Arts & Entertainment

FilmDayton Celebrates Films & Filmmakers

August 24, 2014 By Lisa Grigsby

It’s the final day of the Eichelberger FiilmDayton Festival and the schedule includes workshops, shorts and feature films, just like it has all weekend. Based at The Neon in downtown Dayton, hundreds of festival attendees are exposed to films made with local Dayton connection as well as ‘best of the fest” flicks from some of the countries biggest festival like Tribeca and SXSW. Here’s the lineup for today:

The Critics Perspective Workshop Sunday, August 24 – 12PM – ThinkTV
What makes a great film? Filmmakers and critics Jeff Reichert and Farihah Zaman will navigate you through the complex world of film criticism. Reichert and Farihah’s documentary, This Time Next Year, will be shown Sunday evening

US Shorts Block Sunday, August 24, 12:30-2:30 PM – The Neon

My Date With Adam
A wedding planner uses internet dating to find the perfect man—only to discover that he’s more than just perfect.

One Armed Man
A wealthy cotton gin executive is confronted by a disgruntled former employee demanding the return of an arm lost in the gin’s machinery, in Oscar-winning writer Horton Foote’s chilling drama, One Armed Man.

Sheltered love
In blissful 1950s suburbia, a lovestruck bobbysoxer and her no-good-nik boyfriend seek refuge from her overprotective
and hot-headed father.

Two Lines Of Vagary
Brad is forced to reevaluate his life when he finds himself caught up in a cocaine scam.

Personal Day
‘Personal Day’ is the story of two disgruntled office workers who, by complete coincidence, choose the same day to bring guns to work and ‘resign’.

Poured: a lesson in d.i.y
The official documentary profiling THE D.I.Y. skatepark underneath the I-471 Bridge in Newport, Kentucky

Auditioning for Actors workshop Sunday, August 24 – 2PM – ThinkTV
presented by Shaunn Baker and Jason Kaufman
Are you an actor looking for great tips on how to get the attention of casting directors? Here’s your chance! Jason Kaufman and Shaunn Baker are here to help you through the auditioning process. Jason Kaufman holds an MFA from the Institute for Advanced Theatre Training at Harvard University and the Moscow Art Theatre School. He has appeared in numerous stage productions and television shows. Most familiar include CSI-Miami, Without a Trace and many major soap operas. He is currently an assistant professor at Wright State University. Shaunn Baker is Managing Partner for WorldStage Media, an award winning media and entertainment Production Company located in Dayton, Ohio. He has produced hundreds of projects for businesses in the Dayton area and worked with FilmDayton to bring to life a pro-am community filmmaking project in 2013.

Stomping Ground– Sunday, August 24 – 3:15PM – The Neon

Ben & Annie are a young couple on a weekend trip to Annie’s small North Carolina hometown. At the local bar they run into Paul, a charming old friend of Annie’s, and Ben learns something he never new about his girlfriend: She believes in Bigfoot. In fact, she and her friends used to ‘hunt’ for the creature when they were kids. Before Ben knows it, he’s off on an impromptu Squatchin’ trip deep in the Carolina backwoods. Amidst the Squatch calls, campfire stories and beers, Ben quickly realizes that Paul may have an ulterior motive in bringing Annie to the woods. And something else out here seems to be after her as well. Everyone but Ben thinks it’s Bigfoot. But it can’t be, can it? After all, Bigfoot isn’t real… Stomping Ground is a microbudget relationship dramedy/horror hybrid feature by television producer & first time feature director Dan Riesser.
Stick around for a Skype Q & A with the director

This Time Next Year Sunday, August 24 – 5:30PM – The Neon

Directed by Jeff Reichert and Farihah Zaman (with additional photography by local filmmakers Julia Reichert and Steve Bognar), The documentary This Time Next Year tells the story of a community banding together to support each other after the devastation that Hurricane Sandy brought to Long Island Beach, New Jersey. Both directors will be present for a Q&A after the screening

The final event of the sixth annual film festival is the presentation of the Annual FilmDayton Awards , recognizing those who make our region a fantastic place for film. Created three years ago the awards are designed to honor those who demonstrated excellence in filmmaking, devote service to the filmmaking community and display creativity and innovation in their work. The community nominates local talent, and the board of FilmDayton makes the final selections. Award winners are celebrated with a five minute film that highlights their contributions to the film community and introduced by their nominators. The ceremony is held at The Neon, begins at 8pm and is free to attend. All are invited to join FilmDayton as we celebrate and thank those who make our community strong.

Filmmaker Award Winner: Jim Klein

An educator at Wright State, Jim has impacted the careers of countless emerging filmmakers. His work has been recognized, collected and nominated by such agencies as he Library of Congress, the Academy Awards and the Emmys. Jim is also the co-founder of new Day Films which strives to deliver “dynamic, provocative storytelling to educational institutions…
ensuring access to a wide range of contemporary and classic films.”

Key Award For Special Service to The Regional Film Community Winner: Jonathan McNeal

For over a decade, Jonathan McNeal has managed The Neon Theater, but his true talent is as an award-winning filmmaker. He graduated from Wright State University in 1996 from the motion picture production program. His documentary short The Rubi Girls is a joyous, uplifting chronicle of the professional men behind the comedic, charity-driven, Dayton based drag troupe; Jonathan performs as IIeasa Plymouth. The Rubi Girls premiered at the 2003 San Francisco International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival. From there, the film went on to win Audience and Best of Festival at the Fire Island Film & Video Festival and the Out on Film Festival in Atlanta. He is the founder and programmer of the The Dayton LGBT Festival, now in its ninth year. Jonathan is an ardent supporter of filmmaking and filmmakers in the Miami Valley. He offers his time and expertise on professional and student productions. Jonathan volunteers his time to support FilmDayton, and has more than once been a presenter at their monthly Film Connections meetings. He has taught film production classes at both Stivers School for the Arts and Wright State University, inspiring the next generation of filmmakers.

FilmDAYTON Festival & 2 Other Hits at THE NEON!

August 21, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

This is the weekend for the 2014 Eichelberger FilmDayton Festival. With more to offer than just movies (screenings happen at THE NEON), I suggest you take a look at the official site to see what strikes a chord with you. The festival will be screening films for the majority of the weekend in one of our auditoriums, but we will also manage to keep both BOYHOOD and MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT running on our other screen. (For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com)

Advance tickets for the FilmDayton screenings must be purchased on-line. Remaining tickets will be sold in our lobby on the day of each screening. Here’s a list of the films that will screen at THE NEON:
Friday, Aug. 22 at 7pm – THE INFINITE MAN
Friday, Aug. 22 at 9pm – FLICK MY CLIP
Saturday, Aug. 23 at Noon – INTERNATIONAL SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 2pm – GIVE TO LIVE THE MOVIE
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 4pm – OHIO SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 7pm – ZERO MOTIVATION
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 12:30pm – U.S. SHORTS
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 3:15pm – STOMPING GROUND
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 5:30pm – THIS TIME NEXT YEAR
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 8pm – FILMDAYTON AWARDS

On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 will hold a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. “The film stars several icons who were at the beginning of their careers. Sidney Poitier stars as Buck. This was also the first film that he directed. Harry Belafonte stars as the preacher. His production company, Belafonte Enterprise produced the film with others. Ruby Dee was the wife of Buck. This film was set in Kansas Territory immediately following the Civil War in the late 1860’s. The cost is $20. This includes the movie, glass of wine, soda, and popcorn. Tickets are available at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes)

Start Freedom Dayton is hoping you’ll help tip the scales to bring #StandWithMe to Dayton on Thursday, Sept. 25. This film will only screen if 68 tickets are sold by Friday, Sept. 12. Click this LINK to watch a trailer and reserve your ticket now (if not enough tickets are reserved, your card will never be charged). “Only a 9-year-old would dream that a lemonade stand could free 500 enslaved children. What followed became so much bigger. After seeing a photo of two enslaved boys in Nepal, Vivienne Harr is moved to help in the only way she knows how: by setting up her lemonade stand. With the goal of freeing 500 children from a life of slavery, she sets up her stand every day, rain or shine. As Vivienne’s vision begins to show promise for something greater, her community stands with her – and she develops her own Social Purpose Company. In telling Vivienne’s story, #standwithme examines the realities of modern-day slavery, the role we play in it as consumers, and the importance of knowing the story behind what we buy.” (taken from tugg press notes)

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you this weekend,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 22 – Thursday, August 28:

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday: 1:15, 4:30, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 1:15, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 1:15, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:30

FILMDAYTON FESTIVAL
Click Here for Entire Line-Up

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 29 – LAND HO!
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

Twisted Cabaret A Decadent Dish

August 20, 2014 By Rodney Veal

A one night only event,Twisted Cabaret is a music and dance extravaganza geared for mature audiences, hosted by the one and only, Mahoganay Halsten Soule as a fundraiser for the Women and Dance fall concert, Opening Doors. Twisted Cabaret will transport you back to the decadent cabaret shows of the 1920s and 30s, brought forward with a contemporary and mischievous twist! The evening of performance will feature dance, live music, comedy and theater. Twisted Cabaret is an experience you will never forget!

Twisted Cabaret is a one night event which takes place at 1101 E 2nd St, Suite 2120, Dayton, Ohio 45403. Doors open at 8:30pm.
An evening at the Twisted Cabaret begins with Cocktail Time at half past 8 o’clock followed by The Show at 9pm. After The Show, there’s only one thing left to do, and that’s to party with the entertainers!
For more information go to www.LauranaWong.com

August 23, 2014

8:30PM

Tickets for Twisted Cabaret are only $20 and available now at www.BrownPaperTickets.com
Space is very limited
#dateyourcity

New Theater Group Aims To Inspire Millennials

August 16, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

The art scene in Dayton is continuing to grow with the addition of The Playground Theatre, a not-for-profit movement Jenna Burnette and Christopher Hahn founded to bridge the gap between theatre and film.

“We know in this day and age people are more likely to go see a movie than a play,” the cofounders said. “Our plan is to perform staged adaptations of popular films, contemporary plays and brand new works.”

The two co founders were living in Chicago when the plan for The Playground came about in 2013. Jenna had interned for Profiles Theater and both participated in several acting intensives. While there, the idea of building a theatre company started to form. Not satisfied with where life was taking them, one night the idea of starting a theater company came to mind. The two started bouncing around ideas and the more they talked about it, the more excited they got. These Dayton natives decided it was time to return home and start it here.

The two approach theater with a very simplistic vision: focusing more on the imagination. Thus the name: The Playground. They wanted to encompass their view of acting by focusing on the imagination, much like a child.

“A child at play has nothing but their imagination driving them,” Jenna said.

The less props, costumes, or sets, the better. They believe wholeheartedly in the situation they have created within the imagination, wanting the main focus to be on the actor and the story. Eventually they want to have a permanent theater location downtown, but for now are renting space where they can find it.

“We are the voice of a younger generation and we want to approach theatre in a new way,” Jenna said.

The Playground’s first production they plan to bring to the stage is The Breakfast Club later this year. Their hope is that the well known film will generate interest and attract a new audience. The Breakfast Club will not be showing until later this year and they’ll be treating it as a fundraiser instead of selling tickets. Casting for the show will begin in late August. They hope to give opportunities to those that are aspiring actors and those that want to explore their artistic abilities.

“We hope to inspire our community,” they said. “We really want to encourage people to be bold and fearless. In life, we think it is important to take a chance, get outside of your comfort zone, and hopefully make some discoveries about yourself.”

You can keep up with The Playground on their website http://www.theplaygroundtheatre.org/ or on social media. You can also find them on Aug. 17 at 3rd on Third.

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Colin Firth & Emma Stone in Woody Allen’s MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT at THE NEON!

August 14, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

Woody Allen’s last three films – MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, TO ROME WITH LOVE and BLUE JASMINE – have all been big hits at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open Allen’s latest film – a 1920’s romantic comedy starring Colin Frith and Emma Stone – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT. BOYHOOD – the best-reviewed film of the year – will stick around for another week.

Synopsis for MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT: “Chinese conjuror Wei Ling Soo is the most celebrated magician of his age, but few know that he is the stage persona of Stanley Crawford (Colin Firth), a grouchy and arrogant Englishman with a sky-high opinion of himself and an aversion to phony spiritualists’ claims. Persuaded by his friend, Howard Burkan (Simon McBurney), Stanley goes on a mission to the Cote d’Azur mansion of the Catledge family: mother Grace (Jacki Weaver), son Brice (Hamish Linklater), and daughter Caroline (Erica Leerhsen). He presents himself as a businessman named Stanley Taplinger in order to debunk the alluring young clairvoyant Sophie Baker (Emma Stone) who is staying there with her mother (Marcia Gay Harden)…What follows is a series of events that are magical in every sense of the word and send the characters reeling. In the end, the biggest trick MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT plays is the one that fools us all.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

The FilmDayton Film Festival is just around the corner – August 22-24. The full schedule has been released and festival passes and single tickets are now available on-line. Check out the line-up and purchase your tickets at the festival’s Official Site. In addition to screenings that will be held at THE NEON, there are a number of other special programs happening downtown. Here’s a list of what’s happening at THE NEON:
Friday, Aug. 22 at 7pm – THE INFINITE MAN
Friday, Aug. 22 at 9pm – FLICK MY CLIP
Saturday, Aug. 23 at Noon – INTERNATIONAL SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 2pm – GIVE TO LIVE THE MOVIE
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 4pm – OHIO SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 7pm – ZERO MOTIVATION
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 12:30pm – U.S. SHORTS
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 3:15pm – STOMPING GROUND
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 5:30pm – THIS TIME NEXT YEAR
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 8pm – FILMDAYTON AWARDS

On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 will hold a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. “The film stars several icons who were at the beginning of their careers. Sidney Pointier stars as Buck. This was also the first film that he directed. Harry Belafonte stars as the preacher. His production company, Belafonte Enterprise produced the film with others. Ruby Dee was the wife of Buck. This film was set in Kansas Territory immediately following the Civil War in the late 1860’s. The cost is $20. This includes the movie, glass of wine, soda, and popcorn. Tickets are available at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes)

Mark your calendars now for The Dayton LGBT Film Festival – set for October 10-12. I met with the festival committee on Sunday for our epic, hash-it-out, planning meeting…and we came up with a really strong line-up of films. That said, I’m still awaiting confirmation from a couple titles before I can make big announcements. However, I can announce this – our Opening Night film – THE WAY HE LOOKS, sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa – is a huge crowd pleaser that has been winning awards all around the world. I hope you’ll hurry down to get tickets once they go on sale!

Thanks for your continued support!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 15 – Thursday, August 21:

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20, 8:30
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:30, 8:00
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 29 – LAND HO
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

2014 Eichelberger FilmDayton Festival Ticket Contest

August 14, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Ohio films, short films, award-winning films from around the world! Single tickets for the 2014 Eichelberger FilmDayton Festival are on sale now! Showcasing the vibrant filmmaker community connected to our region, the festival takes place the weekend of August 22-24. The festival features professional workshops, screenings of award-winning and locally-connected films, parties, and contests. Full weekend schedule is available at www.filmdayton.com. Highlights of this year’s festival include:

THE INFINITE MAN Director: Hugh Sullivan Australia/85min (Fri, Aug 22 – 7PM – The Neon)

An award winning film which premiered at the 2014 SXSW Film Festival. Dean is an inventive yet unorthodox scientist who uses his technical expertise to create grand romantic gestures for his girlfriend Lana. After an anniversary weekend goes terribly wrong, a guilt-ridden Dean is spurred to his greatest scientific achievement yet: the invention of time travel. However, what begins as a simple desire to change the past and create the perfect weekend soon leads to a tightening spiral of multiple “Deans”, each one in competition with the next. And any attempts at romantic reconciliation are further complicated when Dean loses Lana in a recurring temporal loop, and must overcome his many selves in order to save her. This film has something for everyone!

FLICK MY CLIP 7: (Fri, August 22 – 9PM –The Neon)

The ever-popular Flick My Clip is back again for the third time! This shorts block is always a hit with the crowd and keeps getting funnier every year. Ryan Singer who grew up in Dayton is the creator of Flick My Clip. He was also selected by LA Weekly as one of “10 LA Comics to Watch” for 2014, was mentioned in NY Magazine as a “Comic to Watch,” was one of 4 finalist in CMT’s Next Big Comic Contest, and is a frequent guest on the WTF Podcast w/Marc Maron and the Bob & Tom Show. Hestarted Flick My Clip as an attempt to unite the creative forces and minds of stand-up comedians and filmmakers from across the country.

ZERO MOTIVATION Director: Talya Lavie Israel/100 min (Sat, Aug 23 – 7PM – The Neon)

Zero Motivation tells the story of young female Israeli soldiers serving in the human resources unit of a remote desert military base. Told in three sections, the film explores how the trials of young female adulthood are complicated by serving in a dysfunctional military office. This film, which premiered at the 2014 Tribeca Film Festival, won the festival’s Best Narrative Feature award as well as the Nora Ephronprize for outstanding female directors or writer.

PITCH IT! and FESTIVAL PARTY (Sat, Aug 23, 8:30 PM – Gilly’s )

Think you’ve got a golden idea for a film or TV show? This is your opportunity to prove it. Drop $5 in the hat and pitch your movie in two minutes to a panel of industry experts in this “American Idol”-style format. Winner takes home a cash prize and a FREE 1-year premium membership for a screenwritingpackage membership. This lively event is fun for audience and aspiring filmmakers alike – join us in the party atmosphere with cash bar and catering by Christopher’s. Hosted by Niki Dakota, WYSO 91.3-FM music director. Featured filmmakers will be there, the bar will be pouring, and a DJ will be keeping you moving all night.

· THIS TIME NEXT YEAR Directors: Jeff Reichert and Farihah Zaman USA/90min (Sun, Aug 24, 5:30 PM The Neon)

Directed by Jeff Reichert and Farihah Zaman (with additional photography by local filmmakers Julia Reichert and Steve Bognar), the documentary This Time Next Year tells the story of a community banding together to support each other after the devastation that Hurricane Sandy brought to Long Island Beach, New Jersey. Both directors will be present for a Q&A after the screening.

TICKETS: Can be purchased at www.filmdayton.com
All-Access Pass (good for ALL workshops, screenings, and special events) $75.00
Flex Pass (Three Events) $27.00
Single Tickets $10.00

FilmDayton is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to building the Dayton region’s film community. We bring together local filmmakers, students and fans at monthly “Film Connections” meetings. We promote and support film events in the Miami Valley. We are building an infrastructure to encourage new film making in the Dayton area. FilmDayton originated from the DaytonCREATE effort to foster the growth of the “creative class” and strengthen the local economy.

DMM Ticket Contest
We’re sending 3 of our readers to the Eichelberger FilmDayton Festival Aug 22-24. Just like and share this post fill out the form below and you’ll be entered in a drawing for a Flex Pass good for entry to 3 events (or 3 people to one event).

Congrats to our winners: Bob Gremling, Elizabeth Dawes and Shawndra Jones!

Dead Man Walking to Make Its Second Midwest Opera Appearance

August 11, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

On Wednesday, August 6, CNN reporter Moni Basu posted the online article “Dead Man Walking” nun: ‘Botched’ executions unmask a botched system.” The article refers to the experiences of Sister Helen Prejean, a Congregation of St. Joseph nun, who first wrote a groundbreaking, bestselling novel that went on to become the basis for the motion picture Dead Man Walking (1995) starring Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn.

Both the novel and the film tell of a Catholic nun’s stormy spiritual journey, a murderer on death row, the victims of his unthinkable actions, and society at large. In fact, the debate surrounding the works’ main theme is in the news in Ohio and elsewhere in the nation and speaks to our collective view on justice, compassion, the American legal system, and our role as citizens. Ministering to inmates on death row led to Sister Helen Prejean becoming a staunch advocate of abolishing the death penalty and developing a second, unwavering belief: America’s death penalty process doesn’t work.

Composer Jake Heggie premiered the opera Dead Man Walking, his first opera, with a libretto by Terrence McNally; it premiered on October 7, 2000 at the War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco Opera. In 2001, Cincinnati Opera commissioned a second production of Dead Man Walking. On Friday, February 27 and Sunday March 1, 2015, Dayton Opera will present Dead Man Walking, making Dead Man Walking only the second presentation of the opera in the Midwest.

Dead Man Walking taps into one of the core issues of our day and the whirlwind of emotions that surround it. Whether you’ve thought about the death penalty or not, this opera is sure to open a path to your heart, soul, and mind. After all, isn’t that is what great art is all about?

I ORIGINS Opens & BOYHOOD Continues at THE NEON!

August 6, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

We had a very solid weekend with BOYHOOD. Many thanks to all of you who came out to support it. (We even had quite a few folks from Cincinnati – the film isn’t playing that market yet!) We will hold BOYHOOD, but we need to let go of IDA. If you still need to see this marvelous film, Thursday will be your last chance. On Friday, we will open I ORIGINS – a new film from the director of ANOTHER EARTH. (For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com)

Synopsis for I ORIGINS: ONE WEEK ONLY! “I ORIGINS, the second feature film from writer and director Mike Cahill, tells the story of Dr. Ian Gray (Michael Pitt), a molecular biologist studying the evolution of the eye. He finds his work permeating his life after a brief encounter with an exotic young woman (Astrid Bergès-Frisbey) who slips away from him. As his research continues years later with his lab partner Karen (Brit Marling), they make a stunning scientific discovery that has far reaching implications and complicates both his scientific and spiritual beliefs. Traveling half way around the world, he risks everything he has ever known to validate his theory.” (taken from Fox Searchlight press notes) Click on this LINK to visit the official website. I ORIGINS will play for One Week Only! Check out a featurette about the film below…

“On Thursday, August 14 at 7:30, Boston Stoker is proud to present A FILM ABOUT COFFEE to the Dayton Area. The film, which first premiered in Seattle at the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), explores the world’s involvement and fascination with specialty coffee from crop to cup. It captures in-depth views on the current state of specialty coffee with footage from throughout the US, Africa, South America and Japan. Boston Stoker is a specialty coffee roaster and wholesaler that has operated out of Dayton, Ohio since 1973. The company has a long history with direct trade work within the coffee industry, focusing on Heart to Honduras.” (taken from Boston Stoker press notes) This screening will be an Ohio premiere! Click this LINK to find out more about the film. Click this LINK to visit Boston Stoker’s official site.

The FilmDayton Film Festival is set for August 22-24. The full schedule has been released and festival passes and single tickets are now available on-line. Check out the line-up and purchase your tickets at the festival’s Official Site. In addition to screenings that will be held at THE NEON, there are a number of other special programs happening downtown.

On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 will hold a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. “The film stars several icons who were at the beginning of their careers. Sidney Pointier stars as Buck. This was also the first film that he directed. Harry Belafonte stars as the preacher. His production company, Belafonte Enterprise produced the film with others. Ruby Dee was the wife of Buck. This film was set in Kansas Territory immediately following the Civil War in the late 1860’s. The cost is $20. This includes the movie, glass of wine, soda, and popcorn. Tickets are available at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes)

I can’t believe that the Toronto International Film Festival is less than a month away. Before I depart, The Dayton LGBT Film Festival committee will sit down and finalize this year’s line-up (save the dates for October 10-12…titles will revealed in mid-August). Between that and all the special events at THE NEON, there’s a lot to do in the next few weeks.

Thanks for your continued support!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 8 – Thursday, August 14:

I ORIGINS (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Monday-Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:30, 8:00
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:30

A FILM ABOUT COFFEE (NR)
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug 29 – LAND HO
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

Jackie Kashian Providing Laughs And An “Excellent Horcrux” At Wiley’s

August 5, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

When I was younger, I would try to make all of my family and friends laugh by doing impersonations and/or spout off silly comments and observations. I had a few (and I mean few) individuals make comments about how I should be a comedian. And I actually thought about going into that world. I figured that if I made a few people giggle at my dumb jokes-I could easily have an amazing experience. As time went on, I determined that I should just stick to I know, and be a writer.

For comedian Jackie Kashian, the past couple of years have been anything but relaxing. Recently, Kashian has bumped being on the road and performing at comedy clubs from 25 weeks to 35 weeks a year. Luckily for Kashian, though, a typical week will consist of being on the road for 3 to 4 days, and the rest of the week being home. The days being at home are particularly a nice welcoming to normalcy in part due to Kashian recently getting married. “I’m a beacon of hope for everyone who ever to get married and never thought that they would,” Kashian playfully said to me during our phone conversation. On August 8^th, Kashian will be performing at Wiley’s Comedy Club, located at 101 Pine Street in Dayton, Ohio.

Growing up in the state of Wisconsin, around the Milwaukee area to be exact, Kashian grew up with five siblings and a father that was a salesman. Kashian mentioned that during her childhood, her father never had anything related to comedy in the house. “We would always listen to motivational speakers…I learned more about pitching and closing the deal than comedy.” It wasn’t till she was a little older and attending college in Madison, Wisconsin when she discovered the world of stand-up comedy. Kashian attended a show one night at the local comedy club, and loved it. She kept going to the club to watch the other comedians to the point that the manager approached her one night. “The manager came over and said to me ‘Open Mic. Sunday.’” Kashian said. So, Kashian without any hesitation went to the club to do a set at the open mic. “It was like heroin…the first time I did it, I’m sure I was terrible, but I just going back.” For eight months, Kashian would go to the comedy club and perform every night. “I was the only woman, so I got lots and lots of stage time,” Kashian added.

Kashian wanted to leave college and continue to pursue comedy after the eight month stint at the local club, but her sister pressured her to finish. After she graduated college, Kashian packed up her belongings and moved up to Minneapolis, Minnesota. The decision to move to Minneapolis was in part a start over. “Whenever you move to another city in stand-up comedy, you have to reinvent the wheel a little bit,” Kashian says. The change of scenery gave Kashian a better audience to perform to, and it allowed new eyeballs to see and ears to hear her set. Kashian lived in Minneapolis for about six to seven years, and then relocated to her current residence in Los Angeles.

According to Kashian’s website (www.jackiekashian.com), she describes herself by saying “comedy is like listening to a really racy episode of All Things Considered”. Her material comprises a multitude of past and present experiences of her family life by telling stories about her siblings and her father when she was growing and today. Kashian’s views on relationships are very unique, fascinating, and extremely out of the ordinary in her work. The reason is because she has had one relationship in her entire life-the one she is currently in with her now husband, having just gotten married near the age of 40. “I just never wanted to date,” Kashian explains. “My husband always says that it’s great that I never really had a boyfriend because he doesn’t really have any expectations to meet, and the bar is low. I just tell him that the bar is not low, my expectations of him are to be a decent human being.” Her presence on the stage, along with the delivery of her jokes, is light-hearted and fun. Kashian is very sarcastic, but also very pleasurable to be around.

Kashian’s resume includes a half hour special on Comedy Central, being a semi-finalist on the NBC television contest Last Comic Standing, and recently being featured on Conan on TBS. Her second comedy album, It Is Never Going To Be Bread was one of the top ten comedy albums of the year on Amazon. Kashian also hosts a weekly cult favorite podcast called “The Dork Forest” where she creates a safe space for people to admit that thing they dork out about more than anyone. Kashian recently has released her newest stand up special This Will Make An Excellent Horcrux and it is available on the website www.allthingsrecords.com for $5.

I wonder what it would be like to be up on stage and perform rehearsed material to the gathering of patrons at comedy clubs. I wonder if my jokes would have the on-lookers rolling on the floor, laughing uncontrollably. Individuals would be reaching out to their napkins and/or tissue to wipe off the tears that are rolling down from their eyes. Others would lean onto the person sitting next to them, smiling and chuckling. My material would be your typical observational humor, chronicling the misadventures of my life and what I have experienced. Throughout my set, I would share the high jinxs and shenanigans of my youth and early adulthood. I also feel like maybe it wouldn’t fare well and I should just leave it up to folks who have been putting in their time.

Case in point-the wonderful Jackie Kashian.

Jackie Kashian’s show is at Wiley’s Comedy Club is Friday, August 8th at 8:00pm. Preshow admission price is only $12. Admission is $16.00 on the day of the show. To purchase tickets online, just click this link – http://www.showclix.com/event/dayton

The Ultimate Elvis Tribute

August 4, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Recognized as one of the country’s best Elvis impersonators, Mike Albert will perform all of your favorite Elvis hits. Accompanied by the big “e” band, his award-winning tribute to “the king” returns to La Comedia for an encore performance.

Tender ‘Sugarhill’ Wins Dayton Playhouse FutureFest

August 2, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr.

Playwright Linda Ramsay-Detherage (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

Playwright Linda Ramsay-Detherage of Detroit received top honors Sunday, July 27 at the 24th annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest of new plays for her World War II-era Southern family dramedy “Sugarhill,” a compelling exploration of race, heartbreak and hope.
Set in the fictional titular Louisiana town in December 1941, “Sugarhill,” also named the Audience Favorite, scored highest among a commendable field of six original, developing plays adjudicated within criteria including theme, style/language, dramatic structure, character development, story/plot, pacing, page-to-stage, and the next stage. Delicately directed by Debra Kent, the engaging, whimsical play, which requires the audience to take a great leap of faith in its final moments, featured an excellently authentic cast consisting of Cassandra Engber as the grieving, mentally unstable Marietta Trudeau, Dave Nickel as Civil War veteran and Marietta’s imposing grandfather Captain John Youngblood, Lynn Kesson as the family’s devoted French nurse Yvette Degas, Franklin Johnson as black runaway Mr. Franklin, an impressively tranquil Rick Johns as Marietta’s injured, unresponsive husband Tom, Cheryl Mellen as Marietta’s testy sister-in-law Laurel, and Jamie McQuinn as Laurel’s merciless husband Davis. The family ultimately defies the racist Jim Crow laws of the period due to the transformative nature of Mr. Franklin’s impactful presence and influence in their lives.

“It really feels wonderful and I’m very delighted that so many people were entertained by ‘Sugarhill,’” said Ramsay-Detherage, who received a $1,000 prize for her accomplishment. “It’s so nice to have been able to put something beautiful out there for an audience. Good plays, especially the ones I have had the good fortune of performing in, tend to be less about what the characters are thinking and more about what their behavior is. It’s up to the actors and directors to figure out what their inner life is. My job was to look at the situation of the play and also find the right time period. I really wanted to create a character that lived through the Civil War and came out of it with some kind of positive conclusion. How long does it take to change your point of view over owning slaves? Does it take 100 years when it’s all ingrained in you? So, it suited my purposes to create a character who remembered the Civil War while also creating someone like Marietta who experienced electroshock therapy, which began in 1937. In the end, I chose to set ‘Sugarhill’ right before Pearl Harbor started because the characters being unaware that event is coming changes the way we see their point of view.”
As a professional actress, Ramsay-Detherage has participated in many staged readings, but viewing the FutureFest experience left an indelible mark. After all, the Playhouse’s mission to produce six plays in three days, a daunting task overseen by FutureFest program director Fran Pesch, places the organization in a league of its own within the national theater scene.
“I’ve never seen a theater do what the Playhouse did in my entire life,” she said. “The atmosphere is so full of love as well. My fellow playwrights felt the same.”
“There were some well-written, directed and performed scripts over the weekend so we had our work cut out for us,” added Kent, who staged last year’s FutureFest co-winner “A Position of Relative Importance.” “But my cast’s love for our play never faltered. They were focused and ready to go at performance time. I am so proud of them and their dedication. During rehearsals, there was more than one discussion about the futuristic or magical quality in our play. Neither my cast nor I had a problem believing in the magic. The actors portrayed the characters in the play as real people with real problems. We all need some magic in our lives from time to time. Sometimes things happen that we cannot explain.”
Kent, who will stage the local premiere of David Lindsay-Abaire’s “Good People” for the Dayton Theatre Guild this fall, particularly embraced FutureFest with familiar excitement. She enjoys the discoveries that arise from working with a fresh script.

The cast of “Sugarhill” (l to r): Jamie McQuinn, Cheryl Mellen, Franklin Johnson, Lynn Kesson, director Debra Kent, Dave Nickel, Rick Johns, and Cassandra Engber. (Contributed photo by Art Fabian)

“I have been fortunate to direct a couple of terrific new plays for FutureFest,” she said. “I love the thought that my actors and I are breaking new ground and putting a brand new work on its feet for an audience to see. We break open a new script and look for the treasures and new ideas the playwright has given us. There is such love for the craft in the FutureFest crowd, and it comes not only from the playwright but also the people on the stage, behind the scenes and from the audience. Not everyone would give up literally weeks of time to rehearse a play that will only be seen once or purchase a ticket to see six full-length plays in just one weekend. FutureFest attendees are exceptional theatergoers.”
Chosen from 151 submissions from across the country, the remaining finalists were: “Wash, Dry, Fold,” a terrific account of Louisiana sisters coping with past heartache while caring for their disgruntled uncle emotionally wounded by the Vietnam War by Nedra Pezold Roberts of Atlanta; “The Humanist,” a contemporary, intelligent and stinging look at the foibles and tenacity of a humanities professor by Kuros Charney of New York City; “The Killing Jar,” a story of art and feminism by Jennifer Lynne Roberts of San Francisco; and Dayton native/Woodland Hills, California resident M.J. Feely’s “The Paymaster,” an Irish-centric story of heritage and loyalty, and “Masterwork,” concerning an ailing playwright’s final endeavor.
This year’s adjudicators were Roger Danforth (artistic director of the Drama League Directors Project), David Finkle (theater critic for “Huffington Post”), Faye Sholiton (a Cleveland playwright who won the 1997 FutureFest for “The Interview”), Helen Sneed (who has held numerous artistic posts in New York City and has judged FutureFest for over 20 years), and Eleanore Speert (Speert Publishing).
In addition, first-rate performances extended beyond “Sugarhill.” Sharp, wonderfully layered portrayals were delivered by Mike Beerbower, Megan Cooper and J. Gary Thompson (“The Paymaster,” directed by Saul Caplan), Sarah Gomes, the aforementioned Thompson, Annie Pesch, Jon Hung, and Geoff Burkman (“The Killing Jar,” directed by Kathy Mola), Dorothy Michalski, Stefanie Pratt, David Williamson, Wendi Michael, and Scott Knisley (“Wash, Dry, Fold,” directed by Teresa High), Shawn Hooks, Jennifer Lockwood, the aforementioned Pesch, and Matt Lindsay (“The Humanist,” directed by Jim Lockwood), and Charles Larkowski, Debra Strauss, Val Beerbower, the aforementioned Mellen, and Dave Gaylor (“Masterwork,” directed by Fran Pesch).
For more information about FutureFest, visit www.daytonplayhouse.com.

My FutureFest Rankings:
1. “Wash, Dry, Fold”
2. “Sugarhill”
3. “The Humanist”
4. “The Killing Jar”
5. “The Paymaster”
6. “Masterwork”

Don’t Let The Lights Go Out At The Human Race

August 1, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

No support = No shows = No Human Race Theatre!

The Human Race makes theatre from the ground up. They employ both local and nationally acclaimed actors, directors, musicians, technicians, etc. We build our own sets and costumes. They do their own fundraising and marketing. They offer educational opportunities to students (youth and adult) throughout the year with coaching, classes, and performance opportunities.

Outside of producing contemporary and classic pieces since 1986, over the past decade they have produced over 40 NEW works of theatre. Through thei Music Theatre Workshops and Marsha Hanna New Play Workshops, they foster the creation of NEW theatre by providing an artistic home for the next generation of writers, and composers!! They’ve produced new works by such well known artists as Adam Gwon, Stephen Schwartz, Michael Kooman & Christopher Dimond, Gordon Greenberg & Tommy Newman, Janece Shaffer, Michael Slade, Brian Yorkey AND…they are one of only a handful of theatre companies nationally that do this!!!! No Joke!

Basically, they do it all…and they do it for the audience, the dedicated supporters, artists, the industry, and for the betterment of the community.

In order to keep The Human Race Alive- we, as a community need to help support them. Today they’ve launched an online campaign to ask for your help. Check it out here at GoGetFunding.com

Best Reviewed Film of the Year – BOYHOOD – Opens at THE NEON!

July 31, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

We’re pretty excited here at THE NEON. On Friday, August 1, we’re opening the best reviewed film of the year – BOYHOOD. We will also keep the amazing film IDA for select screenings.

Synopsis for BOYHOOD: Given 100% Reviews by countless critics and currently at 99% FRESH on rotten tomatoes, BOYHOOD is the best reviewed film of the year! “Filmed over 12 years with the same cast, Richard Linklater’s BOYHOOD is a groundbreaking story of growing up as seen through the eyes of a child named Mason (a breakthrough performance by Ellar Coltrane), who literally grows up on screen before our eyes. Starring Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette as Mason’s parents and newcomer Lorelei Linklater as his sister Samantha, BOYHOOD charts the rocky terrain of childhood like no other film has before. Snapshots of adolescence from road trips and family dinners to birthdays and graduations and all the moments in between become transcendent, set to a soundtrack spanning the years from Coldplay’s “Yellow” to Arcade Fire’s “Deep Blue.” BOYHOOD is both a nostalgic time capsule of the recent past and an ode to growing up and parenting. It’s impossible to watch Mason and his family without thinking about our own journey.” (taken from IFC Films press notes) Click this LINK to visit the official website.

On Sunday, August 3 at 1:00, SPAN Ohio will hold a one-time screening of THE HEATHCARE MOVIE. “Single Payer Action Network Ohio (SPAN Ohio) is proud to host THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE on the 49th anniversary of our own Medicare system. THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE is a 65 minute documentary that reveals the intensity of the political struggle that led to Canada’s universal medical care system, and exposes public relations campaigns that have been prevalent in the U.S. since the early 1900’s to dissuade the American public from supporting national health care. Every day people are dying or going bankrupt due to the ills of the United States system. Who are we in the face of this human tragedy? If you agree that people are more important than profits, then you must see this film. Admission is free and open to the public.” (taken from SPAN Ohio press notes)

“On Thursday, August 14 at 7:30 Boston Stoker is proud to present A FILM ABOUT COFFEE to the Dayton Area. The film, which first premiered in Seattle at the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), explores the world’s involvement and fascination with specialty coffee from crop to cup. It captures in-depth views on the current state of specialty coffee with footage from throughout the US, Africa, South America and Japan. Boston Stoker is a specialty coffee roaster and wholesaler that has operated out of Dayton, Ohio since 1973. The company has a long history with direct trade work within the coffee industry, focusing on Heart to Honduras.” (taken from Boston Stoker press notes) This screening will be an Ohio premiere! Tickets are currently available at THE NEON’s box office for $10 each. Click this LINK to find out more about the film. Click this LINK to visit Boston Stoker’s official site (where you can purchase tickets on-line).

The FilmDayton Film Festival is set for August 22-24. The full schedule has just been released and festival passes are now available on-line (single tickets will be available beginning July 31). Check out the line-up and purchase your pass at the festival’s Official Site. In addition to screenings that will be held at THE NEON, there are a number of other special programs happening downtown.

On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 will hold a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. “The film stars several icons who were at the beginning of their careers. Sidney Pointier stars as Buck. This was also the first film that he directed. Harry Belafonte stars as the preacher. His production company, Belafonte Enterprise produced the film with others. Ruby Dee was the wife of Buck. This film was set in Kansas Territory immediately following the Civil War in the late 1860’s. The cost is $20. This includes the movie, glass of wine, soda, and popcorn. Tickets are available at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes)

We hope to see you this weekend!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 1 – Thursday, August 7:

IDA (PG-13) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 5:30
Sunday – Thursday: 5:30

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 2:15, 4:30, 7:30, 8:00
Sunday: 1:00, 4:30, 7:30 8:00
Monday – Thursday: 2:15, 3:30, 7:00, 7:30

THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE (NR) 1 Hr 5 Min + Discussion
Sunday: 1:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 8 – I ORIGINS
Aug 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug 29 – LAND HO
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

4 PAWS For Ability To Benefit From Batman Documentary Screening

July 30, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro

Everyone wants to become a superhero. The universal theme of battling evil with good resonates with every individual around the world. Independent documentary Legends of the Knight, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Brett Culp and funded by over 1,000 people around the world via Kickstarter, will have a one-time-only screening at the NEON (130 E. Fifth St.) on Thursday, July 31, from 7:30 – 8:51 p.m. Since February, each screening has benefited a local charity in the community where the movie is shown, and Xenia-based 4 Paws for Ability was chosen to receive 5% of each $11 ticket sale.

Legends of the Knight weaves together the uplifting true stories of individuals who have overcome devastating obstacles, unselfishly given to the community, and embraced their inner superhero because of their love of Batman. A superhero with no actual super powers, Batman was born out of tragedy when Bruce Wayne lost his parents to street violence and he decided to rise above that and eliminate the bad element in Gotham. Through the deeply personal tales of Batman fans, writers, and filmmakers, this feature-

length documentary explores the power of heroic stories and encourages viewers to find their own unique path to heroism.

The documentary is suitable for all ages and free of objectionable content or language. Some stories deal with tragedy and sadness, but the details and images are not graphic, detailed, or overly intense. A certain level of maturity is required to view 76 minutes of real-life stories, but if a young person can follow a typical reality show or nature documentary, he/she will likely enjoy the stories in the film.

The Dayton screening was arranged by Tyler Hall, a 2012 Wittenberg University graduate who was in 4 Paws for Ability’s service dog fostering program, which helps prepare dogs for a life in service assistance to children or veterans with disabilities.

“When I started planning to bring this Batman documentary to Dayton,” Hall said, “there was no question about which charity I wanted to support. Since a friend and I volunteered to train a Golden Retriever our junior year of college, I’ve been struck by just how incredible a difference these dogs make for kids and their families. The stories in Legend of the Knight remind me of the everyday heroes that I connected with through that service: from the dog trainers, to the staff at 4 Paws, to the parents, and especially the kids who benefit from the service dogs.”

For more information about the Dayton screening: http://bit.ly/DaytonBatman

For more information about this subject or 4 Paws For Ability, visit 4PawsForAbility.org or follow @4PawsForAbility on Twitter or 4 Paws For Ability on Facebook.

IDA & WORDS AND PICTURES Open Friday at THE NEON!

July 23, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see LIFE ITSELF, THIRD PERSON or CHEF (which has been here 9 weeks!), you’ll need to hurry. Thursday will be your last chance to catch any of these films at THE NEON. On Friday, we’re clearing the decks for two new films – the critically acclaimed and powerful new film IDA and the romantic drama WORDS AND PICTURES. (For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com)

Synopsis for IDA: At last year’s Toronto International Film Festival, I saw 30+ films. This film was at the top of my list (with films like 12 YEARS A SLAVE and PHILOMENA), but it won’t stick around for too long. I hope you’ll hurry down. “From acclaimed director Pawel Pawlikowski comes IDA, a moving and intimate drama about a young novitiate nun in 1960s Poland who, on the verge of taking her vows, discovers a dark family secret dating from the terrible years of the Nazi occupation. 18-year old Anna, a sheltered orphan raised in a convent, is preparing to become a nun when the Mother Superior insists she first visit her sole living relative. Naive, innocent Anna soon finds herself in the presence of her aunt Wanda, a worldly and cynical Communist Party insider, who shocks her with the declaration that her real name is Ida… In this beautifully directed film, Pawlikowski returns to his native Poland for the first time in his career to confront some of the more contentious issues in the history of his birthplace. Powerfully written and eloquently shot, IDA is a masterly evocation of a time, a dilemma, and a defining historical moment; IDA is also personal, intimate, and human. The weight of history is everywhere, but the scale falls within the scope of a young woman learning about the secrets of her own past.” (taken from Music Box Films press notes) Click on this LINK to visit the official website.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXhCaVqB0x0

Synopsis for WORDS AND PICTURES: “A witty romantic drama, WORDS AND PICTURES stars the engaging duo of Juliette Binoche and Clive Owen working together on-screen for the first time. Prep school English teacher Jack Marcus laments his students’ obsession with social media and good grades rather than engaging with the power of the written word. A one-time literary star, Jack has not published in years filling his spare time with drink versus the art of language. He meets his match in Dina Delsanto – an abstract painter and new teacher on campus, who was once celebrated for her art. From the start, the two flirt and provoke each other with equal relish.” (taken from Roadside Attractions press notes) Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

On Tuesday, July 29 at 7:30, The Evangelical Immigration Table will host a one-time screening of the documentary THE STRANGER. “This film was produced to motivate evangelical Christians to take a stand for immigration reform. The film tells the story of three families caught in our broken immigration system. The film is a stark reminder that immigration isn’t just a political issue, and it certainly isn’t a liberal or conservative issue. It is an American issue, and it is a spiritual issue. Tickets are $5 (Now Available at THE NEON’s Box Office) and all proceeds will go to local refugees served by New Path Outreach, a ministry of Ginghamsburg Church. Watch the film. Then call your Congressman.” (taken from press notes) A panel discussion will be held after the screening.

On Thursday, July 31 at 7:30, 4 Paws For Ability will screen LEGENDS OF THE KNIGHT. This tugg screening has crossed its required threshold, but more tickets are still available…with a portion of the proceeds going to the group that provides service dogs to children in need. “LEGENDS OF THE KNIGHT weaves together the uplifting true stories of individuals who have overcome devastating obstacles, unselfishly given to the community, and embraced their inner superhero because of their love of Batman.” Follow this LINK to find out more about the film, watch a trailer and reserve your ticket.

On Sunday, August 3 at 1:00, SPAN Ohio will hold a one-time screening of THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE. “Single Payer Action Network Ohio (SPAN Ohio) is proud to host THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE on the 49th anniversary of our own Medicare system. THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE is a 65 minute documentary that reveals the intensity of the political struggle that led to Canada’s universal medical care system, and exposes public relations campaigns that have been prevalent in the U.S. since the early 1900’s to dissuade the American public from supporting national health care. Every day people are dying or going bankrupt due to the ills of the United States system. Who are we in the face of this human tragedy? If you agree that people are more important than profits, then you must see this film. Admission is free and open to the public.” (taken from SPAN Ohio press notes)

“On Thursday, August 14 at 7:30 Boston Stoker is proud to present A FILM ABOUT COFFEE to the Dayton Area. The film, which first premiered in Seattle at the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), explores the world’s involvement and fascination with specialty coffee from crop to cup. It captures in-depth views on the current state of specialty coffee with footage from throughout the US, Africa, South America and Japan. Boston Stoker is a specialty coffee roaster and wholesaler that has operated out of Dayton, Ohio since 1973. The company has a long history with direct trade work within the coffee industry, focusing on Heart to Honduras.” (taken from Boston Stoker press notes) This screening will be an Ohio premiere! Click this LINK to find out more about the film. Click this LINK to visit Boston Stoker’s official site.

Save the Date! On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 is planning a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. More details will be in next week’s newsletter.

I’m delighted to announce that our opening date for BOYHOOD has been moved up! It will now open on August 1, and we can’t wait!

Thanks so much for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, July 25- Thursday, July 31:

IDA (PG-13) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:20, 9:20
Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:20
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:20
Thursday: 3:00, 5:15

WORDS AND PICTURES (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Monday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Tuesday: 2:50, 5:10
Wednesday, Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

THE STRANGER (NR) 45 Min + Discussion
Tuesday: 7:30

LEGENDS OF THE KNIGHT (NR) 1 Hr 17 Min
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 1 – BOYHOOD
Aug 8 – I ORIGINS
Aug 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug 29 – LAND HO
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

‘Once On This Island’ Review – Epiphany Lutheran Church – Vibrant Storytellers

July 18, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr.

(L to R) Back Row: Desmond Thomas, Kathy Meyer, Kandis Wean, Bryan Burckle. Front Row: Brianna Russ in Epiphany Lutheran Church’s production of “Once On This Island”
(Contributed photo by Charles Woodward)

The Epiphany Players Drama Ministry of Centerville’s Epiphany Lutheran Church delivers a wonderfully heartfelt, joyously sung production of the1990 Tony Award-nominated musical “Once On This Island.”
Composed by Tony winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (“Ragtime”) and adapted from Rosa Guy’s 1985 novel “My Love, My Love,” this Caribbean-immersed show inherently appeals with its straightforward, touching emphasis on a young peasant girl’s coming-of-age. The effervescent yet strong-willed Ti Moune (sprightly portrayed by the winsome Brianna Russ) adores the wealthy Daniel (a charming, sensitive Timmy Seiler) but is tested by her gods to embark on a journey that will ultimately explore the depths of her love. In spite of prejudice and adversity, Ti Moune risks her life for Daniel, propelling engrossing themes of acceptance, sacrifice and hope to compelling degrees.
The musical’s delightful structure requires the action to come forth by way of multiple storytellers, which director/choreographer Megan Wean Sears handles with aplomb as her exuberant cast cheerfully pulls the audience into Ti Moune’s whimsical world. Anyone who saw Sears’ exemplary production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” last summer at Epiphany knows how effortlessly she guides a large ensemble, and her 60-member cast of varying ages does not disappoint. The excitement, suspense and tenderness within the tale is not lost as the cast, maintaining credible dialect throughout, grounds the proceedings with an earthy vivacity bolstered by Ahrens and Flaherty’s terrific score marvelously bookended by the ensemble-driven “We Dance” and “Why We Tell the Story.” Sears also provides excellently fluid stagecraft for the bouncy “Some Say” and the dramatic, nearly show-stopping “Pray.”
In addition to the aforementioned Russ and Seiler, Sears’ strong principals are committed and engaging. As the four omnipresent gods, Kathy Meyer (Asaka, mother of the Earth), Desmond Thomas (Papa Ge, demon of death), Kandis Wean (Erzulie, goddess of love) and Bryan Burckle (Agwe, god of water) are a colorfully commanding quartet. The radiant Meyer particularly brings gospel-tinged vivaciousness to the toe-tapping Act 1 finale “Mama Will Provide.” The delectably evil Thomas displays dynamic intensity and powerful vocals. The expressive, graceful Wean is a compassionate presence supplying a beautiful rendition of “The Human Heart” filled with poignancy and soul. Burckle joins Thomas in conveying imposing authority and a fittingly intimidating aura. Elsewhere, the emotional Meghan Rupper (in a first-rate, breakthrough performance) and amiable Michael Shannon gently coalesce as Ti Moune’s devoted parents Mama Euralie and Tonton Julian. Allie Tura (Andrea), Eryn Barrett (Little Girl), Liza Russ (Little Ti Moune), David Egbert (Armand), Hilary Fenwick (Madame Armand), Larry Klueber (Daniel’s Father), Brian Hoff (Gatekeeper), Mia Bridgman (Peasant Girl) and Noah Brush (Daniel’s Son) are equally notable.
Also, D. Tristan Cupp’s exotic scenic design skillfully captures the essence of the French Antilles. Costumers Maria Klueber and Lori Watamaniuk utilize the island motif with personality, particularly the regal garments reserved for the gods. Bryan Miller’s expert lighting, Chris Pentecost’s sound design, and Adrienne Ausdenmoore and Jason Hamen’s efficient props are great assets. Musical director David Brush leads a fine six-piece orchestra adeptly handling the flavorful rhythms within the score.
If you’re looking for a theatrical getaway this weekend, make this “Island” your destination.

“Once On This Island” continues through July 20 at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 6430 Far Hills Ave., Centerville. Performances are Thursdays-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Act One: 45 minutes; Act Two: 35 minutes. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors (60 and over) and children (12 and under). Patrons are advised the show is double-cast. For tickets or more information, call (937) 433-1449 ext. 105or visit www.epiphanydayton.org