Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Arts & Entertainment

Enjoy the Ride ‘Back to the Future!’

By

‘Oh My God….that car was amazing!’  ‘The backdrops were eye-popping!’ ‘I loved the tongue-in-cheek musical numbers!’

‘Back to the Future’ at the Schuster, is a free-wheeling tribute to the beloved movie, and a lot more! Although the songs, which at times can feel a little bit karaoke, are full-on fun and silly, you often lose focus on a cast that is giving it their all throughout the romp. I couldn’t help but notice that folks were anxious in the first act to see the ‘legendary’ DeLorean and its magical entrance. Meanwhile, a story is being told for all of us as well. Through hi-tech staging…and reminders of days gone by (1985 was 40 years ago….WTF!)….we are thrown into a land of the McFly family which remains true to the form as created for the film. There are some fun, if not over-the-top, intros to each of the family members. Lucas  Marty does a good job of maintaining the look and vibe for movie fans. Mike Bindemann‘s George is funky and endearing. Fisher Lane Stewart gives 110% to the Dave role, and Abbey Freidmann‘s Linda foots the bill. Perhaps the McFly to watch in this performance is Zan Berube‘s Lorraine. She seamlessly does it all…gives you the frump, the fabulous, and ‘freaky’ sides of the mom figure!

The energy picks up in the theatre when David Josefberg‘s take on Doc Brown, hits the stage. Throughout the show, he makes his moments, HIS MOMENTS! Also of note, Cartreze Tucker belting ‘Gotta Start Somewhere’  and the devilish performance by Nathaniel Hackmann as Biff. And yes, the car. The CAR! I didn’t want to like it…almost was dead-set on not liking it…just to be contrary. But the truth is, it’s pretty astounding to watch. Blended with backgrounds that look alive and real (the high school gym scene is a mind-trip!)…the car is, in its own way, another star of the show!

 

Advice…go into the theatre looking to have a good time. A fun, funny, fantastic frolic awaits….

that kids of all ages will enjoy!

Ticket info at http://daytonlive.org

 

 

 

 

The Holly Jolly Variety Hour is coming to town!

By

The Holly Jolly Variety Show returns! The Dayton Playhouse is bringing back its holiday-themed fundraiser on Saturday, December 13th. Hosted by Brandon Shockney, the evening showcases an exciting mix of local performers and includes special presentations from Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus group NOTEWORTHY, Funk Lab Dayton, Dayton Poetry Slam, and much more! Come ring in the holidays with a night of song, dance, comedy and seasonal cheer!
Tickets are available now for the 8 pm show, which also includes a 7 pm social hour with drinks and treats!

DGMC ‘SLAYS’ the HOLIDAYS!

By

The DGMC is ready to deck the halls for the holidays. Their annual concert, which has been a mainstay of the area for many years, promises another stellar performance. I was so excited to get to speak to member, Marc Driscoll about the upcoming event.
937: Hi Marc. Thanks for spending some time with me to share the word about this year’s concert for DGMC! So, to start, tell me about the history of DGMC‘s Holiday concerts!?
Marc: Thank you, Josh. Members of the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus and our fans look forward to our holiday show each year. Every year we add a little twist to the show to keep things fresh. Sometimes that means an orchestra, sometimes it’s silly costumes. This year it’s all about bells!
937: Thus the name….
Marc: Yes!! Our theme is Slay Bells Ring this year. We are singing all about bells, including some of your favorite Christmas Carols, as well as a few new songs! We are joined this year by the Gem City Ringers who add a special touch to several of our numbers, and also play a few songs of their own.
937: Love the play on ‘sleigh’ and ‘slay!’  So creative. And adding ringers just seems perfect! Are there any featured singers this time around?
Marc: Baron Creutz sings a beautiful tenor solo on Alleluia. Also,  Jeffrey Sypek and Chris Perry dazzle in “Pure Imagination.”
937: To those of you reading who have not seen the choir in some time, believe me, these guys are such  talents. So, Marc,  what songs do you particularly love performing this time around?
Marc: Carol of the Bells is a Christmas classic and is sure to entrance the audience. Festival Sanctus is simply a gorgeous piece. And Oh! Christmas Tree will have the audience in stitches.
937: You guys always find a way of adding the humor to the concerts, which keeps folks coming back for more! For our readers, what are details for location, price, dates?
Marc: We are back at Westminster Presbyterian in downtown Dayton on December 6th with two shows. One at 2pm and one at 6pm. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at  http://Daytongaymenschorus.org or at the door.
937: As always, break legs…and ring, bring, sing in the Holidays once again for all of us! Is there anything else you liked to mention about the concert, Marc?

Marc: Let’s see….our small group ensemble Noteworthy is back and very excited to sing again! Director Kathy Clark wrote an original piece for the show that will leave toes a tapping. Also, there are opportunities to win raffle baskets filled with amazing prizes.

937: Sounds holiday ‘ish!’ Love it! Thanks Marc, and thanks yo all of the DGMC for spreading a little magic this season!

Mystery Dinner Theater

By

It’s a murder mystery whodunnit!!! Seasonal themed Mystery Dinner Theater shows with a delicious 3 course Italian Meal.

IIt’s Christmas time and The Wassail Warblers, a group of long-time friends and semi-committed amateur carolers, are making their annual rounds of holiday cheer. Armed with matching scarves, an curated setlist, and exactly one person who can actually sing, they’re determined to brighten their town with off-key classics and questionable choreography.

Midway through “Good King Wenceslas,” one of the carolers slips away. But when they’re still missing by dessert, the group begins to panic. Can you solve the mystery? Join us for holiday fun and see.

Join Mayhem & Mystery to find out!

MAYHEM & MYSTERY INTERACTIVE DINNER THEATRE
Dinner & Show only $39.95 (tax and gratuity not included)
Call 937-461-3913 for Reservation (Required)
Shows start at 7:00PM (Mondays)
Select Fridays & Saturdays

 

 

 

 

Please call to make reservations. 937-461-3913. Go to our website to see show details. www.thespaghettiwarehouse.com

Wright State presents The Wedding Singer

By

THE WEDDING SINGER musical takes us back to a time when hair was big, greed was good, collars were up and a wedding singer might just be the coolest guy in the room. Based on the hit Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore movie, The Wedding Singer’s sparkling score does for the ’80s what Hairspray did for the ’60s. (Music by Matthew Sklar, Book by Chad Beguelin and Tim Herlihy with Lyrics by Chad Beguelin. Just say yes to the most romantic musical in twenty years!

Senior Lecturer and Director Jamie Cordes shared, “This is a fast-paced story with high energy choreography that will have the audience moving in their seats. Audiences will immediately be transported to the 80’s when they see the colorful, playful elements of the set. The score honors the exciting pop and rock music from the time. And who doesn’t love a romantic comedy?

The musical version of this story captures all of these elements while reminding us the good guy can get the girl.

The Wedding Singer showcases the triple theatre training our students receive. The show demands skillful singing, acting and dancing and this cast shines in all areas!”

Director is Jamie Cordes (last season’s director of CARRIE, THE MUSICAL), with Music Director Wade Russo, and Choreographer Ashley Pabst with Associate Choreographer Aidan Edwards. Lighting Design by Professor Matt Benjamin and Sound Design by James Dunlap, resident Sound Designer.

THE WEDDING SINGER runs Nov. 15th (8 pm), Nov. 16th (2 pm), Nov. 20th (7:30 pm), Nov. 21st. (8 pm), Nov. 22nd (2 pm and 8 pm), Nov. 23rd (2 pm) at Wright State University’s Creative Arts Center, in the FESTIVAL PLAYHOUSE.

THE WIZ Nov 11 – 15 at The Schuster

By

THE WIZ returns “home” to stages across America in an all-new tour, direct from Broadway. The Baltimore Sun raves “Powerhouse performances. Stunning choreography. Visionary sets” and the Chicago Sun-Times proclaims THE WIZ is “An eye-popping and high-intensity revival!”

This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard Of Oz changed the face of Broadway – from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world.

With direction by Schele Williams (The Notebook, revival of Disney’s Aida), choreography by JaQuel Knight (Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies,” Black Is King), and additional material by Tony®-nominated and Emmy-nominated writer and TV host Amber Ruffin (“The Amber Ruffin Show,” “Late Night With Seth Meyers”), this dynamite infusion of ballet, jazz, and modern pop brings a whole new groove to easing on down the road. Everybody rejoice!

‘Perfect’ Little Production at TheatreLab this Weekend!

By

TheatreLab Dayton kicks off their season with a crowd-pleaser!! We took a minute to check in with their Executive Director, Philip Drennen!
937: What made you put I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change  first and foremost this season?

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change is one of those shows that feels like it was written with the audience sitting right there in the room with us. We wanted to bring Dayton something joyful to kick off the holiday season, something that lets you laugh at yourself, your dating history, your loved ones, and the absolute absurdity of trying to be a human in a relationship.

937: I will say, we need some of that today, for sure Philip. I know you are doing the show at your rehearsal space on Jefferson….Is the venue intentional for this show?
Very much so! The intimate space puts the audience right in the mix, which is exactly how this show works best. These scenes and songs feel like you’re listening in on your best friend’s group chat.

937: I;m aware of the dynamite group you have doing this ‘little’ show! A small but strong cast…tell us about this group of actors!
This cast is tiny but mighty. They’re quick, fearless performers with great comedic timing and the ability to pivot from belly laughs to emotional gut-punch in a blink. They sing, they act, they transform into dozens of characters over the course of the night and they make it look effortless.

937: Dayton has so much talent. Never cease to amaze. This show is always referred to as a crowd pleaser… why so?
Because everyone sees themselves somewhere in it. Whether you’re single, married, divorced, on the apps, whatever, the humor is universal  And the audience leaves feeling lighter than when they came in. That’s a crowd pleaser to me!

937: You have such great energy about this show. Love that!  TheatreLab loves to mix up its genres! What’s next?
We sure do. We love keeping Dayton on its toes. Next up is a new Dayton tradition, Merry QUIZmas, and then we switch gears to The Mystery of Edwin Drood in January.

937: That Merry QUIZmas thing is so fun. And it really has a warm and holiday’ish’ feel. Love it!  When are performances, and how do I get tickets?
Performances for ILYYPNC are Thursday at 7:30pm, Friday & Saturday at 8pm, and Sunday at 2pm  and it’s this weekend only. Tickets are limited (and going fast), so we recommend snagging them now at theatrelabdayton.org.

937: As always, thank you, Mr. Drennen, and the absolute best to all this weekend! Break you freaking legs!

Noises Off Opens at Dayton Playhouse

By

Get ready for non-stop laughter as Dayton Playhouse presents Noises Off by Michael Frayn, directed by Allyson Jacob! Often called “the funniest farce ever written,” this backstage comedy is a fast-paced, door-slamming, perfectly-timed whirlwind of hilarity.

The show will run Fri – Sun, Nov 7-9 and again Nov 14 – 16.  Friday and Saturday Shows are at 8pm and Sunday matinees start at 2pm.  Tickets run $18-20 and can be purchased online.

BCT brings ‘Let the Right One in’ to life this weekend!

By

Beavercreek Community Theatre is celebrating the spooky season with ‘Let the Right One In.’ This weekend is the final chance to see the production which is directed by Chris Harmon. Here is what he shared with us about this coming-of-age story.
937: Why did you choose ‘Let the Right One in’ this Halloween season? 
It’s a different take on both classic vampire lore, and coming-of-age stories. As a director, it presents as a new challenge to stage in a compelling, and accessable way.
937: What does this production promise for the audience? 
The assembled score is comprised of a lot of early 80’s punk, and new wave music. The cast had a chance to offer a lot of input into this aspect of the production so it’s very collaborative in that sense. In terms of atmosphere, the space is really transformed into a stark Scandinavian vibe by the set, and  experimental — and at times avant-garde lighting design. And it’s a vampire story, so of course there’s blood! Lots of it. At one point nearly half a gallon of blood in three seconds! Which is to say nothing of the actors who have invested considerable time into not only their craft but some exceedingly quick and clever set transitions.
937: Is it like the film?
Yes, and no. Yes in that the essence of the main character’s vulnerability and frankness is definitely present. No, in the sense that we don’t have a lake on stage that a body is discovered in.
937: What do you hope the audience walks away feeling? 
I hope they feel that they have experienced something new in the theatre. I want them to feel exhilarated by an unconventional script. I definitely want them to question if this is a love story about Oskar and Eli, or is it not a love story.
937:  Who makes up this strong cast?
The two leads, Karter Hoffman as Oskar, and Sophia Harvey as Eli are fantastic in their roles. They are supported by an incredible ensemble which includes Everett Green, Jamie McQuinn, TJ Montgomery, Sasha Kozlova, Steven Mongelli, Grayson Thompson, Kobe Smith, and Maren Wasser.
Janet Powell has designed some really delightful 80’s Northern Europe costumes. Becky Howard’s design for props is exquisitely detailed. Both Michael Cardoza, and Nick Vanderpool have crafted some amazing very special, and surprising blood effects. Alex Kancler’s sound design is crazy compelling. Angelé Price-Maddah has been a fantastic assistant director. Kayla Graham is fight and intimacy coordinator – her work is incredibly essential to the piece.  Andrew Darr’s lighting design is mysterious and vibrant.  And my set design…well, it’s okay.
Tickets and Times: This Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets at bctheatre.org 
Anything You’d like to add? Yes. Lady Cardoza is a fabulous producer.

937: I’m sure our readers are as intrigued as I am. Make sure you catch the show at BCT this weekend! Thanks Chris!

Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really

By

Bouncing between horror and humor, Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic novel is a thrilling play that questions who the true monsters are. No damsels in distress, no romanticized villains – just a gleeful stake through the heart!

OCTOBER 29 – NOVEMBER 9, 2025 at the Loft Theatre

Improv Comedy Workshops in Dayton

By

Film Dayton member and Dayton native Paul Stelzer, who co-founded The Hashtag Comedy Company in Columbus, will lead these  workshops. Paul has performed improv comedy since 2012. For the past 10 years, Paul has taught “Introduction to Improv” classes.  He’ll be leading two FREE improv comedy workshops this week in  Dayton. If you’ve ever wanted to try improv comedy, this is YOUR chance! It’s all happening at the FilmDayton offices located inside the Dayton Mall. Here are the two dates/times:
* Thursday, October 23rd — 7:00pm
* Sunday, October 26th — 1:00pm
If you or someone you know has always wanted to try comedy, this is a great opportunity to learn the basics of improv comedy and have a lot of FUN doing so! This will be a safe, supportive, encouraging environment where we learn and laugh a lot!
Paul shares, “Since I took my first class in 2012, improv comedy has been the most wonderful gift to me. As a founding member of The Hashtag Comedy Company in Columbus, it’s always a thrill to perform improv for a live audience. And sharing my love of improv with the beautiful people who take the classes and workshops I teach is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done in my professional life. ❤“
Learning improv comedy is a wonderful way to:
* Increase your confidence in social situations.
* Improve your presentation and public speaking skills.
* Stretch your comfort zone by trying something NEW and exciting!
* Make new friends.
* HAVE FUN!
He’d love to see YOU at one of the workshops scheduled on Thursday (7:00pm) or Sunday (1:00pm). Each of these two workshops will cover the same material and will run approximately 75 minutes. The Facebook Event link is posted in the Comments section below. Please pick a date and RSVP by email [email protected]. We’re gonna have a lot of FUN! But it won’t be the same with YOU. ❤“

Final Weekend for Gratifying ‘Dial M’ at Theatre Guild!

By


Dayton has an amazing theatre scene with some excellent actors. I was lucky enough to catch up with one of the best, Matt Meier! He is part of the dynamic cast of ‘Dial M for Murder!’ at the Theatre Guild!

937: Hi Matt! So, so good to see you! Tell me…Why was ‘Dial M of Murder’ chosen for the Theatre Guild this year?

MM: Each year, a committee reads dozens of scripts and assembles the complete season, balancing all sorts of factors. The Guild is known for doing shows that are often new to Dayton audiences, and while many people might remember the Hitchcock film, the region hasn’t seen a stage production of it for a long time. It’s a riviting script, written by Frederick Knott in the 1950s, and still holds up nearly 75 years later! Who doesn’t love a good crime thriller?

937: Listen, I am addicted to ‘Investigation Discovery Channel’, soooooo…..Anyway, what can the audience expect from this production?

MM: Director David Shough brings his rich artistic vision to every production he leads. ‘Dial M’ features a beautiful art deco-inspired set by Red Newman, fabulous midcentury costumes by N. Lynn Brown, dramatic lighting, and a jazzy underscore that masterfully builds suspense. 

937: Sounds like theatrical perfection! What is a brief plot line you can share with us about the story?

MM: A cunning husband. A flawless plan. One fatal call. In this razor-sharp, midcentury mind game of deadly charm, calculated lies, and impetuous greed, the plot to commit the perfect murder begins to unravel. What follows is a taut and twisted Hitchcockian thriller—where life and death hang on the line.

937: Hitchcock truly was/is a master. Love how these stories endure, on and off stage & screen! What are you hoping people walk away feeling with this show?

MM: This show is just fun! You’ll find yourself rooting for the bad guy and also hoping he gets caught in his web of lies. It will keep you guessing til the very end!

937: And I know the Guild has stellar casts….

MM: Oh yes….in this production we have Cora Ceipek as Margot Wendice, Jared Mola as Max Halliday, Matt Meier as Tony Wendice, Danny Lipps as Captain Lesgate, Jim Walker as Inspector Hubbard and Frank Maranje as Thompson.

937: A fantastic group indeed!! I know this is the last weekend. If we want to catch the show, can you give us dates and times?

MM: Yes, sadly this is the final weekend — Friday, Oct 24 at 8pm; Saturday, Oct 25 at 5pm; Sunday, Oct 26 at 3pm.

937: I have such respect for the Theatre Guild thanks for sharing this with us Matt. Any parting words?

MM: Dayton is fortunate to have such a strong theatre scene, and we invite you to be part of it! Tickets are available online at DaytonTheatreGuild.org. 

937: THANKS MATT!!!!

MM: Thank YOU, Josh!!

Maria Steals Your Heart in ‘Sound of Music’ at Schuster!

By

The musical version of the beloved story has a way of exposing different views from the beloved characters. Much more so than the film. Facing the oncoming threat of fascism, the characters are faced with personal as well as worldly problems. Through it all, from opening to ovation, Cayleigh Capaldi (Maria Rainer) wins the evening with her naive, sweet, and humor-filled portrayal of the precocious lead. Of course, no cast works without the rough and sour Georg Von Trapp, played by Kevin Earley. His loving transformation is quite believable and endearing.
The kids are all strong and allow each other to have their moment. Haddie Mac as Brigiita is a standout with her many words of wisdom. There are no ‘weak players in this dynamite cast. Kate Loprest may be my favorite Baroness Elsa Schroeder, ever. (Drink in hand!)  And speaking of favorite versions, watch out for the performance by Christiane Noll.  Her, at times, fun-loving, and stalwart at others, portrayal of Mother Abbess is just so satisfying. Climb Every Mountain, at intermission, was a goose bumper!
Yes, the show packs what you remember….goat-herders, cuckoo clocks, and an occasional Nazi symbol. What this production is able to do is keep us buoyant and filled with optimism. It can, indeed, be a lesson for our world today.
Seeing the number of young people in the audience, their eyes filled with joy as they watched the kids break into song and dance. Seeing the number of adults, moved to tears by the love story that progresses so seamlessly through the plot. Seeing ‘The Sound of Music’ alive and well on stage. It took us away from a world of hurt into a world of hope!
For dates and times go to http://daytonlive.org

An Evening of Jazz, Bossa Nova, and Global Harmony at Joui Wine

By

This Wednesday, Dayton music lovers are invited to experience something truly special: an intimate concert featuring the remarkable musical partnership of trombonist and vocalist Natalie Cressman and composer and guitarist Ian Faquini at Joui Wine. Presented by Venus Child Productions, the evening promises an evening of sophisticated jazz, Brazilian grooves, and enchanting vocals that will transport audiences across continents and musical traditions. Local singer and recent Berklee graduate Kammeron Frost opens up this special evening of live music.

Though calling Cressman and Faquini a duo understates the depth of their musical collaboration, their partnership represents something far more expansive. Hailing from San Francisco and Brasilia respectively, the two artists have cultivated a singular creative communion that draws from their shared love of the Brazilian songbook, jazz, Impressionism, and sophisticated pop songcraft.

What sets this duo apart is their fearless eclecticism. Their original compositions weave lyrics in Portuguese, French, and English into a rich tapestry of sounds that borrows from multiple stylistic traditions. Accompanied by the warm tones of acoustic guitar and trombone, their sumptuous two-part vocal harmonies create a richly orchestrated sound that belies the intimate duo format, seeming to emanate from a much larger ensemble.

Cressman, a trombonist, vocalist, and songwriter, brings sophisticated melodic sensibility to the ensemble, while Faquini’s composition and guitar work provide both harmonic depth and rhythmic vitality. Together, they’ve created a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary, sophisticated yet deeply soulful.

HOW TO GO?

Join Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini for an evening of live music this Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Joui Wine, located at 117 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., with the show running from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This is an event for ages 21 and up.

To learn more about the artists, visit Natalie Cressman’s website

Dial ‘M’ for Murder at Dayton Theatre Guild

By

A cunning husband. A flawless plan. One fatal call. In this razor-sharp, midcentury mind game of deadly charm, calculated lies, and impetuous greed, the plot to commit the perfect murder begins to unravel. What follows is a taut and twisted Hitchcockian thriller—where life and death hang on the line.

Dial ‘M’ for Murder is presented by arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection

Oct. 10–26, 2025