Arts & Entertainment

ROCK OF AGES Comes to Schuster Center + TICKET CONTEST

May 16, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Rock-of-Ages_CS

Set in LA’s famous Sunset Strip in 1987, ROCK OF AGES tells the story of Drew, a boy from south Detroit, and Sherrie, a small-town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. This five-time Tony Award® nominated musical is even being made into a movie starring Tom Cruise. Don’t miss this worldwide hit that features a raucous mix of 28 eyebrow-scorching tunes including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “We Built This City,” “The Final Countdown,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” “Here I Go Again,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” and more. Ages 13 and up. ROCK OF AGES is a full-out, blast-off, hold-onto-your-hairspray celebration of the great rock music of the 80s, and you might be wondering–or, admit it, hoping– your kids will love it as much as you will. Well, we think they will, but you should know that some of the costumes, dancing and language might not be appropriate for kids under the age of 13. We think teenagers will dig it, because it’s totally awesome, sort of like a music video brought to life, complete with hot dancers and blazing guitar licks. You know the maturity of your children, so we suggest you use your best judgment about whether or not the show is appropriate for them. Remember, if you do bring them, they’ll get to see you rockin’ like you did back in the day. Just so you know.

Tickets at http://www.TicketCenterStage.com or call (937) 228-3630. Ticket Center Stage is the only outlet authorized to sell tickets for events at the Schuster Center and Victoria Theatre.

Oscar Nominated NO Starts Friday at THE NEON

May 15, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re adding something to the mix this weekend, but you’ll only have one week to catch NO – the feature film from Chile starring Gael Garcia Bernal. NO was nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at this year’s Oscars, and it won an award at last year’s Cannes Film Festival. It also received 100% reviews from Entertainment Weekly, The Chicago Sun-Times, and Time Out New York. We will hold MUD and THE SAPPHIRES (though showtimes are changing). For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for NO: “In 1988, Chilean military dictator Augusto Pinochet, due to international pressure, is forced to call a referendum on his presidency. The country will vote YES or NO to Pinochet extending his rule for another eight years. Opposition leaders for the NO persuade a brash young advertising executive, Rene Saavedra (Gael Garcia Bernal), to spearhead their campaign. With scant resources and under scrutiny by the despot’s minions, Saavedra and his team devise an audacious plan to win the election and set Chile free.” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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In the 13 years of The Dayton Jewish International Film Festival, this year was the best ever. Many thanks to all of you who supported this great fest. MELTING AWAY and MY BEST ENEMY tied for the audience favorite of “Best Feature.”

Film #4 in Start Freedom Dayton’s film series – CALL + RESPONSE – is scheduled for May 30 at 7:30. “Organized by Justin Dillon, an artist, public speaker, abolitionist, founder and CEO of Slavery Footprint, CALL + RESPONSE is a documentary about human trafficking that combines musicians, celebrities, national abolitionists and political figures to shine a light on human trafficking concerns in the US and abroad. Tickets are $10 day of show at THE NEON or advance tickets are $8 (available exclusively at Peace on Fifth – 508 E. 5th – 937.367-7215). For information about Peace on Fifth or Start Freedom Dayton visit the official site. CALL + RESPONSE is sponsored by Fairly Simple.” (taken from the press release)

I’m happy to announce that the we’re good to go with the screening of GIRL RISING. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can watch the trailer, read about the film and reserve your ticket. The screening is set to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30. Advanced tickets are only available on the website listed above. If tickets remain, we will be able to sell them at the door on the night of the show. Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

On Thursday, June 20 at 7:30, we will host a special screening of the new film I DO. (I just saw this film at The Cleveland International Film Festival, and the audience adored it!) “A gay Brit living in New York is deprived of his immigration status, and risks losing his family and life in the U.S. He marries his lesbian best friend to remain in the country and stay with his family, but things get complicated when he meets the love of his life and is forced to make an impossible choice.” This one night only screening is part of Dayton’s PRIDE festivities. Tickets are $9 for General Admission. Members of The Greater Dayton LGBT Center get in for $7 (with valid membership card). Tickets are on sale now at THE NEON’s box office.

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I am currently on vacation in Europe. I’ve been saying that I would take this trip for the past 8-9 years. I’m finally doing it. Thanks for keeping THE NEON staff company in my absence.

See you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. May 17 – Thur, May 23:

MUD (PG-13) 2 Hr 10 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:10, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45

THE SAPPHIRES (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:10, 7:30

NO (R) 1 Hr 58 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:45, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
May 24 – STARBUCK
May 24 – AT ANY PRICE
May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
June 14 – BEFORE MIDNIGHT
June 28 – THE EAST
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – TO THE WONDER

Next to Normal Review – Human Race Theatre Company/Victoria Theatre Association – The Scars of Dysfunction & Grief

May 11, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Composer Tom Kitt and lyricist/librettist Brian Yorkey’s acclaimed, marvelously melodic 2009 pop/rock musical “Next to Normal” receives a solid, touching and vocally strong local premiere at the Victoria Theatre courtesy of the Human Race Theatre Company in conjunction with the Victoria Theatre Association.
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize as well as the Tony Award for Best Original Score, “Normal,” firmly and briskly staged by choreographer and co-music director Scott Stoney, paints a humorous, heartbreaking portrait of depression, dysfunction and mental illness within a modern suburban family torn apart by severe loss, disillusionment and resentment. Borrowing a clever past-meets-present conceptual device akin to Stephen Sondheim and James Goldman’s 1971 musical “Follies,” “Normal” potently addresses the emotional disarray that occurs when tragic memories and unsettled anguish overtake the mind. Everyone comes to terms with bereavement in their own way, but sometimes sorrow has no cure. Although this musical intriguingly delves into numerous facets of medical treatments with comic and catastrophic results, it also suggests starting over is the best solution of all no matter how hard it is on the loved ones left behind to pick up the pieces.

Trisha Rapier, engaging and wide-eyed with a natural penchant for comedy, is wonderfully powerful and believably
complex as Diana Goodman, the fragile mom whose bipolar disorder pulverizes her family’s foundation. The grueling range of angst-ridden, unstable emotions Rapier conveys in this vocally challenging, predominately sung-through piece grows particularly impressive in Act 2 when Diana finally begins to make sense of the past in the aftermath of shock therapy. She also sings her musical numbers with great accuracy and passion, particularly providing first-rate renditions of the folk-tinged “I Miss the Mountains,” enraged “You Don’t Know” and amusingly manic “Didn’t I See This Movie?” Tenor Jamie Cordes, very compatible with Rapier, is more suited to opera and bygone musical theater than contemporary pop/rock musical theater but offers a commendable, appropriately straight-laced portrayal of Dan, Diana’s supportive yet emotionally wounded husband. Emily Price, endearing and vulnerable, fits the bill as Natalie, Diana and Dan’s hopelessly frustrated, relatively forgotten teen daughter wary of falling in love with the nerdy Henry, appealingly portrayed by Jon Hacker. Eric Michael Krop, obtaining quite a workout repeatedly ascending and descending David A. Centers’ efficient three-story set, thrillingly drives the pulsating rock vibe within the score with refreshing new twists, especially in “I’m Alive,” as the ominous and briefly dashing Gabe. J.J. Tiemeyer completes the cast with sensitivity and bravado in his dual roles as Doctor Madden and Doctor Fine.
Additionally, co-music director Jay Brunner leads an outstanding, well balanced orchestra. John Rensel’s evocative lighting design and Lowell A. Mathwich’s attractive costumes are added benefits. Brian Retterer’s sound design became problematic on opening night but was not a total hindrance.

It will always be difficult for any professional production of “Next to Normal” to equal or surpass the off-Broadway and Broadway productions conceived for and starring West Carrollton High School alumna and Tony Award winner Alice Ripley. Ripley’s definitively visceral and unhinged portrayal of Diana off-Broadway still lingers with me to this day. Even so, the Human Race and Victoria have impressively joined forces to produce a high quality, emotionally fulfilling presentation worthy of your patronage.

“Next to Normal” continues through May 19 at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton. Performances are Tuesday-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: 55 minutes. Tickets are $40-$86. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com

Dayton Sideshow 8: The Art and Music Lovers Weekend Celebration Welcomes Another Year

May 8, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The definition of art is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination. A person’s imagination can come to life in a variety of different styles. A single swipe of paint onto a canvas could be the start of an elegant painting. A photographer snaps a picture of a moment in time. A block of clay is the start of amazing, with the finished product being able to have unlimited possibilities in the end. Art is everywhere around us, whatever or realize it or not. Every year around this time, Dayton’s artists have a two day event that gives them the platform to present their work to the public. The event is the 8^th annual Dayton Sideshow.

The Sideshow began with the idea from Laurana Wong. Wong had a vision to organize an evening that brought people together to celebrate the local art being made and the artists that created it. The show as free for the participants to submit their work, the organizers that would set it up, and for the guests that appeared. Wong believed that by having this show take place, it would bring attention to the arts and give everyone a chance to connect to their similar interest.

The event took place on June 24^th, 2006 at what is now the Cannery. 60 artists from all around the area had work showcased throughout the evening. Everyone that attended and also volunteered loved what the night brought everyone, except one thing: the heat. “It was horrible (laughter)”, Vice-Chairperson for Dayton Circus Creative Collective Erin Vasconcelos mentioned to me. Vasconcelos was one of the many individuals that helped with the show. “There was no air, so it just made the room feel horrible. It didn’t care, though. We all had an amazing night.”

With the first show being a huge success, the organizers and volunteers continued to make the Sideshow a staple in the Dayton community. With each year passing, the show remained staying true to its core principals-give the local artists in town the spotlight. And with every year, the show has become larger and better than the previous one. The show has in the past few years found a home that can be able to have the space that can hold the massive show-the Yellow Cab Building. The show has also found the perfect time to hold their event-the weekend of the spring Urban Nights.

Sideshow organizer and current Dayton Circus Creative Collective Chairman Jeff Opt also enlisted live music to the event each year. “Music is a form of art. We are lucky to have a great music scene, and it deserves to be celebrated”, Opt says. Due to the fact that the show is now placed at the Yellow Cab, the show can showcase up to 40 bands with having two stages.

This year’s showcase will be drawing attention to well over 60 local visual artists, and over 20 local music acts. Some of the work that folks will expect will absolutely give people more reason to fall in love with the work being done in town. They will be live interactions of many of the artists finished products that will give the people that attend an experience they thought that they would have never expected. Also something new this year came from the minds of a younger generation. Two young children noticed that something was missing from this year’s event and it felt like it needed to be added. “There will be a section for kids!”, Vasconcelos said. The developers of this idea-the children of Opt and Vasconcelos. In the area for children, there will be photos of artwork and a chance for the youth to make some of their own.

For people who don’t have the chance to help out with the Sideshow, there’s many ways to contribute. One thing that the committee is doing this year is by setting up a donation section on the fundraising website, Indiegogo.com. For the next couple of days, everyone is able to give to the show. By donating certain amounts, donators will be given perks, including photography sessions from photographers Gary Mitchell or Jennifer Clarke. To donate, click here.

This weekend will once again be shining bright on the town by putting the focus on the Sideshow. The mind-blowing experiences you will have by seeing the marvelous work of the artists will leave you glad you came. If that doesn’t do it, stay for the music from great bands like Smug Brothers, Nasty Bingo, Tim Pritchard & The Boxcar Suite, WolfCryer among others. Dayton Sideshow is a staple of the community. It’s a weekend where art truly does come alive. Come see for youself.

Dayton Sideshow 8 takes place May 10^th and 11^th at the Yellow Cab Building on East Fourth Street in downtown Dayton. The event starts at 5, with live music starting at 6.

THE SAPPHIRES Opens Friday at THE NEON!

May 8, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re moving right along this weekend. If you still need to see THE COMPANY YOU KEEP, Thursday will be its last day at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open the crowd-pleasing, award-winning film that so many of you have been asking about – THE SAPPHIRES. We hope you’ll gather up your friends and make plans to see this fun film over the weekend! MUD was off to a great start…it will stick around. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for THE SAPPHIRES: “Four smart, gutsy young Australian Aboriginal women become unlikely stars in the most unlikely of places, with the most unlikely of allies, in THE SAPPHIRES. Set in 1968, the film follows Gail (Deborah Mailman), Cynthia (Miranda Tapsell), Julie (Jessica Mauboy) and Kay (Shari Sebbens) as they seize a risky, but irresistible, chance to launch a professional career singing for U.S. troops in Vietnam. Under the tutelage of an R&B-loving Irish musician, Dave Lovelace (Chris O’Dowd), the girls transform themselves into a sizzling soul act and set out to make a name for themselves hundreds of miles from home. Inspired by a true story, THE SAPPHIRES is a celebration of music, family and self-discovery.” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click this LINK to watch the trailer and visit the film’s official site.

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The ticket reservations for the screening of GIRL RISING have tipped the required amount…so the screening will move forward. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can watch the trailer, read about the film and reserve your ticket. This site is the only place where you can get advanced tickets. If tickets remain on the night of the screening, they can be purchased at THE NEON. The screening is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30. Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

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Be sure to check out our “Coming Soon” list below. I’m delighted that the new Linklater film BEFORE MIDNIGHT will make it to THE NEON…it’s wonderful.

We hope to see you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. May 10 – Thur, May 16:

MUD (PG-13) 2 Hr 10 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:10, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45

THE SAPPHIRES (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
May 17 – NO
May 24 – STARBUCK
May 24 – AT ANY PRICE
May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
June 14 – BEFORE MIDNIGHT
June 28 – THE EAST
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – TO THE WONDER

Experience the Best of Downtown at Urban Nights

May 8, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

More than 100 downtown venues are offering special events, discounts and more for the May 10 Urban Nights.

Urban Nights is getting an updated flavor and feel. Entertainment now will focus on three “hotspots” located throughout downtown, allowing visitors to experience downtown’s biggest street party in a new way by visiting hubs of activity throughout downtown. The next Urban Nights will be held 5 to 10 p.m. this Friday, May 10, in downtown Dayton, the Oregon District and Wright-Dunbar Business Village. A list of the hotspots at the spring event is below.

“We celebrated the 10th anniversary of Urban Nights last year and felt it was a good time to re-evaluate the event,” said Sandy Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership, which presents Urban Nights. “It’s clear the event has been extremely successful, as it brings more than 30,000 people to our downtown, many business owners report record sales, and we continue to receive a great deal of positive feedback from the community about Urban Nights.

“Still, we wanted to make sure Urban Nights more effectively meets its overall goal: to showcase all downtown has to offer and the places that only can be experienced in downtown Dayton,” Gudorf added. “We believe this new plan will encourage people to visit more places downtown during Urban Nights while giving us the opportunity to better highlight different areas in our center city.”

A map of participating venues and a complete performance schedule, including a listing of all participating locations’ events and specials, is available online. Follow Urban Nights on Facebook for regular updates and more information.

More than 30,000 people come downtown to experience this free event, when more than 100 establishments showcase downtown’s dining, nightlife, art, music, retail and housing options. The best way to see as much as possible during Urban Nights is to walk, and many of the destinations are just a short distance from each other. Greater Dayton RTA also will provide free event busses to help visitors get around.

Urban Nights is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Montgomery County and the City of Dayton, with support from Greater Dayton RTA, Bud Light Lime, Miller-Valentine Group, the Downtown Priority Board, Sinclair Community College, Mix 107.7-FM, WYSO 91.3-FM, Wright-Dunbar Business Village and the Ohio Arts Council.

MAY 10 URBAN NIGHTS HOTSPOTS

International Street

Sponsored by Miller-Valentine Group

Second Street between Main and Jefferson streets

Enjoy dance performances from a variety of troupes and grab an import brew to go along with foods from many cultures.

Second Street will be closed by the Kettering Tower to make way for dance performances and more.

Dancing in the Street Stage Schedule

5-5:25 p.m.:        Troupe Roja
5:30-5:55 p.m.: McGovern Ceili Dancers
6-6:25 p.m.:        South Dayton Dance Theatre
6:30-6:55 p.m.: Grupo Caribe
7-7:25 p.m.:        The Beseda Dancers
7:30-7:55 p.m.: Vivian Zumba
8-10 p.m.:            Son del Caribe

The corner of Fourth and St. Clair streets will be a hub of arts-inspired activity.

Arts Corner

Sponsored by Sinclair Community College

St. Clair and Fourth streets

Experience the Urban Nights motto “Walk on the Creative Side.” Enjoy a range of entertainment hosted by nearby businesses, including live entertainment, art exhibits and special sales. The Dayton Art Institute will host a photo booth where you can transform your image into an Andy Warhol-style work of art.
Arts Corner Entertainment
5-7 p.m.: Sweet Betsy

7-9 p.m.: By Means of Words at CADC

9-11 p.m.: Miss Lissa & Co. at Serendipity Bistro

Rock out to local bands at the Live on Five stage in the Oregon District.

Live on Five

Corner of Fifth and Pine streets in the Oregon District

Grab a draft brew from the beer truck and rock out to a variety of live bands.

Entertainment Schedule:

5-5:45 p.m.: The Broken Lights Band

6- 6:45 p.m.: Meghna & the Majority

7-7:45 p.m.: Cherry Lee and the Daddy Katz

8-10 p.m.: Magic Jackson

MAY 10 URBAN NIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS

Tours and Exhibits Commemorating the Great Dayton Flood of 1913

Great Dayton Flood of 1913 Bus Tours

Presented by Dayton History, Generation Dayton and Greater Dayton RTA

Get around Urban Nights while learning about our city’s largest natural disaster. Narrators on specially marked Flood Tour buses will detail factors that led to the catastrophe and recount survivors’ personal stories and those of heroic Daytonians from 100 years ago. The free 30- to 45-minute tour will follow the Urban Nights blue bus route and will stop at various locations throughout downtown Dayton. The tour officially begins at the corner of Monument Avenue and Jefferson Street, but visitors can get on and off the bus at any of the designated stops.

The Miami Conservancy District, 38 E. Monument Ave.

At its historical administrative building, the MCD will feature pocket park clean water tours and display 1913 flood inundation maps. The MCD also will host open-mic story telling about the flood along with other displays and giveaways.

The Great Dayton Adventure Race

Starts at the MetroParks Bike Hub at RiverScape MetroPark

This urban scavenger hunt will wind through the Urban Nights action. See how many clues you can answer in two hours as you navigate the city by foot for a chance to win prizes. Team up with friends or tackle the challenge solo. Racers can start anytime between 5 and 7 p.m. $20 per person. Register in advance at www.topoadventuresports.org or at RiverScape MetroPark the day of the event. Call 937-274-0126 for more information.

RiverScape MetroPark will be a hub of activity, including live entertainment and activities focused on green living. (Photography by Josh Mayes)

RiverScape MetroPark: Plaza and Pavilion Stage

At the RiverScape Plaza, visit DRG3’s Green Fest: Spring into Green!, featuring green displays and exhibits, recycled arts and crafts, a thrift shop runway, basketball with recyclables, extreme hop scotch, hula hoop, solar race cars, energy bikes and martial arts demos. Also at RiverScape at the nearby MetroParks Pavilion, enjoy live entertainment:
5:30-6 p.m.:        The Dayton Poetry Slam Showcase
6-7:45 p.m.:        New Vega
7:45-8:15 p.m.: Howard School of Dance
8:15-10 p.m.:      The Ark Band

Live entertainment, food and activities will be part of the Urban Nights experience in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village.

Wright-Dunbar Business Village Entertainment

Enjoy live entertainment, cultural arts, creative and tasty cuisine, and other festivities in the Wright-Dunbar Business Village. Special events include:

• Gospel and R&B Plaza, Third & Williams streets: Featuring live entertainment and four food vendors.
• Dance Tent, 1133 W. Third St.: Featuring entertainment by DJ Master G, three food vendors and a spirits bar.
• Jazz Plaza, West Third Street: Featuring live jazz entertainment and food stations.
• The Lounge, 1100 W. Third St.: Presenting a ticketed event at 8:30 p.m., a tribute to The Ohio Players by D-Funk All Stars. Call 443-0249 for tickets and information.

Self-Guided Architectural Tour

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Dayton Chapter has organized a self-guided tour for those intrigued by the architecture of Dayton and the history behind it. Refer to the Architectural Week brochure (distributed with Urban Nights program books) for more details or start at any of the buildings that are on the tour, where more information also will be available. The tour highlights the exterior architectural features of buildings, and not all buildings will be open to tour the interiors.

• Kuhns Building, 45 S. Main St.

• The Arcade, Third Street across from Courthouse Square

• The Old Courthouse, corner of Main and Third streets

• Kettering Tower, southeast corner of Main and Second streets

• Schuster Center, northwest corner of Main and Second streets

• Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St.

Sideshow 8

Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St.

The Dayton Circus Creative Collective again will kick off its two-day celebration of music and art in Dayton during Urban Nights. This event showcases the work of more than 60 artists and more than 20 musicians, and it hosts an event after-party until 1 a.m. Food and refreshments available. Visit the event website for a complete entertainment schedule and list of participating artists.

Join hundreds of cyclists on a ride through the night’s action at Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights, which will start at Courthouse Square. (Photography by Josh Mayes)

Urban Bikes @ Urban Nights

Start at Courthouse Square, Third and Main streets, at 6 p.m.

Get a preview of Urban Nights from the seat of your bike. Join hundreds of cyclists on this police-escorted ride through downtown. Riders are encouraged to wear a helmet and should be able to ride at a decent pace. This is not a ride for young children on their own bikes. From 5 to 8 p.m. on the Square, GetUP Montgomery County will present an event with live music, fitness demonstrations and other interactive activities focused on active, healthy lifestyles.

Sample New Food and Drink Establishments

Several downtown dining destinations either will be newly opened or open during Urban Nights to offer samples from their menus and preview their soon-to-be-open spots:

• Agnes All Natural Grill, 135 E. Fourth St.

• The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St.

• Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.

• Salar Restaurant and Lounge, 410 E. Fifth St.

• Toxic Brew Co ., 431 E. Fifth St.

Mosaic City Photo Show

St. Clair Lofts building, 39 S. St. Clair St.

Cityfolk presents an exhibit that includes entries from a recent Cityfolk photo contest and work by artist Glenna Jennings, who will present her project “Looking at Looking.” Her photographs depict residents and visitors to downtown Dayton observing historic images from the National Cash Register archive.

Watch large-scale prints being made with a steamroller at the third Steamroller Printmaking event.

Steamroller Printmaking: Flat-Out Fun!

Stivers School for the Arts, 1313 E. Fifth St.

Printmakers from the Dayton Printmakers Cooperative and students from Stivers School for the Arts will print large-scale linoleum blocks using a real steamroller as a printing press. Anyone can carve a smaller version of the linoleum blocks prior to the event (available for purchase at the Dayton Visual Arts Center for $10), called “Parking Prints,” and have it printed the night of the event. At DVAC, 118 N. Jefferson St., view large-scale and parking prints from the previous two Steamroller events.

Light My Fire & Brilliant Trash Competition

K12 Gallery for Young People and TEJAS, 510 E. Third St.

More than 100 hand-crafted mosaic lanterns will be lit in front of and inside the gallery as part of the Light My Fire exhibit. The lanterns will be for sale, with proceeds benefitting programming at K12 and TEJAS. K12 also will host the Brilliant Trash Competition, featuring upcycled works of art by local artists vying to be named Craft Master 2013, along with the exhibition “Can I Get a Witness?,” featuring abstract paintings by Rebecca Sargent and Erika Hess. Enjoy light refreshments, music and salsa dancing.

May 2013 Blockbusters at Rave Cinemas Dayton South

May 6, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Hello Dayton! There are plenty of options for everyone to have the perfect movie weekend this week. Lots of things happening at your local Rave Cinemas! And don’t forget at Dayton South/Huber Heights, TUESDAYS are $5 all day (*3D $8), The Greene is WEDNESDAYS! You simply cannot beat this great deal with the superior picture and sound quality versus Netflix!

Opening In May

IRON MAN 3– Opens 05/02/13

Marvel Studios’ “Iron Man 3” pits brash-but-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy’s hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?

Starring Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce, Rebecca Hall, Stephanie Szostak, James Badge Dale with Jon Favreau and Ben Kingsley, “Iron Man 3” is directed by Shane Black from a screenplay by Drew Pearce and Shane Black and is based on Marvel’s iconic Super Hero Iron Man, who first appeared on the pages of “Tales of Suspense” (#39) in 1963 and had his solo comic book debut with “The Invincible Iron Man” (#1) in May of 1968.

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THE GREAT GATSBY– Opens 05/10/13

“The Great Gatsby” follows Fitzgerald-like, would-be writer Nick Carraway as he leaves the Midwest and comes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz and bootleg kings. Chasing his own American Dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay Gatsby, and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy, and her philandering, blue-blooded husband, Tom Buchanan. It is thus that Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super rich, their illusions, loves and deceits. As Nick bears witness, within and without the world he inhabits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles.

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STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS– Opens 05/16/13

In the wake of a shocking act of terror from within their own organization, the crew of The Enterprise is called back home to Earth. In defiance of regulations and with a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads his crew on a manhunt to capture an unstoppable force of destruction and bring those responsible to justice.

As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ec_rPApKCA’]

EPIC– Opens 05/24/13

“Epic” is a 3D CG action-adventure comedy that reveals a hidden world unlike any other. From the creators of “Ice Age” and “Rio,” “Epic” tells the story of an ongoing battle deep in the forest between the forces of good and the forces of evil. When a teen age girl finds herself magically transported into this secret universe, she must band together with a rag-tag team of fun and whimsical characters in order to save their world and ours.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xu3JLXfuwQ’]

FAST & FURIOUS 6– Opens 05/24/13

Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of all-stars as the global blockbuster franchise built on speed races to its next continent in “Fast & Furious 6.” Reuniting for their most high-stakes adventure yet, fan favorites Jordana Brewster, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, Gal Gadot, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges and Elsa Pataky are joined by badass series newcomers Luke Evans and Gina Carano.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2h75LLhxM4′]

THE HANGOVER Part III– Opens 05/24/13

“The Hangover Part III” is the third and final film in director Todd Phillips’ record-shattering comedy franchise. This time, there’s no wedding. No bachelor party. What could go wrong, right? But when the Wolfpack hits the road, all bets are off.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9-16WJfJYM’]

AFTER EARTH– Opens 05/31/13

A crash landing leaves teenager Kitai Raige (Jaden Smith) and his legendary father Cypher (Will Smith) stranded on Earth, 1,000 years after cataclysmic events forced humanity�s escape. With Cypher critically injured, Kitai must embark on a perilous journey to signal for help, facing uncharted terrain, evolved animal species that now rule the planet, and an unstoppable alien creature that escaped during the crash. Father and son must learn to work together and trust one another if they want any chance of returning home.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZIt20emgLY’]

NOW YOU SEE ME– Opens 05/31/13

“Now You See Me” pits an elite FBI squad in a game of cat and mouse against “The Four Horsemen,” a super-team of the world’s greatest illusionists. “The Four Horsemen” pull off a series of daring heists against corrupt business leaders during their performances, showering the stolen profits on their audiences while staying one step ahead of the law.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaavRAV8a0A’]

For showtimes…CLICK HERE!

MUD – Starring Matthew McConaughey – Opens at THE NEON!

May 2, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

video-mud-anatomy-articleLarge Hello Everyone,

THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES is heading out. Today (May 2) is its last day at THE NEON. We open the new film starring Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon – MUD – directed by Jeff Nichols (who also did TAKE SHELTER). MUD currently has a score of 98% on rottentomatoes.com…that’s incredibly high! For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our official site: www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for MUD: “Mud is an adventure about two boys, Ellis and his friend Neckbone, who find a man named Mud hiding out on an island in the Mississippi. Mud describes fantastic scenarios-he killed a man in Texas and vengeful bounty hunters are coming to get him. He says he is planning to meet and escape with the love of his life, Juniper, who is waiting for him in town. Skeptical but intrigued, Ellis and Neckbone agree to help him. It isn’t long until Mud’s visions come true and their small town is besieged by a beautiful girl with a line of bounty hunters in tow.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the official site for MUD.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2m9IFlz2iYo’]

The 13th Dayton Jewish International Film Festival is breaking records this year. The festival has experienced some sell-outs, and audiences are loving the films. You can visit our lobby to pick up a brochure for this year’s festival, and you can visit the website to purchase advanced tickets by clicking this [yframe url=’http://www.jewishdayton.org/be-active/jewish-life-in-dayton/djcc/13th-dayton-jewish-international-film-festival/’]. 2 remaining films from this festival will screen at THE NEON. Here are the dates and times:
Tue, May 7 at 10am – TORN
Thu, May 9 at 7:15 – A BOTTLE IN THE GAZA SEA

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mL8p6FKCPzQ’]

“The India Foundation celebrates One Hundred Years of Indian Cinema: 1913 – 2013 with a Tribute to Dada Saheb Phalke – Father of the Indian Cinema. The first Indian silent film produced, written and directed by Mr. Phalke was released in Bombay on May 3, 1913. A screening of selected clips entitled Silent Movies – Early Years will be presented on Saturday, May 4th at Noon (the collection includes digitized clips from Phalke’s RAJA HARISHCHANDRA and KALIYA MARDAN (1919) and clips from the only surviving Bengali silent film JAMAI BABU (Son-in-Law) by Kalipada Das). A reception preceding the screening will begin at 11:30a.m. Admission is only $5. The National Film Archives of India has graciously made the present collection possible.” (taken from press notes)

We’ve got a gathr screening on the horizon. This time, it’s for a film called GIRL RISING. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can read about the film and reserve your ticket. The screening will only take place if 50 people reserve a ticket by May 26 (the screening is tentatively scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30). Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

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

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mS-0CHXfyIk’]

We’re slated to open the crowd-pleasing, festival darling THE SAPPHIRES next Friday. I haven’t seen it yet, but I know I’ll be seeing it with a bunch of friends. It looks like a lot of fun! I’ll keep you posted.

We hope to see you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. May 3 – Thur, May 9:

MUD (PG-13) 2 Hr 10 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:10, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:10, 4:50, 7:30

THE COMPANY YOU KEEP (R) 2 Hr 05 Min
Friday: 1:30, 4:40, 7:20, 9:45
Saturday: 4:40, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday: 1:30, 4:40, 7:20, 9:45
Monday – Wednesday: 2:00, 4:40, 7:20
Thursday: 2:00, 4:40

100 YEARS OF INDIAN CINEMA
Saturday: Noon (reception at 11:30)

DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FEST
Tuesday at 10:00am – TORN (reception at 9:30am)
Thursday at 7:15 – A BOTTLE IN THE GAZA SEA

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.

May 10 – THE SAPPHIRES
May ? – STARBUCK
May ? – TO THE WONDER
May 24 – AT ANY PRICE
May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – NO

Coming up in Dayton Theatre 5/3 – 5/12 (plus Season Announcements!)

May 2, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Welcome back friends! We’ve got just a couple things going on the next couple weeks, but we also have SEASON ANNOUNCEMENTS! So exciting!

Closing This Weekend!

‘Til Beth Do Us Part

Brookville Community Theatre
The Skinny: A comedy about love, marriage and trust.
Dates: Running through Sunday, May 5th.
Tickets: For tickets, please call the Brookville Flower Shop at (937) 833-3531.

Opening This Weekend!

The Late Edwina Black

Troy Civic Theatre

The Skinny: When a some-what unpopular woman dies, the community feeling is rather less of grief and more of relief. When an autopsy shows her remains full of arsenic, an Inspector must interview the three main suspects and try to figure out what really happened.
Dates: Opening 5/3 and closing Saturday, 5/11
Tickets: Please call the ticket chairman at 937-339-7700

Mid-week Opening!

Next To Normal

The Human Race Theatre Company (@ The Victoria Thatre)

The Skinny: The story of a mother who struggles with bipolar disorder and the effect her illness has on her family. This contemporary Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning musical is an emotional powerhouse that addresses issues such as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life. With provocative lyrics and a thrilling score, this musical shows how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s world intact.

Dates: Opens Tuesday 5/7 and closes Sunday 5/19

Tickets: Tickets are available via the Victoria Theatre Association website, here: Tickets.

Opening Next Weekend!

Jekyll & Hyde

Playhouse South

The Skinny: This dark, gothic musical is based on the Robert Louis Stevenson book The Strange Case of Doctor Jekyll and Mister Hyde. Nominated for several Tony awards, the music is chilling, moving and altogether wonderful.

Dates: Jekyll takes the stage on Friday, 5/10 and will run Fridays and Saturdays through 5/25 with one Sunday matinee on 5/12. What better treat for Mom?!

Tickets: Tickets are available for purchase via the PHS website, here: Tickets

Season Announcements!

Tis the season for season announcements! Theatres are beginning to release their 2013-2014 seasons. Here’s what I’ve got so far!

Dayton Theatre Guild
45 Seconds from Broadway, by Neil Simon
Directed by Fred Blumenthal. Runs Aug 23-Sep 8, 2013

Time Stand Stills, by Donald Margulies
Directed by Debra Kent. Runs Oct 4-20, 2013

The Gifts of the Magi, by Coats & Germain — (The Holiday Extra)
Director to be announced. Runs Nov 22-Dec 8, 2013

The Subject Was Roses, by Frank D. Gilroy

Directed by Marcia Nowik. Runs Jan 10-26, 2014

Expecting Isabel, by Lisa Loomer
Directed by Natasha Randall. Runs Feb 28-Mar 16, 2014

An Inspector Calls, by J.B. Priestly
Directed by David Shough. Runs Apr 18-May 4, 2014

The Dead Guy, by Eric Coble
Directed by Saul Caplan. Runs May 30-June 15, 2014

Dayton Playhouse

Hairspray Sept. 6-22

Directed by Tina McPhearson and Fran Pesch

Deathtrap, by Ira Levine
Directed by Jennifer Lockwood. Runs October 25-November 3rd

Fellow Passengers, by Greg Carter
Directed by Dodie Lockwood. Runs December 6-15

Working
Directed by Jim Lockwood. Runs January 31-February 16

The Whales of August, by David Berry
Directed by John Riley. Runs March 14th-23

Oklahoma!
Directed by Brian Sharp. Runs May 2-18

Beavercreek Community Theatre

Hair
September 13-22

Dog Sees God
October 25-November 3

A Neverland Christmas Carol
December 6-15

‘Till Beth Do Us Part
January 24-February 2

Carrie
March 7-16

Monty Python’s Spamalot
June 20-29

Human Race Theatre Company

Becky’s New Car
September 12-29

Fiddler on the Roof
October 31-November 17

Torch Song Trilogy
January 30-February 16

Other Desert Cities
March 27-April 3

Play It By Heart
June 12-29

Victoria Theatre Association/Broadway Series

War Horse
October 22-27

It’s A Wonderful Life (A Live Radio Play!)
December 3-15

Sister Act
January 28-February 2

Memphis
April 8-13

Beauty And The Beast
May 27-June 1

Million Dollar Quartet
June 17-22

That’s what I’ve got so far — There are more to come, however. It’s gonna be a really good season! I’m already marking my calendars. How about you?

Victoria Theatre Association and Human Race Theatre team up to present NEXT TO NORMAL

April 29, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Victoria Theatre Association presents NEXT TO NORMAL, a show considered to be the “rarest of Broadway species” (TimeOut New York). Produced by The Human Race Theatre Company, NEXT TO NORMAL appears on the Victoria Theatre stage May 7-19, 2013 as part of the Premier Health Broadway Series. Tickets are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll-free (888) 228-3630 or online athttp://www.ticketcenterstage.com.

“I am thrilled to be a part of this production” said Trisha Rapier who plays Diana, a mother who is coping with bipolar disorder. “NEXT TO NORMAL is a rock musical that will take the audience on a journey of discovery through the lives of the Goodman family who are dealing with the mental illness of their mother. To accurately portray a woman whose emotions have such extreme highs and lows, and ultimately make the audience root for Diana as she takes the painful steps to get better is a challenge, and as an actor, it’s a dream!”

Director Scott Stoney said he is “delighted to be directing this incredible collection of artists—designers, musicians and actors—in producing this landmark new musical. NEXT TO NORMAL clearly demonstrates how flexible the form is as it tackles mental illness within the American family using rock musical idioms as its language. Though the journey is complex and difficult, the outcome is ultimately rewarding and hopeful. I guarantee you have never seen or heard anything like this show before.”

A musical with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, NEXT TO NORMAL is one of the most talked about new show on Broadway. Produced by The Human Race Theatre Company, this is a musical “that pushes Broadway in new directions” (Rolling Stone). This riveting musical won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2009 Tony Award® for Best Score.

NEXT TO NORMAL contains strong language and adult themes, and may not be suitable for all ages. Age recommendation is for ages 17 and up.

Don’t forget about Chase Background on Broadway! One hour prior to select performances, the Education & Engagement Department provides informative and entertaining talks by theatre professionals, focusing on production history, musical highlights, and insider anecdotes of the show. These pre-show chats are free and open to all ticket holders. These talks will take place Tuesday-Friday, May 14-17 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 18 at 1 p.m.

The Human Race Theatre Company is the Dayton region’s professional theatre company. In their 26th season, this company offers an alternative to mainstream theatre in the Dayton community by providing productions that are thought provoking and challenging. As their name suggests, they present universal themes that explore the human condition and startle us all into a renewed awareness of ourselves.

Tickets for NEXT TO NORMAL start at just $40. Tickets are available at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll-free (888) 228-3630 or online at http://www.ticketcenterstage.com. Ticket Center Stage Box Office hours are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday noon – 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance.

Redford’s THE COMPANY YOU KEEP at THE NEON!

April 24, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see Danny Boyle’s latest film – TRANCE – you’ll need to hurry. Today (Thur, April 25) is its last day at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open Robert Redford’s latest film (based on the famous novel) – THE COMPANY YOU KEEP. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our official site: www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE COMPANY YOU KEEP: “Jim Grant (Robert Redford) is a public interest lawyer and single father raising his daughter in the tranquil suburbs of Albany, New York. Grant’s world is turned upside down,when a brash young reporter named Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf) exposes his true identity as a former 1970s antiwar radical fugitive wanted for murder. After living for more than 30 years underground, Grant must now go on the run. With the FBI in hot pursuit, he sets off on a cross-country journey to track down the one person that can clear his name.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Directed by Redford, this film also stars Susan Sarandon, Nick Nolte, Chris Cooper, Sam Elliott, Julie Christie, Richard Jenkins, Stanley Tucci and Terrence Howard. Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2r0l6TBszwo’]

The 13th Dayton Jewish International Film Festival is off to a terrific start. Opening night sold out both of our auditoriums, and audiences are loving the films. You can visit our lobby to pick up a brochure for this year’s festival, and you can visit the website to purchase advanced tickets by clicking this LINK. 5 remaining films from this festival will screen at THE NEON. Here are the dates and times:
Thu, Apr 25 at 7:15 – NICKY’S FAMILY
Tue, Apr 30 at 7:15 – NAOMI
Thu, May 2 at 7:15 – LEA & DARIA
Tue, May 7 at 10am – TORN
Thu, May 9 at 7:15 – A BOTTLE IN THE GAZA SEA

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

“The India Foundation celebrates One Hundred Years of Indian Cinema: 1913 – 2013 with a Tribute to Dada Saheb Phalke – Father of the Indian Cinema. The first Indian silent film produced, written and directed by Mr. Phalke was released in Bombay on May 3, 1913. A screening of selected clips entitled Silent Movies – Early Years will be presented on Saturday, May 4th at Noon (the collection includes digitized clips from Phalke’s RAJA HARISHCHANDRA and KALIYA MARDAN (1919) and clips from the only surviving Bengali silent film JAMAI BABU (Son-in-Law) by Kalipada Das). A reception preceding the screening will begin at 11:30a.m. Admission is only $5. The National Film Archives of India has graciously made the present collection possible.” (taken from press notes)

We’ve got a gathr screening on the horizon. This time, it’s for a film called GIRL RISING. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can watch the trailer, read about the film and reserve your ticket. The screening will only take place if 50 people reserve a ticket by May 26 (the screening is tentatively scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30). Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

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

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mS-0CHXfyIk’]

We will open MUD next week – the new thriller with Matthew McConaughey. (I’m delighted to report that the distributor decided to wait for us until next week instead of opening at a multiplex this week.)

We hope to see you soon!
All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. April 26 – Thur, May 2:

THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES
(R) 2 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Monday: 1:45, 4:30, 7:30
Tuesday: 1:45, 4:30
Wednesday: 1:45, 4:30, 7:30
Thursday: 1:45, 4:30

THE COMAPNY YOU KEEP (R) 2 Hr 05 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:30, 4:40, 7:20, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:00, 4:40, 7:20

DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FEST
Tuesday at 7:15 – NAOMI
Thursday at 7:15 – LEA & DARIA

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
May 3 – MUD
May 10 – THE SAPPHIRES
May ? – STARBUCK
May ? – TO THE WONDER
May 24 – AT ANY PRICE
May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – NO

Big Wedding + Pain Gain at Rave Cinemas Dayton South

April 24, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Hello Dayton! There are plenty of options for everyone to have the perfect movie weekend this week. Lots of things happening at your local Rave Cinemas! And don’t forget at Dayton South/Huber, TUESDAYS are $5 all day (*3D $8), The Greene is WEDNESDAYS! You simply cannot beat this great deal with the superior picture and sound quality versus Netflix!

Opening This Week

STAR TREK – 04/25/13 @ 7pm!

The Best of Both Worlds – the two-part storyline comprising the third season finale and the fourth season premiere of the beloved series Star Trek: The Next Generation®- will, for the first time ever, be seamlessly tied together as one continuous and uninterrupted story digitally restored with new CGI effects… on the big screen! Audiences will also see special clips from “Regeneration: Engaging the Borg”, a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Best of Both Worlds. This not to be missed movie theater event will feature one of the most memorable moments in TV history and exclusive clips about the making of The Best of Both Worlds and Star Trek: The Next Generation Season 3. The Next Generation became the longest running series of the Star Trek franchise, consisting of 178 episodes over 7 seasons.

Resistance is futile so buy your tickets today!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57TTj6Fg_Vw’]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJv95T4L84w’]

THE BIG WEDDING – Opens 04/25/13 @ 9pm!

With an all-star cast led by Robert De Niro, Katherine Heigl, Diane Keaton, Amanda Seyfried, Topher Grace, with Susan Sarandon and Robin Williams, “The Big Wedding” is an uproarious romantic comedy about a charmingly modern family trying to survive a weekend wedding celebration that has the potential to become a full blown family fiasco. To the amusement of their adult children and friends, long divorced couple Don and Ellie Griffin (De Niro and Keaton) are once again forced to play the happy couple for the sake of their adopted son’s wedding after his ultra conservative biological mother unexpectedly decides to fly halfway across the world to attend. With all of the wedding guests looking on, the Griffins are hilariously forced to confront their past, present and future – and hopefully avoid killing each other in the process.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnD2EacXk0E’]

PAIN AND GAIN – Opens 04/25/13 @ 9pm!

Based on a true story, “Pain & Gain” follows a group of bodybuilders who engaged in a campaign of kidnapping, extortion and murder in Florida. First told in an article from the “Miami New Times,” “Pain and Gain” will be directed by Bay and will star Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

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

IRON MAN 3– Opens 05/02/13 @ 9pm!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Gl0CoyhlNw’]

RAVE CINEMA CLASSICS – $3 + FREE popcorn & drink! @ Dayton South

04/29/13 @ 1pm brings us…

MARK OF ZORRO (silent), 1920, 90min

One of the best silent films in the pre-dialogue era. A young aristocrat must masquerade as a fop in order to maintain his secret identity of Zorro as he restores justice to early California. Douglas Fairbanks, Marguerite De La Motte

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idMaP6oj5eI’]

For showtimes…CLICK HERE!

Demystifying the Harp

April 22, 2013 By Tiffany Shaw-Diaz Leave a Comment

harp Let’s face it: harps are quite hip. Between the ethereal compositions of indie darling, Joanna Newsom, and the top-40 covers of folk harpist, Amy Farrah Fowler (Sheldon’s neurobiologist, not-a-girlfriend on the hit CBS comedy, The Big Bang Theory), the harp has been plucked from obscurity into the limelight.

Leaving the pop culture references aside, there are so many intriguing questions about this complex instrument: Where did it originate? What compels one to play it? And, most pressing, how the heck do you carry it?

For starters, harps range in sizes, shapes, colors, and without question, prices. They have also been in existence since ancient times, in numerous cultures, and are generally regarded as the oldest known stringed instrument.

To answer some burning questions about the harp and more, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s Principal Harpist, Leslie Stratton Norris, recently took some time out of her busy schedule, which also includes directing her own ensemble, Harps of Grace, to candidly discuss her multi-decade career and share her passion for this varied topic.

Dayton Most Metro: Thanks for talking with us today. What inspired you to study the harp?

Leslie Stratton Norris: When I was a kid there was an orchestra show on CBS with Leonard Bernstein called Young People’s Concerts. When they showed the harp player, I was smitten. My mom took me to see a harpist in person shortly thereafter, and the harpist let me try it. Even though I was three years old, I was totally convinced that this would be my life. My mom thought that my interest was a fad, but I pestered her to learn the harp for six more years.

DMM: Did you finally convince her?

LSN: Yes, I was nine years old when I got my first harp, so I dove into playing it with gusto.

DMM: What were those early lessons like? Were you surprised by much?

LSN: I don’t recall being surprised by much. At that age, you just follow along and do what your teacher tells you to do, and all is well. However, I had some difficulty with memorizing. I’m a sight reader, and I resist memorizing. It’s far more fun to play new pieces all the time.

DMM: The size of a concert grand harp, being about six feet tall and weighing 80 pounds, is quite daunting. How do you transport it?

LSN: Thankfully, we now have two-wheeled dollies that are made especially for the harp. With the dolly, my harp rolls along easily, and when loading it into my car, we lean and push, rather than having to pick it up. When I was a kid, harp dollies did not exist unless someone invented their own model. My dad used to throw my harp up on his shoulder and carry it that way.

DMM: There was a hilarious skit on the IFC series, Portlandia, featuring Joanna Newsom trying to fit her concert grand harp into a Ford Focus. I’m assuming a harp doesn’t easily fit into a compact car! What type of car do most harpists buy?

LSN: Harpists tend to own large wagons or vans, but a full-sized (concert grand) harp does fit in my Subaru wagon.

DMM: Usually there are only one or two harpists on stage in an orchestra setting. That’s a lot of pressure, being in the spotlight. How you do handle performance anxiety?

LSN: Most of the time, there is just one harpist on stage, so if the harp sounds bad, everyone knows it is me! Performance anxiety can be disabling for some players. They can be good musicians and know their music, but they are unable to play it well in front of others. Those folks might try some therapies or even medications to help their anxiety. I am fortunate that most of the time, I can keep it together without such an aid.

DMM: Are there any myths you’d like to dispel about the harp?

LSN: The harp can play almost any kind of music. It is a versatile, full-range instrument and can function like a piano within a classical, pop or jazz group. The harp also has much more sound than many people imagine. It is thought to be a soft instrument, which it can be, but a good harpist can play it with a tremendous amount of sound.

DMM: It is easy to see why so many people hire harpists for major life events, such as weddings. Is there a gig in particular that you’d like to share or one that is particularly amusing?

LSN: I have enough funny stories to fill a book! In Los Angeles I was hired to play for an outdoor pool party. The host had decided he wanted some “beautiful music” wafting through the air along with the sound of his water fountain next to the pool. I arrived before the guests, moved my harp into position, and began to play as his guests arrived. After five or six people had gathered, someone said, “Into the pool!” and they all hopped into the pool…in their birthday suits! More folks arrived, and the same thing happened. Soon, I was the only person clothed, and thankfully I remained that way for the length of the party. I learned a valuable lesson: it is very hard to ask a host for your check when he is sans clothes, so I said “Thanks,” packed up at the end of the party, and billed him later.

DMM: Harpists have become quite hip in recent years. Are you surprised that it took this long?

LSN: Often it takes specific performers with charisma and a twist to their performances to open up an instrument to a wider audience. With a performer such as Ravi Shankar on the sitar, that instrument was brought before audiences who never would have thought to listen to a sitar. Harps have been popular in different cultures as folk instruments and as an accompaniment to vocals for a long time, so it is good to see harp music in the limelight.

DMM: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

LSN: When I am lugging my harp around, one of the most frequent questions that comes my way is, “Don’t you wish you played the flute?’” Here is the answer: “No!” In my opinion, the harp is the most beautiful, versatile, calming, joyous, warm, lovely, charming, and challenging instrument out there. Yes, hauling it around is daunting. Paying for it is daunting. Changing strings and maintaining it is daunting. But nothing sounds like a harp, and nothing looks like a harp. When you are in love with the harp, all the difficulties of the instrument are naught compared to the joys of playing it and hearing it.

For more information about the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and its upcoming performances, visit www.daytonperformingarts.org. The next Harps of Grace concert will take place at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Centerville on May 6th at 7:00 p.m. This concert is free and will feature 12 harpists playing all styles of music.

Food Matters Screening & Expert Panel

April 22, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Culpeper House, in association with Antioch University Midwest, present a free, public screening of the thought provoking documentary film, Food Matters, to be followed by an expert panel discussion featuring some of the Miami Valley’s most important voices in holistic healthcare, nutrition, and organic farming. The event will take place in PNC Bank Auditorium at Antioch University Midwest in Yellow Springs. The screening will begin at 6:00pm with the panel discussion to follow. Coffee and tea will be available in the AUM lobby beginning at 5:30pm.

Please direct questions to The Culpeper House at admin @ culpeperhouse.com or 937 536. 9369. RSVP is encouraged, at http://foodmattersscreening.eventbrite.com/

About the Film, by Food Matters:

‘Let thy Food be thy Medicine and thy Medicine be thy Food’ – Hippocrates. That is the message from the founding father of modern medicine echoed in the controversial new documentary film Food Matters from Producer-Directors James Colquhoun and Laurentine ten Bosch.

With nutritionally-depleted foods, chemical additives and our tendency to rely upon pharmaceutical drugs to treat what’s wrong with our malnourished bodies, it’s no wonder that modern society is getting sicker. Food Matters sets about uncovering the trillion dollar worldwide ‘sickness industry’ and gives people some scientifically verifiable solutions for overcoming illness naturally.

‘With access to better information people invariably
make better choices for their health…’

In what promises to be the most contentious idea put forward, the filmmakers have interviewed several leading experts in nutrition and natural healing who claim that not only are we harming our bodies with improper nutrition, but that the right kind of foods, supplements and detoxification can be used to treat chronic illnesses as fatal as terminally diagnosed cancer.

The focus of the film is in helping us rethink the belief systems fed to us by our modern medical and health care establishments. The interviewees point out that not every problem requires costly, major medical attention and reveal many alternative therapies that can be more effective, more economical, less harmful and less invasive than conventional medical treatments.

The ‘Food Matters’ duo have independently funded the film from start to finish in order to remain as unbiased as possible, delivering a clear and concise message to the world. Food Matters.

Trailer available at http://www.foodmatters.tv

ON STAGE DAYTON REVIEW: Mary Poppins (Victoria Theatre Association) – Mixed Magic

April 19, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Eleven years ago I interviewed Sir Cameron Mackintosh, the legendary, influential British musical theater producer of “Cats,” “Les Miserables” and “The Phantom of the Opera,” during his visit to Dayton to oversee the launch of his reconceived production of “Miss Saigon” at the Victoria Theatre. At the end of our conversation, he shared his excitement about a new collaborative project with Disney he hoped would become a reality, a musical version of 1964’s beloved film “Mary Poppins” that would adhere not only to the film but the original books by P.L. Travers. In 2004, his dream came true when “Mary Poppins” opened in London, winning two Olivier Awards in the process. The show subsequently moved to Broadway in 2006, receiving seven Tony Award nominations including Best Musical and playing more than 2,600 performances before closing last month.

It’s great that Dayton audiences can finally see and judge Mackintosh’s approach as the latest, extravagant national tour of “Mary Poppins,” the timeless Victorian London tale of the enchanting titular nanny, flies into town for its local premiere at the Schuster Center courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Premier Health Broadway Series. However, if you’re expecting a consistently feel-good, scene-by-scene replica of the film you’ll be disappointed. Most of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman’s incredibly delightful songs are intact, but this darker, moody interpretation, assuredly directed by Anthony Lyn incorporating new, impressively Sherman-esque songs by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, predominately spotlights the emotionally cold rigidity within the Banks household, consisting of the properly uptight Chris Hoch as uncaring banker George, the lovely Kerry Conte as George’s longsuffering wife Winifred, and the chirpy if nearly unintelligible Madison Ann Mullahey and Lucas Schultz who performed the roles of bratty Jane and Michael on opening night.

Focusing on the Banks’ discord is appropriate, but Academy Award and Emmy Award-winning librettist Julian Fellowes (“Gosford Park,” “Downton Abbey”) has difficulty juxtaposing cheerless domesticity and themes of capitalism and feminism with the abundantly cheery charm derived from magical Mary (a pertly sophisticated, humorously meticulous Madeline Trumble, vocally upstaged by Conte). Nearly every scene in the Banks residence that doesn’t involve Mary lacks elation. The family ultimately grows closer and more broad-minded with wonderful poignancy, particularly as Jane and Michael learn a valuable lesson in benevolence, but their journey isn’t without tediousness, a problem extending to George’s static scenes at the bank lacking vim and verve.

Still, the production’s finest elements, capturing the film’s joyful allure, are the splendid ensemble numbers choreographed by Geoffrey Garratt (skillfully adapting Matthew Bourne’s marvelous original routines) and featuring outstanding triple threat Con O’Shea Creal as amiable chimney sweep Bert. The visually stunning “Jolly Holiday” (transforming a drab London park into a colorful wonderland), the heartwarming, gestural jubilance of “Supercalifragilsticexpialidocious,” and the remarkably rousing “Step in Time” (which finds Creal dancing on the proscenium in awe-inducing fashion) are totally worth the price of admission. There’s also ample whimsy in “Practically Perfect,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” and “Anything Can Happen.” Equally noteworthy are the gorgeous “Feed the Birds” and enjoyably sinister “Brimstone and Treacle,” performed by excellent understudy Elizabeth Ann Berg seamlessly pulling double duty as the endearing Bird Woman and nasty nanny Miss Andrew. “Playing the Game,” a bedtime nightmare bringing Jane and Michael’s toys to life, is an unnecessary addition contributing to an overlong Act 1.

Considering the elaborate scope of this tour, I’m surprised it doesn’t match the razzle dazzle of the Broadway production, which memorably flew Mary into the audience as a knockout conclusion. Even so, Bob Crowley’s superb Tony Award-winning storybook sets in addition to Crowley’s attractive costumes, Natasha Katz’s striking lighting design, Paul Groothuis’ first-rate sound design, and musical director Daniel Bowling’s fine orchestra are considerable pleasures.

In spite of its flaws, “Mary Poppins” remains an entertaining, family-friendly spectacle. Mackintosh wouldn’t have envisioned it any other way.

“Mary Poppins” continues through April 21 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. Performances continue tonight at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. Act One: 75 minutes; Act Two: 65 minutes. Tickets are $52-$111. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

ON STAGE DAYTON REVIEW: The Retreat from Moscow (Dayton Playhouse) – The Thrill is Gone

April 19, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

(l to r): Matthew Lindsay, Chuck Larkowski and Jennifer Lockwood rehearsing The Retreat from Moscow

The Dayton Playhouse marks a refreshing return to serious drama with a beautifully commendable presentation of William Nicholson’s quietly compelling British marital study “The Retreat from Moscow.”

Nominated for three 2004 Tony Awards including Best Play, “Retreat” depicts the heartbreaking disintegration of the 33-year marriage between Edward, a history professor obsessed with Napoleon’s 1812 retreat from Moscow, and Alice, a poetry aficionado unable to cope with reality. Jamie, Edward and Alice’s only child, is predictably caught in the emotional crossfire to assess his parents’ differing viewpoints without taking sides. Nicholson (“Shadowlands”) uses the titular history lesson as a striking metaphor for survival, particularly as Edward chooses to seek love in the arms of another woman while Alice tries her best to simply move on.

Chuck Larkowski is perfectly cast and touching as the meek, wounded Edward who never really felt comfortable with or respected by Alice. There’s no second guessing as to whether or not Edward has reached the point of no return because Larkowski never wavers in the character’s determination or desires. You may not agree with Edward’s infidelity, but there’s no denying the visceral impact stemming from understanding his point of view, which is brilliantly expressed from start to finish. At the same rate, Jennifer Lockwood doesn’t miss a beat as the fiery, bewildered Alice, who feels her marriage is “struggling to be born” after three decades when faced with its demise. Lockwood could have played her juicy, antagonistic role as a relentlessly emotional train wreck, but wisely avoids the sentimental trap. On the contrary, she fills her Alice’s distressing nature with enough underlying resilience to convey the notion that she will not be entirely defeated even as she faces living alone. Lockwood is particularly strong when addressing Alice’s shock of hearing Edward disregard the many years of marriage she helped build. Matthew Lindsay is an amiable Jamie, but could have treated the character’s prized, beloved status in the sight of his parents with more emotive velocity instead of understated indifference.

Director Dodie Lockwood, providing a seamlessly fluid experience with a slightly haunting allure and a few genuine moments of levity, never allows her cast to leave the stage. Her wonderfully astute decision effectively magnetizes the family dynamics at hand with inescapably palpable potency.

“The Retreat from Moscow” continues through April 21 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 50 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15for seniors and students. Call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.org.