiq is a queer focused arts and entertainment group based in Dayton, OH that presents monthly curated live music and visual arts events around town, monthly “Queeraoke” events at The Oregon Express, and other queer focused events throughout the year.
On June 7th, they’re presenting their 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival featuring queer artists, live musicians, DJs, MCs, vendors, and more on multiple stages at The Brightside Music and Events Venue.
“We’ve changed the game this year for Pride!” Kacie Clover, Heartsiq Partner said. “Get ready for a local vendors market, a DJ rave room with go-go dancers, a talk show, local acts, and so much more!”
Heartsiq has grown over the last three years from a monthly showcase to their third annual Mixtape Festival over Pride weekend with dozens of events at multiple venues every year.
“We need Pride now more than ever. Queer joy is important. Queer joy is necessary. Queer joy is revolutionary” Ky Heart, Founder and Partner said. “We’re here and we’re not going anywhere. This festival is going to be Heartsiq like you’ve never seen it before! ”
If you’re interested in attending Heartsiq’s Mixtape Festival or other events, organizers say these events are for everyone.
“The definition of queer people and queer identities is always growing,” Clover said. “Heartsiq is a home for every single person.” She continued “Hosting Heartsiq has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The opportunity to promote LGBTQ artists, as well as spread queer joy has been a dream,” Heart said.
Attendees can get more information and tickets at heartsiq.com
How To Go?
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Doors 5pm
All ages – must have 21+ ID to drink alcohol
Tickets:
Single ticket – $12 in advance
5 Ticket Pack – $50 in Advance
At the door ticket – $15
Venue:
The Brightside Music and Events Venue
905 E. 3rd St. Dayton, OH 45402
https://www.
Heartsiq’s 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival – June 7th
Schedule:
Side A – Ballroom Stage
6pm to 1am
DJ FEZ @boostohhs
DJ Sexbox @dylanfauxreal
Illwin @_illwin
Side B – Bar Stage
Starting at 9pm
Leggy @leggyband
Trade Like Qualities @trade_like_qualities
Izzie Morrow @izziemikael
Burlesque Dancers
Ophelia Plenty @defective.deity
Thrillda Swinton @thrilldaswinton
Indica Blows @cultofindica
Eris Minx @erisminx
Rude Burlesque @rudeburlesque
Ethera @ethera___
Magnus Lovesong @magnuslovesong
Zinnia Butterfly @zinnia.butterfly.burlesque
Kiara The Bearded Beauty @kiara_thebeardedbeauty
Cinnamon Spell @catinth3dark
Glad Ala Jara @guad.ala.jara
Moon Lyte @moon.lyte.dancer
Gertrude The Cherry @gertrudethecherry
Delusiona Grandeur @ballerinadentata
Elixir The Enigma @elixirtheenigma
Shakespeare in the Heights presents Much Ado About Nothing
Shakespeare in the Heights features flappers and gangsters in its second annual production as part of the Huber Heights Parks summer arts series. This adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, is set in Chicago of the roaring twenties with Don Pedro, who has recently come out on top after a mafia power struggle between himself and his brother. The story follows the whirlwind love story of young Hero, the daughter of one of the Don’s trusted lieutenants, and Claudio, an up-and-coming young mobster, as well as their fiery cousins Benedick and Beatrice who revel in treading the fine line between love and hate as they explore their relationship. Passions fly, treachery abounds, and comedy ensues with the interference of the Don’s villainous brother, John, and the bumbling beat cop, Dogberry.
Directed by Zoey Knapp, assistant directed by Andrew Hunt, produced by David Meadows and Jene Shaw, stage managed by Mary Carlson, scenic design by Hannah Baker. The cast includes: Keslina Luoma (Beatrice), Caleb Floyd (Benedick), Andy Crawford, Molly Kelly, Tamar Fishbein, Christy Barker, John Wysong, David Meadows, Wayne Wolfe, Leif Walters, Melanie Brown, Don Smith, Chris Petree, Xander Magill.
Story Slam Dayton
This open mic event hosts some of Dayton’s best tellers. Storytellers are encouraged to prepare a five-minute story relating to the theme.
Tellers put their names in a hat, and 10 are drawn at random.
Bring a story, and bring a friend.
The best story of the night wins $50, 4 free tickets to a future slam, and a guaranteed spot in June’s Grand Slam
Our theme for May is “Chemistry
Doors open for seating at 6:30 PM, show starts at 7:00 PM.
The bar will be open, and there is a two-drink minimum. Tickets are $5.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door ( if available).
The venue does not sell food, you are welcome to bring snacks, if you clean up after yourself.
The venue does not sell food, you are welcome to bring snacks, if you clean up after yourself.
$5 Advance ticket sales end at 3:00 PM, the day of the event.
Dayton’s RUBIGirls ready to entertain the WORLD!
You may have noticed many businesses and organizations are taking a breather while NATO has its big meeting here in the Gem City. One of Dayton’s most prolific groups, The Rubi Girls, is looking forward to meeting the international folks as they perform Friday Night at MJ’s Cafe on Jefferson. We caught up with the group’s Executive Director, Dana Sintell, to get the scoop!
937: Hello Ms. Sintell. So, did you ever in a million years think you might perform in front of NATO as part of your 40 years in show business?
DS: Ha ha. Hell no. We have done some crazy stuff in our 40 years, but this one seems almost surreal. We have no idea if anyone from NATO will come or not….but they should!! Of course, the show is really not the RubiGirls‘ typical outing. Cherry Poppins is having her popular ‘Cherry’s Playhouse‘ and asked us to join in the fun. We were excited to be asked. And a Friday Night show is always a great way to wind down the week. Especially this Memorial Day Weekend!!
937: And it is at MJ’s….not sure we have seen the RubiGirls there in some time.
DS: It has been a long time…we don’t do the number of bar shows we once did. I think all of us miss those greatly. This just seems right, too. Dayton has always been a welcoming place for people of all kinds and this show invites the world…literally, to see the fun we have in our city!
937: I understand it is sold out?
DS: Stop right there…..I HATE THOSE WORDS! Listen, come down, we will do our best to find you a seat, a table, or a lap to sit on.
937: How many RubiGirls will we see Friday Night? And can you clue us on on what to expect?
DS: We went round and round and round….and after talking through it all, we thought, let’s do what Rubi does. Don’t try to change it up. We work well doing what we do. As for the who’s who…you get Cherry, who has enough energy to go 2 hours alone! You get Tara Misu who really is a creative force in our organization. You get the cherished India Summer, who just has that welcoming feel and fabulous looks. And then, of course, I’ll be cuh-razy for those who like that sort of thing.
937: What about NATO security, etc….and what time will you kick it off?
DS: MJ’s is just outside NATO village, so can be assured security will be everywhere. The Dayton Police have always, I mean ALWAYS been a good friend to the RubiGirls!! The show starts at 9pm. We will have audience games, complete mayhem and cocktails throughout!
937: And I know, I think we all know, RubiGirls donate their time and dollars. Who will be the recipient this time around?
DS: We are helping the Dayton Pride Committee and the RubiGirls Scholarship Fund. 2 amazing organizations!
937: Thank you Dana. Congratulations on 40 years, and the fact that this season for you ladies has received RAVE REVIEWS!! Keep it up!
For more info, click below!
Laura Sanders: Force of Nature Opening Reception
Laura Sanders is a Columbus-based artist who also maintains a studio in New York City. Sanders’ lush figural paintings often feature women outdoors and deal with themes of survival, of both people and the environment. Another theme evident in this mid-career survey is the passage of time, as depicted in the portraits of her model, her daughter Elena, from a young girl to an adult woman.
Opening Reception: May 16, 2025; 6-8 pm
QUICK HITS- 60 Second Movie Reviews
Reviews for movies you’ve likely thought about seeing in 60 seconds or less
Don’t have time to read a full, detailed movie review? Been meaning to talk about a movie for a while but just haven’t gotten around to telling a friend? Have no fear – get caught up with Quick Hits!
 THE AMATEUR Miss the days when Rami Malek was running around help take down evil corporations as Elliot Anderson on Mr. Robot? Get your fix of him taking out the people responsible for the murder of his wife while exposing government corruption in THE AMATEUR while it’s still in theaters. Instead of being your typical action movie shoot-em-up, Malek’s portrayal of mild-mannered Charles Helle to bring more of a thoughtful exploration of a man seeking vengeance and justice, his brain being more intriguing than sheer brutality. While the film’s climax is the one moment that feels the most implausible, the near two hour joyride en route to getting there is strong enough to overcome it. Think of THE AMATEUR like watching the nerdy, undersized kid show you why you should never underestimate someone determined to use the one skill they have – their intelligence – to play chess with a bunch of criminals barely skilled at checkers.
RATING:
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| @ 2025 Disney. All Rights Reserved. |
THUNDERBOLTS* (a.k.a. *THE NEW AVENGERS)
Miss the days when Marvel Studios paired up fish-out-of-water people who had to learn how to work together otherwise the entire world – if not universe – might perish? THUNDERBOLTS* brings those days back with a fantastic mix of humor, action battle sequences and most importantly, humanity helping to showcase the different aspects of being a hero (not to mention life) and dealing with one’s own personal demons. THUNDERBOLTS* might not only help those who often don’t feel seen to do so and come to terms with their own pasts so they don’t continue affecting their future, but also do the same for the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. Florence Pugh shows how a strong female lead should work (looking at YOU, Captain Marvel entries) while David Harbor provides enough laughs as The Red Guardian that you should definitely consider booking his limousine service.
RATING:
Mateo is not a criminal
Mateo is not a criminal
As I worked on this and the other pieces in this series I wondered if any gallery would want to exhibit them. This work is a direct criticism of the president, and he’s doing his best to make people afraid to criticize him.
In his first 100 days in power the president has gone after everyone who’s ever made him mad. When he doesn’t attack people or institutions directly he mentions something online and his most rabid fans do his dirty work. When judges rule against him, for example, they and their families get hundreds of threatening emails and phone calls.
In this political atmosphere many people and institutions are trying to avoid any confrontation with the administration. That’s a common reaction to a bully – keep your head down and hope he doesn’t notice you. Even if the bully targets you the temptation is not to complain because he could always make it worse.
That’s why I wasn’t sure if this work would be exhibited. But I applied to ArtPrize anyway. That’s a huge art competition and festival held in Grand Rapids annually. This year it will run from September 18 to October 4. Over 800,000 people come to ArtPrize each year.
Within days of applying I got an email from one of the 149 participating venues inviting me to exhibit. Last weekend I drove to Grand Rapids to make sure that the owner of the business where I’d been invited to exhibit was fully on board with work that was political. He told me he didn’t see my art as political, and he himself never gets involved in politics. He sees what is being done to these children and their parents as a human rights issue. To him my work was about human rights, not politics.
So the work will be seen in Michigan this fall. Now I need to finish the work, and find more places where someone likes the art and is not worried about irritating the president and his most rabid fans.
Dayton at Work and Play: Matthew R. Burgy Artworks
Conversation with Matthew Burgy of Matthew R. Burgy Artworks (Front Street, Building 100, BC door, 3rd floor). Are you a full time artist now, Matthew?“Well I was a part-time artist until recently. I was working full time at the Dayton Art Institute as a museum educator until they were forced to make some staff cuts. I am still teaching in some workshops at the Dayton Society of Artists but I’m primarily a working artist now.”
Are you selling here at Front Street? “I am. I’m working in this space and selling here too. I’m open for First Friday of course, but also every Saturday 11-4.”
Your booth has a lot of different types of art. “Yes, I do drawing, painting, print making, mixed media in addition to my kinetic work. It may seem to cover a broad range but I feel like it’s all related to nature.”
When I’m at Front Street I often stop by to look at your kinetic sculptures. How long have you been doing making mobiles?
“It goes back to my student days at Wright State. I was doing print making and I made a mistake and ruined a big sheet of aluminum. Rather than throw it away I cut it into parts and tried to make a mobile. A friend explained some of the physics of it, which helped, and I’ve been doing it ever since. I used to graph everything out, but now I have just a general idea and then see what happens. In fact rather than referring back to some drawing I’ve made I often just watch nature and see how things are balanced there.”
“In addition to mobiles that hang I’ve been making staybiles. They sit on a stationary pedestal and they have some moving parts . As I make them I’m trying to get motion without having the components hit the base. That gets a little tricky. Those with the red bead are part of a series – a seed series – based on the shape of helicopter seeds.”
As he talked with me Matthew was bending a piece of wire. Before I left he had made one of his face figures. “I need to get a name for these guys, because people seem to like them and I love making them.”
Front Street, Building 100,
BC door, 3rd floor Studio #3345
Dayton, OH, 45402
BC door, 3rd floor Studio #3345
Dayton, OH, 45402
