Arts & Entertainment

A New Choreographic Perspective on DCDC Concert Stage

February 4, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

One of the many pleasures of a mixed repertory concert is the diversity of artistic voices and choreographic invention. You, as an arts patron are privy to work that has not been seen and disseminated by others; part of a special moment that only occurs once, bearing witness to a premiere performance. Who doesn’t want to be an early adopter?

Ray Mercer is the least known choreographer premiering work on the ReVisioning concert, however he brings a unique and never the less impressive biography to the fore. Mr. Mercer, currently starring on Broadway in Walt Disney’s “The Lion King,” has had an eclectic performance career that has taken him from the concert stage to the bright lights of Broadway, having worked with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Rod Stewart and Garth Fagan. His choreographic work has been presented all of over the country on companies such as Philidanco, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and now Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.

Because of Mr. Mercer’s background, I am curious to see how his aesthetic sensibilities meld with the talents of the DCDC dancers. Oh how I love the unpredictability and the visceral experience of the new and so should you.

Check out the work of Mr. Ray Mercer.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abb8CmmcNT4′]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUyTwPlh3Ts

ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 3:00pm
Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
For tickets to ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled please contact Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630 or www.ticketcenterstage.com

‘Torch Song Trilogy’ Review – Human Race Theatre Company – Who Will Love Me As I Am?

February 3, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Jamison Stern as Arnold in “Torch Song Trilogy”

Harvey Fierstein’s groundbreaking 1983 Tony Award-winning dramedy “Torch Song Trilogy” captivates with delightful humor and poignant heartbreak in its outstanding Human Race Theatre Company debut.
Skillfully directed by Scott Stoney and intimately transpiring on a revolving set by Scott J. Kimmins, “Torch Song Trilogy” predates AIDS in its blunt, colorful, sexually charged account of larger-than-life Arnold Beckoff, a funny, flamboyant, torch song-adoring Jewish drag queen longing to find Mr. Right in New York City. As the title suggests, Arnold’s saga occurs in three segments spanning seven years. “International Stud,” the boldest portion, launches the show in 1978 centered on Arnold’s attraction to bisexual Ed Reese, a choice that holds immense ramifications. A year later, in “Fugue in a Nursery,” Arnold and his new partner Alan, a young model/hustler, are invited to the country home of Ed and his fiancée Laurel only to have their burgeoning relationship put to the test. Five years later, in “Widows and Children First!,” Arnold, still mourning Alan’s untimely death as a victim of a hate crime, seeks to adopt a gay teenager, which infuriates his intolerant mother. Stoney, avoiding the temptation to go broad or melodramatic, expertly grasps the play’s clever intricacies and varying shifts in tone, particularly providing excellent blocking for Act 2 which symbolically takes place on a large bed with the aforementioned foursome continuously altering positions in bedrooms and other locations.

Jamison Stern as Arnold and Jon Hacker as Alan in “Torch Song Trilogy”

The fantastic Jamison Stern, a sharp comedian and find singer dives into Arnold’s vivid evolution from independence to fatherhood with great vulnerability. Exposing a gamut of emotions over the course of three and a half hours encompassing racy comic relief and tear-jerking defiance with a terrific rendition of “The Man That Got Away” thrown in for good measure, Stern fuels Arnold’s desire for connection and companionship with sincerity and passion. He has a winning rapport with all of his fellow actors, but his dynamically dramatic work in Act 3 opposite a brutally stern Patricia Linhart as Mrs. Beckoff provides significant sparks that cut deep.

Jamie Cordes, typically seen in musicals, commendably delivers one of his most complex portrayals as the hopelessly mysterious and perturbing Ed. Lisa Ann Goldsmith is an engaging open book as the forgiving and understanding Laurel, who has a history of attracting bisexual men. The endlessly charming Jon Hacker, a Wright State University standout, appealingly embodies Alan as a carefree romantic. As David, a damaged product of foster care who finally finds solace and meaning with Arnold, Philip Thomas Stock, a senior at Stivers School for the Arts, enjoyably fits the mold of a wisecracking teen. In addition to portraying Mrs. Beckoff, Linhart amplifies the potency of Act 1 in Janet G. Powell’s lovely gowns as torch singer Lady Blues, particularly shining with “I Don’t Care Much.”

Jasmion Stern as Arnold and Patricia Linhart as Mrs. Beckoff in “Torch Song Trilogy”

“Torch Song Trilogy” transcends sexuality in its pursuit of happiness, but bittersweet feelings remain when you consider what the future held for Arnold as AIDS devastatingly transformed the community he treasured so dearly. But I prefer to believe Arnold is currently supporting the wave of marriage equality and feverishly anticipating the upcoming season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” And above all, I hope he’s truly content with someone special who absolutely accepts everything about him – his faults, his goodness, his insecurities, his preferences, his eccentricities, his past – in genuine love.

“Torch Song Trilogy” continues through Feb. 16 at the Loft Theatre of the Metropolitan Arts Center, 126 N. Main St., Dayton. Performances are Wednesdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. There is also a 7 p.m. performance Feb. 4. Act One: 55 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes; Act Three: 80 minutes. There are two intermissions. Tickets are $31-$40 for adults, $29-$38 for seniors and $16.50-$20.50 for students. Discounts are available. For tickets, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com or www.humanracetheatre.org. Patrons are advised the show contains adult language and content. There is also a special talkback scheduled following the Feb. 9 performance. The Greater Dayton LGBT Center has partnered with the Race to present LGBT Pride Night for the Feb. 11 performance.

Independent Comics, Film and Music To Be Celebrated At Inaugural I.C.E.

January 31, 2014 By Juliet Fromholt Leave a Comment

Saturday February 1^st marks the debut of the Independent Creators Expo, seasonally appropriately nicknamed I.C.E., at Wright State University’s Student Union. To the naked eye, I.C.E. May appear to be like a comic book convention and that’s a good starting point for understanding the event. But you won’t see Wolverine, Batman or Spider-man playing a prominent role at this show.

Artwork from Jason Young’s Veggie Dog Saturn

“I want I.C.E. to be the show where people go to see original work and support the mediums they love at ‘ground zero,’ where it all begins,” says Brandon (Bjay) Johnson of Studio Akumakaze, the Kettering art/design studio hosting the event.

As the name suggests, I.C.E.’s focus is on the work of independent comic and graphic artists much like Columbus’ popular Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo (S.P.A.C.E.), which has celebrated many of the Dayton area’s independent comic creators for many years.

With its own manga-style comic book, SCRAP, Studio Akumakaze is part of a longstanding community of comic creators in the Miami Valley that includes Justin Wasson and Jason Young of Buyer Beware Comics, among many others.

“I thought that a show that focused entirely on original work and independent creators would be a nice companion show for Gem City Com Con [also held at Wright State],” says Johnson. “And also be a good way to kick off the year and stir up some excitement for the artistic community before the convention season begins in the spring.”

Another departure from the more traditional comic book convention is that in addition to comic/graphic artists, I.C.E. is welcoming local, independent filmmakers and musicians. Nightbeast and Red Hot Rebellion head up the musical offerings and filmmakers Eric Widing (Hellhounds) and Shawn Burkett (Concept Media) are among the motion picture guests who will also be joined by Dayton area horror host Baron Von Porkchop.

“In my opinion, it wouldn’t have made sense NOT to include [filmmakers and musicians],” said Johnson. “Independent music, film, and comics are all driven by the same desires: to create something new, to improve their individual genre/medium, to rebuild the heritage and credibility of their medium, to celebrate the things that inspire them to be an artist, and to challenge the mainstream with fresh new ideas/concepts. It only made sense to bring them all together and create an atmosphere that would be ripe with creativity and also be a place to share ideas, network and help one another reach a bigger audience.”

How To Go:
Independent Creators Expo (I.C.E.)
Saturday, February 1st, 10am-5pm
Wright State University Student Union Hall
Admission $3

Ronen Koresh and a Fresh Choreographic Vision for DCDC

January 30, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

Choreography that combines technical agility, emotional resonance and visceral impact; there are few choreographers working today with this level of acumen. This makes seeing the work of Ronen Koresh, being set on Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, all the more necessary.

Ronen (Roni) comes to the International dance scene via early training in folk dancing in the Yemenite tradition in his native Israel. Ronen actively pursued his dance training in Israel while serving his three year enlistment in the Israeli army. In 1983 he left for the United States to actively pursue his dance training and career. He is a multi-year recipient of fellowships from the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. While he has his own namesake company, he is also a highly sought after choreographer and teacher renowned for his choreographic inventiveness and transformative teaching skills; That will be on full display February 8th and 9th at DCDC’s winter concert.

Check out the following youtube clips and you will see why he was selected to create work for this seminal moment in the forty -five year history of the one artistic institution in our community with well deserved international credentials.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHPd95IJ2Rg&list=UU2b9I5D1i1R7xaW-eJHr1iQ&feature=share&index=2′]

And also check out http://youtu.be/HI8ZB1p8Vdw.

This gives you a point of entry to the choreographer’s aesthetics and movement vocabulary. Brave the weather forecasts and get tickets to what promises to be must see art event.

‘Sister Act’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – A Joyful Noise

January 30, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

The cast of “Sister Act: The Musical”

The local premiere and national tour of the immensely tuneful 2011 Tony Award-nominated musical “Sister Act” arrives at the Schuster Center as an uplifting, endearing, silly, and thoroughly entertaining experience.
Presented by the Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series and based on the 1992 Whoopi Goldberg film of the same name, “Sister Act” concerns the humorous, redemptive journey of wannabe diva Deloris Van Cartier (amiable understudy Mary Searcy), who is forced to hide in a convent and disguise herself as a nun after witnessing a murder at the hand of her gangster boyfriend Curtis (a sharply menacing Melvin Abston). Along the way, Deloris finds her purpose by transforming the convent’s hopelessly inept choir into an overnight sensation much to the chagrin of the Mother Superior (a splendidly resolute Lynne Wintersteller).

This funny, predictable fish-out-of-water premise, adapted by librettists Cheri & Bill Steinkeller (“Cheers”) and Douglas Carter Beane and accented with spirited direction by Jerry Zaks, could use more depth but basically adheres to the foundation of Joseph Howard’s original screenplay, particularly the delightful, clashing exchanges between sassy Deloris and the no-nonsense Mother Superior that shape the show’s themes of love, friendship, sacrifice and forgiveness. Even when a few jokes written for Curtis’ corny cronies misfire, the feel-good spirit of the show never wanes. In fact, the key decision to transplant the material from the early 1990s to late 1970s Philadelphia is an outright winner, specifically from a music standpoint. After all, the main attraction is the fantastic score by lyricist Glenn Slater and Tony- winning and eight-time Academy Award-winning composer Alan Menken. Menken’s marvelous melodies are a delectable, toe-tapping blend of disco (“Take Me to Heaven,” “Sunday Morning Fever”), pop (“Fabulous, Baby!,” “Sister Act”), R&B (“When I Find My Baby,” “Lady in the Long Black Dress”), and peppy show tunes (“It’s Good to Be a Nun,” “Raise Your Voice,” “Spread the Love Around”) with a sunny pinch of Disney thrown in for extra measure (the darling “Bless Our Show”).

In addition to the aforementioned actors and a terrific female ensemble, first-rate performances extend to the supporting players. Chester Gregory reprises the role of insecure police officer Eddie Souther (which he originated) with endless charm, particularly producing a heartfelt, Lou Rawls-tinged version of “I Could Be That Guy” complete with one of the best costume changes in recent musical comedy. Florrie Bagel is a bouncy bundle of gleeful energy as Sister Mary Patrick. As timid Sister Mary Robert, dynamic soprano Ashley Moniz fills “The Life I Never Led” with sincerity and gusto. Richard Pruitt enjoyably embodies Monsignor O’Hara with lighthearted authority.
Scenic designer Klara Zieglerova’s striking stained glass motif, Lez Brotherston’s stylish, era-appropriate costumes, and Anthony Van Laast’s cheery, sprightly choreography also boosts this glitzy showcase that remains as infectious as the first time I saw it in London’s West End in 2009.

“Sister Act: The Musical” continues through Feb. 2 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. Performances are today and Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $40-$96. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com. There is a special Super Bowl discount for the Sunday evening performance if purchased by Jan. 31 (use code HAILMARY at www.ticketcenterstage.com or call Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630).

Ralph Fiennes’ INVISIBLE WOMAN Opens Friday at THE NEON

January 29, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

It’s time to start moving along at THE NEON. If you still need to see AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY, tomorrow (Thursday) will be its last day with us. The Coen Brothers’ INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS will stick around for another week, and on Friday we’ll open the new film directed by (and starring) Ralph Fiennes – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN. Remaining showtimes for this week can be found at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE INVISIBLE WOMAN: “Nelly (Felicity Jones), a happily-married mother and schoolteacher, is haunted by her past. Her memories, provoked by remorse and guilt, take us back in time to follow the story of her relationship with Charles Dickens (Ralph Fiennes) with whom she discovered an exciting but fragile complicity.” (Taken from Sony Pictures Classics) This lovely film, also starring NEON-favorite Kristin Scott Thomas, will delight our regulars who love period costume dramas…but it goes beyond that. Giving the film a 100% review, Scott Foundas of VARIETY wrote, “So tastefully mounted and brilliantly acted that it wears down even the corset-phobic’s innate resistance to such things.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDMHb3GetIc’]

Fans of THE NEON have requested a special screening of a fantasy film called KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (a films about Live Action Role Playing starring Peter Dinklage and Steve Zahn). They worked with Tugg to see if there was enough interest in screening the film in Dayton…and the required reservations crossed the threshold. This means that the screening will happen on Wednesday, February 5 at 8:30. To buy tickets in advance, visit this LINK. If any tickets remain, they will be sold at the door on the night of the screening.

“The Junior Leaguers Club of Dayton, an African American based organization, will hold a fundraiser with the film SANKOFA on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Noon. This film is about an African American model on a photo shoot in Africa who has an ancestral experience which transforms her life and consciousness. ‘Sankofa’ is an Akan word that means ‘we must go back and reclaim our past so that we can move forward.’ The profit from this event will fund scholarships to graduating seniors in the Miami Valley. Applications will be available at the event in case you know a worthy student to submit to the organization. Tickets may be purchased at the Neon for $30. (Student tickets are $15 each.) The price includes a movie ticket, popcorn, soda, and a glass of wine for adults.” (Taken from press notes.)

Thanks for your continued support.
Mark your calendars for our annual Oscar Party – March 2! More details coming soon.
We hope to see many of you this weekend!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 31 – Thursday, Feb. 6:

THE INVISIBLE WOMAN (R) 1 hrs 51 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:15, 7:40

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (R) 1 hr 45 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:15, 7:30
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45
Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45

KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (R) 1 Hr 26 Min
Wednesday: 8:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS
Feb. 7 – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – GLORIA
TBD – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
TBD – THE LUNCHBOX

Countdown to DCDC’s return to the Victoria Theatre stage Ticket Contest

January 29, 2014 By Rodney Veal 5 Comments

In two weeks Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will return to the Victoria Theatre for what promises to be a highlight of the arts season. How often do we get to pay homage to the perseverance and relevancy of a modern dance company that has been in existence for forty five years. The significance can honestly never be overstated. DCDC bucks the trend of dance companies that fold once the visionary artistic leadership departs this mortal coil. This company has roared back with a renewed sense of artistic vitality.

Several reviews past, I intimated that Dayton audiences needed to do their homework and investigate the people, concepts and histories that inform and are the fabric of the artistic endeavors being presented. So I have decided to highlight every day this week one choreographer presenting work on February 8th & 9th.

The first choreographer being highlighted is the masterful Donald Byrd.

Donald Byrd is one the leading and seminal figures in Modern Dance, his biography highlights an artist who has created works all over the globe. His work has been performed by Alvin Ailey, Pacific Northwest Ballet, San Francisco Opera, Seattle Opera and New York City Opera. In 2010 his company appeared in New York in a new interpretation of a John Zorn composition as part of the Guggenheim Museum’s Works & Progress series. This prolific and vital choreographer has set his latest work “Geography of the Cotton Fields” on the upcoming Dayton Contemporary Dance Company concert.

I have selected a couple of youtube clips that are wonderful examples of Mr. Byrd’s prodigious choreographic talents:
[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cr2eMHEyDAo&feature=youtu.be’]

You’ll also want to check out this Youtube video. This gives you a point of entry to the choreographer his aesthetics and movement vocabulary. Brave the weather forecasts and get tickets to what promises to be must see art event.

ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 3:00pm

Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
For tickets to ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled please contact Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630 or www.ticketcenterstage.com.

DMM want to send a couple of our readers to see the DCDC Show. To enter our random drawing, like this article and fill out the form below. Feel free to comment below on why you should win. Good Luck! [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Human Race Takes On Torch Song Trilogy Ticket Contest

January 27, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro 4 Comments

TORCH SONG TRILOGY publicity photo with Jamison Stern, Jon Hacker, Patricia Linhart, Philip Thomas Stock and Jamie Cordes. Photo by Scott J. Kimmins.

The Human Race Theatre Company starts 2014 with Harvey Fierstein‘s award-winning and rarely-produced three-act play, Torch Song Trilogy. Poignant and filled with witty, sharp humor, Fierstein’s deeply personal story of self-discovery redefined an era in gay America. What begins as a chance encounter in a New York nightclub leads drag-queen Arnold Beckoff in a hilarious, yet touching, pursuit of love, happiness and a life of which he can be proud. From a failed affair with a reluctant lover, to a committed relationship with a young model and the promise of a stable family, Arnold’s struggle for acceptance meets its greatest challenge in his intolerant mother.

Torch Song Trilogy originated as a series of one-act plays - International Stud, Fugue in a Nursery and Widows and Children First! – that premiered individually Off-Off-Broadway at La MaMa ETC beginning in 1978, when actor/writerHarvey Fierstein was just 23 years old. The three plays were then united under the umbrella title Torch Song Trilogy and presented Off-Broadway in 1981 at the Actors’ Playhouse, where it received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The production then transferred to Broadway in 1982, ran for 1,222 performances, and won Fierstein Drama Desk and Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Actor. Fierstein has been an icon for Gay America since the 80s and is well-known to audiences for his gravelly voice and witty dialogue. In addition to his early success with Torch Song Trilogy, he also wrote the books for the Broadway musicals La Cage aux Folles (for which he won a second Tony Award), A Catered Affair, Newsies and Kinky Boots. He has performed onstage in such Broadway shows as La Cage aux Folles, Hairspray and Fiddler on the Roof, as well as in numerous films and television shows.

TORCH SONG TRILOGY publicity photo with Jamison Stern as “Arnold” and Patricia Linhart as “Mrs. Beckoff”.

“Torch Song was written in a time before AIDS, before the debate over Marriage Equality,” says Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore. “Revisiting this amazing script was not a political choice, it was a ‘human’ choice. This story speaks volumes about our individual struggles for love and acceptance – and it applies to any era. By setting the play in its original time period-the late 1970s to early 1980s-we are given a chance to see both how far we have come…and not come.”

Director and Human Race Resident Artist Scott Stoney (Next to Normal; Caroline, or Change; August: Osage County) leads The Human Race’s production with a talented cast of six actors: Jamison Stern (Broadway’s By Jeeves and How the Grinch Stole Christmas, national tours of Beauty and the Beast and Little Shop of Horrors) as “Arnold”, Resident Artists Jamie Cordes (Next to Normal, right next to me) as “Ed” and Patricia Linhart (Becky’s New Car, The Drowsy Chaperone) as “Mrs. Beckoff” and “Lady Blues”, Lisa Ann Goldsmith (Macbeth, Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s As You Like It) as “Laurel”, Jon Hacker (Next to Normal, Wright State University’s Oklahoma!) as “Alan” and Stivers School for the Arts student Philip Thomas Stock (Muse Machine’s All You Need Is Love, Dayton Theatre Guild‘s Lost in Yonkers) as “David”.

The Dayton-based drag performance group The Rubi Girls will serve as hosts for the Friday, January 31 opening night performance. The Greater Dayton LGBT Center has partnered with The Human Race to present “LGBT Pride Night at The Loft Theatre” for the Tuesday, February 11 evening performance. Center members can purchase discounted tickets through its website: www.daytonlgbtcenter.org.

Ticket Contest:
DMM will be sending 2 lucky winners and a guest to see Torch Song Trilogy as our guests. To enter our contest, just like this article, tell us why you should win in the comments below and fill out this form. We’ll post our winner Tues after 9pm.

Congratulations to our ticket winnerss Shelly Hulce & Brian Coleman

A Juried Alumni Exhibition: Call For Wright State’s Art and Art History Alumni

January 24, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

In recognition of the Robert & Elaine Stein Galleries’ 40th Exhibition Season, the Galleries are extending to the Alumni of the Department of Art and Art History an invitation to submit artwork for a juried Alumni Exhibition, to take place in the Stein Galleries May-June, 2014. All media will be considered, including installation, performance, and new media. At least one work from each entrant will be accepted and there is no cost to enter.

Entries are being accepted now through March 2, 2014.

The exhibition is open to any graduate of Wright State’s Art and Art History program.

Important Dates

Application deadline: March 2 (email); Feb. 28 (mail)

Notifications: March 31, 2014

Accepted works due: May 6, 2014

Exhibition: May 19 – June 13, 2014

Juror

Susan Byrnes is a visual artist, curator, and independent audio producer whose studies in photography, sculpture, and audio production result in conceptually-based art that encompasses a variety of media.

Susan received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography from Syracuse University and her Master of Fine Arts in sculpture from Eastern Michigan University.

How to Apply

Download the exhibition prospectus for complete information and application form. Adobe Acrobat Reader required.

For questions or to have the prospectus sent to you, contact Tess Cortés, Gallery Coordinator

Southern Fried Comedy Play opens in Beavercreek Ticket Contest

January 23, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Open this weekend at the Beavercreek Community Theatre, located at 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road, ‘Til Beth Do Us Part, is directed by Dionne Meyer of Beavercreek.

In this side-splitting comic romp about marriage, career-driven Suzannah Hayden needs more help on the home front than she’s getting from her husband, Gibby. Enter Beth Bailey, Suzannah’s newly-hired assistant, a gregarious, highly-motivated daughter of the South. To Suzannah’s delight, Beth explodes into the Hayden household and whips it into an organized, well-run machine. This couldn’t have happened at a better time for Suzannah, since her boss, Celia Carmichael, the C.E.O. of Carmichael’s Chocolates, is flying in soon for an important make-or-break business dinner. Gibby grows increasingly wary as Beth insinuates herself into more and more aspects of their lives. When he realizes it’s Suzannah’s career Beth is really after, Gibby sets out to save his marriage aided by Suzannah’s best friend, Margo. Their effort to stop Beth at any cost sets up the wildly funny climax in which things go uproariously awry just as Suzannah’s boss arrives for that all-important dinner.

There are shows Friday and Saturday at 8pm and a Sun 3pm matinee this weekend and next. Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for students, BCT members and seniors, ages 55 and older. Tickets can be reserved by calling 429-4737 and leaving a message or by emailing [email protected].

Ticket Giveaway:

MostMetro.com has 2 pair of tickets to share with readers who’d like see the show. If you’d like to be eligible to win a pair, like this post, comment below on why you should win and fill out the form below.

Congrats to our ticket winners: Terry Larson & Jamie McQuinn! Enjoy the show!

Live-Action Graphic Novel On Stage Friday at Victoria Theatre Ticket Contest

January 21, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro 2 Comments

Step into the Victoria Theatre for a one-of-a-kind theatre experience, a live-action graphic novel, as THE INTERGALATIC NEMISIS returns to the Victoria Theatre with BOOK 2: ROBOT PLANET RISING Friday, Jan. 24, 2014 at 8 pm.

What began as a late night coffeehouse production, THE INTERGALACTIC NEMESIS has transformed into an incredibly unique theater experience combining graphic novels and radio plays into a live-action theatre production. The telling is what makes the experience of THE INTERGALACTIC NEMESIS so incredibly unique: while three actors, one Foley artist, and one keyboardist perform all the voices, sound effects and music, more than 1,000 hand-drawn, full-color,
hi-resolution, blow-your-mind comic-book images blast from the screen.

Featured on “Conan” and NPR’s “All Things Considered,” the premise of THE INTERGALACTIC NEMESIS is simple.BOOK 2: ROBOT PLANET RISING premiered at the Long Center for the Performing Arts in June 2012 to rave reviews. It’s a period adventure story with no small share of laughs. The year is 1933. When the robot emissary Elbee-Dee-Oh disappears in deep space, it’s up to Molly Sloan to rescue him. If only it were that simple. Because at that same time, and unbeknownst to her, her former fiancé Dr. Lawrence Webster has miraculously arrived on the planet Robonovia, the Cerebretron is malfunctioning, Timmy has only just begun to master his telekinetic powers, a sinister robot named Alphatron is up to something terribly nefarious, and the duplicitous Soviet spy Natasha Zorokov has followed Dr. Webster through the Galactascope. Will it all get sorted out? Or is there another, more evil, thread to this complex tapestry? There’s only one way to find out! Buy tickets now!

Tickets for THE INTERGALACTIC NEMESIS are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center, by phone at 937-228-3630, toll free 888- 228-3630 and online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

MostMetro.com wants to send one of our lucky winner’s to see the show. If you’d like to be eligible to win a pair, like this story, comment below on why you should win and fill out the form below. We’ll post a winner here Wed night after 9pm.

Congratulations to our ticket winner: Sandra Power! Enjoy the show!

Sinclair Theatre Presents Holocaust Play, Exhibits and Panel Discussion

January 20, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Sinclair Theatre will present a Holocaust play, A Shayna Maidel by Barbara Lebow, February 7-15th in Sinclair’s NEW Black Box Theatre, located on the fourth floor of building 2 of the downtown Dayton campus. In addition, Sinclair Theatre in partnership with Sinclair’s Holocaust Remembrance Committee will host 3 supporting Holocaust exhibits during the production dates; two from the Center for Holocaust and Humanity Education and one developed by Sinclair Faculty Member Amanda Hayden as well as a cast panel discussion.

A Shayna Maidel (Yiddish meaning “a pretty girl”) is the story of two sisters: one, a modern American who remembers very little of her childhood in Poland and the other, who has survived unspeakable losses including a concentration camp. Worlds collide as one sister gradually shares the losses that have scarred her and the other learns her tragic family history.

Kimberly Borst will direct the show and cast includes: Jennifer Smith, Leah Mikesell, Saul Caplan, A.J. Breslin, and Ella Wylie.
Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., one Sunday Feb. 9th at 2 p.m., and a Downtown Dayton Thursday Nights performance at 7 p.m. on Feb. 13th. There will also be a morning matinee geared for high schools or middle schools on Wed., Feb. 12 at 10 a.m.

All seats are general admission at $10 each. ALL Thursday tickets cost an additional $5 each and include pre-show appetizers and cash bar beginning at 6 p.m. in the green room (2334) for Sinclair’s popular Downtown Dayton Thursday Nights. Tickets are on sale now at: www.sinclair.edu/tickets. If you need further assistance leave a message at 937-512-2808. A student box office agent will return your call as soon as possible. The box office is open one hour prior to performances.

Her Story Must be Told: Women’s Voices from the Holocaust uniquely presents the memories, photos, and stories of 15 Jewish women who survived the Holocaust. The women are from a dozen countries, reflecting different survivor experiences. The viewer gains an appreciation of women’s unique ways of survival: fighting in the resistance, living in hiding or with false identity, and enduring concentration camps. Collectively the stories of sisters, daughters, mothers, wives and friends celebrate women’s strength and valor.
Appropriate for grades 5 and up.

The Bystander to Upstander exhibit addresses examples of bystanders who remained silent in the face of Nazi persecution and ultimately genocide, while also exploring the motivation of upstanders, those who chose not to stand by and instead stood up and spoke out against the Nazi regime. The exhibit sheds light on critical yet often overlooked perspectives of the Holocaust, while encouraging viewers to think about their own action or inaction.

Amanda Hayden, Assistant Professor in Religion, Philosophy, Humanities and Sinclair’s Discipline Coordinator of Religion has compiled photos into a digital presentation depicting the concentration camps then and now.

The cast and director will have an open forum on Jan. 30 at 12:30 p.m. in Blair Hall, first floor building 2, where they will share their Holocaust research and discuss the effect it has made on their work with
this production. This discussion is free and open to the public.

Photo caption: Jennifer Smith (l) and Leah Mikesell (r) portray sisters in Sinclair Theatre’s A Shayna Maidel being performed Feb. 7th-15th in The Black Box Theatre on the downtown campus. www.sinclair.edu/tickets (photo by Patti Celek)

‘Seussical’ Review – Muse Machine – Oh, What a Circus!

January 18, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

The circus has come to the Victoria Theatre!
The absolutely delightful centerpiece of the Muse Machine’s breezy production of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens’ “Seussical,” the arts education organization’s 30th annual student musical, is “The Circus McGurkus,” a fantastic Act 2 display of fun, mystery and whimsy. Developed by the Muse artistic team in collaboration with Fred Garbo of “Sesame Street” and “The Inflatable Theater Company,” the vibrant number departs its accustomed status as a merely serviceable transition to fluidly emerge as a clever and imaginative playground deserving of an encore. Inflatable objects, plate spinning, hula hoops, rings, juggling, acrobatics, somersaults, cartwheels, unicycles, and more are impressively handled by the highly entertaining cast from various schools across the Miami Valley.

The cast of the Muse Machine’s production of “Seussical” in rehearsal (Photo by Daniel Rader)

Elsewhere, the material isn’t executed with sharp consistency, especially evident when the aforementioned centerpiece suddenly catapults the show’s momentum, but director Joe Deer still coaxes admirable performances from his principals. The naturally endearing William Peters is the personification of kindness, loyalty and perseverance as the genuinely genial Horton the Elephant, who vows to rescue the citizens of Whoville despite overwhelming ridicule from his peers. Mark Howard, a radiant tenor, doesn’t miss a beat as his engaging portrayal of JoJo reveals a confident stage presence far beyond his years. The gangly, playful Sean Cheatwood effortlessly adopts various animated personas as the kooky Cat in the Hat. Dynamic vocalist Jennifer Clemens brings wonderful R&B sass to her role as the Sour Kangaroo. Gwyn Burton, an adorable Gertrude McFuzz, and the bubbly Christine Fiala, an appropriately flashy and vain Mayzie LaBird, are equally appealing. David Emery and Sarah Martin are well-matched as Mayor of Whoville and Mrs. Mayor. The intimidating John Neff commands attention and incites fear as the best General Genghis Kahn Schmitz I have seen. The dastardly Wickersham Brothers, uniquely dressed as street toughs, are cohesively comprised of Kyle Bates, Joel Daniel (also the humorous Grinch), James Fields, Benjamin Green and Christian Johnson. Jeremy Cleary (Vlad Vladikoff), Rollie Fisk (Judge Yertle the Turtle), Cayla Destefani (Bird Girl), Cecily Dowd (Bird Girl), Anna Hlinomaz (Bird Girl), Rachael Horner (Bird Girl), Clare Kneblik (Bird Girl), Callia Tellez (Bird Girl) and Rachel Woeste (Bird Girl) are noteworthy.
Additionally, Lula Elzy’s seemingly non-stop choreography is cute and colorful, particularly the uplifting opening number “Oh, The Thinks You Can Think!” as well as “It’s Possible” and the energetic finale. Music director Timothy Olt leads a strong, steady orchestra. Set designer J. Branson’s large backdrops capture the spirit of the Dr. Seuss books. Many costumes sparkle with personality thanks to coordinators Lyn Baudendistel, Robin Brown, Patty Peters and Alisa Vukasinovich. John Rensel’s lighting design expertly accents varying moods and locales. David Sherman’s sound design specifically impacts during JoJo’s Act 2 military departure, but repeatedly missed cues hindered last night’s performance.
Bookended by a sprinkle of Hollywood star power and an inspired nod to a legendary rock band, “Seussical” awakens the child in all of us with an exuberant charm typifying the Muse pedigree. Step right up!

“Seussical” continues through Jan. 19 at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton. You can still catch performancestonight at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 55 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes. Tickets are $25-$59. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

‘The Subject Was Roses’ Review – Dayton Theatre Guild –Bruised But Not Broken

January 17, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Angela Riley, Alexander Chilton (center) and Geoff Burkman in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s production of “The Subject Was Roses” (contributed photo)

In the Dayton Theatre Guild’s commendable production of Frank D. Gilroy’s 1965 Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning World War II-era drama “The Subject Was Roses,” the Cleary family of Bronx, New York is as engrossing, heartbreaking and dysfunctional as ever.

Set over the course of a May weekend in 1946, “Roses” centers on the rocky homecoming of Army serviceman Timmy (Alexander Chilton), who shocks his hardnosed dad John (Geoff Burkman) and doting mom Nettie (Angela Riley) with unexpected habits and beliefs. In fact, much to his parents’ dismay, Timmy isn’t exactly the guileless underachiever who walked out the door with the mission of keeping his country safe and strong. Predictably, war has made him question who he is and what his purpose in life should be. His decision to abandon his faith absolutely infuriates John, a staunch Catholic. Interestingly, Nettie doesn’t necessarily mind Timmy’s agonistic views. She’s more concerned with his drinking and boorish language. But as the wonderfully rich and relatable layers of these troubled, unhappy characters are delicately peeled by director Marcia C. Nowik’s compatible cast, “Roses” fittingly blossoms as a timeless portrait of change and misunderstanding within a wounded home that can only be healed by love.

The excellently authentic and persnickety Burkman embodies the temperamental John, a hard-working, practically uneducated product of the World War I generation, with an easily irritated and frustrated disposition properly masking his inability to communicate. He’s also astute at being harsh without seeming heartless. John scolds Timmy numerous times, but genuine concern dwells amid the sparks. In her firm Guild debut, Riley terrifically expresses the agony, doubt, hurt and regret that has damaged Nettie’s relationship with John, who has been unfaithful. Late in Act 2, with Chilton seated on the floor transfixed on her every word, she truly shines while pensively delivering Nettie’s absorbing monologue detailing her modest upbringing and the chance encounter with John that changed her life for good and bad. Chilton, a knockout last season as Jerry in the University of Dayton’s production of “Zoo Story,” startles at the outset with an oddly calculated demeanor, but his actions are an intriguing maneuver to suggest something is uncomfortably amiss inside Timmy’s world. Bolstered by Burkman and Riley’s ample support, Chilton credibly navigates Timmy’s tender, combative and soul-searching journey with a clear understanding that faults, past or present, cannot be easily remedied.
Additionally, Blake Senseman provides another attractively eye-catching set fashioned here in a quaint, homey sensibility. Costumer Patrick Allyn Hayes counters with fine period attire, especially for Riley. Nick Vanderpool’s lighting design, K.L. Storer’s sound design and Fred Blumenthal’s properties are equally noteworthy attributes of this worthwhile offering.

“The Subject Was Roses” continues through Jan. 26 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 5 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Act One: 50 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $11 for students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit online at www.daytontheatreguild.org

2 Hits Led To THE NEON’s Best Weekend Ever!

January 15, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! We just had our best weekend ever!!

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY performed wonderfully – with several sold-out screenings over the weekend. INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS also did quite well. I’m pretty certain that both films will stick around for a couple more weeks…but we do have other exciting films down the road.

It’s interesting to note that even though we had our best weekend ever, neither film could take the prize for “Best Opening Weekend.” That title still belongs to FAHRENHEIT 9/11 (with MOONRISE KINGDOM close behind).

Click this LINK to visit the official site for AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY. Click this LINK to visit the official site for INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eiy1Ne5CGv4′]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2oR3pSPqdI’]

“VERY YOUNG GIRLS is Start Freedom Dayton’s first film of 2014. VYG takes a look at human trafficking from the victims’ perspective and introduces us to Rachel Lloyd, the founder of NYC based GEMS – an organization dedicated to empowering victims to escape and live new lives. VYG is sponsored by Peace on Fifth and newest friend the Zonta Club of Dayton – an organization advocating for the status of women worldwide. Amanda Arrington from the East End Community Center will lead discussion after the film. Learn what is happening locally and how you can get involved. Ticket prices help keep this film series going. A program of Peace on Fifth fully supported by the community. The screening is scheduled for January 23 at 7:30, and tickets are just $8 – available exclusively at THE NEON. Contact Peace on Fifth with questions at 937.367.7215 or at [email protected]” (Taken from Peace On Fifth press notes.)

RISING FROM THE ASHES, the award-winning feature-length documentary about Team Rwanda, will premiere at THE NEON on Monday, January 27 at 7:30 p.m. The event is presented by Garry Harrington & sponsored by Five Rivers MetroParks. “RISING FROM THE ASHES is a joyous and uplifting independent film about the development of a national cycling team in Rwanda, a country still affected deeply by the genocide that tore the East African nation apart in 1994…The documentary tells a story of redemption, hope and second chances. It is not about the bike; however, the bicycle becomes a tool that has helped change a nation…Advance tickets are $11 and can be purchased online by clicking this LINK. Remaining tickets at the door will be $15…For more information about the film, go to www.risingfromashesthemovie.com.” (press notes provided by Garry Harrington) Advanced tickets for this event are only available on-line.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXfq0DxS4KM’]

Fans of THE NEON have requested a special screening of a fantasy film called KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (a films about Live Action Role Playing starring Peter Dinklage and Steve Zahn). They worked with Tugg to see if there was enough interest in screening the film in Dayton…and the required reservations just crossed the threshold. This means that the screening will happen on Wednesday, February 5 at 8:30. To buy tickets in advance, visit this LINK. If any tickets remain, they will be sold at the door on the night of the screening.

Thanks for your continued support.
Oscar nominations come out this week. Have you made your predictions?

We hope to see you soon!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 17 – Thursday, Jan. 23:

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY (R) 2 hrs 01 min
Friday, Saturday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:45, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:45, 7:20
Monday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:40

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (R) 1 hr 45 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20

VERY YOUNG GIRLS (NR) 1 Hr 23 Min + discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN
TBD – OSCAR-NOMINATED SHORTS
TBD – GLORIA
TBD – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
TBD – THE LUNCHBOX

UD To Host Film, Discussion Series on American Music

January 14, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The University of Dayton will host “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway,” a six-part film and discussion series about uniquely American musical genres including blues and gospel, Broadway, jazz, bluegrass and country, rock n’ roll, mambo and hip hop.

Each two-hour session will explore an American musical style through film and discussion led by a University of Dayton faculty member. The University is one of 81 sites nationwide selected to host the series. The series is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

“We are thrilled to participate in this exciting program that will explore different types of music, show how modern music has been influenced by older styles and bridge gaps among generations,” said Katy Kelly, communications and outreach librarian and project director.

The series will be complemented by an art exhibit by ArtStreet students and a closing celebration of art, food and musical performances.

All film screenings and discussions are 6-8 p.m. at ArtStreet, Studio B:

“The Blues and Gospel Music,” Tuesday, Jan. 21. Discussion led by Jim Hiller, a guitarist and singer, scholar of American popular song and music therapy lecturer. It will explore the birth of the blues from its African roots to its eventual prominence in places like Memphis, Chicago, New York and beyond. Films: “Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues” (2004) and “Feel Like Going Home and Say Amen, Somebody” (1983).
“Tin Pan Alley and Broadway,” Thursday, Feb. 6. Discussion led by Hiller exploring the 100-year history of musical theater and the story of its relationship to 20th-century American life. Film: “Broadway: The American Musical” (2004).
“Swing Jazz,” Tuesday, March 4. Discussion led by John McCombe, professor and director of undergraduate studies in English. Session spans nearly a century of jazz styles, while also highlighting America’s first integrated all-women swing band. Films: “Jazz: A Film by Ken Burns” (2000) and “International Sweethearts of Rhythm: America’s Hottest All Girl Band” (1986).
“Country Music, from Bluegrass to the Nashville Sound,” Thursday, March 13. Discussion led by Hiller; session traces the emergence of bluegrass from Appalachian descendants of Scotch-Irish settlers into a popular subgenre of country music. Film: “High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music” (1994).
“Rock,” Thursday, April 3. Discussion led by McCombe; explores the birth of the blues out of the Mississippi Delta. Film: “History of Rock ‘N Roll” (1995).
“From Mambo to Hip Hop,” Thursday, April 10. Discussion led by McCombe and Thomas Morgan, associate professor of American and African-American literature. Session explores how mambo — the Cuban hybrid of traditional danson fused with syncopated Afro-Caribbean rhythms — migrated to New York City from Havana in the 1940s and broke social and musical rules. Films: “Latin Music USA: Bridges”(2009) and “From Mambo to Hip Hop” (2006).
VOICES: America’s Music. March 25-April 25, ArtStreet Studio D Gallery. Reception, 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 15. ArtStreet student exhibit of music, photography and visual art.
1World Celebration, 7-10 p.m., Friday, April 25, ArtStreet Amphitheatre. This second annual event brings together the diverse voices and creative minds of the University of Dayton together with those from the city of Dayton in an end-of-the-year art, food and music celebration.
“America’s Music” is a project by the Tribeca Film Institute in collaboration with the American Library Association, Tribeca Flashpoint and the Society for American Music, through a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the Human Endeavor.

For information and to register for the film series, visit http://www.udayton.edu/libraries/events/americasmusic.php or call 937-229-4274.