Arts & Entertainment

“Road to the Pro’s- From the Locker Room to the Main Stage.”

August 10, 2011 By Dayton937 4 Comments

The Journey: The journey to become a professional athlete is not necessarily a straight and narrow one. Few are called and even fewer are chosen. The road less traveled is often the key to success in this game. Hard work, strong ethics, character, and charisma on the court combine for an explosive combination to rise above the competition.

The Triumphs: Test and trials in life are designed to make us stronger. We must be iron like, unable to be penetrated, standing firm and able to hold up against intense heat and pressure. Even setbacks can be the predecessor of major comebacks. One must remain as tough as steel and remember what brings us closest to our breaking point is what will be the motivation to see us through the eye of a troubling storm.

Passion: Passion is what pushes us through the hard times, reminds you of the great times, keeps you focused on making the most of your time and allows you to remain optimistic that the best times are yet to come. Passion oozes from the very guts of a champion; their potential is actualized through the blood sweat and tears it took to make it to the “Main Stage.”

For a champion, making it to the “Main Stage” is never enough. A true victor pushes past expectancy to clinch a championship title, hence making it official that all their hopes, dreams, goals, and affirmations have materialized in spite of the mayhem it took to arrive at that very moment.

The Article series, “Road to the Pro’s- From the Locker Room to the Main Stage,” is a collection of stories from pro athletes, coaches, scouts, pro hopefuls and others surrounded by the game of professional basketball, who will share stories that unveil the good, bad, ugly and the indifferent sides of what it takes to succeed on the professional level. Some of the individuals featured in the Road to the Pro’s series are Micheal Ray Richardson, former NBA New York Knick and New Jersey Net, Mickey Perry, former University of Dayton Flyer and pro hopeful, Sid Sharma, Bio Mechanical Engineer and Personal Trainer to Advanced Athletes as well as more surprise guest to come.

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THE NEON Gets To PAGE ONE

August 10, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal 3 Comments

Hello Everyone.

We’ve had a great summer so far…and you certainly helped to keep the ball rollin’ with BUCK. Our weekend was fantastic, and positive word-of-mouth should keep this film going for a little while. In addition to BUCK, we’re going to bring you another documentary which also has some great buzz – PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES. In addition, we’re going to keep MIDNIGHT IN PARIS for yet another week. Crowds keep coming to this little gem, and it’s quickly becoming one of our longest running and highest grossing summer films.

If you haven’t had a chance to see BEGINNERS, Thursday will be your last chance. For showtimes for this week and next, visit www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for PAGE ONE: “In the tradition of great fly-on-the-wall documentaries, Page One: A Year Inside the New York Times deftly gains unprecedented access to The New York Times newsroom and the inner workings of the Media Desk. With the Internet surpassing print as our main news source and newspapers all over the country going bankrupt, PAGE ONE chronicles the transformation of the media industry at its time of greatest turmoil. Writers like Brian Stelter, Tim Arango and the salty but brilliant David Carr track print journalism’s metamorphosis even as their own paper struggles to stay vital and solvent. Meanwhile, their editors and publishers grapple with existential challenges from players like WikiLeaks, new platforms ranging from Twitter to tablet computers, and readers’ expectations that news online should be free. But rigorous journalism is thriving. PAGE ONE gives us an up-close look at the vibrant cross-cubicle debates and collaborations, tenacious jockeying for on-the-record quotes, and skillful page-one pitching that produce the “daily miracle” of a great news organization. What emerges is a nuanced portrait of journalists continuing to produce extraordinary work-under increasingly difficult circumstances.” (Magnolia Picutures)

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Click HERE to visit PAGE ONE’s Official site. Click HERE to visit BUCK’s Official site.

In the next few days, I will release the entire line-up for The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival. The selection committee sorted through over a hundred hours of material in order to bring the best films to Dayton. For a sneak peek, check out a trailer for our opening night film – THE GREEN – sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa.

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Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 12 – August 18:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:10

Monday – Thursday: 6:00

PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES (R) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 8:15

BUCK (PG) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:20, 9:20

Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Some of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.

Aug 19 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN
Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH
Aug 26   THE GUARD
Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL
Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER
Sept 9  BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST
Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND
TBD DOUBLE HOUR
TBD   THE FUTURE

Muse Machine Celebrates 30th Year with West Side Story Concert

August 8, 2011 By Shane Anderson Leave a Comment

TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More

Muse Machine

On Wednesday and Thursday evening Muse Machine, the nationally recognized educational arts group, will kick-off its 30th year with music from one of the most popular musicals of all time: West Side Story. The local organization has gathered together over 200 local students, alumni and guest artists to present TONIGHT: The Songs of West Side Story & More at 8:00 p.m. on the stage at the Victoria Theatre.

“The whirlwind, high-energy numbers will thrill you; the soulful melodies will move you; you can’t help but feel the joy of the show!”

-Kylen Franz, concertmaster

The local arts organization has a mission of changing the lives of kids through the arts. They accomplish this through professional performances both in and out of schools, arts integration training for teachers and student performance opportunities. Over the years, Muse Machine has developed two primary performance programs, including the popular productions of a musical (winter months) and a concert (summer). These productions showcase the most talented student singers, dancers, and musicians in the Greater Dayton region, under the direction of professional directors, conductors, choreographers and designers .

“We all work so hard together to make this a great show and the energy & love in rehearsals is incredible.”

-Rachel Snyder, singer/dancer

As their 2011 concert presentation, Muse Machine (along with support from MeadWestvaco) will present Tonight: The Songs of West Side Story & More on August 10 and 11 at the Victoria Theatre. Tonight features new concepts and arrangements of many favorite songs from the classic Leonard Bernstein score, including “Maria,” “America,” “Somewhere” and many others. The show will fill the stage with nearly 200 student performers, who will also share the spotlight with alumni from previous Muse Machine productions.

“I love to be on stage and hear the audience clapping. It makes me feel good to know they are having a good time. And, it’s fun!”

– Ben Harshbarger, young ensemble (4th grade)

A highlight of the concert will be a huge student orchestra performance of “Rhapsody in Blue” featuring internationally-renowned pianist Leon Bates. Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, Bates performs with symphonies around the world and the chance to see him bring to life Gershwin’s masterpiece with an orchestra of talented, passionate young musicians should not be missed. The evening also features guest appearances by talented, local gospel singers from the GSJ Youth Choir as well as nationally-acclaimed Stivers Jazz Orchestra and other special guests, including many alumni of Muse Machine productions.

“West Side Story was the first Muse musical, so it’s a way to glance back while also looking forward by bringing new sounds and choreography to this great music. We’ll be joined by exciting guests and we’ll also explore a few ‘related surprises,’ throughout the evening.” -Douglas Merk, producer

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What is the best part of being in a Muse Machine concert or show?

“The People. Everyone here loves what they’re doing, and that love of performing is evident in every single number…This is a show not to be missed.” -Andrew J. Koslow, singer/dancer

“The feeling of being so welcome and wanted…(and) Rhapsody In Blue because I LOVE THAT PIECE OF MUSIC!!!” – Noah Berry, singer/dancer

“Meeting new friends and seeing old friends.” – Ben Harschbarger, young ensemble (4th grade)

“Getting to work with such great people on great material.” – Mimi Klipstine Dick, singer

“The close family connection of the entire cast/ensemble. We all work so hard together to make this a great show and the energy & love in rehearsals is incredible.” – Rachel Snyder, singer/dancer

“Seeing or hearing the work come to fruition and eliciting the response from the audience.” – Kylen Franz, concertmaster

-SA/Muse Machine Press Release

– Muse Machine Photos by David Sherman

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

TONIGHT: THE SONGS OF WEST SIDE STORY & MORE

at the VICTORIA THEATRE – 138 N. Main St.– map

Tickets for Tonight are available exclusively through Ticket Center Stage, 937/228-3630, online at www.ticketcenterstage.com or at the Ticket Center Stage box office in the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton.

About the Muse Machine:

The Muse Machine is a nationally recognized arts education organization, providing creative experiences and resources for young people of the Miami Valley. Since 1982, they’ve produced 27 annual musicals and 14 concerts for the community and engaged thousands of students through academic-relevant lessons, workshops and in-school projects. For more information, visit www.musemachine.com.

Art On The Lawn in Yellow Springs

August 8, 2011 By Nancy Mellon Leave a Comment

What do you think? Can a dog paint? You get to decide for yourself this Saturday August 13th at Art On The Lawn. The featured artist for this 28-year-old Fine Arts and Crafts Fair in Yellow Springs is a Great Dane. He has been in the show for 2 years now and the artists at Village Artisans (who run Art On The Lawn) decided that this year they would make him their featured artist. OK, I loved his work, I’ve met him but I still had this little doubt at the back of my mind. Can a dog realllly make art?

So here is the inside scoop about Mozart Dane. Straight from Beth Mack of the Harlequin Haven Great Dane Rescue “Mo is a very temperamental artist. He prefers to paint in his own room, (he has his own studio in his home,) when it is very quiet with very few people around. He has to be in the mood to paint, and if he is not, he simply refuses to.

Being a non-profit organization, we are always trying to think of new ways to raise money for the rescue. A bunch of volunteers were brainstorming one day and someone came up with the idea of selling items with a paw print on them. We tried several Danes and they could not run away fast enough. They did not like the feel of the paint on their paws and wanted nothing to do with it. Then we tried Mo.

At first we had to coax him with American cheese, but not anymore. (Good thing because he was gaining too much weight!) He will not allow any other dogs around and only one or two people- and it has to be people he knows very well. He has a futon that he lies on. We pour paint onto paper plates, he chooses what color he wants to use and will simply put his paw into the paint and start patting the canvas. If he does not want to use a color, he will not use it. When he is finished painting, he is finished. No amount of coaxing or American cheese will get him to paint more. The only human assistance he receives is if he is doing a 24” x 36” canvas – that’s when we turn it to make sure the entire canvas gets covered.

We often have people ask if they can commission a painting with only certain colors in it. The problem goes back to the fact that if he doesn’t want to use a certain color, he wont use it! ”

Mozart Dane lives at the Harlequin Haven Great Dane Rescue a no kill shelter that is dedicated to saving and placing abused, abandoned, and neglected Great Danes.

Come this Saturday and make up your own mind about dogs and art. For me, I’ve decided Mozart Dane is an artist and isn’t life full of wonderful surprises!

Art on the Lawn is a juried Fine Arts and Crafts show taking place this Saturday, August 13, under the green trees, at Mills Lawn, 200 S. Walnut Street from 10 am – 5 p.m.

Come to Yellow Springs and enjoy the art from over 100 artists, including Mozart Dane who happens to be a dog.

See you in the Springs!

New Musicals on the Rise

August 4, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

2011 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

The Human Race Theatre Company

Encore Theater Company

This weekend, the Human Race Theatre Company, in collaboration with Encore Theater Company, will continue its ardent support of new works and emerging composers with a musical theater festival containing multigenerational appeal. Nostalgia is a key element in the Human Race presentations of the 1950s jazz-infused “Play it Cool” and an overdue salute to Grammy, Oscar and Tony nominated lyricist/composer Bob Merrill entitled “Love Makes the World Go ’Round.” Encore, fueling the popular trend of movies-turned-musicals, will let loose with “Pump Up the Volume,” adapted from the 1990 film starring Christian Slater. Each show will be delivered as staged readings at the Loft Theatre.

Pump Up The Volume

“Working with Encore seemed like a no-brainer since (Encore founders) David Brush and Jim Farley were a part of the first Human Race musical theater symposium,” said Kevin Moore, Human Race producing artistic director. “Our festival lineup is very exciting. I’ve known about ‘Love Makes the World Go ‘Round’ for a while, ‘Pump Up the Volume’ is something Encore has had in the works, and ‘Play it Cool’ is really timely and relevant.”

“Play it Cool,” conceived by Larry Dean Harris and accented with a terrific jazz score recalling Cy Coleman and David Zippel’s “City of Angels” and Marvin Hamlisch and Craig Carnelia’s “Sweet Smell of Success,” was among the standouts I particularly admired at New York’s National Alliance for Musical Theatre Festival last fall. Featuring music by Mark Winkler, lyrics by Phillip Swann and a book by Harris and Martin Casella, the musical cleverly injects a noir sensibility into its charming, bold tale of five people who fall in and out of love at a secret 1953 Hollywood club called Mary’s Hideaway. The score includes such breezy numbers as “In My Drag,” “Baby’s on Third,” “Future Street,” “Curvy Time Bomb” and the beautifully lush “Jazz is a Special Taste.” Directed by Sharon Rosen, “Play it Cool” will arrive off-Broadway next month with Sally Mayes reprising her amazing performance from the NAMT presentation. Dayton audiences are fortunate to have a chance to see it first, in its re-written form, with a promising cast led by Human Race resident artists Deb Colvin-Tener (“Dirty Blonde,” “Lend Me A Tenor”) and Jamie Cordes (“Play it By Heart,” “right next to me”).

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Tenderly - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

The songs of Bob Merrill, who famously believed “people who need people are the luckiest people in the world,” fashion “Love Makes the World Go’ Round,” billed as a “revusical” (revue-meets-book musical) by librettist Duane Poole and music arranger Brad Ellis. Directed by Kevin Moore and centered on three women who connect through Merrill’s repertoire at a piano bar, “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round,” featuring Ellis and Human Race resident artist Katie Pees, incorporates 30 numbers including the songwriter’s catchy hits like “How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?” and “Mambo Italiano” in addition to show tunes from his lilting yet underappreciated “Carnival!” (which he wrote both music and lyrics) and legendary “Funny Girl” (music by Jule Styne). Merrill was also a ghost lyricist for “Hello, Dolly!” (“Elegance” and “Motherhood” in particular) and composed an ill-fated version of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” starring Mary Tyler Moore that closed on Broadway during previews.

Ellis, familiar to fans of “Glee” as the silent choir room accompanist dressed in black, says investigating the Merrill canon to create a balanced tribute was an enjoyably challenging assignment.

2010 Festival of New Musicals - Play It By Heart - The Human Race Theatre Co.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

“I’ve loved the challenge of rolling up my sleeves, like the old days of off-Broadway, and coming in with strong ideas, then being ready to turn on a dime,” he said. “I’m proud of the arrangements, and I’m also proud that I haven’t lost track of the fact that I’m featuring the songs, not featuring the arranger. Bob Merrill has a surprising range of songs, emotions and musical feels, in part because his work as composer/lyricist inhabits such different worlds than his work as lyricist for composer Jule Styne. I don’t think it’s as much that he’s underrated as it is that people who know the extensive Broadway catalogue don’t know the even-more-extensive pop hits, and vice versa. Here’s hoping our show can bridge that gap, and make him a household name. His song ‘Beautiful Candy’ is in a big national commercial right now, and Seth MacFarland has used his songs for his TV show ‘Family Guy,’ so millions are hearing his music right now, whether they know it or not!”

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

Since its 2009 debut on Fox, the Emmy winning “Glee,” created by Ryan Murphy (“Nip/Tuck”), has been a pop culture phenomenon offering a slew of fantastic musical moments (Kristen Chenoweth’s “Home,” Chris Colfer’s “As If We Never Said Goodbye” and Lea Michele’s “Don’t Rain on My Parade” to name a mere few). As the show’s music director, Ellis, who has written vocal arrangements for various episodes, particularly the pilot, has been pleased with his involvement since the beginning.

“I’ve worked with casting agent Robert Ulrich on musical projects for television before, and we enjoyed working together, so Robert brought me in when Ryan Murphy began casting ‘Glee.’ The three of us worked closely on actor’s songs when bringing our final choices to the network brass for approval. I enjoyed watching how Ryan worked with the auditioners. I think he was pleased with my ability to translate his ideas into musical choices for the singers as well as my gentle but demanding approach, which makes less confident singers feel more comfortable, and therefore, show themselves to best advantage, no matter their experience level.”

Ellis ranks Charice, Chenoweth and Carol Burnett among his favorite “Glee” special guests thus far, but views the entire cast and creative process as special. He also anticipates fresh possibilities for the series as Season Three approaches.

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

“The cast is varied and magical people, who’ve maintained a sense of gratitude in a world where everyone wants a piece of ’em, and everyone else is telling them why they should have large egos, and instead, they stay grounded. A lot of that may be due to Jane Lynch, who is a visibly grateful person herself, and perhaps quietly sets the tone. It helps that Ryan Murphy is the modern equivalent of Jerome Robbins, combining an impish sense of fun with an unerring sense of both culture and craft. For me, Seasons One and Two have been an education in film. ‘Glee’ is shot on film with Panavision cameras, not shot digitally, so it has a lot in common with the way great movies and movie musicals have been shot since the 1930s. I’ve also really enjoyed watching my friends on the show evolve and grow. I’m biased, but I think the Class of ‘William McKinley High’ 2009-2011 (and beyond) will launch a lot of careers, similar to the first few seasons of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ‘E.R.’ Corey (Monteith), Dianna (Agron), Lea (Michele), Matthew (Morrison), Kevin (McHale), etc., when they break out, will spread out like a billiards shot and light up big segments of the industry. Season Three? I have no predictions. When I read the pilot, I thought, ‘I love this! I am the audience for this, but it’s ‘niche,’ and will probably find a life on FX or USA network.’ I’m an idiot. Don’t go by me. I can say I’m excited about the new writers. Michael Hitchcock, the only one I already know, is one of the funniest, most honest actors I’ve ever had the privilege to work with, so I’m looking forward to some new ideas and surprises.”

2010 Human Race Festival of New Musicals

As “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round” continues to develop, Ellis remains confident in its prospects. Considering recent news of a Broadway-bound production of “Funny Girl” underway starring Lauren Ambrose (“Six Feet Under”), the timing, especially if a New York berth is in its future, couldn’t be more perfect.

“I’ve been fortunate to have helped create a number of very successful off-Broadway and regional shows (such as) ‘Forbidden Broadway,’ ‘Plaid Tidings,’ ‘Tin Pan Alley Rag,’ etc., so I know the markets. This show could be good business. It has small casting and tech requirements. Whenever I cast any show, I’m overwhelmed by the talent out there, especially women who would be great for ‘Love Makes the World Go ‘Round’ who are not working as much as they deserve, which means it won’t be hard to find great actor/singers for productions.”

Pump Up The Volume

Based on the film of the same name written and directed by Allan Moyle, “Pump Up the Volume,” featuring music by Jeff Thomson, book and lyrics by Jeremy Desmon and additional lyrics by Jordan Mann, tells the story of a shy teenager who starts a pirate FM station in his parents’ basement. Directed by Joe Beumer, the show will feature Drew Bowen, Corinne Derusha, Renee Franck-Reed, Tommi Harsch, Justin King, Zach King, Matthew Owens, Elizabeth Wellman, Yvette Williams and Ray Zupp. Encore Theater Company will also present “The Consequences,” an indie rock-flavored love story about high school friends who reunite 10 years later. Written by Kyle Jarrow and Nathan Leigh, “The Consequences,” which has been developed at the New York Theatre Workshop and the Williamstown Theatre Festival, will be directed by Shawn Hooks and star J.J. Parkey, Amy Geist and Alex Carmichal.

Encore progressively continues to sprinkle local community theater with current, contemporary musicals. The troupe presented a delightful regional premiere of Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell’s ‘[title of show]’ last season, and will tackle Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater’s Tony winning “Spring Awakening” in January, which will be staged by Encore artistic director David Brush. In addition, two projects developed by Encore last season successfully advanced. “Next Thing You Know” received an off-Broadway run two months ago, and the hilarious “Hot Mess in Manhattan” will open in Washington, D.C. later this year.

The Consequences

“By the end of this season, ETC will have hosted five creative teams here in Dayton working on new material to take back to New York,” Brush said. “The process is working and ETC is thrilled to be a part of it.”

Brush is also ecstatic to have Encore join forces with the Human Race as both organizations strive to supply a productive and entertaining musical theater festival.

“Encore Theater Company is really honored to partner with the Human Race Theatre Company, who has really perfected the musical development process for the region. I personally cannot say enough for Kevin Moore and the entire Race staff for both their forward thinking in this area and recognition of what ETC is working to do.”

Musical Theater Festival Schedule

Thursday, August 4

10 p.m. “The Consequences”

Friday, August 5

7 p.m. “Play it Cool”

10 p.m. “Pump Up the Volume”

Saturday, August 6

12 p.m. Meet the Writers (Loft Lobby)

7 p.m. “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round: The Songs of Bob Merrill”

10 p.m. “The Consequences”

Sunday, August 7

2 p.m. “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round: The Songs of Bob Merrill”

7 p.m. “Pump Up the Volume”

-RF

– Human Race Theatre Co. Photos by Scott J. Kimmins

– Encore Theater Co. Photos by Ray Zupp

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

PLAY IT COOL

LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO ‘ROUND

PUMP UP THE VOLUME

at the LOFT THEATRE – 126 N. Main St.– map

For more information, call the Human Race at (937) 461-3823 or visit www.humanracetheatre.org.

Tickets are $15 in advance and can be purchased by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visiting www.ticketcenterstage.com. Beginning August 5, tickets are $20 and will also be available at the Loft Theatre box office two hours before curtain.

THE CONSEQUENCES

performed in the KeyBank building (lower level patio) at Courthouse Square.

For more information, visit www.encoretheatercompany.com

Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door.

Aug. 5 First Friday has everything from skatedecks to a scavenger hunt

August 3, 2011 By DowntownPartnership Leave a Comment

Looking for a different way to explore downtown? The Aug. 5 First Friday is rolling in with a night of live music, art shows and entertainment.

Broaden Your Horizons

First Friday will be the continuation of the First Friday Passport Program. Pick up a First Friday Passport at RiverScape and other participating locations (click here for a list) to win prizes from AAA Miami Valley, which each month will award two prizes of one-year classic AAA memberships, with free renewals for existing members. Everyone who enters for the monthly prize now through Dec. 2 also will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize of a $1,000 travel gift certificate.

The passport must be stamped by at least four locations, and visitors can get all four stamps during one First Friday or complete it another month. Once completed, they simply fill out their contact information and drop their passports in any of the First Friday Passport boxes that will be at all participating locations.

Get a Clue

The Aug. 5 First Friday is also the premiere of the First Friday Scavenger Hunt, an event hosted by volunteers from the young professional organization updayton. Teams of friends and families are invited to enjoy an evening packed with clues that include stops at some of downtown’s swankiest restaurants, venues and art spaces. Follow the clues to the final destination ― the First Friday After Party, where complimentary beer, wine and light snacks await everyone who completes the hunt. Clue sheets also will be inside First Friday passports.

Skateboards, Sculptures and Still-Life

Another featured event is the “The Art of Skate,” an art exhibit featuring skate decks and paintings celebrating skating culture past and present. Held at the Yellow Cab Building, 700 E. Fourth St, more than a dozen artists contributed to the project, including Amy Kollar Anderson, Rev. Chad Wells, Mike Guidone and Jason Goad, along with two California artists. The exhibit will be open until midnight, and the skate decks will be raffled later in August.

New to the city’s arts scene, the Dayton Arts Project will present local artists’ work, followed by a performance of choreography, dance and media at Sinclair Community College’s Blair Hall Theatre. Featured artists include Damon Sink, who will create new live music in a collaboration with choreographer Rodney Veal; choreographer Ashley Sass, who will present her work, Momentum; Tom Watson III, presenting his Stem/ReAssemblage series; and Ben Quinn, who will display five new large works in a mixed-media exhibit.

Additional art shows include:

The Blue Sky Project’s final exhibit will be showcased at 8 N. Main St. In this eight-week summer artist-in-residence program, five professional artists from throughout the world have worked with area teens in a collaborative art-making process that resulted in the new works of contemporary art that will be on display.
The Cannery Art and Design Center, , 434 E. Third St., will host Doug Benedict’s “Found Object Steel Sculpture,” along with live jazz, wine and hors d’œuvres.
Color of Energy, 16 Brown St., will present an introduction to the Record Gallery, a new store featuring collectible music items, along with new works by Mike Elsass and Bob Rhodes.
Color 2 Gallery, 519 E. Fifth St., will host Mike Elsass’ reception for the graduates of Stivers.
Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N. Jefferson St., will host its 20th Annual Open Members’ Show in the gallery. A selection of artists from the Members’ Show will give brief gallery talks about their work.
Elaine Balsley Fine Art, 523 E. Fifth St., will feature artwork by Stivers School for the Arts graduates.
Gallery 510 Fine Art, 510 E. Fifth St., will feature new figurative wood carvings by Marvin Olinsky and new still-life paintings by Nancy Hatton.
K12 Gallery, 510 E. Third St., will feature the work of TEJAS summer art camp students, as well as work by local painters in an exhibition centered on landscapes and showing films created by students throughout this year in K12’s first Film Fest.

Hitting the Right Note

In the Garden Station, 509 E. Fourth St., the Dayton Creative Circus Collective will host Free Music First Friday featuring a rare Dayton appearance by The Hiders from Cincinnati. After its 2006 debut, the band was named by NPR’s World Café as an “artist to watch.” Tim Pritchard of the local band Floods will open at 8 p.m.

More live music will be featured throughout the Oregon District. Check out the Trolley Stop, the Oregon Express, the Tumbleweed Connection and the Dublin Pub for a variety of performances all night. Additionally, Practice Yoga will be hosting the WYSO-FM Rev. Cool Around the Fringe Dance Party, and several participating First Friday locations will be playing the long-running radio show.

Rock Out

Local musicians Blind Karma will play the First Friday @ 5 show at RiverScape MetroPark. The concession will be open and beer will be sold during the performance from 5-7 p.m. The concert will wrap up in plenty of time to head to the galleries and other arts venues taking part in the First Friday art hop.

…And There’s More!

Celebrating its grand opening will be Clash Consignment Co., 113 E. Third St., which features items for adult women and men, including an eclectic and funky mix of vintage to modern clothing, jewelry, shoes and other accessories. The store also carries original work by local artists, and will be hosting DJs during First Friday. New to First Friday is District Antiques, 122 Van Buren St., which specializes in antiques, collectibles, home furnishings and artwork. Patrons will receive 15 percent off new items and 10 percent off consignment items during First Friday. Martha Mellon Interior Design Studio also will offer free 30-minute in-store design consultations. Visitors are asked to bring their room measurements, photos, fabric samples, and toss pillows and other accessories to help with the design consultation. A variety of roaming performers will provide entertainment (weather permitting). This month, catch The Dropbacks juggling duo, the Circle Nerdz breakdance crew, solo saxophonist Tyrone Martin, and accordion and violin duet Nathan Rogers and Liz Landis.

From approximately 8 to 11 p.m., many of downtown’s buildings will be lit for amateur and professional photographers who would like to capture night shots of the city in preparation for this year’s Downtown in Focus photo contest, held in conjunction with the Sept. 16 Urban Nights. Visit DowntownDayton.org for contest details.

Visitors also can get outdoors during First Friday for Courteous Mass, which will meet at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field at 5:15 p.m. for a bike ride through the event action. Gem City Circle Walks will host two historical walking tours led by longtime local history buffs Leon Bey, Nancy Roach and Curt Dalton. An Oregon Arts District walk will begin at 5 p.m. and the “Ghosts, Cemeteries and Murders Walk of Downtown Dayton” will begin at 7 p.m. Each walk is $10 and advance reservations are required by contacting Bey at 937-274-4749 or [email protected].

In addition, all the restaurants, retail shops, bars and clubs, and other establishments throughout downtown will be open during First Friday. For regular updates about this event, follow First Friday on Facebook or text “FirstFridayDayton” to 90210.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from AAA Miami Valley, the Oregon District Business Association, Clear Channel Dayton, Heidelberg Distributing Co., Five Rivers MetroParks, Culture Works and WYSO-FM 91.3.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Click here for a complete list of events taking place downtown.

Add address – also, check for addresses throughout. Since this doesn’t start with the list, as in the release and brochure, there may be other places the address needs to be included.

‘Jinxed’ Wins FutureFest

August 2, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Playwright Stacey Luftig

Ohio, specifically Dayton, is regarded as the birthplace of aviation so it isn’t surprising that “Jinxed,” a 1930s account chronicling pioneering colleagues Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran written by Stacey Luftig of New York City, received top honors at the Dayton Playhouse’s 21st annual FutureFest of new works, held July 29-31.

Luftig’s historically engaging if considerably cinematic and conceptually conventional tale – which challenged pre-conceived notions of Earhart’s legacy while shedding intriguing light on the relatively forgotten Cochran – garnered the highest scores based on criteria such as dialogue, plot, dramatic concept/theme and page-to-stage. The play’s enjoyable staged reading presentation, fluidly directed by Richard Brock, was marvelously heightened by a fierce, strikingly full-fledged performance by Kate Smith as the abrasive, tough-talking, determined, troubled and unabashedly self-absorbed Cochran, the first woman to break the sound barrier and an influential component in Earhart’s celebrated yet shaky career. Brock’s strong cast included Wendi Michael (an appealing Earhart), Michael Taint, Matt Turner, Franklin Johnson, Cynthia Karns and Mike Rousculp.

Longtime adjudicator Helen Sneed praised the material for its “great exposition” and “magnificent language.” “(‘Jinxed’) has elements of Greek tragedy and history combined,” echoed Eleanore Speert, founder and president of Speert Publishing who returned for her 10th FutureFest. “This play is about fame and what happens to the famous,” added David Finkle, senior theater critic for Theatermania.com. “(Luftig) should sell it to Lifetime.” The panel included 2002 FutureFest finalist Robert Koon of Chicago Dramatists as well as Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame member Dr. Robert W. MacClennan, professor emeritus of Sinclair Community College.

“So many things about FutureFest blow me away,” Luftig reflected. “So much generosity from so many people in such a short time. The planning and coordination that go into putting up three staged readings and three productions in one weekend – each for a single performance – it’s staggering. But you know what’s most amazing to me? An inspired director and a group of seven talented actors rehearse my play for six weeks, three nights a week. They read biographies of the real people my characters are based on. They stop rehearsals and debate, 10 or 15 minutes at a time, about this line or that line and what it means to the play. They devote the energy to create real relationships so that I could see my play not only live, but breathe. The designers give me lighting, a simple, elegant set, and sound effects – the sound of airplanes and radio announcers so critical to realizing my story. As if this weren’t enough, smart, sophisticated theater professionals – five of them! – give me constructive criticism, analysis and encouragement. And then the audience challenges me with their questions and their honest reactions. All these people, this fabulous community, do all these things because they love theater and to help me, a playwright they had never heard of, hear and see my work. And instead of getting an award, they give one to me. I am overwhelmed.”

The remaining contenders, selected from over 240 submissions, were: “Drawing Room,” an introspective examination of art and artists by Mark Eisman of New York City; “Roosevelt’s Ghost,” a politically charged drama by Dayton native and 2009 FutureFest winner Michael Feely of Woodland Hills, California; “The Haven,” a wonderfully contemporary, intimate, witty, relationship-driven character study by Richard Etchison of Los Angeles, California that could be a refreshing addition to the Chicago, New York or L.A. theater scene; “Allegro Con Brio,” a farce by Dayton resident Nelson Sheeley of Sinclair Community College; and “A Woman on the Cusp,” a mental illness-themed drama by two-time FutureFest finalist Carl L. Williams of Houston, Texas.

In addition to the cast of “Jinxed,” standout performers in the festival, which remained entertaining despite the lack of air conditioning, included: Mark Jeffers, Annie Pesch and Rachel Wilson of “Drawing Room”; Debra Kent, Charles Larkowski, David Shough and Michael Stockstill of “Roosevelt’s Ghost”; Megan Cooper, Danny Lipps, Deirdre Bray Root and Richard Young of “The Haven”; Cheryl Mellen of “Allegro Con Brio”; and Cher Collins, Lynn Kesson, Scott Knisley and K.L. Storer of “A Woman on the Cusp.” Also, Drawing Room” was terrifically accented by Terry K. Hitt, Patrick Hayes, Wendi Michael and Jacqui Theobald’s illustrations as well as Kirk Sheppard’s photography.

In a rare turn of events, according to FutureFest program director Fran Pesch, determining the audience’s favorite play has become problematic. “With approximately 75 percent of passholders returning ballots, it is impossible to name a definite audience favorite this year,” she said. “Three plays came within four votes of each other: ‘Jinxed,’ “The Haven’ and ‘Roosevelt’s Ghost.’”

My FutureFest rankings:

1. “The Haven”

2. “Roosevelt’s Ghost”

3. “Jinxed”

4. “Drawing Room”

5. “A Woman on the Cusp”

6. “Allegro Con Brio”

For additional information, call the Dayton Playhouse at (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.com.

2011 Michelob Ultra Cool Films Series – Mel Brooks Weekend

July 29, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Victoria Theatre Association is gearing up for the Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein (coming in October) by screening the 1974 film as well as Blazing Saddles and The Producers as part of its summer Michelob Ultra Cool Film Series at the Victoria Theater.

Young Frankenstein

A young neurosurgeon (Gene Wilder) inherits the castle of his grandfather, the famous Dr. Victor von Frankenstein. In the castle he finds a funny hunchback called Igor, a pretty lab assistant named Inga and the old housekeeper, frau Blucher -iiiiihhh!-. Young Frankenstein believes that the work of his grandfather is only crap, but when he discovers the book where the mad doctor described his reanimation experiment, he suddenly changes his mind… (via IMDB by Flavio Rizzardi)

Friday, July 29 at 7:30 p.m. (tickets to Young Frankenstein the musical go on sale this night)

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Blazing Saddles

The Ultimate Western Spoof. A town where everyone seems to be named Johnson is in the way of the railroad. In order to grab their land, Hedley Lemar, a politically connected nasty person, sends in his henchmen to make the town unlivable. After the sheriff is killed, the town demands a new sheriff from the Governor. Hedley convinces him to send the town the first Black sheriff in the west. Bart is a sophisticated urbanite who will have some difficulty winning over the townspeople. (via IMDB by John Vogel)

Saturday, July 30 at 7:30 p.m.

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The Producers

Down-on-his-luck theatrical producer Max Bialystock is forced to romance rich old ladies to finance his efforts. When timid accountant Leo Bloom reviews Max’s accounting books, the two hit upon a way to make a fortune by producing a sure-fire flop. The play which is to be their gold mine? “Springtime for Hitler.” (via IMDB by Scott Renshaw)

Sunday, July 31 at 3 p.m.

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Blue Sky Project’s Final Exhibition in Downtown Dayton

July 28, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Six contemporary artists selected from 55 applicants from across the US and 11 foreign countries, five college interns and 35 area teen participants, all thrown into this cauldron we call Dayton for eight weeks, and what do you get? One tasty artistic stew!

Blue Sky Project’s third summer in Dayton will bear fruit on Wednesday, August 3 in the heart of downtown when their final exhibition unveils itself in the long-vacant former CVS location at 8 North Main Street, across from the Old Courthouse. Additional locations include KeyBank Tower and 33 North Main Street, the former Roly Poly Sandwich Shop, both on Courthouse Square. The 2011 resident artists are visual artists Marin Abell, Newport News, VA; Rory Golden, Brooklyn, NY (originally from New Carlisle); Kaz McCue, Interlochen, MI; Susannah Mira, Pueblo, CO; and performance artists Sara Mitchell Sherman, Columbus, OH and Shaw Pong Liu, Boston, MA.

Using Dayton as a palate, the collaborative groups of artists and teens are taking on critical issues of our time, including the importance of water in our city’s history; the impact of racism on today’s society; the repurposing of discarded industrial materials; and self-identity in the age of social media. The net result is a compelling mix of visual art, sculpture, installation, video and live performance.

Blue Sky Project is offered without cost to the youth participants, who come from across the region—city and suburb, public, charter and private school, and as far away as Springfield. Youth are selected based on their interest in exploring their creative spirits, and a desire to contribute at a conceptual level in a collaborative environment. Past work from Blue Sky Project has sold at galleries in New York, Chicago and Houston, as well as been featured in The New Yorker, the New York Times and Art in America.

Times & locations:

PREVIEW PARTY • $20/PERSON

• Wednesday, August 3 • 6:00 – 9:00 PM

EXHIBIT HOURS (Free Admission)

• Thursday, August 4 • 5:00 – 8:00 PM

• (First) Friday, August 5 • 5:00 – 10:00 PM

• Saturday, August 6 • 6:00 – 9:00 PM

EXHIBIT LOCATIONS

• 8 North Main Street – Primary exhibition space

• 10 West Second/KeyBank Tower – Installation by resident artist Marin Abell

• 33 North Main (Courthouse Square) – “Artists Without Borders” retrospective of work

from Blue Sky Project 2008 by African artist Akirash

If you are heading out of town, you can catch the Blue Sky exhibition on First Friday, September 2 and Urban Nights, September 16. For more information and to order preview party tickets, visit www.blueskydayton.org or call 937.732.5123.

The BARD is on the loose!

July 27, 2011 By Shane Anderson 2 Comments

Photo by Alisha McDarris=

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Free Shakespeare!

In many communities around the world, a treasured summer activity is outdoor performances and festivals devoted to classic Shakespeare plays (Shakespeare Fellowship List). Two of the most well-known in Ohio are Cincinnati Shakespeare Co. which tours two shows in fourteen different parks and Actor’s Theatre which is celebrating it’s 30th season presenting shows in Schiller Park in Columbus’ German Village. Suddenly in the past few years there is much interest in this terrific tradition right here in the Miami Valley, ranging from a small neighborhood troupe near downtown (Historic South Park – currently rehearsing for their 4th presentation) and the touring company known as Free Shakespeare! the brainchild of director Chris Shea.

“The experience with GreenStage was incredible. To have a free arts program not only survive, but flourish, for over twenty years, well, it gave me faith that the arts are alive and well. I want to bring that same energy here to Dayton. There really is nothing like a picnic and a play, and the price is right, too” -Chris Shea

Shea, a graduate of Kettering-Fairmont High School, spent time studying acting in the Pacific Northwest. Inspired by the GreenStage Theatre Company’s offering of free outdoor Shakespeare, he decided to bring the concept to the Miami Valley in 2010 in the form of Free Shakespeare! The troupe is described as a traveling community of artists with the goal of creating an event where people can rediscover the power and beauty of language and art. Shea wanted to take the performances to multiple venues throughout the region over a series of summer weekends – and free to audiences.

Shea launched his vision for a theatre company in 2010 with Hamlet, which was received enthusiastically during it’s tour of four venues in Dayton and Yellow Springs. 2011 brings a new production, this time the ever-popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream. After opening last weekend at Antioch Amphitheatre in Yellow Springs, Shea and his team of 14 actors will continue to bring the bard’s best-loved comedy to Dayton stages over the next several weekends. They can be seen at the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14). All performances are outdoors and weather permitting and begin at 7PM. Admission is free with donations accepted after the performance to pay the actors.

Photo by Alisha McDarris

The cast of A Midsummer Nights Dream includes Allison Husko (Titania), Chris Shea (Oberon), Will Hutcheson (Demetrius), Travis Cook (Lysander), Amy Brooks (Hermia), Megan Cooler (Helena), Kes-lina Luoma (Puck), Jason Antonick (Theseus), Lauren S. Deaton (Hippolyta), Zach Schute (Nick Bottom), Juliet Howard-Welch (Peter Quince & Peaselblossom), David Harewood (Francis Flute & Cobweb), Philip Titlebaum (Snug & Mustardseed), and, after a 48 year absence from the stage, Bill Styles as Egeus.

The group has recently partnered with Involvement Advocacy, an umbrella organization which fosters community initiatives. Involvement Advocacy’s partnerships include, among others, the Blue Sky Project and the Dayton Arts Project. Involvement Advocacy will act as Free Shakespeare’s! fiscal agent, allowing supporters of Free Shakespeare! to make tax deductible donations to the theatre company.

On the partnership, Free Shakespeare! founder Chris Shea had this to say, “We are very grateful to Peter Benkendorf and the folks at Involvement Advocacy for their tremendous support of our organization. This partnership is the perfect bridge for us as we make arrangements to form our own non profit corporation.”

Photo by Alisha McDarris

“Our purposes shall be proud, our garments poor; For ’tis the mind that makes the body rich” The Taming of the Shrew, Act IV, sc. iii

-SA, Free Shakespeare! Press Release & website.

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

A Midsummer Nights Dream

Weekends through August 14, 2011

Tickets Prices: FREE (donations accepted after the show to pay actors)

Locations: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (July 29-31), Newcom Founders Park in the Oregon District (August 5-7), The University of Dayton’s ArtStreet (August 12-14)

For more information about Free Shakespeare! visit http://freeshakespeare.com/

Back to the FutureFest

July 27, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Dancing Backwards by John Fiorillo - FutureFest 2010

FutureFest 2011

Dayton Playhouse

This weekend, the Dayton Playhouse will present its 21st annual FutureFest of new plays, one of the most highly anticipated and widely regarded events in the local arts community.

This uniquely structured, nationally recognized festival, co-founded by Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame members Dodie Lockwood and John Riley, openly nurtures the artistic growth of emerging playwrights from across the country and internationally. Within three days, six original, previously unproduced works are showcased fully staged or as staged readings followed by adjudications from theater professionals. Patrons are also encouraged to offer opinions, fueling the weekend’s considerably engaging atmosphere.

How It Works by Carey Pepper

The adjudicators will consist of longtime New York-based judges David Finkle, Helen Sneed and Eleanore Speert along with Robert Koon, resident playwright/dramaturg of the Chicago Dramatists and a 2002 FutureFest finalist for “Vintage Red and the Dust of the Road,” and D. Lynn Meyers, producing artistic director of Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati. Each play will be judged on criteria including dramatic concept/theme, plot/story development, dialogue/language and character development.

Refuge by Marc Comblatt

Since its inception, FutureFest has been an advantageous launching pad for playwrights hoping to raise their profile. The most successful example in recent years is unquestionably attributed to Brooklyn playwright Beau Willimon, a former political staffer who took the 2005 FutureFest by storm with “Farragut North,” a marvelous political drama. “Farragut North” arrived off-Broadway at New York’s Atlantic Theater Company in 2008 and was recently adapted (and re-titled) for the big screen by Willimon, Grant Heslov and Oscar winner George Clooney as “The Ides of March.” Shot on location in the Cincinnati area and prominently previewed in the July 26 edition of USA Today, “The Ides of March,” which will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, is officially scheduled for an October 7 release. The film has already received buzz as a major contender for the Golden Globes and Academy Awards. Molly Smith Metzler, also of Brooklyn, is equally noteworthy. Metzler’s terrific relationship-driven comedy drama “Carve” was a highlight of the 2009 FutureFest and her latest work, “Close Up Space,” will be presented off-Broadway at New York’s Manhattan Theatre Club this fall starring Emmy and Tony winner David Hyde Pierce.

This year’s promising contenders were chosen from over 240 submissions. Each finalist recently reflected on their work with onStageDayton in advance of the festival.

2011 FutureFest Performance Schedule

Friday, July 29

8 p.m.

“Drawing Room,” an introspective look at a Supreme Court sketch artist.

Playwright: Mark Eisman of New York City

Cast: Mark Jeffers, Annie Pesch and Rachel Wilson

Director: Matthew Smith

Production format: Fully staged

Since cameras invaded our courtrooms some 20 years ago, I have missed the artists’ renderings which often accompanied the most notorious (and yes, most dramatic) legal spectaculars. The brilliantly colored chalks and pencils have been replaced by the dullness of reality TV. The sketch artists have been forced to scramble and compete against each other, as only the federal courts (with its terrorist defendants) and the Supreme Court (with its familiar cast of characters) remain camera free. When their art is threatened, the characters in ‘Drawing Room’ must confront the realities of their own lives. Life in the theater has never been easy for playwrights. Over the same 20 years, it’s become increasingly difficult due primarily to economic ‘realities.’

~Mark Eisman

Saturday, July 30

10 a.m.

“Roosevelt’s Ghost,” a drama centered on the special assistant to President Franklin D. Roosevelt convicted of perjury and accused of being a member of the Community Party.

Playwright: Dayton native and Woodland Hills, California resident Michael Feely, who won the 2009 FutureFest for “Night and Fog” and was a 2006 finalist for “Bookends.”

Cast: Debra Kent, Charles Larkowski, Jennifer Lockwood, Dave Nickel, David Shough, Michael Stockstill and Debra Strauss

Director: Saul Caplan

Production format: Staged reading

‘Roosevelt’s Ghost’ is (very) loosely based on the Alger Hiss case. It concerns a man, Charles Castle Hunt, who stood at the pinnacle of power until he was accused of treason and espionage for the Soviet Union and convicted of perjury in 1951. It is now 1968 and he’s come home both to vindicate himself by publishing his memoirs and to reconnect with the family he abandoned after his fall. The play is about many things. It is, on one level, about the events of the ’50’s and ’60’s, similar to the other two plays that have appeared in FutureFest, that I believe draw a bright red line through Vietnam to our current involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. On another level, however, it’s a far more personal play, about family, about what fathers owe their sons and, equally important, what sons owe their fathers. It’s about husbands and wives, what they give each other and what they take from each other. And, lastly, it’s about love, how it sustains us, can let us down and, ultimately, can lift us up.

~Michael Feely

3 p.m.

“The Haven,” a contemporary comic drama concerning a broken marriage and the possibilities of connection.

Playwright: Richard Etchison of Los Angeles, California

Cast: Megan Cooper, Danny Lipps, Deirdre Root and Richard Young

Director: Fran Pesch

Production format: Staged reading

Initially, I set out to write a play about one relationship ending and one relationship at the very beginning. A simple exploration of the nature of marriage and love and youth. The ending came to me midway through the writing process. I also wanted to write a realistic play for once. Previously, my plays have some mind-bending, sometimes surreal elements. In most ways, I succeeded. To me, the theme of this play is that human beings approach both marriage and life with the same attitude: We know it’s going to have its trying moments, moments that take every bit of courage and resolve we have to get through them. Yes, we (as a people) voluntarily embark on it anyway. When you are young, marriage seems a simple matter. So does life. But once deep inside of marriage, we learn otherwise. Same as life in general.

~Richard Etchison

8 p.m.

“Allegro Con Brio,” a farce about a musical couple plotting revenge.

Playwright: Dayton resident Nelson Sheeley of Sinclair Community College

Cast: Michael Boyd, Matt Curry and Cheryl Mellen

Director: Nick Moberg

Production format: Fully staged

I got the idea for the play when I turned on the radio and heard one of the Mendelssohn Piano Concertos played faster than anyone should be able to play it. I wondered what the conversation backstage after the concert between the conductor and the pianist would be. Also, once I got into it, the theme of the piece seemed to shift a bit to include the music critic…how people behave who have unquestioned authority and power in their fields. I love farce and there’s a dearth of good contemporary farce in the American theatre. Farce seems to be the poor stepchild of comedy. My first play ‘…And Call Me In The Morning’ got a begrudgingly good review from The New York Times. Jacques LeSourde liked it and in the review sounded a little embarrassed that he did! So here I am leading a crusade to get those slapstick lovers out of their comedy closet and have a good laugh.

~Nelson Sheeley

Sunday, July 31

10 a.m.

“Jinxed,” a 1930s aviatrix-themed account of Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran.

Playwright: Stacey Luftig of New York City

Cast: Franklin Johnson, Cynthia Karns, Wendi Michael, Kate Smith, Mike Rousculp, Mike Taint and Matt Turner

Director: Richard Brock

Production format: Staged reading

Amelia Earhart is an American icon. But only history buffs and aviation fans remember Jackie Cochran, whose rags-to-riches story and groundbreaking achievements in aviation rival those of any pilot, including Amelia. Brash Jackie and sophisticated Amelia were close friends for the last two years of Amelia’s life. Their lives had many parallels: among them, husbands who were tremendously supportive of their careers, a practicing knowledge of ESP and a preoccupation with luck. Their focus on luck is not surprising. The dangers faced by pilots in the 1930s, especially those who sought to set records and win races, were enormous. Forced landings and even crashes were commonplace, airplane parts would malfunction, engines would blow up. Like baseball players, aviators often placed faith in talismans and other superstitions. It is hard to say how much of any aviator’s career at that time depended on skill, and how much on luck. Based on this uncertain balance, a key question arose for the main characters of my play: How far do you go to allow a pilot you love to follow her dreams – knowing that to do so could result in her death?

~Stacey Luftig

3 p.m.

“A Woman on the Cusp,” a drama concerning mental illness and sibling treachery.

Playwright: Two-time FutureFest finalist Carl L. Williams of Houston, Texas (“Under a Cowboy Moon,” 2003; “Coming Back to Jersey,” 2008)

Cast: Cher Collins, Lynn Kesson, Scott Knisley and K.L. Storer

Director: Ray Gambrel

Production format: Fully staged

‘A Woman on the Cusp’ started out as a 20-minute one-act for a festival in Houston. I quickly realized the length wasn’t nearly sufficient to explore all the facets of character in this story, as well as the underlying issues of emotional trauma, mental instability, deceit and treachery. A buried subtext concerns how people can do the wrong thing for a right reason or the right thing for a wrong reason. For the full-length play I was better able to develop a backstory for the major character, providing a fuller explanation for her current situation. I could also explore the relationships between and among the characters to a greater degree and with a more gradual revelation of their secrets. In addition, I changed certain elements of the basic plot as I transitioned the piece to a more complete story. I can’t say that I set out to make any particular point with this play or convey any central message. Mainly I just wanted to engage the audience with these characters and their conflicts. The FutureFest production offers the opportunity of judging to what degree I succeeded.

~Carl L. Williams

The 21st annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest will be held Friday, July 29-Sunday, July 31 at the Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. Weekend passes for all six shows are $90. Single tickets are $17. For tickets or more information, call the Playhouse at (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.com.

-RF

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to [email protected].

Tickets & Performance Information:

21st Annual Dayton Playhouse FutureFest

July 29-31, 2011

Tickets Prices: $17 for single show tickets / $90 for weekend pass (includes all shows)

Location: The Dayton Playhouse
1301 East Siebenthaler Ave
Dayton, OH 45414 (map)

Tickets are on sale now through DP’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 424-8477

For more information about The Dayton Playhouse visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.org/

Photo Highlights of 2010 FutureFest

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Tomatoes, knitting, scrapbooks all welcome at the county fair

July 27, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

As you may have imagined, the Montgomery County Fair is an important event to a farm family like mine. And while it isn’t practical to invite all our friends from DaytonMostMetro.com to visit us on the farm or accompany us to the Ohio State Fair, we CAN encourage you to visit us at the Montgomery County Fair—happening Aug. 31 – Sept. 5 in downtown Dayton.

And guess what! You don’t have to be a farmer to participate in the fair and even earn some blue ribbons.

The Montgomery County Fair is currently accepting entries for everything from cakes and pies to giant pumpkins; antique collections to photography; crocheting to quilts. Entries are a bargain at $1 each (although, if you get ambitious like me, the one-dollar entries start to add up) and pay out premiums for first through fourth place (this varies by category).

So even if you don’t have three barrows (boy pigs), two gilts (girl pigs) and two dairy heifers (girl cows) to enter, you can still take on the Michael family with a scarecrow, decorated cupcakes or photos.

Visit the Montgomery County Fair website to download the fair book PDF. Mail-in entries are due by August 15. Walk-in entries are accepted August 11, 12, 15, & 16, 9 am – 5 pm. NOTE: you don’t actually take your goods to the fairgrounds until fair time—see the book for details.

If you are a regular fair-goer or have never checked it out, try making an entry this year. The fair is an important part of downtown Dayton and nothing beats the thrill of seeing your chocolate cake take the top prize (trust me, I’ve done it!).

‘Let’s Do The Time Warp Again’: ‘Rocky Horror’ to be Revived at Wiley’s

July 25, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Daytonians will get the chance this weekend to put on fishnet stockings, scream unabashedly at a projector screen and pelt strangers with handfuls of rice.

July 29, 2011 Show Poster

The local variety show group Dirty Little Secrets wants attendees to take a walk on the wild side at its special screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” from midnight to 3 a.m. Friday, July 29, at Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St.

The event is a rare opportunity for audience members to view the R-rated feature length film, while also enjoying a full service bar offering movie inspired drink specials, according to J.T. Ryder, who is responsible for the booking and promotion of the event.

“As with the creation and concept of Dirty Little Secrets itself, the screening of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ started with that small, still voice in my head,” he said. “ … This voice always begins our conversations with, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if … ?’”

The public screening comes a decade after The Neon stopped showing the film in spring 2001, when the theater underwent a renovation, according to Ryder.

“The clean up and raucous nature of the movie and the attendees definitely go a long way in explaining why most theater owners are loathe to run the movie on a regular basis,” he said.

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” first released on film in 1975, parodies science fiction and horror flicks of the 1940s to 1970s, and is noted as one of the most well known movies of all time, attracting the attention of an international audience. A criminologist narrates the story of a newly engaged couple who stumbles upon a strange mix of people at an annual Transylvanian convention and soon becomes immersed in the world of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a transvestite who created a creature he calls Rocky Horror. The film is full of musical performances — including the Transylvanians’ famous dance to “The Time Warp.”

Sean Sandefer, one of the two directors of The Dayton Affair, the Dayton area’s “Rocky Horror” shadow cast, said some of his cast members will take part in the film screening at Wiley’s, acting out certain scenes on stage in costume. The group’s technical crew also will lead the audience in participation callbacks.

According to Sandefer, the show appeals to a wide range of people, which has been key to sustaining its popularity for more than 30 years.

“‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ is a timeless classic with a little bit of something for everyone,” he said. “It’s also a unique experience, where the audience is encouraged to participate by yelling during the movie and throwing things. If you’ve never seen the movie before, this would be a great first experience.”

One of the reasons the film has experienced ongoing popularity is in its ability to build a strong community of fans, according to Ryder.

“There is a commonality between the people who identify with this movie in much the same way as motorcyclists or tattoo aficionados identify with each other,” he said. “A lot of people think that it is the sexual ambiguity of the movie that draws people, but I think that only plays a small portion of it. There is an underground, cult-like presence that draws people whose everyday life could be very mundane, but this experience gives them a chance to delve into their wild side a bit.”

The tight-knit community is exactly why April Pope and her boyfriend Ronald Lynch remain die hard “Rocky Horror” followers. Pope and Lynch met at a showing in 1998, and have been together ever since.

Pope has attended more than 300 performances by The Dayton Affair, and said she used to never miss a show.

“I think ‘Rocky’ continues to thrive because it’s a place where you can go and fit in,” she said. “I come from Preble County, and when I was younger, unless you were into derby cars and tractor pulls, there isn’t a lot for you here. I know a lot of Preble County ‘misfits’ have ended up at ‘Rocky.’ We fit in there. It’s one of the first places I felt comfortable and no one judged me.”

Ryder said he expects a packed house of fans Friday. Attendees must be at least 18 years old, and are welcome to come dressed as one of the characters in the movie, or as “any other combination of outrageousness that is legal to be seen wearing in public,” he said. Those who attend are allowed to bring any of the standard “Rocky Horror” items with them, including hot dogs, newspapers, toilet paper, squirt guns and toast.

Tickets for the event can be bought at the door for $5. Individuals are encouraged to make reservations ahead of time, especially if they are attending with a group, by going to the Facebook event page titled “Dirty Little Secret Sweet Transvestite Screening” or by calling (937) 224-JOKE (5653).

According to Ryder, audience members should come expecting, in the words of Frank-N-Furter, “erotic nightmares beyond any measure, and sensual daydreams to treasure forever,” in a show that changes with every viewing.

“The only mission that Dirty Little Secrets is on, that I can discern, is to create a sense of community, as well as presenting the most unique entertainment available,” Ryder said. “In that fashion, the screening of this movie is right on target.”

Read Ryder’s DaytonMostMetro.com piece titled “Maybe You Understand Me Now” for his take on the philosophy behind the show.

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Singing Joyfully in Turbulent Times

July 22, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Michele Borns and the cast of The Sound of Music

Terrific vocals, effectively ominous Nazi overtones and a delightful lead performance are great assets to Epiphany Lutheran Church’s sufficient 20th anniversary production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music.”

Lovely soprano Michele Borns – simply excellent in Epiphany’s productions of “Jane Eyre” and “The Music Man” – was born to play Maria, the bubbly, devout postulant-turned-concerned governess. Borns delivers all of her musical numbers with winsome appeal and supplies a convincing evolution from spunky innocence to confident maturity. She doesn’t receive much support from an awkward Wayne Ulman as Captain Georg Von Trapp, but her vital scenes opposite Von Trapp’s seven children (enjoyably and compatibly portrayed by Erin Ulman, Timothy Seiler, Abby Kress, Nick Kress, Megan Ulman, Emily Kennebeck and Abbey Fry) are authentic, warm and humorous, especially “Do Re Mi,” “My Favorite Things” and Annette Looper’s colorfully choreographed “The Lonely Goatherd.”

Renee Franck-Reed, another standout soprano, is also strong as the kind, practical Mother Abbess. Franck-Reed’s firm rendition of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” certainly brings Act 1 to an emotionally fulfilling finish. Ian Benjamin (Rolf) joins Ulman for a very charming “Sixteen Going on Seventeen.” Megan Rehberg (Baroness Schraeder) is properly sophisticated and attractively costumed by Maria Klueber and Lori Watamaniuk. Ralph Bordner (Max Detweiler), Sandy Schwartzwalder (Frau Schmidt), Chace Beard (Franz), Michael Shannon (Herr Zeller), Martha Armstrong-Benjamin (Sister Berthe), Becki Foster (Sister Margaretta) and Allison Tura (Sister Sophia) and the beautifully harmonious Nun Choir are also noteworthy.

Director Brett Greenwood astutely heightens the inherently sappy yet solid material with chilling archival footage of Hitler’s dark reign. Musical director John Benjamin leads a steady orchestra. Bruce Brown creates another crafty, eye-catching set design.

The Sound of Music continues through Sunday, July 24 at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 6430 Far Hills Ave., Centerville. Act One: 1 hour and 45 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. The production is double-cast. The cast reviewed will perform Friday, July 22 and Saturday July 23 at 8 p.m. The second cast, starring Kandis Wean as Maria, will perform Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under in addition to seniors 60 and older. For tickets or more information, call Jane Lane at (937) 433-1449 ext. 105 or send her an e-mail at [email protected]. A portion of the proceeds will support the Leukemia & Lymphona Society in honor of the late Kay Frances Wean, longtime director of the Epiphany Players Drama Ministry.

Don’t Miss BEGINNERS! Prize Details Inside!!

July 20, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

If you still need to see THE TREE OF LIFE, Thursday (7/21) will be its last day at THE NEON (all showtimes are available at HERE). On Friday, we will open the new film from Mike Mills – BEGINNERS – starring Ewan McGregor and Christopher Plummer (Plummer’s performance is an Oscar shoe-in for “Best Supporting Actor”).

Synopsis for BEGINNERS: “From writer/director Mike Mills comes a comedy/drama about how deeply funny and transformative life can be, even at its most serious moments. BEGINNERS imaginatively explores the hilarity, confusion, and surprises of love through the evolving consciousness of Oliver (Golden Globe Award nominee Ewan McGregor). Oliver meets the irreverent and unpredictable Anna (Melanie Laurent of Inglourious Basterds) only months after his father Hal (Academy Award nominee Christopher Plummer) has passed away. This new love floods Oliver with memories of his father who – following 44 years of marriage – came out of the closet at age 75 to live a full, energized, and wonderfully tumultuous gay life. The upheavals of Hal’s new honesty, by turns funny and moving, brought father and son closer than they’d ever been able to be. Now Oliver endeavors to love Anna with all the bravery, humor, and hope that his father taught him.” (taken from filmjabber.com)

Click HERE to visit the official site. Below is a wonderful “Making Of” featurette.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dOYyCaH_t4′]

Before the 7:20 screenings of BEGINNERS on both Friday and Saturday night, I will be giving out a handful of T-Shirts and soundtracks. So brush up on your NEON trivia – I hope to see you here!

On Saturday night, our large auditorium has been rented for a special event. 2 MUCH FLAVOR is a rollerblading documentary (a follow-up to SAVOR THE FLAVOR from 2008) by local videomakers Ryan Benner and Andrew Thompson. A trailer is available HERE. The movie will play on Saturday night, July 23 at 10pm. Tickets will be $5 each.

Many of you have been asking and calling about BUCK. We appreciate your patience as our schedule continues to re-arrange. We will eventually play it!

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready for parking! You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair. One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair. All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit. As always, this lot if free to NEON customers. If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 22 – July 28:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30

Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

BEGINNERS (R) 1 Hr 45 Min

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

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

2 MUCH FLAVOR (NR)

Saturday: 10pm

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 29 PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

July 29 DOUBLE HOUR

Aug 5 BUCK

Aug 5 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26 ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26 THE GUARD

Sept. 9 LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9 WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD THE FUTURE

One More Week at THE NEON!

July 14, 2011 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

I’m keepin’ it short and sweet this week.

I’m sorry to report (but happy to report) that we can’t open BEGINNERS on Friday. Why? Because our two current films are still performing amazingly! We will hold MIDNIGHT IN PARIS and THE TREE OF LIFE for another week…and we plan to at least open BEGINNERS on July 22. If possible, we’ll also openBUCK on July 22. We appreciate your patronage and your patience as we continue to do gangbuster business. And I promise…BEGINNERS is worth the wait.

Visit the official website for each of our current films:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS THE TREE OF LIFE

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready! You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair. One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair. All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit. As always, this lot if free to NEON customers. If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 15 – July 21:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

THE TREE OF LIFE (R) 2 Hr 18 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:45

Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

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