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THE NEON – Everything Must Go!

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Hello Everyone,

Everything playing this week at THE NEON is heading out. THE HEDGEHOG is gone already, and today is your last chance to catch THIN ICE and FRIENDS WITH KIDS. Tomorrow (Mar. 30)  we start two new films – SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN and IN DARKNESS – and they’ll both be playing exclusively at THE NEON!
For today’s remaining showtimes, please visit www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN: “From the beloved director of CHOCOLAT and the Oscar-winning screenwriter of SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE comes the inspirational comedy SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN. A visionary sheik (Amr Waked) believes his passion for the peaceful pastime of salmon fishing can enrich the lives of his people, and he dreams of bringing the sport to the not so fish-friendly desert. Willing to spare no expense, he instructs his representative (Emily Blunt) to turn the dream into reality, an extraordinary feat that will require the involvement of Britain’s leading fisheries expert (Ewan McGregor) who happens to think the project both absurd and unachievable. That is, until the Prime Minister’s overzealous press secretary (Kristin Scott Thomas) latches on to it as a ‘good will’ story. Now, this unlikely team will put it all on the line and embark on an upstream journey of faith and fish to prove the impossible, possible.” (taken from CBS Films)
Visit the official site.

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Synopsis for IN DARKNESS: “In Darkness is based on a true story. Leopold Socha, a sewer worker and petty thief in Lvov, a Nazi occupied city in Poland, one day encounters a group of Jews trying to escape the liquidation of the ghetto. He hides them for money in the labyrinth of the town’s sewers beneath the bustling activity of the city above. What starts out as a straightforward and cynical business arrangement turns into something very unexpected, the unlikely alliance between Socha and the Jews as the enterprise seeps deeper into Socha’s conscience. The film is also an extraordinary story of survival as these men, women and children all try to outwit certain death during 14 months of ever increasing and intense danger.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics)
Visit the official site.

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The 4th Annual LUNAFEST in Dayton will be held this Sunday at 3:00. “Nine Short Films By/For/About Women, including a funny view of a Persian woman at her younger sister’s engagement party and a serious look at treating obstetric fistulas in Africa. Also: PARK, by WSU film grad Liz Cambron, about a teenaged girl coming of age during summer in a Dayton-area trailer park (selected for this year’s SlamdDance Film Festival). Filmmaker will be do Q&A.
Tickets: $10 (suggested), $5 (minimum), $3 (students w/ ID).
Proceeds to National Breast Cancer Fund and Planned Parenthood of SW Ohio.
Sponsored by Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance.” (synopsis provided by Kathy Ellison)

On Tuesday, April 17 at 7:30, we have a special treat for lovers of documentaries and vintage aircraft. “Each year the famous Doolittle Tokyo Raiders from WWII have a reunion to remember their mission, their comrades, and their heroic leader Gen. James Doolittle. In 2010, an extraordinary event took place – seventeen B-25 bomber crews volunteered to gather in honor of the Raiders, and over 70,000 people turned up to witness it. THE RESTORERS – THEY WERE ALL VOLUNTEERS follows the journey of a Minnesota B-25 named Miss Mitchell. Join this restored bomber as she travels to Dayton, Ohio to attend the largest B-25 gathering since WWII. Help us commemorate the 70th anniversary of the historic Doolittle mission. The filmmakers and participants will be on-hand for discussion and questions. Cost: $8.00 for adults, $6.00 for children and veterans.” (synopsis provided by Adam White)

For those of you who use Facebook, we finally have an actual page…not just a “group” page. We will soon be fazing out the old group, so please LIKE us by following this LINK.

Thanks for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. March 30 – Thur. April 5:

SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 5:40, 7:45, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:20

IN DARKNESS (R) 2 Hr 33 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:15

LUNAFEST (NR) Films + Q&A
Sunday: 3:00

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
April 6 JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME
TBD PARIAH
April 13 THE RAID
April 20 WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN
April 27 FOOTNOTE
mid-May DAMSELS IN DISTRESS
mid/late-May DARLIN COMPANION
May 25 THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL
June 1 SOUND OF MY VOICE
July ? BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD
July ? TO ROME WITH LOVE

Cityfolk: Culture Builds Community – Soul Rhythms

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Collaboration is an amazing gift! When you experience it, those moments of joined efforts and creative kinship are downright life changing. This is true in both cultural arts and community building. Collaboration means working together, engaging in common goals and welcoming folks from all traditions to share a common journey. That is Culture Builds Community!

Cityfolk engages in this process throughout the year, through the concert series, the summer festival and CBC. As Dayton’s traditional arts organization, we are grounded in the traditional arts – this generation’s “original,” knowing that it all trickles down to the next citizens/family members/artists to translate anew. Relationship patterns are horizontal and vertical; they thrive at a multitude of levels. Carried at each level are tangible takeaways: dance, cooking, music, poems, jewelry, quilts, paintings, puppets and more. We create it and hand it down. There’s a ladder of love in the abstract, a full life of expression in the real stories. That is Culture Builds Community!

When Cityfolk works in the schools, the effort is in sharing those art forms that represent an aspect of tradition that elementary aged children in 2012 may or may not know from family or educational experience. In some cases, families nourish their ethnic heritage through yearly celebrations or cherished belongings. Plenty of other folks may not know their ancestry, where their people came from. Many of us see ourselves as a fusion of cultures, a mix of many, and we bond with various traditions that move us or bring us joy. Whatever the case, Culture Builds Community celebrates the knowns and the unknowns. Every human being has a back story, a history with connections. CBC helps to both bring unique identity and common experience to the fore. The Welcome Dayton initiative celebrates the immigrant-friendly nature of the city. This inclusive approach fits beautifully with Cityfolk’s mission and CBC’s action.

For the past seven years, Culture Builds Community has lived into its identity by sharing arts-based cultural activities in Dayton’s urban neighborhoods. We’ve been building relationships with neighbors and area youth, through community events and the summer festival activities. Our signature piece is a residency project, bringing Visiting Artists together with Local Artists, Site Coordinators,Neighborhood School Centers and students to collaborate on a theme, through music and dance. This year is the most expansive program yet, involving all five NSC schools, five nationally acclaimed artists and a bevy of local talents and organizers to bring five cultural strands through an educational migration to a dynamic destination, the culminating performance. This year, Cityfolk presents CBC 2012 – Soul Rhythms: Traveling land and heart Through Music and Dance.

Soul Rhythms is engaged with the following schools:Fairview, Ruskin,Edison,Cleveland and Kiser. Each school is hosting a particular cultural expression, blending a team of intergenerational, multicultural folks together to make dances. These dances will be combined with works by visiting artists, local artists and collaborations between them, culminating in a dynamic performance!! While this project is one large collaborative effort, aspects of the whole are being realized in smaller pieces, to afford the most productive use of time and talent. Artists are working together, developing big ideas and sounds, swapping ideas with students; site coordinators are keeping the logistics tight, the attendance strong. It’s a well-oiled machine. Soul Rhythms is unfolding over seven weeks, taking us March through April. During week 1, the following artistic teams came together.

LaFrae Sci

LaFrae Sci

Fairview PreK-8 School welcomed percussionist and composer LaFrae Sci, nationally known artist, actively involved in Jazz atLincolnCenter, international teaching tours and her band, The Thirteenth Amendment. Ms. Sci is a native Daytonian! She is thrilled to be teaching in her hometown. She is working actively with Stivers Jazz band members, Renee McClendon (McClendon Institute) and Sierra Leone (Oral Funk Poetry), creating performance art with a group of 5th – 8th  graders.

Hasan Isakkut

Hasan Isakkut

Ruskin PreK-8, together with East End Community Services, is hosting Turkish kanun player, Hasan Isakkut, who is working closely with community dancers from theTwinTowers neighborhood. These young dancers from the Ahiska tradition will share their folk dance tradition with students from Ruskin. Mr. Isakkut will bring his beautiful music to the dancers, collaborating with LaFrae Sci to include the signature folk dance rhythms for the group.

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Step Afrika

Step Africa

Edison PreK-8 welcomed Step Afrika, nationally acclaimed dance troupe, specializing in the African American fraternity step tradition. They have partnered withCentral State’s Alpha Phi Alpha chapter, to teach advanced step routines to the young people of the Wright Dunbar neighborhood. CSU worked with young people atEdison in February as part of Black History Month.

Hammerstep

Hammerstep

Cleveland PreK-8 is proud to showcase the innovative work of Hammerstep, a dance company blending Irish step and Hip Hop, among other forms, bringing a whole new genre of dance to Daytonians. Founding member Garrett Coleman graduated from U.D, so this is a homecoming of sorts for him. Hammerstep is working closely with Beth Wright, formerly of Rhythm in Shoes, and The Corndrinkers, a long-established, local band, playing old time traditional country music.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMEm2J6BIgE&list=UUg5fynqGJhGq4_-HiK4lsVw&index=1&feature=plcp’]

Sones de Mexico

Sones de Mexico

Kiser PreK-8 hosts Sones de Mexico from Chicago, bringing Mexican traditional music and dance to Old North Dayton. They are collaborating with local artist, Imelda Ayala and her local dancers, Orgullo Mexicano, along with Kiser students. The two artist teams bring dance from two different parts of Mexico!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOMq4c15X3A&list=UUg5fynqGJhGq4_-HiK4lsVw&index=4&feature=plcp’]

Artistic Director, Rodney Veal is pulling together the dances and collaborations into a beautiful dynamic sequence, a performance that will keep the audience riveted for an hour and fifteen minutes, packed with the pride of homelands, including our collective home,Dayton Ohio! The dances reflect a rich collaboration on the theme of migration. The performance features the live music of each tradition, film work to augment the various expressions and a masterful sense of the journey. All artists and participants will perform!

The big day is April 22nd, 2012!!! You won’t want to miss this performance!!! There is only one!! Tickets are on sale now – $12 per seat -through the Cityfolk website or in our office,126 N. Main St,. Suite 220. Follow the project on Facebook. Check out videos of CBC artists and previous CBC projects on our YouTube channel. Next year’s plans are already cookin’! CBC will be more places, with more folks involved! We would like YOU to be among them!!! Call 223-3655×3008 for more information.

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: March 29-April 1

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…BLINK AND THEY’RE GONE

ARSENIC AND OLD LACE

Mason Community Players

The Story: A farcical black comedy revolving around Mortimer Brewster, a drama critic who must deal with his crazy, homicidal family and local police in Bronx, NY, as he debates whether to go through with his recent promise to marry the woman he loves. His family includes two spinster aunts who have taken to murdering lonely old men by poisoning them; a brother who believes he is Teddy Roosevelt and digs locks for the Panama Canal in the cellar of the Brewster home; and a murderous brother who has received plastic surgery performed by an alcoholic accomplice, Dr. Einstein a german guy that is is a Nazi to conceal his identity and now looks like horror-film actor Boris Karloff.
The Dates: March 29-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mason Community Players | BTC listing

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: DRALION

Bank of Kentucky Center

The Story: Fusing the 3000 year-old tradition of Chinese acrobatic arts with the multidisciplinary approach of Cirque du Soleil, Dralion draws its inspiration from Eastern philosophy and its never-ending quest for harmony between humans and nature. The show’s name is derived from its two emblematic creatures: the dragon, symbolizing the East, and the lion, symbolizing the West.
The Dates: March 28-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cirque Du Soleil | BTC listing

…NEW THIS WEEK

Photo by Jeremy Daniel.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Story: It’s every parent’s nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what’s worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a “normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, this shocking development will turn the Addams house downside up.
The Dates: March 27-April 8, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC listing

BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON

Know Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON uses the story of America’s controversial seventh president, “the man who invented the Democratic Party, doubled the size of our nation, and signed the Indian Removal Acts that started the Trail of Tears,” to investigate the attraction and terrors of American populism, using a raucous blend of outrageous comedy, anarchic theatricality and an infectious rock n’ roll soundtrack.
The Dates: March 31-May 12, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing

THE GRAPES OF WRATH

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: Frank Galati’s Tony Award-winning adaptation of The Grapes of Wrath tells a timeless tale of endurance and hope in a time of hardship. Having survived the drought of the 1930s only to see their home repossessed, the Joad family embarks on a harrowing journey from the Dust Bowl fields of Oklahoma to the fertile orchards of California. But the “promised land” isn’t exactly what they imagined. Can the Joads overcome the injustices that plague a nation in crisis?
The Dates: March 28-April 29, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC listing

THE STAR SPANGLED GIRL

Cedarville University

The Story: In this uproarious comedy, we are introduced to Andy and Norman, producers of a protest magazine. Sophie, an Olympic swimmer and all-American girl who just moved into the apartment next door, pays the young men a good-neighbor visit. From that moment on, Norman is hopelessly smitten. His love for Sophie becomes an obsession, and he literally drives her crazy by ignoring her rejection and constantly interfering in her life. Meanwhile, Andy is preoccupied with fending off creditors and charming the landlady to avoid being evicted for not paying the rent. The situation is eventually resolved through a series of hilarious happenings set forth with the masterly skill and inventiveness that are the hallmarks of Neil Simon.
The Dates: March 29-April 15, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cedarville Universtiy | BTC listing

…CONTINUING

TIGERS BE STILL

Photo by Sandy Underwood.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: “This is the story of how I stopped being a total disaster,” announces the heroine of this darkly funny and moving new comedy. Having recently earned her master’s degree, Sherry Wickman finds herself still living at home with a mother who won’t come downstairs and a depressed but smart-alecky sister. Follow Sherry’s quirky misadventures as she lands her first job and tackles her two biggest challenges … getting her mother out of bed and her sister off the couch.
The Dates: March 17-April 15, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC listing | BTC Review

…ENDING THIS WEEK

CRYSTAL CLEAR DEATH

P.L.O.T.T. Performers

The Story: Be forewarned, if you are not a psychic, the visions you see may cause more than sugar plums to dance in your head. Welcome to Madame Simone’s parlor where strange things happen and the vibes are pulsating. There is a ghost of a chance that not all things are as they appear. Interactive dinner theater.
The Dates: March 23-31, 2012
Tickets and More Information: P.L.O.T.T. Performers | BTC listing

The cast of MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Sandy Underwood.

MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: Stephen Sondheim’s remarkable Broadway fable of friendship and the high price of success opens in the present and moves backward in time. The triumphs and failures of a jaded composer and his two closest friends are traced from their estranged ending to their idealistic beginning. Directed by John Doyle, who led Playhouse’s Tony Award-winning production of COMPANY, the performers in this highly anticipated revival will play all of the instruments as they act and sing in one of Sondheim’s most melodic scores. Ages 13 and up.
The Dates: March 3-31, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC Listing

Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD

Northern Kentucky Univeristy

The Story: Australia is the perfect dumping ground for the worst British convicts in the 1780’s, but with only a few guards to keep the unruly inmates in line the Governor suggests a simple but bizarre solution to create order — have the inmates put on a play. Much to the dismay of both the prison workers and the prisoners themselves, the plan takes to the stage.
The Dates: March 22-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC listing

PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES

Brieabi Productions

The Story: On Highway 57, somewhere between Frog Level and Smyrna, stands a gas station. Across the blacktop is a roadside eatery called the Double Cupp Diner. The three guys at the station, Jim, Jackson, and L.M., have been known to do some auto repairs, but only when aided by quantities of time and beer. The Cupp sisters, Prudie and Rhetta, celebrate their home cooking with the same zeal they bring to being neighborly with the boys. This feel good, toe-tapping musical is a tribute to life by the roadside!
The Dates: March 23-31, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Brieabi Productions | BTC listing

Emily Kissela as Rapunzel.

RAPUNZEL! RAPUNZEL! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: The classic fairy tale of Rapunzel comes to life in an exciting new musical featuring that beautiful princess with the long, long, long hair trapped in the tower, a handsome young suitor who doesn’t quite know what he’s searching for – of course, an evil witch who has her eye on what should be Rapunzel’s kingdom, and a tired, yet philosophical, old dragon who tries to make sense of it all!
The Dates: March 23-30, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing

Burgess Byrd as Clairee Belcher & Christine Dye as Ouiser Boudreaux in CCPA's STEEL MAGNOLIAS.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: Welcome to Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few revealing verbal collisions, the play invokes knowing laughter and certain tears when the spunky Shelby risks her life for a child of her own. The realization of mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength—and love – in these uniquely American women.
The Dates: March 8-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Landmark Productions | BTC listing

Jen Johansen* as Sarah Goodwin. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

TIME STANDS STILL

Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: This explosive new drama examines the relationship between headstrong Sarah, a star photojournalist, and James, a foreign correspondent, who were once addicted to the adrenaline of documenting the realities of war and are now grounded in their Brooklyn loft. Now, James writes online movie reviews while Sarah recovers from being injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq, itching to get back behind the camera. But, when their own story takes a sudden turn, the adventurous couple confronts the prospect of a more conventional life…and everything changes-in a flash.
The Dates: March 14-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing | BTC Review

…COMING SOON

KARARAY WITH A ‘K’

Miami University Hamilton Theatre

The Dates: April 5-14, 2012
Tickets and More Information: 513.785.3022 | BTC listing

OUR TOWN

Miami University

The Dates: April 5-15, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Miami University | BTC listing

Regional Theatre Review Roundup – 3/29/2012

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GOING TO ST. IVES

Lee Blessing’s thought-provoking 2000 two-hander “Going to St. Ives” receives a compelling local premiere at the Dayton Theatre Guild.
Delicately directed by Greg Smith, “Ives” centers on the dueling agendas of two strong women, particularly the life-changing decision to rid the world of evil. At the titular England home of renowned eye surgeon Dr. Cora Gage, May N’Kame, the distinguished mother of a murderous African dictator, shockingly requests a deadly souvenir that thrusts Cora into a considerable moral dilemma, personally and professionally. As situations swell six months later in an African garden, the consequences of their actions speak volumes. May and Cora are cultural opposites (which fuels most of the play’s humor) but each is effectively bruised by the past yet connected through loss and the bond of motherhood. With great potency, they boldly address the individual’s responsibility toward humanity.

In less capable hands, Blessing’s low-key, intellectual, conversation-driven script, a female counterpart to his 1988 Tony Award-nominated international relations drama “A Walk in the Woods,” could easily dissipate in a boring fog of sluggish pacing and implausible characterizations. Thankfully, Smith keeps the action engrossing with a smooth ebb and flow that his first-rate leading ladies consistently uphold. Marianna Harris, attractively costumed in African attire, impressively embodies May’s complex persona, a huge feat considering she joined the production during its opening weekend. Mastering an African dialect and appearing appropriately regal, Harris radiates with inquisitiveness while being an acute source of unexpected levity. She also has the genuine power to break your heart and bring you to tears, especially as May shares more insight about her son as well as her inherent guilt in the gripping Act 2. Katrina Kittle, in a welcomed return to dramatic fare, is equally striking as the conflicted Cora. She particularly soars in Act 2 as Cora’s emotional scars become more prevalent and her frustrated attempt to remedy a dire situation spirals beyond her control.

“Going to St. Ives” continues through April 1 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10-$18. Act One: 50 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Marianna Harris freely uses her script. For tickets, call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org. In related news, the Guild’s 2012-2013 season, dubbed “’Til Death Do Us Part,” will consist of Michael Hollinger’s “Opus” (Aug. 24-Sept. 9, directed by Greg Smith), Paul Zindel’s “And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little” (Oct. 5-21, directed by Debra Kent), Christopher Hampton’s adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Ghosts” (Jan. 11-27, directed by Matthew Smith), Kate Fodor’s “100 Saints You Should Know” (Feb. 22-March 10, directed by Ellen Finch), Tim Clue and Spike Manton’s “Leaving Iowa” (April 5-21, directed by Rob Willoughby) and Martin McDonagh’s “The Pillowman” (May 17-June 2, directed by Natasha Randall).

URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL

Greg Kotis and Mark Hollman’s deliciously satirical 2002 Tony Award-winning “Urinetown: The Musical” greatly entertains at the University of Dayton.  This smart, wacky and marvelously melodic tale of corporate greed and environmental disaster, filled with superb Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill influences and efficiently designed by Darrell Anderson, concerns a drought-stricken city and its ban on private toilets. Despite tough economic times and the sheer reality of paying to urinate, budding romance and a cyclone of revolt propels the cause of the downtrodden against the privileged (shades of the Occupy Movement) with a hilariously tongue-in-cheek sensibility.

In a sharp contrast to previous “Urinetown” productions in our area, director Gina Kleesattel and choreographer John Ueber surprisingly dial down the clever musical theater parodies within the material, especially the “Fiddler on the Roof”-inspired “What Is Urinetown?” Even so, both work in tandem to create an atmosphere playfully grounded without blatantly or excessively going over-the-top.

Kleesattel’s vocally strong cast (“Run, Freedom, Run” is a highpoint) particularly features firm contributions from its principals. Brennan Paulin’s crowd-pleasing portrayal of tightly-wound Officer Lockstock is uniquely crafted in a delightfully quirky, mildly flamboyant fashion with a glimmer of mystery underneath. Kate Hunt, the epitome of goofy authoritativeness, is outstanding as public amenity supervisor Penelope Pennywise, specifically delivering a knockout rendition of “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Tim Gorman supplies a cool demeanor as Caldwell B. Cladwell, the CEO of Urine Good Company. Stephen Kallenberg and Stephanie Jabre are tenderly intertwined as the rebellious Bobby Strong and winsome Hope Cladwell. Emily Smith endearingly shines as the wiser-than-her-years Little Sally. Natalie Adler as Josephine Strong, Patrick Lillis as Hot Blades Harry, Alexandra Cole as Little Becky Two Shoes and Bryan Bryk as Officer Barrel are notable among the lively ensemble. Musical director Susan Carlock conducts a fine orchestra.

“Urinetown: The Musical” continues through March 31 in the Kennedy Union Boll Theatre at the University of Dayton, 300 College Park. Performances are Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $7-$10. For tickets or more information, call (937) 229-2545 or visit www.udayton.edu/artssciences/theatre

BUS STOP

The Dayton Playhouse adequately tackled William Inge’s classic 1955 comedy “Bus Stop,” presented March 16-25 under the direction of Matthew Smith.  Inge’s engaging, folksy account of strangers connecting at a Kansas diner during a snowstorm looked great (Josh Hollister’s inviting, detailed set was the most eye-catching thus far this season at the Playhouse) but was specifically hindered by an unbalanced cast with colliding interpretations. In fact, a few featured roles surpassed the leads, a problematic concern that stifled the play’s impact.

Ellen Ballerene as ditzy singer Cherie and Scott Knisley as rugged cowboy Bo Decker were supposed to be squabbling lovebirds igniting emotional fireworks. However, issues of age-appropriateness and chemistry in addition to a frequent desire to rush the dialogue halted their momentum. Ballerene, unwisely emphasizing personality above all, was particularly unable to transform Cherie into a three-dimensional woman. Interestingly, she was stronger opposite the authentically understated performances of Margaret Foley as waitress Elma Duckworth and Mike Rousculp as Bo’s guitarist cohort Virgil Blessing.

The most richly satisfying portrayal stemmed from the delightfully earthy Lorrie Sparrow as proprietor Grace Hoylard. Sparrow wonderfully revealed the vulnerability of a woman satisfied with her independence yet craving for more. Her final scene, transpiring at closing time and excellently shared with Rousculp, was infused with a brutal honesty that made Inge’s relatable slice of life briefly resonate with aplomb. After all, in search of one’s purpose it is very easy to be left behind without a clear path in sight. This production certainly could have used more convincing, reflective moments on par with its memorable conclusion.

Craig Smith as amiable sheriff Will Masters, Rick Flynn as the self-absorbed Dr. Gerald Lyman and Mark Hassel as bus driver Carl completed the cast.

AUGUST WILSON SYMPOSIUM

In conjunction with its local premiere of August Wilson’s “Gem of the Ocean,” which opens Friday, March 30, the Human Race Theatre Company will present an August Wilson Symposium Saturday, March 31 at 1 p.m. at the Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St.  The panel, moderated by local attorney/musician David Greer, will feature Mark Clayton Southers, the director of “Gem of the Ocean,” Sala Udin, an actress and childhood friend of Wilson, Christopher Rawson, senior theater critic for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and Charles Holmond, an Earlham College professor. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 on Saturday. For more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com

Playhouse Announces “Let Us Play with Your Mind” Season

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The Dayton Playhouse has announced a season of classics and favorites that will take your mind and emotions through a theatrical journey during their 2012-13 season.

Opening the season and running October 12-21, will be “Dracula” by Hamilton Deane and John L. Balderston. This enormously successful revival opened on Broadway in 1977 and is one of the great mystery thrillers of our time.

Next will be the nostalgic holiday favorite, “Scrooge,” written by Leslie Bricusse, which will run November 30 – December 16. This hopeful, family favorite earned sell-out crowds in 2011, with patrons requesting that it to be offered as a regular holiday tradition. “Scrooge” will be directed by Craig Smith.

Oscar Wilde’s, “The Importance of Being Earnest” will run January 25 – February 3. This delightful comedy of manners is widely considered Wilde’s most perfect work. Audiences have continued to be delighted by revivals of this charming and witty play. “The Importance of Being Earnest” will be directed by Jennifer Lockwood.

“Thoroughly Modern Millie,” with book by Richard Morris & Dick Scanlan, new music by Jeanine Tesori and Lyrics by Dick Scanlan, will fill the Playhouse stage with rousing song and dance from March 1-17. Taking us back to 1922 with the sensation of flappers, the thrill of a budding mystery and the bliss of falling in love, this musical will warm the winter chill. “Thoroughly Modern Millie” will be directed by Richard Croskey.

The Playhouse season turns to heavy drama with “The Retreat from Moscow,” by William Nicholson, from April 12 – 21. With coiled intensity and embracing empathy this celebrated author of “Shadowlands,” shines a breathtakingly natural light on the fallout of a shattered marriage. “The Retreat from Moscow” will be directed by visiting director Bill Brewer from Oxford, Ohio.

Last, but certainly not least, the hilarious and bawdy musical “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, will run from May 31 – June 16. Farce, satire, crazy love story and more are all wrapped up in the 1962 Tony Award winning Best Musical. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” will be directed by Jim Lockwood.

Current and new season subscribers may purchase 2012-2013 subscriptions at last season’s prices until July 1, 2012. Past season prices: 6-show subscription adult $75, senior/student $70; or 4-show subscription adult $55, senior/student $50. Current subscribers must renew by May 31, 2012, to insure seating preferences. Pricing will increase on July 1, 2012.

Season subscriptions can be purchased online at www.daytonplayhouse.org, or through the box office, 937-424-8477, which is staffed Monday, Wednesday and Friday 2:00 -5:00 p.m. Messages may be left for the box office at any time. The Dayton Playhouse is located at 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414.

(Submitted by The Dayton Playhouse)

View the entire Dayton Playhouse 2012-2012 Season Calendar

 

 

Celebrate SWAN Day – Support Women Artists Now in Dayton

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An international event for women artists is coming to Dayton as part of the celebration of Women’s History month.

Support Women Artists Now, or SWAN Day, features and celebrates the talents of female artists. The new event gained a lot of steam in its first four years and has had over 700 Swan Day events in 21 countries. Taking place on the last Saturday of Women’s History Month, it’s already been officially recognized in New York, Boston, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and many more cities. Swan Day has yet to hit the streets of Dayton, but this year will be different.

On March 31st at 3:00 p.m. community members will gather at the Auditorium in the Dayton Metro Library Main Branch to see local female talent showcasing their finest work. Best of all, the program is free!

Co-founder of SWAN Day, Martha Richards, believes that women artists are creating a change in communities around the world. She says the celebration represents what the world would be like if female art and perspectives were fully integrated into everyone’s lives. Richards adds that the long-term goal is inspiring communities to recognize and support women artists as what she calls a basic element of civic planning. SWAN Day has attracted some high-profile attention. Award-winning novelist Isabel Allendale, Grey’s Anatomy actress Sandra Oh, and X-Men movie actress Famke Janssen have all made online video endorsements of the event.

Attending artists will include a wide range of local talents like authors, film-makers, poets, comedians, and more. There will be short films, poetry and novel readings, plays, and still more. For a little taste of what’s to come, I asked a few of the featured artists for their takes on SWAN Day and what they’ll be providing during the celebration.

Documentarian Maggie Price will be showing her film A Pretty Piece of Flesh. For Price, SWAN Day is something she considers not only an exciting opportunity for celebration, but also a chance for women artists to come together and support each other and the work they create. She hopes her film will start a dialogue about the difficult topic of cutting. Believing self-harm is often sensationalized in the media, Price says she wants to present something honest and personal that people can relate to and might help others gain some understanding.

Kristie LeVangie

Poet Kristie LeVangie, who will be reading excerpts of her work, says she’s honored to be able to share part of her vision and support her fellow artists. She thinks of SWAN Day as an opportunity to promote positive female endeavors in the arts and for female artists to share their art – no matter the form. LeVangie says that if she  can inspire another woman to reach out and interpret her world or just liberate a thought, it makes it all worth it.

Sara Berelsman will be reading the first chapter of her memoir about alcoholism, currently titled The Last Rock Bottom. Like LeVangie, she’s excited for the potential to inspire those who attend. For Berelsman, this event means a chance to celebrate women and creativity. She hopes it will raise awareness of female talent in the area and that this will be the first of many SWAN Days.

Tami Boehmer will be reading from her compilation, From Incurable to Incredible: Cancer Survivors Who Beat the Odds. Boehmer, whose been interviewed by Cincinnati’s FOX 19, says she’s honored to be part of the program and looks forward to meeting fellow participants and experiencing their work. She thinks SWAN Day is a great opportunity and hopes it will help propel the work of female artists in Ohio to a larger audience.

Mary Curran Hackett

Novelist Mary Curran Hackett will be reading selections from her debut novel, Proof of Heaven. She says she thinks the purpose of the event is to enable people to envision a world that includes every woman’s contribution to art and culture as well as explore what women can offer their communities. Hackett hopes that not only will women and girls leave the celebration feeling empowered and inspired, but also that both genders feel inspired to support and admire women artists.

I don’t think I have to point this out, but there are some common threads here: inspiration, support, opportunity, community, unique contribution, encouragement, and perspective to name a few. These women are also adamant in a strong belief in the large talent pool here in the community. Not only are they eager to share their personal stories, artworks, and time; they’re excited to see what all the other attendees will bring to the event.

Here’s hoping you’ll all join me on the 31st to celebrate SWAN Day and the artistic accomplishments of our local ladies. Many will be selling books and artwork and others will be signing copies – if you’re a fan of anyone scheduled to attend, be sure to bring something for their signatures. Each and every one of the attending artists has a lot to bring to the table, so be sure to check them out. You never know who or what might inspire you.

Follow these links for more info:  SWAN Day Dayton and the national site WomenArts SWAN Day.

THIN ICE + Great NEON News!

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Hello Everyone,

We’re moving right along this week. On Friday, we will open a new dark comedy starring Greg Kinnear, Alan Arkin and Billy Crudup – THIN ICE. If you still need to see A SEPARATION, you only have until tomorrow. Though THE HEDGEHOG did not perform wonderfully, audiences have been adoring this film…so we’re going to keep it for one show a day over the weekend – thus Sunday will be your last chance to see it. FRIENDS WITH KIDS, which I think is a smart and sweet comedy, will stick around!

Synopsis for THIN ICE: “Mickey Prohaska is a small-time insurance agent looking for a way to jump-start his business, reunite with his estranged wife and escape the frigid Wisconsin weather. This self-proclaimed master of spin believes that salesmanship is about selling a story – all he needs is a sucker willing to buy it. He hits pay dirt with a lonely retired farmer who is sitting on something much bigger than an insurance commission. But Mickey’s attempt to con the old man spins out of control when a nosy, unstable locksmith with a volatile temper dramatically ups the stakes, trapping him in a spiral of danger, deceit and double-crossing. Blending dark comedy and delirious Midwestern noir, THIN ICE reaches a breaking point that no one – least of all Mickey Prohaska – could ever see coming.” (taken from ATO Pictures)
Click HERE to visit the official site.

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And now some great news. Many of you have asked about SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN – starring Emily Blunt, Ewan McGregor, and Kristin Scott Thomas. We just secured the film to open exclusively at THE NEON on March 30! If you come during opening weekend, you’ll help us send a message to this new distributor that they have made the right decision by chosing THE NEON. To learn more about the film, visit the official site.

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The 4th Annual LUNAFEST in Dayton will be held Sunday, April 1 at 3:00. “Nine Short Films By/For/About Women, including a funny view of a Persian woman at her younger sister’s engagement party and a serious look at treating obstetric fistulas in Africa. Also: PARK, by WSU film grad Liz Cambron, about a teenaged girl coming of age during summer in a Dayton-area trailer park (selected for this year’s SlamdDance Film Festival). Filmmaker will be do Q&A.
Tickets: $10 (suggested), $5 (minimum), $3 (students w/ ID).
Proceeds to National Breast Cancer Fund and Planned Parenthood of SW Ohio.
Sponsored by Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance.” (taken from press notes)

For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit www.neonmovies.com.

For those of you who use Facebook, we finally have an actual page…not just a “group” page. We will soon be fazing out the old group, so please LIKE us by following this LINK.

Thanks for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. March 23 – Thur. March 29:

THE HEDGEHOG (NR) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40

THIN ICE (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

FRIENDS WITH KIDS (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:45

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.

Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
March 30 SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN
TBD PARIAH
TBD BEING FLYNN
TBD IN DARKNESS
TBD WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN
April 13 THE RAID
April 27 FOOTNOTE
mid-May DAMSELS IN DISTRESS
mid/late-May DARLIN COMPANION
May 25 THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL
June 1 SOUND OF MY VOICE

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: March 19-25

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…BLINK AND THEY’RE GONE

ALMOST, MAINE

Xavier Players

The Story: On a cold, clear, moonless night in the middle of winter, all is not quite what it seems in the remote, mythical town of Almost, Maine. As the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways.
The Dates: March 22-25, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Xavier University Players | BTC listing

GUYS AND DOLLS

Rotary Presents

The Story: It all begins with a bet. Nathan Detroit bets high-rolling gambler Sky Masterson that Sky cannot persuade Save-A-Soul Missionary Sister Sarah Brown to accompany him on a trip to Cuba. While the worldly Sky works his charms on a wary Sarah, Nathan is doing his best to stay outside the matrimonial clutches of his long-suffering fiancée, Miss Adelaide. Guys and Dolls is a fable about what happens to gambling men and the women who long to tame them.
The Dates: March 22-25, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Rotary Presents | BTC listing

…NEW THIS WEEK

CRYSTAL CLEAR DEATH

P.L.O.T.T. Performers

The Story: Be forewarned, if you are not a psychic, the visions you see may cause more than sugar plums to dance in your head. Welcome to Madame Simone’s parlor where strange things happen and the vibes are pulsating. There is a ghost of a chance that not all things are as they appear. Interactive dinner theater. 
The Dates: March 23-31, 2012
Tickets and More Information: P.L.O.T.T. Performers | BTC listing

OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD

Northern Kentucky Univeristy

The Story: Australia is the perfect dumping ground for the worst British convicts in the 1780’s, but with only a few guards to keep the unruly inmates in line the Governor suggests a simple but bizarre solution to create order — have the inmates put on a play. Much to the dismay of both the prison workers and the prisoners themselves, the plan takes to the stage.
The Dates: March 22-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC listing

PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES

Brieabi Productions

The Story: On Highway 57, somewhere between Frog Level and Smyrna, stands a gas station. Across the blacktop is a roadside eatery called the Double Cupp Diner. The three guys at the station, Jim, Jackson, and L.M., have been known to do some auto repairs, but only when aided by quantities of time and beer. The Cupp sisters, Prudie and Rhetta, celebrate their home cooking with the same zeal they bring to being neighborly with the boys. This feel good, toe-tapping musical is a tribute to life by the roadside!
The Dates: March 23-31, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Brieabi Productions | BTC listing

Emily Kissela as Rapunzel.

RAPUNZEL! RAPUNZEL! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: The classic fairy tale of Rapunzel comes to life in an exciting new musical featuring that beautiful princess with the long, long, long hair trapped in the tower, a handsome young suitor who doesn’t quite know what he’s searching for – of course, an evil witch who has her eye on what should be Rapunzel’s kingdom, and a tired, yet philosophical, old dragon who tries to make sense of it all!
The Dates: March 23-30, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing

TIGERS BE STILL

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: “This is the story of how I stopped being a total disaster,” announces the heroine of this darkly funny and moving new comedy. Having recently earned her master’s degree, Sherry Wickman finds herself still living at home with a mother who won’t come downstairs and a depressed but smart-alecky sister. Follow Sherry’s quirky misadventures as she lands her first job and tackles her two biggest challenges … getting her mother out of bed and her sister off the couch.
The Dates: March 17-April 15, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC listing

…CONTINUING

The cast of MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Sandy Underwood.

MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: Stephen Sondheim’s remarkable Broadway fable of friendship and the high price of success opens in the present and moves backward in time. The triumphs and failures of a jaded composer and his two closest friends are traced from their estranged ending to their idealistic beginning. Directed by John Doyle, who led Playhouse’s Tony Award-winning production of COMPANY, the performers in this highly anticipated revival will play all of the instruments as they act and sing in one of Sondheim’s most melodic scores. Ages 13 and up.
The Dates: March 3-31, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC Listing

Burgess Byrd as Clairee and Christine Dye as Ouiser in STEEL MAGNOLIAS.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: Welcome to Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few revealing verbal collisions, the play invokes knowing laughter and certain tears when the spunky Shelby risks her life for a child of her own. The realization of mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength—and love – in these uniquely American women.
The Dates: March 8-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Landmark Productions | BTC listing

Jen Johansen* as Sarah Goodwin. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

TIME STANDS STILL

Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: This explosive new drama examines the relationship between headstrong Sarah, a star photojournalist, and James, a foreign correspondent, who were once addicted to the adrenaline of documenting the realities of war and are now grounded in their Brooklyn loft. Now, James writes online movie reviews while Sarah recovers from being injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq, itching to get back behind the camera. But, when their own story takes a sudden turn, the adventurous couple confronts the prospect of a more conventional life…and everything changes-in a flash.
The Dates: March 14-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing | BTC Review

…ENDING THIS WEEK

Joe Hornbaker, Sherry McCamley & Deb Cornetet Schubert in Mariemont Players' COLE. Photo by Jen Mielbrecht.

Mariemont Players Inc.

COLE

The Story: Follows Cole Porter’s life – from Yale to Paris to Manhattan to Broadway to Hollywood. This delightful musical tribute to the King of Musicals includes such hit tunes as I Love Paris, Take Me Back to Manhattan, “Love for Sale, Night and Day, and I Get a Kick Out of You.
The Dates: March 9-25, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mariemont Players Inc | BTC listing

…COMING SOON

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Dates: March 27-April 8, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC listing

ARSENIC AND OLD LACE

Mason Community Players

The Dates: March 29-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mason Community Players | BTC listing

BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON

Know Theatre of Cincinnati

The Dates: March 31-May 12, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC listing

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: DRALION

Bank of Kentucky Center

The Dates: March 28-April 1, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cirque Du Soleil | BTC listing

THE GRAPES OF WRATH

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Dates: March 30-April 29, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC listing

THE STAR SPANGLED GIRL

Cedarville University

The Dates: March 29-April 15, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cedarville Universtiy | BTC listing

Coming Up In Dayton Theatre, March 21st – April 4th.

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Ok, I think we’ve got this whole “schedule” figured out, and thanks for your patience, as well as to Russell and Shane for stepping in! Now, without further unnecessary ado, I bring you … What’s Going On:

One Night Only!

 

Disney’s Beauty And The Beast

Kuss Auditorium, Springfield Arts Council

The Skinny: The Broadway musical based on the classic Disney movie based on the classic fairytale, Beauty and The Beast can only be described as a crowd-pleased. Featuring the familiar (and Academy Award-winning!) Alan Menken/Howard Ashman music, as well as songs that will be less-familiar to those new to the stage rendition, this love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers and has been seen by an estimated 35 million people world wide.

Tickets: Ticket prices are $61, $51 and $41

Date: Beauty And The Beast comes and goes on Wednesday, March 28th.

For more information, visit the Springfield Arts Council site here: http://www.springfieldartscouncil.org/

 

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Closing This Weekend!

Bus Stop

Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: There’s great buzz about the drama onstage in Matt Smith’s production of William Inge’s classic, taking place in a diner outside Kansas City. Be sure to check out this offering to see what happens when a group of strangers have nowhere else to go, and nothing else to talk about but themselves.

Tickets: Prices are $15, $14 and $10

Dates: Bus Stop closes on 3/25.

For more information visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.thedaytonplayhouse.com

 

Now Playing!

Going To St. Ives

The Dayton Theatre Guild

The Skinny: After an eventful final dress performance, St. Ives had a smashing opening weekend. This Lee Blessing script is a series of conversations between the austere mother of an African dictator, and the renowned ophthalmologist who is her only hope. Under the direction of Greg Smith, this is not one you’ll want to miss.

Tickets: Tickets are are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $11 for students.

Dates: St. Ives continues its run this weekend and next, closing 4/1. It’s worth noting that this Saturday and next, the curtain is at 5:00 pm.

For tickets or more information, visit the Dayton Theatre Guild website at www.daytontheatreguild.org

 Auditions

Free Shakespeare!The Merchant Of Venice

Free Shakespeare!

What You Need To Know: Director, and Free Shakespeare! founder, Chris Shea is holding auditions for their summer production, The Merchant Of Venice. Auditioners will be asked to prepare a 1-minute classical monologue, as well as be ready to cold-read from the script. Gender-blind casting will be considered, and rehearsals will begin the week onf June 18th, with the first performance being July 20th. All roles are open and all actors will receive a cash stipend.

Where: Auditions will be held from 1 pm until 4 pm on Sunday, 3/25 at Atta Girl Arts & Gardens, 905 E. Third Street.

For more information Free Shakespeare! can be found on Facebook here: http://www.facebook.com/spreadthewords, or for further info, you may email Chris Shea at [email protected]

That about wraps it up for me for this fortnight. We’re reaching the end of the standard theatrical season, but that doesn’t mean anyone is slowing down just yet — most theatres have at least one more offering up their sleeve, and we’ve reached the most exciting part of every year: Season Announcement Time! Everyone has, or will soon be, announcing their 2012-2013 seasons, and we theatre-lovers, theatre-goers and theatre-makers wait with bated breath to see what THE SHOW(s) of the upcoming season will be. Never a dull moment ’round here! Stay tuned!

 

Ohio Shock: a History of Horror Hosting in the Buckeye State

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Editor’s note:  The piece was submitted by Matthew Brassfield, a local filmmaker and the writer, director and producer of Baron Von Porkchop’s Terrifying Tales of the Macabre.

Ohio has always been a hot bed for what I like to call the “Art of Horror Hosting”, and many amazing characters have graced Buckeye State TVs in the late night and afternoons. Do you remember sitting in a dark living room under the glow of the TV set with a bowl of your favorite snacks and your eyes glued to the screen?  While you watched, the host seemed to be your friend and kept you safe from The Mummy, Frankenstein’s Monster and the ghouls of the film you were watching alongside him. Yes, I said alongside him. A good Horror Host becomes a friend that watches the terrors on the screen with you and makes it less scary as they joke their way through several hours. Many kids today haven’t experienced the wonders of cheesy horror films on late night television; kids can watch horror films directly on their cellphones or stream them from Netflix. Before the internet of course, we’d find out about older films from books or magazines and then wait for them to appear on TV. I learned about numerous films from seeing them on a horror host programs. Some of the hosts were on national stations like USA Network who had Commander USA hosting his “Groovie Movies.” Rhonda Shear and Gilbert Gottfried kept us “UP ALL NIGHT.” TBS had Grandpa Munster hosting “SUPER SCARY SATURDAY.” Elvira and her “Movie Macabre” filled the syndicated airwaves, and TNT had “MONSTER VISION” with host Joe Bob Briggs preceded briefly by comedy act Penn & Teller.

But it was the hometown hosts that seemed to really connect with viewers, making these ghouls into local super stars. So let’s take a look at some of these amazing late night icons of Ohio Horror. Some you may have watched growing up, some you might watch now and some you may have never heard of.

But first I should explain about the show title “Shock Theater” or “Shock Theatre.” Many Dayton folks think that this exclusively refers to Dr. Creep’s weekly host program, but that’s not the case at all. In 1957 Universal Pictures teamed with Screen Gems to allow 52 of their classic monster films to be aired on TV. This was called “The Shock Package,” and stations around the world employed costumed hosts to introduce the films and entertain viewers during commercial breaks. Most shows were called Shock Theatre, and the hosts were often people who already worked for the station or radio DJ’s. The Shock Package was a huge hit, and it spawned “The Son of Shock Package,” opening the door for more hosts and more films to choose from. Horror Host programs became must-see TV, and people flooded to see the hosts at public appearances. So now that you know a little about the Shock Package that helped start the ball rolling (along with Vampira, the first Horror Host), it’s time for us to take a look at some of Ohio’s hosts through the ages.

Alexander & Troggy

Alexander & Troggy

In the late 1950’s, Alexander and his pet troglodyte, Troggy, took over “Shock Theater” in Youngstown, Ohio from David Allen (a floating head who was the show’s original host) and made a small impact with viewers. Today no one is sure how many episodes and years the show ran leaving the scientist and his freakish pet a slight mystery. It’s a shame not much is known about Alexander and Troggy because from what I can gather, they would be Ohio’s second or third horror hosts ever. It also seems as if all shows have been lost, and that’s a heartbreaking for many fans and collectors who would have loved to see what misadventures these two got into. NOTE: Lost shows is a widespread issue with classic host shows. Many times stations would record over the past show to save money on film or the episodes were shot live and never recorded, leaving them lost forever.

Mad Daddy

Mad Daddy

Mad Daddy hosted “Shock Theater” for the summer of 1957 in Cleveland. Mad Daddy wore a black cape and would host the movies in all types of crazy ways including being broadcasted upside down. Viewers complained about the weirdness, and Mad Daddy went off the air pretty quickly. Mad Daddy’s run was just for a summer, but the Horror Host went on to be a radio DJ and semi-celebrity who recorded songs like “I Love a Good Practical Joke.” In June 1958, he parachuted over Lake Eerie while writing a poem as a publicity stunt. Mad Daddy continued to work in radio until 1968 when sadly he took his own life. Mad Daddy played his character very creepy and overly happy with a wonderful sinister laugh. After television he took the character on many radio shows for many stations. He also inspired punk rock band The Cramps who wrote the song “Mad Daddy” about the Horror Host/Radio DJ. Much like Alexander and Troggy, his short run of hosting Shock Theater seems to be lost forever as no known episodes have come to light.

Bargain City Kid and Willie Thall

The Bargain City Kid & Willie Thall

Cincinnati’s “Shock Theatre” was hosted by The Bargain City Kid and his sidekick Willie Thall in the early 1960’s and was sponsored by The Kid’s own discount store called Rinks. The Bargain City Kid wore a cowboy hat and toy guns and would spend most of the show doing silly things and featuring items that were on sale at the store. Many times they would also do skits with pro wrestlers like the original Sheik to promote the wrestling shows on the air or currently in town. The Bargain City Kid and Willie Thall would also announce for pro wrestling and are Cincinnati’s first horror hosts. Sadly, Thall passed away in 2005, and Kid passed away in 2007. Like the hosts mentioned above, all known shows are missing and are much sought after by fans of this classic host team.

Ghoulardi

Ghoulardi

In 1963 Ghoulardi began hosting Cleveland’s “Shock Theater” and would go on to become a local icon and one of Ohio’s most popular hosts. In addition to Shock Theater, Ghoulardi hosted numerous other shows around the area, always keeping him in the minds of the viewers. Ghoulardi was a hipster kind of guy with a quick wit, fake goatee and a mess of a wig. The fun, kid-friendly host opened doors for many hosts that followed, not to mention was the direct influence to such hosts as The Ghoul, Son of Ghoul and Big Chuck. In 1966, Ghoulardi stepped away from the show and went to California where he became the voice of ABC and did voiceovers for shows like McGyver and America’s Funniest Home Videos. Ghoulardi passed away in 1997 leaving a great legacy. Ghoulardi’s image was also shown many times in “The Drew Carry Show,” that was set in Cleveland. Another fun fact is that his son is Paul Thomas Anderson, director of films like “Boogie Nights” and “There Will Be Blood”. Ghoulardi’s show has some episodes floating around. While not available to the masses, they can be found on tape trade lists. In 2011 Ghoulardi was inducted into the new Horror Host Hall of Fame, making him one of three Ohio hosts to receive this high honor.

Hoolian, Little John and Big Chuck

Hoolihan, Big Chuck & Little John

1966 in Cleveland saw the exit of Ghoulardi but the start of “The Hoolihan and Big Chuck Show.” It took the true horror out of hosting but mixed in lots of humor with a sketch comedy approach, and the show proved to be a hit. Big Chuck, who worked on Shock Theater with Ghoulardi, was chosen alongside his friend Hoolihan to fill the time slot and host the night’s movie. The two were a beloved team until 1979 when Hoolihan left the show, and Little John stepped into the mix to co-host. The combo of Big Chuck and Little John was a perfect fit, and the two worked together until 2007 when the show finally came to an end. Big Chuck has over 40 years of hosting under his belt and still remains a popular local celebrity. He even wrote a book called My Favorite Stories From 47 Years On Cleveland TV. Many continue to argue about who was better to host the films with Big Chuck. Some say that it was Hoolihan because he was there when the show was fresh and new, but others say Little John who had great comedic timing. Whoever you prefer, the show was a great time, and lots of the Big Chuck and Little John shows are still around.

Cool Ghoul

The Cool Ghoul

In 1969 Cincinnati got another host by the name of The Cool Ghoul with a show called “Scream-In.” The Cool Ghoul wore a red wig, a goofy hat and cape and would spend time reading fan mail, talking to his off screen friend and being your every day silly ghoul. He became a hit and even recorded an album called “The Cool Ghoul’s Phantasmagorical Funny Fonograf Record.” There was also a dance called Cool Ghoul, naturally. The Cool Ghoul also made public appearances much to the delight of fans of all ages. Scream-In’s time was up in 1972, but despite such a short time on the air, The Cool Ghoul became an Ohio hosting icon and has inspired many other local hosts. The Cool Ghoul passed away in 2004, leaving behind many great memories for those who watched him late nights. Some of The Cool Ghoul’s show footage has survived and can be found in the hands of collectors and on trade lists. In 2011, the Cool Ghoul was inducted into the first class of hosts in the Horror Host Hall of Fame, acclaiming his importance in the community of hosts.

Superhost

Superhost

Superheros wanted to host films too, and in 1969 Cleveland had one who just did that when Superhost brought his “Supes On” pre-show and more important “Saturday Afternoon Mad Theater” to viewers. Superhost was a goofball of a hero who would wear a Superman inspired costume and a red clown nose. He would introduce the films, tell jokes and do a few sketches. His antics would entertain viewers so much that even when Saturday Afternoon Mad Theater was cancelled, Superhost continued to host Three Stooges shorts, cartoons, The Munsters and Batman for the station. He’s the first host I know of who had his own pre-show! Superhost was a child-friendly host who made his way into Cleveland culture by lasting on TV for many years. Superhost would hang up his cape in 1992 and step away from hosting. Clips and a few full shows can be found on trade lists and on Youtube.

The Ghoul

The Ghoul

Cleveland had its share of hosts that include Hoolihan & Big Chuck, Superhost and Mad Daddy. All made their mark on the area but none made as massive an impact as Ghoulardi who inspired this next host: The Ghoul. The Ghoul hit Cleveland airwaves in 1971 with his self titled show and would become yet another icon in Cleveland horror. The Ghoul was an almost re-birthed version of Ghoulardi, a quick witted hipster who wore the fake goatee, mustache and crazy wig like his idol. The Ghoul, who could have easily been a carbon copy of his idol, quickly showed he had his own oddball style that fans were quick to embrace. The Ghoul would go on to have his show in syndication and would make numerous public and radio appearances. With his show no longer on traditional television, he continues to make episodes that can be viewed via a subscription on his website. The Ghoul also started his career working for Ghoulardi as well as Hoolihan & Big Chuck as an assistant, gearing him up for his run as a beloved horror host. His show can be found on trade lists, youtube in clips and via his official website.

Dr. Creep

Dr. Creep

For years Dayton, Ohio got their horror host fix from bigger cities like Cincinnati and hosts like the Bargain City Kid. But in 1974 Dr. Creep hit the airwaves hosting “Shock Theatre,” and a true Dayton original was born. Dr. Creep started out as a spooky vampire-like ghoul named Dr. Death, but very quickly his character and name changed to a kid friendly goofy ghoul named Dr. Creep. He became so popular that he also began hosting Clubhouse 22, an after school kids’ show. In 1980 Shock Theatre ended, switched air-date and time and became Saturday Night Dead running until 1985. Years would go by and other horror hosts begin shows, but in 1999 New Shock Theater was unleashed on public access and Dr. Creep brought horror and laughs to another generation of viewers for six years. Dr. Creep was also a man with a big heart as he ran charities, hosted a horror movie marathon called Horrorama for years, did numerous conventions and guest spots on many other shows. One of the big attractions for The Creeper was his schedule of October public appearances at Foy’s Halloween Shop in Fairborn where he would make the Halloween season feel even more special. Sadly Dr. Creep passed away in 2011 leaving a legacy that will never be matched. Dr. Creep merchandise and episodes can be found on DVD via his official site and clips can be seen on Youtube. In 2011, Dr Creep was inducted into the Horror Host Hall of Fame, one of the first 13 hosts to receive this honor.

Fritz the Nite Owl

Fritz The Nite Owl

Fritz The Nite Owl started in 1974 and was Columbus’s first local horror host/ He hosted films 7 days a week,and became a staple of TV sets all over the city. Fritz is a laid back host who peppered witty comments into his segments and was known for his trademark owl sunglasses. The show had a very psychedelic feel with lots of bright colors and special effects. “Nite Owl Theatre” would run Monday-Thursday, Saturday and Sunday while “Double Chiller Theatre” would have Fritz hosting two films on Friday. His first run lasted until 1991, and he would come back two other times for other stations in smaller runs finally ending in 2003. But in 2010 he returned to hosting duties and is still going strong and building an even bigger fan base. Fritz became so big that he won 5 Emmy’s and even had a cameo in a DC comic book were he helped Superman and Captain Marvel save the world! If you would like to see episodes of Fritz The Nite Owl, you can get DVDs from his official website, watch clips on YouTube or find some on trade lists.

Moana

Moana

In the early 80’s Elvira became the “it” ghoul of horror hostesses and many imitations popped up, including Moana who hosted “Moana’s Place” in Columbus beginning 1983. She lived up to being a sexy goth ghoul in a tight black dress. The show, while short lived, did manage to gain a fan base who enjoyed Moana’s silly skits and her easy on the eyes look. At this time no known episodes are around leaving this Ohio horror hostess’ show a much sought after piece of horror host history.

We’ve made it to the early 80’s and there are many more hosts to explore. So look for part of Ohio Shock that will cover the rest of the 80’s to present day hosts. And if you would like to learn more about horror hosts, you can visit Horrorhound Weekend March 23-25 2012 in Columbus where hosts from around the world will gather to greet fans and induct the 2012 class into the Horror Host Hall of Fame. For more info visit www.horrorhoundweekend.com.

Till next time: stay scary Dayton!

Thanks to: Norman N. Brassfield, Bob Hinton, Richard Martin, Juliet Fromholt, Stephen Alexander II and Corpse S. Chris for their help with this article.

-Matthew Brassfield

Springfield, Ohio Museum Becomes Smithsonian Affiliate

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Springfield is now home to the only Smithsonian Affiliate art museum in the state of Ohio. The distinction celebrates the museum’s adherence to best practices and its exemplary permanent collection, which features artists such as Berenice Abbott, George Bellows and A.T. Bricher.

“Having this affiliation will connect the nationally-recognized name of Smithsonian with the high quality collections already featured at the museum,” said Ann Fortescue, director of the Springfield Museum of Art. “This affiliation enables us to showcase an even broader scope of exhibits and sustain a more vibrant public profile by sharing Smithsonian collections.”

The Springfield Museum of Art holds accreditation by the American Association of Museums, an achievement that helped garner the Smithsonian Affiliation. This distinction recognizes the museum’s adherence to best practices for museums. The Springfield Museum of Art exhibits strong, regionally focused collections of American art, which was also a factor in the decision-making process.

In addition to its local, regional and national exhibits, the Springfield Museum of Art regularly hosts community events, works with local schools to offer art education and teams with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra for an outdoor summer concert series.

“It’s encouraging to see a local art museum have such a strong presence in the community,” said Harold Closter, director of Smithsonian Affiliations. “We’re proud to collaborate with the Springfield Museum of Art, because this museum is a true representation of the Smithsonian Affiliate Program’s continued push to broaden the experiences of museum-goers and the community as a whole.”

About Smithsonian Affiliations
Established in 1996, Smithsonian Affiliations is a national outreach program that develops collaborative partnerships with museums and educational and cultural organizations to share Smithsonian Institution resources with Americans in their communities. Smithsonian Affiliations works with affiliates to enrich communities with Smithsonian scholars, public programs and professional development opportunities. More information about the Smithsonian Affiliations program and a list of current affiliates are available at http://www.affiliations.si.edu.

About Springfield Museum of Art
Since 1946, the Springfield Museum of Art has served the region as a premier destination for the promotion, preservation, study and appreciation of historical and contemporary American artwork. Known for its amazing permanent collection and cutting-edge exhibitions, the museum collects, exhibits and preserves works of art for the benefit of all individuals while encouraging the education, participation and appreciation of the arts.

Visit the Museum at 107 Cliff Park Road – Springfield, Ohio 45501 – 937-325-4673

Museum Hours:

Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm – 4:30 pm
Monday CLOSED
Adults $5.00
Members and children 18 and under FREE
Wittenberg Students, Alumni, Staff and Faculty Members FREE
Sundays FREE

Dynamite With A Laser Beam, DPO’S Rockin’ Orchestra Series Guaranteed To Blow Your Mind!

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Do you remember first time you heard the music of Beethoven, or stomped and clapped to “We Will Rock You” in a crowd? These shared experiences are so important and the arts are where we meet for such events. There’s a catch phrase I see around Dayton that I appreciate to the fullest, “Culture Creates Community.” This is being beautifully pulled off by the DPO with a series such as “Rockin’ Orchestra”

3 shows have come and gone in this seasons’ series, and the DPO has proven that music lovers of all ages are hungry to experience the soundtracks of their lives in a different way. I call this genre “Rockestra”. (I admit. I stole that word from an old “Wings” song title. It just seems to fit.) I’ve heard these called “jukebox musicals” but I don’t think that phrase captures the almost atom crushing power of what happens in the Schuster during these performances.

The current “Rockin’ Orchestra” season kicked off in Nov. of 2011with special guests, “Three Dog Night: Live with Orchestra”. In February the touring rockestra company “Windborne” brought “The Music of Pink Floyd”. I still have goose bumps from that show.

Last Saturday, “The Music of Queen. A Rock and Symphonic Spectacular”, rolled into town with a touring company from the UK led by guest conductor, Maestro Richard Sidwell.  This show, on the season calendar months in advance, was scheduled to run only one performance, 8:00. A sell out occurred quickly and the DPO added a second performance for 3:00 to fill the popular demand.

The company that brought us the “Queen” show this past weekend was comprised of theatrical performers who have been cast in various productions throughout London’s West End including, but not limited to, the musical, “We Will Rock You.”

“We Will Rock You” was written by British comedian and author Ben Elton in collaboration with “Queen” members Brian May and Roger Taylor and opened in London’s West End “Dominion Theatre” in 2002. The story is the classic tale of a misguided prophet as the central character, sent to warn the world about something and there’s doom against a dystopian back drop, all set to a heart pounding soundtrack. This musical was immediately panned by critics and lost the interest of Robert De Niro’s production company, “Tribeca”. That did not stop the show from going on. The musical has not only survived its critics, but continues to play to packed houses around the world and is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary this year.

Various cast members from this musical comprise a spinoff company specific to the London based show. Unlike other rockestra’s, they only do music as arranged for “We Will Rock You.” On tour they present the musical, without the story or the costumes. Included in this production touring company are 4 vocalists, a 6 piece rock band, (keys, guitars, bass, drums), and the original arranger of “We Will Rock You”, Maestro Richard Sidwell at the helm as conductor.

Including the DPO, over 70 musicians were on the stage for this spectacular; four vocalists, (Jenna Lee James, Rachael Wooding, Sean Jenness & Justin Sargent), lead the audience through 2 acts of the 27 song set list. They more than do Sidwell’s arrangements justice. Vocally stellar, they keep the energy in high gear from the first belted note to the encore.  The band was tight and in top form. Impeccable and talented, this ensemble cast really gave every sold out seat it’s money’s worth.

That said, I was disappointed in the “brand” of this show. The arrangements, although worthy of the high praise, were not the experience of the music of “Queen” and a live orchestra that I was ramped up for.  I was ready for eerie layered vocals and hypodermic guitars. The energy was there, the talent was there but the edge was not. Knowing Brian May has been loosely involved in the “We Will Rock You” production and reading about his hand picking “American Idol” star Adam Lambert to lead in a newly formed “Queen”, I understood where this vision might have come from.

I felt like amazing guitar players were almost hidden and didn’t surface accept for key moments such as the intro to “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Killer Queen” and “We Are the Champions”. Missing from the set list was “Best Friend” which features one of my all time favorite “Queen” guitar licks and vocal harmony tracks. Also missing, the backing vocal harmonies on “Somebody to Love”. This was a missed opportunity to redeem what was missing from the trademark “Queen” sound but was redirected to the big gigantic, (although perfectly delivered), ending. “Queen” is the only band in history to marry opera and rock, not just classical music and rock. As a fan, seeing any such performance that falls short of celebrating that core is not acceptable. Being a “feeler” it’s always more about the experience than the show. I wanted more goose bumps and expected more of an edge, but I respect the amount of hard work and skill that goes into a production like this.

Personal Highlights:

~ The intro piece,”Flash”. (my one goose bump moment)
~ The beautifully arranged and delivered “Who Wants to Live Forever”.
~ A very long haired guitar player head banging on stage with a full orchestra.
~The woodwind section laying down their instruments in their laps as Richard Sidwell turned to conduct the audience in the clapping on “Another One Bites the Dust” and stomping on “We Will Rock You”.
~ People of all ages raising their arms and swaying together during “We Are the Champions”.
~ The audience singing the entire second chorus of “Bohemian Rhapsody” without any vocals from the stage.

The Dayton Philharmonic is definitely right on track with bringing in a different demographic to discover what they do. The very pleasant surprise I got was the sight of elderly members of the crowd getting just as excited and animated during the songs as the younger folks. Community!

In a nutshell:
A heartfelt “2 stomps and a clap” for the touring company!  Dayton Philharmonic, You are the champions!

Check out the Dayton Philharmonic’s “Rockin’ Orchestra” series and all the other fine programs they offer! You’ll be glad you did!

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A Bumpy Backward Glance in “Merrily We Roll Along”

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Malcolm Gets (center) and the cast of Merrily We Roll Along (Photo by Sandy Underwood)

Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s friendship-themed musical “Merrily We Roll Along,” a 1981 flop adaptation of the play of the same name by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart that has become a cult favorite in the Sondheim canon, receives an underwhelming revival at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park that has nothing to do with its actors doubling as the orchestra.

In fact, Tony Award-winning director John Doyle’s actor-musician concept, a love it or hate it maneuver in the eyes of most theatergoers, is used to the same dynamic degree as his critically acclaimed productions of “Sweeney Todd” (nominated for the 2006 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical and featuring cellist Benjamin Magnuson of Kettering as Anthony Hope) and “Company” (originated at the Playhouse in the Park in 2006 and won the 2007 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical). With marvelous assistance from musical supervisor/orchestrator Mary-Mitchell Campbell, he has truly mastered the art of presenting Sondheim’s splendid music with strikingly intricate intimacy without losing any morsel of dramatic resonance. Using a cello for a bit of foreboding underscore is a particularly fine touch. However, Doyle, who previously staged “Merrily” in a similar manner at the U.K.’s Watermill Theatre in 2008, missteps directorially with awkward storytelling choices and the desire for a bleak, melancholy tone.

Chronicled in reverse from Hollywood 1976 to New York 1957, the musical concerns the triumphs and tribulations that bind close friends Franklin Shepard (a composer-turned-hotshot film producer), Charley Kringas (Franklin’s lyricist) and Mary Flynn (a writer who assumes the role of motivating mediator while secretly pining for Franklin). The trio is deeply bruised and ultimately torn apart by Franklin’s narcissistic success and destructive marriage to actress Gussie Carnegie (one of the most polarizing characters in musical theater history). Anger and bitterness consumes the characters at the outset, which can be alienating and off-putting, but their engrossing journey, sharply detailing the relatable consequences of perilous decisions, fortunately culminates with great hope.

Unlike traditional “Merrily” mountings, including last month’s delightful New York City Center Encores! presentation, Doyle oddly demands strict seamlessness (there is no intermission and no opportunity to applaud after each number) and particularly opts for middle-aged actors in the leading roles rather than casting twentysomethings or thirtysomethings. This change of pace is effective in the opening scenes, but is very difficult to accept in context as the actors, stylishly clothed in shades of blue 1970s garb by Tony winner Ann Hould-Ward, travel back in time. As so, the spirited spunk and innocent sense of wonder permeating scenes/numbers in the 1950s and 1960s (such as “Our Time,” “Opening Doors” and “Bobby and Jackie and Jack”) just doesn’t convey an impactful believability. His decision to ground the show as a downhearted portrait of a midlife crisis is simply problematic since half of the material explores the thrill of youthful optimism. Still, the most perplexing, vague element involves Frank Jr., a tiny role expanded/reinterpreted as a framing device. In an unnecessary attempt to keep Franklin and Frank Jr. mysteriously connected throughout the entire show, the potency of Franklin, Charley and Mary’s inseparable bond is reduced. Franklin is certainly the key catalyst who genuinely adores music more than anything in the world (wonderfully realized in the explosion of sheet music enveloping Tony winner Scott Pask’s stunning set), but Doyle unevenly overemphasizes his legacy. After all, the show is not titled “Merrily He Rolls Along.”

Artistic shortcomings aside, Doyle’s versatile 13-member cast is predominately admirable. Malcolm Gets, a terrific vocalist and pianist winningly showcased in “Growing Up,” is a credibly jaded, haunted and wounded Franklin, propelling the show to the point of being perceived as an introspective musical nightmare. Becky Ann Baker, a likable Mary, has difficulty with the vocal demands of the score and sustaining the remarkable impression she makes in the first 15 minutes, specifically during and after “That Frank.” As Charley, Daniel Jenkins consistently engages, offering captivating renditions of “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” and “Good Thing Going.” Leenya Rideout, an adept cellist and violinist, slithers seductively as the unappealing Gussie but is cemented in irksome iciness. Jane Pfitsch, lovely as Franklin’s first wife Beth, is a heartbreaking, vulnerable presence, providing two vastly distinct interpretations of “Not a Day Goes By,” the musical’s signature tune and one of Sondheim’s best ballads. Bruce Sabath (Joe Josephson), Jessica Tyler Wright (K.T.), Lee Harrington (Meg) and David Garry (Jerome) are also notable in featured roles. Matt Castle, Matthew Deming, Ben Diskant and Fred Rose complete the ensemble. The first-rate contributions of lighting designer Jane Cox and sound designer Dan Moses Schreier are additionally noteworthy.

I don’t foresee this production following in the footsteps of “Company” by obtaining a Broadway transfer. “Merrily” is one of Sondheim’s most accessible works, but this impassive version keeps its distance, failing to magnify the joy and emotional profundity pulsating amid the disillusionment and regret. I have been routinely impressed by Doyle (his 2008 off-Broadway staging of Sondheim and John Weidman’s “Road Show” was superb), but he took a huge risk reconceiving such an inherently complex show. In the end, I liked it the way that it was.

“Merrily We Roll Along” continues through March 31 in the Marx Theatre of the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, located atop Mount Adams in Eden Park. The production is performed in 1 hour and 50 minutes without intermission. Performances are Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday-Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 4 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7 p.m. There will be a special matinee Wednesday, March 28 at 1 p.m. Tickets are $25-$71. For tickets or more information, call 1-800-582-3208 or visit www.cincyplay.com

Opening This Weekend In Dayton Theatre: March 16-18

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Hey, everyone. Sorry things have been kind of rocky getting off the ground here, and I absolutely promise you a nice, newsy wrap-up of what’s happening here next week, but I would be totally remiss if I didn’t plug the heck out of the two community theatre shows opening this weekend. You seriously should not miss either of these.

Opening This Weekend!

Bus Stop

Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: Director Matt Smith brings us this classic drama by William Inge. The play is set in a diner about 30 miles west of Kansas City in early March 1955. A freak snowstorm has halted the progress of the bus, and the eight characters have a weather-enforced layover in the diner from approximately 1 to 5 a.m. Romantic or quasi-romantic relationships ensue.  “Bus Stop” original opened on Broadway in 1955.  The play was nominated for four Tony Awards.

The Dayton Playhouse production stars Lorrie Sparrow as Grace, Margaret Foley as Elma, Craig Smith as Will, Rick Flynn as Dr. Gerald Lyman, Ellen Ballerene as Cherie, Scott Knisley as Bo, Mike Rouseculp as Virgil and Mark Hassel as Carl.

Tickets: Tickets are $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and $10 for students.

Dates: Bus Stop opens 3/16 and runs this weekend and next, closing on 3/25. For more information visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.thedaytonplayhouse.com

 

 

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Going To St. Ives

The Dayton Theatre Guild

The Skinny: Directed by Greg Smith and starring Katrina Kittle and Marianna Harris this drama by Lee Blessing is the story of what happens when the dignified mother of a ruthless African dictator travels to England to seek treatment for her failing eyesight from a renowned ophthalmologist, who in turn requests a favor. At first glance, it looks like one woman helping another, but each woman brings to the other her true agenda, triggering a profound moral dilemma and a chain reaction of events with great personal and political aftershocks that reveal the truth and its consequence.

It must be pointed out that Ms. Harris is an absolutely last minute step-in for the original actress cast, the delightful Catherine Collins. Due to unfortunate personal circumstances, Ms. Collins is unable to perform the role. I certainly hope we see Catherine onstage again soon!

Tickets: Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $11 for students.

Dates: Going To St. Ives opens 3/16 and runs 3 weekends, closing on 4/1. For more information, visit the Dayton Theatre Guild website at www.daytontheatreguild.org

 

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Ok! I know there’s a lot more going on, and I’ll touch base on everything else this coming week — but i really wanted to get these two in under the wire. Also — coming soon I’m going to be bringing you a feature on an award-winning independent film written, directed and produced by local people, and chock-full of local theatre actors. Stay tuned!

 

 

 

FRIENDS WITH KIDS and THE HEDGEHOG Open Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

Due to the underwhelming performance of recent titles, we had to make some quick changes to our upcoming schedule.  On Friday, we will open 2 new films.  First off is a film we’ve been marketing for several months – THE HEDGEHOG.  This film is based on a beloved book that many of you have mentioned to me – The Elegance of the Hedgehog.  Secondly, we will open a comedy with an all-star cast –FRIENDS WITH KIDS.  In addition to the 2 new films, we will hold onto A SEPARATION (winner of this year’s Oscar for “Best Foreign Film”) for a few more screenings.  With 3 very different films, we think we’ve got something for almost everyone this weekend.  We hope you’ll make it down to see us.

Synopsis for FRIENDS WITH KIDS: “FRIENDS WITH KIDS is a comedy about a close-knit circle of friends at that moment in life when children arrive and everything changes. The last two singles in the group observe the effect that kids have had on their friends’ relationships and wonder if there’s a better way. They decide to have a kid together – and date other people. This unconventional ‘experiment’ leads everyone in the group to question the nature of friendship, family and, finally, true love.” (taken from Roadside Attractions)  Written and directed by Jennifer Westfeldt (KISSING JESSICA STEIN), FRIENDS WITH KIDS also stars Jon Hamm, Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Edward Burns and more.  Click this LINK to visit the official site.

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Synopsis for THE HEDGEHOG: “THE HEDGEHOG is the timely story of Paloma, a young girl bent on ending it all on her upcoming twelfth birthday. Using her father’s old camcorder to chronicle the hypocrisy she sees in adults, Paloma begins to learn about life from the grumpy building concierge, Renee Michel. When Paloma’s camera reveals the extensive secret library in Renee’s back room, and that the often gruff matron reads Tolstoy to her cat, Paloma begins to understand that there are allies to be found beneath the prickliest of exteriors. As the unlikely friendship deepens, Paloma’s own coming of age becomes a much less pessimistic prospect.”  (taken from NeoClassic Films)  Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

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On Thursday, March 22 at 7:30, Keener Farm has rented our space for a special screening of the acclaimed documentary AMERICAN MEAT.  “The film explains our current industrial meat system and shows the feedlots and confinement operations – not through hidden cameras but through the eyes of the farmers who live and work there. The film then shifts to the burgeoning sustainable, local-food movement made up of farmers, food advocates, chefs and everyday folks who could change everything about the way meat reaches the American table…Sustainable farming is expanding exponentially as Americans learn more about their food and how to connect with local farmers…”  (taken from press notes)  The screening will be preceded by a meet and greet with appetizers provided by Olive: An Urban Dive (beginning at 6:30), and a panel discussion with the filmmaker as well as local farmers & restaurateurs will follow the screening.  Admission is free (first come, first serve), but donations will gladly be accepted to help offset costs.

Save The Date!  April 1 at 3:00 – LUNAFEST: Short Films By…For…About Women.  More details in next week’s newsletter.

For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit www.neonmovies.com.

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

P.S.  We now have TWITTER.  If you use this application, we hope you’ll follow us.

 

SHOWTIMES for Fri. March 16 – Thur. March 22:  

THE HEDGEHOG (NR) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 7:30

Monday – Wednesday: 2:50, 7:30

Thursday: 2:50

 

A SEPARATION (PG-13) 2 Hr 03 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  5:00, 9:40

Monday – Thursday:  5:00

 

FRIENDS WITH KIDS (R) 1 Hr 47 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

 As always, all dates are tentative.  Many of these dates will change.

TBD   PARIAH

TBD   BEING FLYNN

March 23   THIN ICE 

March 30   IN DARKNESS

March 30   WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

April 13   THE RAID

April 27  FOOTNOTE

Spring   SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN

mid-May   DAMSELS IN DISTRESS

mid/late-May   DARLIN COMPANION

May 25   THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

June 1   SOUND OF MY VOICE

DPO presents Celtic Vistas with Cathie Ryan

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Dayton, the Celtic heart of Southwest Ohio.

No, I didn’t believe it either. Then I did a little poking around. It seems that there might be justification for such an expression.

For instance, there is the Annual Dayton Celtic Festival, which last year featured the Celtic (kel-tick, not sell-tick) bands Gaelic Storm, The Fuchsia Band, The Elders, Scythian, and Enter the Haggis (I’m not touching this one…).

Then one of my favorite haunts, The Dublin Pub, has a unique two-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The day before the feast day, March 16, the Pub holds rehearsals and calls it St. Practice Day. March 17, St. Patrick’s Day itself, is an all-day music festival starting at 7 am (!) that this year featured such Celtic groups as Bob Ford & The Ragamuffins, Castle Close, and the Miami Valley Pipes & Drums.

And Cityfolk hosts an annual Celtic Series.

But ever asked yourself what, exactly, is Celtic music? Answer Irish music, and you’d be right, sort of. If your ancestors were from Ireland, then you’re Celtic. The same holds true for folks from Scotland, of course. And Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Brittany, Galicia, Cantabria, Asturias (Spain) and Portugal!

Still think Celtic music is just Irish music?

The term Celtic music derives from the music industry and encompasses a wide spectrum of music types that grew out of the folk musical customs of Celtic people.

So, say Celtic music, and you’re referring to both traditional music passed on literally by word of mouth as well as popular music that is recorded. It’s the music of the people of all 10 of those countries I referred to previously and whatever unique qualities each country’s music possesses.

Today, it’s become a great deal more than that.

Celtic music has incorporated elements from New Age, smooth jazz, folk rock, folk-punk, pop, rock, reggae, electronica, metal, punk, hip hop, Latin, and Andean. The new term for all of this is Celtic fusion (as opposed to confusion).

And, to further cloud the situation, if you write it and record it in a Celtic language, you can call it Celtic music.

All that aside, if you want to hear some of the very best Celtic music, you need to be at the Schuster Center at 8pm on either Friday, March 16 or Saturday, March 17 for the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s (DPO) presentation of Celtic Vistas with Cathie Ryan.

Featured on more than forty compilations of Celtic Music, Ryan has produced a critically acclaimed body of discography that includes Cathie Ryan, The Music of What Happens, Somewhere Along the Road, and The Farthest Wave.

Her recording successes notwithstanding, Ryan believes that there is nothing like a live show, being with an audience, and sharing the music. “That is the best part of being a singer and writing songs,” she states.

If you follow Irish music, you’ll remember Ryan being in the famous Irish music collection, A Woman’s Heart – A Decade On, placing her amongst Irish music’s finest female vocalists and songwriters. It was the first time Americans were featured in the series, and she shared the honor with Allison Krauss, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris.

Irish America Magazine voted Ryan one of the Top 100 Irish Americans. Chicago’s Irish American News honored her as Irish Female Vocalist of the Decade, and the LA Times recently named her, “One of the leading voices in Celtic music.”

No less stars in their own right, the members of Ryan’s band know – and perform – the genre brilliantly.

As a young child, New-York-born Matt Mancuso (fiddle, trumpet, octave mandolin, guitar, vocals) got his introduction to Irish Music from his father Pete, a respected guitarist and record producer. Mancuso studied with the renowned musician and teacher Maureen Glynn and went on to compete in the prestigious All Ireland competitions, placing second in three consecutive years. Not bad for an Italian-Irish American in what can be a very closed musical society.

The star fiddle player in Lord of the Dance and a founding member of the rousing ensemble The Mickey Finns, Mancuso has taken star turns in tours with Irish super-group Grada.

Percussionist Brian Melick’s career in World Music spans over 30 years and includes playing with a diverse range of musicians, being featured on over 250 commercial recordings, and sharing his love of percussion both as an educator and a consultant to school arts programs.

Dancers from The Richens/Timm Academy, one of the most recognizable and respected names in the world of Irish dance, will join Ryan and the band on stage.

So, whether or not you’re Irish the rest of the year, come to the Schuster Center and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the DPO, Assistant Conductor Paddy O’Reynolds (the rest of the year, he’s Patrick Reynolds), The Richens/Timm Academy dancers, and Cathie Ryan and her band, for the very best music from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Brittany….

No matter. It’s all good.

It’s all Celtic.