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There Were Never Such Devoted Sisters

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Wright State University admirably delivers Jason Howland, Mindi Dickstein and Allan Knee’s poignant yet unremarkable 2005 musical “Little Women,” based on the classic Civil War-era novel by Louisa May Alcott.

Alcott’s semi-autobiographical coming of age tale centers on the colorful, tightly bonded March sisters of Concord, Massachusetts coping with life on the homefront with their mother while their father serves his country. This sprawling adaptation, which takes a few conceptual liberties, offers heartwarming sentimentality, but particularly lacks a wealth of strong, dynamic, period-appropriate tunes from Howland and Dickstein. Both acts open with lengthy, forgettable numbers emphasizing the adventurous writings of the fiery Jo (Jennifer Lamourt), and there are also songs that could have been discarded in favor of allowing librettist Knee to craft more compelling book scenes. Nevertheless, director Lee Merrill injects joy, sincerity and tenderness into the material which keeps the three hour presentation – which opened Friday, March 4 in the Herbst Theatre fluidly executed by a unified cast, smoothly music directed by Susan Carlock and attractively costumed by Vinicius Vargas – thoroughly engaging.

The spunky Lamourt doesn’t possess the vocal range required to belt her big solos, particularly the musical’s signature anthem “Astonishing,” but she effectively relies on her acting strengths to convey Jo’s spitfire determination to become a successful author while simply embracing the independent woman she is. In a welcomed touch of non-traditional casting, Ria Villaver effectively transitions from bratty immaturity to attractive sophistication as Amy. Kathleen Ferrini is nicely understated as Meg. Darien Crago is lovely as the quiet, reserved Beth and also serves as choreographer, specifically staging “Five Forever” with carefree enthusiasm. These ladies form a naturally compatible connection with Madeleine Casto, excellently commanding as the affectionately stern Marmee. Additionally, Michelle Weiser is terrifically authoritative as the society-driven Aunt March, and Lauren S. Deaton, a standout in productions at Sinclair Community College, fares well as boarding house owner Mrs. Kirk.

The men of “Women” are equally appealing. Casey Jordan creates a pleasant rapport with Lamourt in the charming yet underwritten role of Professor Bhaer. Fine tenor Zach Cossman is an endearing presence as Laurie, who pines for Jo yet ultimately falls for Amy. Jason D. Collins, marvelously paired with Casto in “August: Osage County” earlier this season, offers another satisfying turn as Mr. Laurence. The adorably meek Justin Talkington nearly steals the show as John Brooke, Laurie’s tutor smitten with Meg.

Little Women continues through Sunday, March 13 in the downstairs Herbst Theatre of the Creative Arts Center at Wright State University, 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 90 minutes; Act Two: 70 minutes. Tickets are $7-$10. For tickets or more information, call (937) 775-2500.

In related news, WSU’s 2011-12 mainstage season will consist of Death of a Salesman (directed by Greg Hellems and tentatively featuring Scott Stoney and Lee Merrill), Hairspray (directed by Joe Deer and choreographed by Teressa Wylie McWilliams), Rent (directed by W. Stuart McDowell), The Merchant of Venice (directed by Sandra Crews) and The Phantom of the Opera (directed by W. Stuart McDowell). Part 2 of Bruce Cromer’s adaptation of Barnaby Rudge will be featured in the Herbst Theatre along with two productions yet to be determined which will be respectively directed by Marya Spring Cordes and Jamie Cordes. The mainstage and Herbst selections are subject to change.

Poetic Medley with Poetri at The Loft Theatre

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Tony Award winner Poetri will headline the April 1 production of The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show at the Loft Theatre.

Tony Award winner Poetri will headline the April 1 production of The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show at the Loft Theatre.

Oral Funk Poetry Productions is launching its fourth season of “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” in a new venue, The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St.

“We’re so excited to be producing our fourth season at The Loft Theatre,” said Sierra Leone of Oral Funk Poetry Productions. “Our new home has more seating for our shows, which often sell out, and allows us to kicks up the performance a notch thanks to access to more professional production equipment and capabilities in the theater. It also allows us to learn from the professionals at The Human Race Theatre Company.”

The season opening performance will be held from 9 to 11 p.m. Friday, April 1, at The Loft Theater. Tickets cost $15 in advance and are available at www.ticketcenterstage.com or by calling 937-228-3830. Tickets at the door cost $20. A cocktail reception will be held in the theater lobby from 8:30 to 9 p.m.

“We are pleased to co-present The Signature at The Loft Theatre,” said Human Race Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore. “It’s a wonderful way to expand both of our audiences and to make good use of downtown’s most intimate and comfortable entertainment space ― The Loft Theatre.”

Poetri, Tony Award-winner and HBO Def Jam poet, will headline the show with a presentation of original material in which he infuses comedy and spoken word to discuss universal issues, such as relationships and money. Known as “the poet rock star,” Poetri has worked with such legends as Curtis Mayfield, Bootsy Collins and Nona Hendrix, as well as such contemporary stars as Tyler Perry , LL Cool J,  Rosario Dawson, Jessie Dylan and Malcolm-Jamal Warner. He was one of the first poets to win a Tony Award for his own material on Broadway for Def Poetry Jam, and recently, President Barack Obama invited Poetri to attend the first spoken word event at the White House.

Poetri’s TV appearances include The Oprah Winfrey Show, Tyler Perry’s House of Pain and Bones, and he also has appeared in popular movies, such as Blades of Glory and Yes Man. Poetri has written and appeared in more than 150 commercials for such clients as Subway, Gatorade, Nike, NFL Films, BET and Arby’s, and he worked with the Black Eyed Peas on a series of award-winning online digisodes for Snickers called “InstantDef.” In addition, Poetri is one of the founders of one of the largest weekly poetry venues in the nation, which attracts more than 350 people every Tuesday.

Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. also will be a featured performer during The Signature.

The evening’s other featured performer will be vocalist and spoken word artists Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D., who blends spoken word, hip-hop, blues and jazz into her work, which makes light of heartache and encourages people to grow from life’s pains and challenges. A Chicago native who now lives in Atlanta, her performance is a mix of Southern sass and Windy City wit.

Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. has performed in cities throughout the United States, released several spoken word albums, and written and appeared in two independent films. She is a cast member of The Coochie Chronicles, a spoken-word AIDS awareness stage play based in Cincinnati, and currently is touring with Georgia Me Presents Adam’s Rib, sharing the stage with Tony- and Emmy award-winning poet Georgia Me, as well as nationally known poets Tasha Jones and M’Reld Green. In addition, Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. has coached acting and public speaking to young people for the past seven years, and her students have won several awards and hold three Illinois state championships. She also volunteers with Ayudagente, which helps feed Atlanta’s homeless community, and she sponsors charitable showcases to benefit Aniz Inc., which works to combat AIDS/HIV in the African American community.

Also during the event, El Coats and the Funk Point will perform a melting pot of rhythm and blues with a neo-soul twist, and Columbus Slam poet Will Evans will be the guest emcee.

The theme for the fourth season of The Signature is “What Does It Mean to Be a Poet?” Other performance dates include June 17 and Aug. 15. The season will culminate with the third annual Regional Academic and Cultural Collaborative (RACC), which spotlights urban arts and entertainment while giving Dayton-area students an opportunity to connect with some of the industry’s top names. The first two RACC events brought in hip-hop heavyweights Common and Lupe to discuss their work.

During its first three seasons, “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” featured local and national poets, musicians, actors, vocalists, dancers and visual artists presenting numerous forms of self-expression ― often to sold-out crowds. In late 2010, Oral Funk Poetry Productions took its show on the road as part of a planned expansion to produce The Signature in other Ohio cities. Its first venture outside of Dayton was a mid-November show and related events in Toledo. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/thesignatureofpp.

DAI’s New Must See Exhibit – “Creating the New Century”

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John Alexander - Ship of Fools

John Alexander - "Ship of Fools"

The Dayton Art Institute has a new exhibit that opens tomorrow (3/12/2011) called “Creating the New Century” – an amazing collection of 70 pieces created by 69 different artists after the year 2000 in a wide range of styles and techniques.  The collection is owned by James F. Dicke II – an Ohio businessman and artist himself (who also sits on the DAI Board of Trustees), and it includes several thought-provoking works that deal with modern-day social and political issues, along with many whimsical pieces that are simply fun to take in.

The exhibit has been put together masterfully by DAI in the special exhibit wing of the museum, and it includes several video displays featuring interviews with the artists themselves as well as QR Codes by ScanDayton.com that link visitors with smartphones to additional videos and information about individual works.  The exhibit is free for DAI members, $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors, and it runs through July 10, 2011.

What makes this exhibit exciting is the collection itself – an eclectic mix of paintings, drawings and sculptures with a modern vibe that contrasts greatly with the more historic pieces that many have come to expect at DAI.  I was able to preview the exhibit this past Wednesday and was amazed – especially after listening to John Alexander (an artist whose work “Ship of Fools” is part of the collection) and Ellie Bronson – the author of the exhibit catalog.  Hearing the stories behind the art really completes the experience, and I encourage visitors to check out the videos and smartphone guides as they tour the exhibit.  Below are just a few examples of what you’ll see… and when you check out the exhibit yourself we’d love to hear your thoughts here.  Bravo to DAI’s new Director/CEO Janice Driesbach and the rest of her team – you’ve put together a winner!

Will Cotton - "Candy Curls"

Will Cotton - "Candy Curls"

Marilyn Minter - "Bloodshot"

Marilyn Minter - "Bloodshot"

Inka Essenhigh - "Spring"

Inka Essenhigh - "Spring"

Disclaimer – DAI has a paid banner ad for “Creating The New Century” on DaytonMostMetro.com

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 03/10 – 03/23

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THURSDAY, MARCH 10 – WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23

Eurydice: Cedarville University

Eurydice: Cedarville University (Photo Credit Charlee Hoffman)

“Do you happen to know where the lighting gels are?” I called out to the scenic charge as I fumbled around in the dark closets backstage. She didn’t, so it was very exciting when I actually found the box, which i immediately pulled front of house to choose colors to light the underworld scenes for Eurydice.

Aside from the adventure of precariously exploring backstage and the basement of a very old theatre, I was reminded just how much I love theatre. Designing lights for an older theatre with gels hidden deep in mysterious closets at first overwhelmed me, but now, as I work to accomplish my vision, I feel a certain excitement at the opportunity to splash color onstage and help people understand this play I love so much. David Mamet tells readers in Theatre that the task of a play is to help audience members understand it better and derive more from it than they would simply by reading the words. When I consider that, even the times I’m frustrated by old lights or missing gels, I remember the power of theatre. (And, finally finding those gels was very fulfilling.)

Seeing plays can be just as exhilarating. Whether you’re sitting in in or standing in front of the audience, theatre is magical. Where else can you so deeply learn something without sitting in a classroom, or have conversations without speaking face-to-face? I’m glad to live in an area that supports that influence, with the opportunity to see at least one show somewhere on any given weekend. So, be a part of that these next two weeks and come to one of these wonderful performances.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS NOT TO MISS

Mid-Life: the Crisis MusicalMid-Life Crisis: The Musical

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE: EDGE OF THE CREEK

The Story: Turning 40, the biological clock, mammograms, love handles, kids that don’t leave home, proctology exams… this show, in a series of scenes and sketches, covers it all in a comic and sometimes poignant look at the trials and tribulations of mid-life.
Dates: March 11 – March 20
Tickets and More Information: 429-4737, [email protected], or Beavercreek Community Theatre

Beyond Therapy

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Manhattanites Prudence and Bruce, both seeking stable romantic relationships with their psychiatrists’ help, place personal ads. After a disastrous meeting, the two flee back to their respective therapists, who may just be more troubled than their patients. Although Prudence and Bruce overcome their mutual loathing, in true Durang fashion, the chaos doesn’t end.
Dates: March 11 – March 20
Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Beyond Therapy

VTA & HRTC: Drowsy ChaperoneThe Drowsy Chaperone

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION & HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: Originally a spoof of old musicals as a bachelor party gift, and now a Tony Award winning classic, HRTC produces this hilarious show at the historic Victoria Theatre. Narrated by a Man in Chair, this story shows the glamor and uproar of a celebrity bride’s upcoming wedding, all supervised by her “drowsy” (tipsy) chaperone!
Dates: March 8-20 – Performance Times Vary (click for details)
Tickets: 937-228-3630, 888-228-3630, or Ticket Center Stage
More Information: DMM Preview, Human Race Theatre: Drowsy Chaperone

…ONE NIGHT ONLY

Eurydice

CU: Eurydice

(Photo Credit: Charlee Hoffman)

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY: Alford Auditorium

The Story: Eurydice dies tragically on her wedding day and journeys to the underworld, where she reunites with her beloved father but yearns to remember her lost love; her husband, Orpheus, struggles to find her. Inspired by the voices of Lewis Carroll and Sigmund Freud, playwright Sarah Ruhl beautifully and tragically explores a timeless story of love and loss.
Date: March 19, 2011, at 8:00 pm
Tickets: Admission is free – so arrive early to ensure good seating.
More Information: Cedarville University campus map , Facebook event , and watch for a preview article 🙂

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Big Fat Concert Series: Volume 2 – I Feel So Much Spring – Seasons and Celebrations

ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

Auditions: March 13, 2011, 3 – 6 pm (sign up for ten-minute time slot; see link below)
Performances: April 29-30, 2011 – The Color of Energy Gallery, Oregon District
The Basics: This thrilling evening of song and storytelling will include selections from the most innovative and exciting new musical theatre writing teams (such as Salzman & Cunningham, Ryan Scott Oliver, and Kyle Jarrow – plus local Dayton-based writers).
More Information: Encore Theater Company

~KN

YPs Lead Effort to Enliven Downtown Storefronts With Art, New Businesses

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The Activated Spaces project team leaders met for lunch at Carmen's Deli downtown to discuss their strategies for enlivening the city's street-level spaces.

The Activated Spaces project team leaders met for lunch at Carmen's Deli downtown to discuss their strategies for enlivening the city's storefronts.

When it comes to revitalizing downtown, Dayton-area young professionals are stepping up to the plate glass window.

Members of Generation Dayton and updayton, organizations that empower and engage young professionals, are leading a new project called Activated Spaces. This project is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown.

“We are so excited these young professionals have developed and are leading this important effort,” said Dr. Michael Ervin, co-chair of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan. “Creating a center city that attracts young professionals is an important goal of the Plan, so having Generation Dayton and updayton members implement the Activated Spaces project certainly helps meet that goal.”

Activated Spaces is aimed at giving new life to vacant street-level commercial space, particularly for arts and cultural purposes. Already, project leaders are seeking proposals from artists who would like to display their work in storefront windows.

“Updayton got involved with Activated Spaces because we’ve heard over and over from young people that a bustling downtown is extremely important to them,” said Scott Murphy, chair of updayton. “We see making downtown more beautiful and vibrant as a critical effort to attracting and retaining talented young people in the Dayton region.”

Activated Spaces has three main goals:

•          reactivate and beautify vacant storefronts with creative displays
•          encourage entrepreneurs, artists and community groups to occupy space for short- and long-term use
•          showcase downtown properties and increase interest and investment in available downtown space

“In the short term, we want to turn ‘vacant’ to ‘vibrant’ as now-empty storefronts begin to fill with interesting things to see and do along the corridors that connect downtown’s assets,” said Shanon Potts, immediate past chair of Generation Dayton. “In the long term, we would like to see the overall vacancy rate for downtown office space be on par with its current residential vacancy rate, for which demand nearly always exceeds supply.”

Activated Spaces been organized into three teams, all intended to improve the overall look and feel of downtown while reactivating vacant spaces in the short and long terms. They are:

Generation Dayton and updayton members are working to enliven windows such as these with local art that celebrates Dayton.

Generation Dayton and updayton members are working to enliven windows such as these with local art that celebrates Dayton.

Street Level Team

This team will fill vacant storefronts with visual displays that promote downtown assets. The themed displays will be refreshed approximately every six months. The first installation theme is “Celebrating Dayton,” in which artists are asked to create pieces that visually demonstrate Dayton’s heritage and diversity. Interested artists should apply by 5 p.m. Friday, March 25, and art will be installed prior to the next Urban Nights on May 13. Click here for more information or contact Sherri Wierzba at [email protected] or 937-224-1518, ext. 226. The Celebrating Dayton art installation is funded by updatyon and the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

Activate Spaces Team

This team will develop a program for short-term stores to open in now-vacant spaces. The temporary stores could be pop-up retail shops, seasonal shops or testing grounds for entrepreneurs. In the long term, this team hopes to fill space with permanent tenants and retailers.

Open for Business Team

This team will focus on short- and long-term business strategies and other initiatives that will fill now-vacant space with new businesses activity downtown. To do so, this team will partner with local colleges and universities to create an engaging learning exercise for students in business programs. The team also will partner with emerging business owners and entrepreneurs who would like to open downtown.

Volunteers now are developing detailed short- and long-term goals and estimated project budgets. Those interested in getting involved should e-mail [email protected].

“We’ve also heard walkability is extremely important to young, creative professionals, and we believe filling downtown storefronts will strengthen walking connections, as people are more likely to walk when the paths look inviting and friendly,” Murphy said. “The Activated Spaces project also will be a great vehicle for showcasing local artists and a chance for creative people and emerging leaders to step forward to help the Dayton region.”


Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for creating a more vibrant center city.

Similar initiatives in other cities successfully have met the goals of Activated Spaces and are being used as models for the efforts in downtown Dayton. However, Dayton’s project is distinct in at least two regards: It’s being led by young professionals and is comprised of three teams working in a coordinated fashion toward the same overall goal of improving their city’s urban core.

“Our organization is full of next-generation leaders who are civic-minded and want to make a difference for the better in our community,” Potts said. “Activated Spaces enables them to combine their desire to make a difference with their interest in the development of downtown.”

CEDAR RAPIDS Opens + Much More at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

It’s time for the first of this year’s Sundance hits – Ed Helms in CEDAR RAPIDS. This comedy has received numerous raves, and we think our audience might be in the mood for some lighter fare. Joe Morgenstern of The Wall Street Journal wrote, “The main thing about Cedar Rapids is that it makes you laugh – often and out loud.” The cast is superb – Ed Helms, John C. Reilly, Anne Heche, Isiah Whitlock Jr., and Sigourney Weaver…and we hope you’ll support it.

BARNEY’S VERSION has continued to perform well, and it will stick around. In addition, we will hold BIUTIFUL for one screening a day. That said, both of these films will more than likely only play for one more week – as we plan to open I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS on March 18. If you still need to see RABBIT HOLE, Thursday (3/10) will be your last chance to see it at THE NEON.

Synopsis for CEDAR RAPIDS: “To call insurance agent Tim Lippe, ‘naive’ is a gross understatement. He’s never left his small hometown. He’s never stayed at a hotel. And he’s never experienced anything like Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Sent to represent his company at the annual insurance convention, Tim is soon distracted by three convention veterans who will show him the ropes and push his boundaries. For a guy who plays everything by the book, this convention will be anything but conventional.” – Fox Searchlight Pictures
OFFICIAL SITE

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

On Wednesday, March 16 at 7:30pm, Cityfolk’s Culture Builds Community program will present a FREE screening of RIZE – “including a talk session following the film with CBC artists Big Mijo and Hurricane, co-creators of krump dance. David LaChapelle’s spectacular 1995 documentary film captures the emergence of the hip-hop dance style known as krump. In the wake of the 1992 Los Angeles riots, this kinetic, high energy dance emerged as a cathartic release for Tommy “The Clown” Johnson and dozens of his cohorts. As LaChapelle weaves the stories of Johnson and his fellow creators, dancers perform a jaw-dropping array of moves in a delirious mixture of fun, intensity and raw release.” (taken from press notes)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ql-50Mc5bmU&feature=fvst’]

Last year marked the first time that THE FOUND FOOTAGE FESTIVAL made a stop in Dayton. Folks loved the show, the fellas are on the road again. On Sunday, March 20 at 7:30, THE FOUND FOOTAGE FESTIVAL will return to THE NEON with a new batch of material. Visit the official website to find out more about the show . Advanced tickets ($11 each) are only available on-line by visiting this LINK.

THE 11th DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL is just around the corner. Screenings at THE NEON begin on Thursday, March 24th…but the festival has even more events and screenings around town. To see a list of titles, screening venues, showtimes and ticket details, visit this link .
Here are the films that will screen at THE NEON:
Thursday, March 24 at 7:10 – AJAMI
Sunday, March 27 at 5:15 – THE YANKLES
Tuesday, March 29 at 9:30am – AHEAD OF TIME
Wednesday, March 30 at 7:10 – IMAGINE THIS
Sunday, April 3 at 3:00 – WHERE I STAND: THE HAND GREENSPUN STORY
Sunday, April 3 at 7:10 – NORA’S WILL
Wednesday, April 6 at 7:10 – A MATTER OF SIZE
Thursday, April 7 at 7:10 – JEWS & BASEBALL: AN AMERICAN LOVE STORY

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWW35v1jCak&playnext=1&list=PLFDD2C175FFE9085E’]

BIG NEWS!!! Tickets for the March 26 screening of the documentary NORTH DIXIE DRIVE have SOLD OUT! That said, THE NEON has booked additional screenings. Advanced tickets are now available for April 1, 2 & 3 at 1pm, and tickets are just $5. “North Dixie Drive is the portrait of a small community of businesses and people residing in the Northridge section of Dayton, OH. It is the story of big time wrestlers, mechanics, a donut salesmen, an eccentric country singer, barbers, exotic dancers and car repo men. This collection of people, from all walks of life, live and work around a traffic circle situated along highway I-75, and fight to keep their lives and careers afloat in a failing economy. This debut film by Brooklyn, NY filmmaker Eric Mahoney showcases an off beat group of characters in today’s Middle America.” (taken from website) You can see a trailer and read more about the film by visiting the official site by clicking this link.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoH26ARkeUs’]

We just added a bunch of new titles…and they’re exciting! Check out our list below!

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for March 11 – March 17:

CEDAR RAPIDS (R) 1 Hr 27 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:30

BIUTIFUL (R) 2 Hr 28 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:00

BARNEY’S VERSION (R) 2 Hr 14 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:30, 7:20, 9:50
Monday & Tuesday: 4:50, 7:40
Wednesday: 4:50
Thursday: 4:50, 7:40

RIZE (PG-13) 1 Hr 26 Min + Discussion
Wednesday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.  In some cases, titles may disappear.
March 18 I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS
April 8 OF GODS AND MEN
April 15 WIN WIN
April 15 or 22 JANE EYRE
May 6 WINTER IN WARTIME
May 13 THE GREATEST MOVIE EVER SOLD
May 20 IN A BETTER WORLD (**Winner of “Best Foreign Film”**)
TBD POTICHE (One of my “Top 5” from Toronto)
TBD – late March/early April? – SOMEWHERE
TBD – late March/early April? – TINY FURNITURE

Mixed Rep, Mixed Results

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Dance Reviews

Dayton Ballet – Streetcar Named Desire

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company – In The Spirit Of:  The Spirit Within

As a lover of dance in all of its incarnations, my passion for the art will compel me to seek out every performance that I can find, fit into my schedule and afford. I am owning up to my addiction to dance.

When I discovered that both Dayton Ballet and Dayton Contemporary Dance Company were both performing, I felt like I scored the biggest fix of my life. Now after my weekend binge, standing in the light of the rising sun  I realize that it was not a particularly great batch of…

Part of the pleasure of dance addiction is the almost perverse visceral joy you get by parading your addiction in public. The ritualistic anticipation of the heavy velvet curtain rising to  expose a portal to a world of incredible aesthetic beauty inhabited by  beings possessing  an invigorating super human physicality, what a rush.

The captivating elements of theatricality and music combined with choreographed movement that when it works can leave you breathless.  Addiction is about extremes and so I make no apologies for wanting the experience to elevate me.

Dayton Ballet – Streetcar Named Desire

At the Dayton Ballet performance of Streetcar Named Desire and mixed repertory program was the beginning of my “lost” dance weekend, the curtain rose on the first ballet, Freudian Slip. A quartet of ballerinas in gray athletic cut mini dresses with pink  under-skirts was the perfect opening work, a delightful minor ballet that provided just enough of an initial rush for the ballet addiction to kick in.

The crisscrossing patterns accented by losses of ballet decorum, movement hiccups that hinted at a desire to break free, was danced by Erika Cole, Erica Lehman, Halliet Slack and Annalise Woller with a subtle precision. I get the sense that the choreographer Mrs. Russo Burke, wants to not play it so safe. I question what is holding her back, more on that later.

This was followed by a presentation of the centerpiece of the evening, a ballet interpretation of Streetcar Named Desire, Tennessee Williams seminal drama of lust, brutality, and madness interpreted by the choreography of Mrs. Russo Burke.

The ballet for the most part contained some interesting choreographic passages that effectively portrayed the relationships of the central characters, Stella, Blanche and Stanley.  But as the ballet progressed I felt as if the underlying salient sexual tension, which is truly integral to Blanche and her falling into the pit of madness had been stripped away and neutered. I felt sorry for the plight of this Blanche but not devastated for her.

Choreographically, the Pas de deux between Stella and Stanley, (beautifully danced by Erika Cole and Justin Michael Koertgen) set us up perfectly for what is the lynch pin of the play, the sexual brutalization of Blanche at the hands of Stanley. And somehow this was woefully underplayed.

Might I suggest that if this is going to be a part of the repertory of Dayton Ballet under Mrs. Russo Burke’s direction that some time is taken to rework this ballet and give it some teeth.  This is one dangerous sexy beast of a story that should make us more than a little uncomfortable.  I know it is possible because Mrs. Russo Burke provided us the underlying reason for Blanche’s descent into madness (husband is a closet case and commits suicide) and to display that choreographically was a bold decision.

This was an intimate chamber drama that played more like a Sophia Coppola film, a drama that skirts around the dark matters of the heart when it should have played like the first “Godfather” film, going straight for the visceral sucker punch.

And then came Five Flights Up, a work whose charms utterly failed to inflict its mojo on me. I desperately wanted to like this ballet. The dancers tirelessly gave an energetic performance of the choreography set to songs by the Squirrel Nut Zippers. I was completely in their corner, yet it did nothing for me.

All of the elements were there like a choreographic shopping list’ Fun music, check, cheeky partnering sections, check, colorful costumes, check. As the ballet progressed I kept waiting for it to get better as if the high would kick in soon.  Wait? Had I gotten a hold of a bag of mediocre dance “chronic”? The choreography played it way too safe. I love repetition and developing a phrase of movement material that resurfaces through out a piece, but to what end if the ballet fails to deliver as a piece of great entertainment?  I just could not get past its lackluster construction.

“Basics” like the other ballets on the program hinted at the possibilities what this ballet company could deliver; strong and committed dancing, they could lose some of the rigidity in their upper backs and necks.

A word of advice to Mrs. Russo Burke, as one of my local dance “dealers” In the future I am looking for the best buzz that I can get from being in the audience for a live dance concert, delight me, scare me and don’t be afraid to turn me on. I will do my job to get others hooked on your artistic stuff.  Quit diluting your stash, The buzz never fully kicked in when it should have.

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company – In The Spirit Of : The Spirit within

In The Spirit Of : The Spirit within… A cacophonous celebration of dance and gospel music reminded me of church sermons from when I was growing up. The perfunctory duties were up front, shout out to the infirmed, a few hymns sung, passing the collection plate   and as the service progressed it finally got to the point of why we were there, a reaffirmation of our faith. The big fiery sermon by a dynamic and captivating pastor was the big payoff.  Like the sermons from my childhood we had to witness a lot of  perfunctory stuff to get to the big payoff of this concert as well.

Because of my professed dance addictions, this was the perfect scenario. Contemporary dance and gospel music on a Sunday afternoon; what a way to make up for the mild buzz from the Dayton Ballet performance on Friday and great buzz from the Encore Theatre Company presentation on Saturday, “Hot Mess in Manhattan”, How could one not be elated after that workshop performance.

I walked into the Masonic Temple eager for a fix.  I knew I was in for an ebullient performance from the company, they have reliably delivered that kind of performance every time before.

The first half of the show contained many individual moments from the quiet beauty of Crystal Michelle’s choreography, the unified and beautiful dancing of the second company of DCDC and the strength of  the authoritative choreography of William McClellan Jr. Yet I was left with the sense that this was not the strongest presentation of this dance company’s singular skills.  As the stylish lady who sat next to me tersely asked, “What is this?”

The second half to the show delivered what the first half the show could not; Art that was also entertaining and uplifting.  From the incredible marriage of choreography and music that was The Central State Men’s Choir and Shonna Hickman Matlock and William McClellan Jr. to the soul stirring sound of Shirley Murdoch and the raise the roof finale (Special shout out to our greatest natural resource, Sheri Williams), I felt the salvation of a masterful sermon about the spiritual power of dance. It was worth the wait but waiting for a fix is never the most comfortable situation to be in.

As with Dayton Ballet, I am sending you a similar but different message Mrs. Blunden-Diggs, make sure that everything that you send out on stage transports the audience to the next level and I will do everything in my power to help get people hooked, but all your stuff has to truly be world class.



WSU Winter Dance Concert 2011

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WSU Winter Dance Concert 2011How often do you get an opportunity to see the work of locally and nationally renowned Choreographers as danced by young and promising dancers? In Dayton you have the opportunity at least once a year, which is what makes the upcoming Wright State Dance Ensemble concert a must see.

Included in this exciting program are the work of Adam Hougland, chosen by Dance Magazine as one of the 25 artists to watch in 2011, to the works of former Dayton Ballet Dancer, Justin Gibbs and former DCDC dancer Gina Walther, both are now professors at Wright State guiding the next generation of great dancers from our region. Add to this mix is the choreographic work of the amazing Susie Payne, WSU alum and all around terrific lady. This a great chance to see her work before she makes her choreographic debut at Dayton Ballet later in the month for their New Works New Music competition, for which she is a finalist.

WSU Winter Dance Concert 2011

New works performed by Dayton Ballet II & DCDC2,  choreographed by Abigail Beam and Rodney Brown respectively, all add to one of the best dance concert offerings in my opinion.

An added bonus is the piece choreographed by  Gina Walther to excerpts of Leonard Bernstein’s  celebrated Mass. This is a exhilarating collaboration between the Dayton Philharmonic and the Theatre, Dance and Music department of WSU.

All of this for ten dollars makes this is the best artistic bargain in town. It does not get any better than this! This is must see dance programming that you should not miss.  I will be there on Saturday, see if you can spot me, swing by and say hello.

WSU WINTER DANCE CONCERT 2011

March 10-13    Adults/$10, Students/$5

Box Office:  937.775.2500

Film Review – Barney’s Version (A-)

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Barney’s Version
@ The Neon
March 3, 2011
Grade: A-

Of course Paul Giamatti (Sideways, Cinderella Man) plays Barney Panofsky, the hero of Barney’s Version. If you ever find yourself in need of an actor to dominate a role that calls for an insecure, self destructive, witty, snarky, alcoholic, Giamatti should be at the top of your list.

Barney's First Marriage

At first, it seems as though Barney is cursed. The movie begins with an older Barney. Seemingly innocent, lonely and depressed. Shortly thereafter, the audience is surprisingly and refreshingly shown a young, vibrant Barney about to begin his first of three failed marriages. When this first marriage ends tragically, I thought, “Is this just going to be a series of unfortunate events that results in a beaten down man?” As the story progresses, however, it becomes apparent that Barney is a ticking time bomb, too paranoid or drunk to realize that he doesn’t have it half bad. Because his insecurities and paranoia will not allow him to accept his good fortune, Barney inevitably self destructs.

The source of Barney’s neuroses probably stem from the fact that the women and friends with which he surrounds himself are infinitely more beautiful and well-liked than he. A fact that loudly pronounces itself to Barney when his third wife, Miriam (Rosamund Pike), who is the only of his three wives he actually loves, announces that she needs a week to herself. What should have been a harmless week apart for a long-married couple with two grown children plagues Barney. While Miriam is away, Barney’s insecurities come bubbling up as his mind attacks itself with thoughts of losing the best part of his life. In response to imagined dangers, Barney launches a very real preemptive strike that destroys his final marriage.

Barney’s Version is actually quite lighthearted and humorous despite the personal hells that the audience experiences alongside Barney. Much of the humor is provided by Barney’s father, played by Dustin Hoffman. Hoffman is as likable as always and serves as an example to Barney of what life can be like if you allow yourself to enjoy it. The two are more friends than father-son and Barney  seems to be at his happiest when in the company of his dad.

The final tragedy Barney endures, the progression of Alzheimer’s that robs him of his charm and wit, at first seemed like a throw-in to me. Like an unnecessary evil that the audience could have done without. But, as some time has passed since I saw Barney’s Version, I find myself rethinking that stance. I’m wondering now if that terrible disease finally gave Barney’s brain a rest. A chance to let the self-loathing evaporate and to allow Barney to simply observe, rather than destroy.

Whether the Alzheimer’s was relevant or not, Barney’s Version is tremendously entertaining thanks in large part to Giamatti who convincingly conveys decades of a complicated man’s life.

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Silverbacks Season Opener at Hara Arena a Smashing Success

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Dayton SilverbacksThe Dayton Silverbacks where off to a smashing start in their season opener at Hara Arena against the Indianapolis Enforcers, Saturday March 5, 2011. This was also the Silverbacks first game at their new Hara Arena field since moving from Hobart Arena in Troy, OH after three seasons. (see opening game photos here and watch game video at the bottom of this post)

The Dayton Silverbacks are the longest running Professional Indoor Football team in the Midwest and have been a member of the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL) for the past five years.

The fast pace, high impact, arena style football is sure to keep you on your toes and fully engaged with nonstop action from beginning to end.

Dayton Silverbacks Cheerleader - Natasha Yoho

Natasha Yoho

Natasha Yoho, thirteen year veteran cheerleader, is in her first season with the Silverbacks and could not be happier. Natasha stated, “I am very excited to cheer for the Silverbacks. It’s a new team for me and we [Silverbabes] practice seven hours a week to make sure we are bringing lots of energy and smiles to the fans. We love interacting with them and pumping up the crowd for the team.” The Silverbabes sponsored the raffle prizes, halftime games and activities for the Silverbacks for Saturday night’s game.

Jeff Kolaczkowski, President and Owner of Dayton Silverbacks stated, “The move from Troy to Dayton was a positive one, because it moved a lot of the players closer to their families and we expect to draw larger crowds since there will be less of a commute to see them play.”

Jeff added, “Tonight’s crowd turnout was a bit disappointing, but we will be increasing our marketing efforts to change that around. We are still working out some of the kinks with the move, but tonight was a great game, because whenever you win it’s a good game.” The Silverbacks led the Enforcers 50-13 at the half.

Although the Silverbacks maintained a marginal lead throughout the game, they had a quiet second half until late in the fourth quarter with six minutes and fourteen seconds to go in regulation. Wide Receiver, Marcus Fails, scored a touchdown to get the fans standing to their feet and cheering once again.

Dayton Silverbacks Wide Receiver - Daniel Stover

WR Daniel Stover

All five Wide Receivers for the Silverbacks scored at least one touchdown in the game. Kicker Jeff Hubbard opened the second half of the game with a seamless 21 yard field goal, Defensive Back, Chris Respress had two interceptions, and player of the game and Wide Receiver Daniel Stover scored three touchdowns to crush the Enforcers 69-19.

Stover stated, “We have been working hard and it’s real easy to get open with good players. Everything worked out, no one stood out, and there are no weak links in our chain. Our chain is stronger than ever. The common denominator of this team is that we all want to win.”

Silverbacks Wide Receiver, Mike Brown, who sat out in the season opener due to injury added, “This team has made a complete 180 and I can’t wait to get back out there. Our offense put up points bottom line. Our defense held their offense to less than 20 points and that was a complete team effort.”

Brown is hopeful that he will be well enough to play by next home game.

Dayton Silverbacks Coach Shepard

Coach Shepard

Coach Derrick Shepard, who is in his third season with the Silverbacks, is pleased with the win and the energy of the team; however, Shepard believes there is room for improvement from the players. Shepard commented, “Good job to all that put up points, but we all have room for improvement. A whole bunch of little ME’s makes one big team.”

When Shepard was asked what he expected from the Silverbacks this season he stated, “I expect to go all the way. Every coach would love to go all the way. Realistically, I would like them to walk away being a better player. If they become better players, then it was a successful season and I would be happy with that.”

Kevin Bukvik, Marketing and Community Representative for the Silverbacks, speaks to their community outreach efforts off the field by stating, “When I first came on board with the Silverbacks, I did not know if the guy’s egos would be a problem. But when I was first asked by the players when would we be going out to the schools to read to the kids, I realized there was not a whole lot of convincing I had to do. I guess they just get it. They are an awesome group of guys and are so down to earth. I love working with them.”

You can catch the Dayton Silverbacks in action at their next home game at Hara Arena as they square off against the Cincinnati Commandos Saturday April 2nd at 7:30 pm. For more information on how to obtain tickets visit www.silverbacksfootball.com or call 937-425-8050.

Friends really can drop out of the sky!

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Imagine a warm summer day in July— you are shucking corn on your dairy farm when without warning, an old wood and fabric airplane just misses your silo and lands on your hay field…. followed by yet another antique flying machine.  What do you do?  If you are a young lad, you race toward these colorful contraptions and the brave souls piloting them screaming, “Wow! Cool!”

This scene was a common occurrence thousands of times throughout the Midwest in the 1920s and 30s, but it was not common at all when two such gypsy pilots “dropped in” unannounced on the Dirksen family’s farm in nearby Winchester, Indiana in 1999.

That accidental meeting between those bonded to the earth and those bonded to the sky initiated an annual fly-in that now features nearly a dozen vintage aircraft (plus local vintage automobiles to complete the ambience) and close to 200 neighbors, friends, and family… and as the documentary film Barnstorming celebrates, just showing up makes you part of the family.

We have the added value of witnessing something so special happening here in our own area.  The film features local landmarks and local individuals, and I find it particularly poignant that this annual celebration of flying at its most basic— wind in the wires, leather flying helmets, goggles, and silk scarves trailing in the slipstream— takes place just a short drive from the big iron at USAF Museum and the regular, unremarkable commercial flights in and out of Dayton International Airport.  Flying has long ceased being romantic because there is nothing romantic about being body-searched and crammed into an Airbus like clowns in a circus car.  But to hop into an open-cockpit Waco for a free spin around the patch? Simpler times indeed, and a smile guaranteed.

One of the pilots observes, “flying gives you an entirely different perspective, not only on the world but on life.” From 1,000 feet, the Midwest looks much the same as it did to the original barnstormers nearly 100 years ago.  There are many parts of our collective American mythology that, once we have studied the facts, we should be glad are gone forever.  This documentary, shot in a visually charming unpretentious style with a lovely soundtrack to match, is a timely reminder that there are some parts of Americana past that embody an innocence for which we have every right to wax nostalgic.

The title of the motion picture pays homage to those daring barnstormers of yesteryear—the pilots in this story are even prone to asking “WWWD?” What Would Waldo (Pepper) Do?— but Barnstorming is definitely not just for propeller-heads like this author.

The children in the film are as integral to this story as the pilots because both groups share the wonder of flight.  The sheer joy of the Dirksen kids straining their eyes skyward in unconstrained anticipation of the annual return of the airplanes to their farm is itself worth the price of admission.  As one very young girl asserts matter-of-factly, “I’ll just go in the sky.” And because the sky is so much larger than our television sets, this film demands to be seen on the big screen.

Barnstorming plays at the Little Art Theatre in Yellow Springs at 4:00pm Saturday, March 12.  For those of us without hayfields welcoming the gypsy pilots, this will be as close as we get to experiencing the “Wow! Cool!” of our own private air show.

Thomas Girvin is a local screenwriter and film professor who flies modern day light aircraft in real life and open-cockpit biplanes in his dreams.

God’s War: Bug Punk and Bel Dames

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God’s War starts with an intriguing first line, preparing the reader for a brutal ride:

“Nyx sold her womb somewhere between Punjai and Faleen, on the edge of the desert.”

Local author Kameron Hurley tells a dystopian tale of female assassins set in a terrifyingly harsh world of bugs, magicians and religious wars.

Nyx, a female bounty hunter, finds herself in too deep when she takes an assassination note for a missing alien who might be the key to ending the perpetual war in her land.

The inventive and dark story is Hurley’s first published novel and the first of a planned trilogy.

Bloodlines

Bel dames are the thread for the ambitious story. Most people envision a strikingly beautiful woman, but Hurley borrowed the term from ancient Assyrian/Babylonians, which actually means blood avenger. God’s War follows Nyx unflinching through a world of intense, ongoing religious wars, where bugs are both technology and food.

“A lot of what I researched is driven by fascination. There is some terrifying imagery in the Bible. Those Old Testament Bible stories are utterly violent. Heads are chopped off and they are burning people…and as I’m reading, I’m thinking, this is awesome!”

“I really wanted an Old Testament feel for God’s War. I read a lot of accounts of Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Ancient Babylonia and Assyria—really getting into a different world view than my own,” said Hurley.

The bug research came from real world experience as well, since Hurley lived in South Africa for a year and a half, in a home overrun with bugs.

“I thought, what if this was normal? How could you leverage them? They use hornets to sniff out explosives in some places. What if bugs could be controlled and utilized in otherworld technology? I took these little nuggets of what happened in the real world and extrapolated it out.”

Next Up

Publishers Weekly calls Hurley’s world-building “phenomenal, with casual references to insectile technology and the world’s history that provide atmosphere without info dumps.” As weighty as the book is, the sensory feel is rich, deep, and at times overwhelming. The main characters—deeply scarred and caustic—can be brought to mind long after the book is finished.

Hurley has mentioned Zuleikha Robinson (Ilana in Lost) as an appropriate choice to play Nyx in a movie version of God’s War.

“Then when I saw Isaiah Mustafa [from the Old Spice commercials] I thought, he could play Rhys. Absolutely!”

It would be fascinating to see two traditionally beautiful people abused and scarred as Nyx and Rhys. The entomophobics among us would cringe at the idea of millions of CGI created bugs populating the movie—but using the real thing would both break the bank and freak people out.

With one book under her belt and more slotted, Hurley has three full time jobs—a marketing and advertising writer in Dayton, promoting and marketing God’s War, and writing and editing her next books.

“I’m not a plot person. It’s on my list of things to do. I start with the different characters and settings and the rest is the process of discovery. I also don’t let myself play World of Warcraft online until the draft is done.”

A self-defined late adopter, Hurley doesn’t own an e-reader yet, but her fans clamored for God’s War in a digital format. Sci-fi and fantasy readers are often ahead of the curve in technology, so it’s no surprise that the book is in demand for e-readers.

“I’ll always have printed books. They are definitely a good thing. But digital publishing will be great in the long run.”

Book two and Hurley’s next novel, Infidel, is slated for a December 2011 release. Building on its success, she is hopeful Night Shade Books, her publisher, will pick up the third book, Babylon.

Visit Kameron at www.KameronHurley.com. God’s War can be purchased from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Borders.

Javier Bardem in BIUTIFUL Opens + Our Oscar Success!

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Hello Everyone.

Wow! What a great weekend. On top of our Oscar party seeing its biggest crowd ever (we were at capacity!) BARNEY’S VERSION performed better than the national average. Thanks for your continued support in making THE NEON your destination for great cinema.

On top of holding onto BARNEY’S VERSION, we will hold RABBIT HOLE for one more week. If you haven’t seen this fantastic film, please hurry down. I’ve had a few people tell me that they didn’t intend to see RABBIT HOLE until I urged them to do so…and they’re so glad they saw it.

On Friday we will begin a film that was nominated for 2 major awards at this year’s Oscars. Starring Javier Bardem and directed by Alejandro Gonzelez Inarritu (director of 21 GRAMS and BABEL), BIUTIFUL was nominated for “Best Actor” and “Best Foreign Film.”

Synopsis for BIUTIFUL: “Academy Award winner Javier Bardem plays a man on the wrong side of the law who struggles to provide for his children on the dangerous streets of Barcelona. The latest film from Academy Award nominee Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, Biutiful won the award for Best Actor at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival.” (Roadside Attractions)
I saw BIUTIFUL at the Toronto Film Fest in September, and I think it’s a stunning film. Though certainly of heavy subject matter, it’s quite worth the ride. Bardem is superb!  Visit the official website by clicking HERE.

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Last year marked the first time that THE FOUND FOOTAGE FESTIVAL made a stop in Dayton. Folks loved the show, the fellas are on the road again. On Sunday, March 20 at 7:30, THE FOUND FOOTAGE FESTIVAL will return to THE NEON with a new batch of material. Visit the official website to find out more about the show. Advanced tickets ($11 each) are only available on-line by visiting this LINK.

THE 11th DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL is just around the corner. Screenings at THE NEON begin on Thursday, March 24th…and I’ll give you even more details in next week’s newsletter. To see a list of titles, screening venues, showtimes and ticket details, click this LINK.

Tickets for the documentary NORTH DIXIE DRIVE are flying from our box office! The film will play on Saturday, March 26 at 5:00pm and tickets are $6 each (and only $4 for members of FilmDayton). “North Dixie Drive is the portrait of a small community of businesses and people residing in the Northridge section of Dayton, OH. It is the story of big time wrestlers, mechanics, a donut salesmen, an eccentric country singer, barbers, exotic dancers and car repo men. This collection of people, from all walks of life, live and work around a traffic circle situated along highway I-75, and fight to keep their lives and careers afloat in a failing economy. This debut film by Brooklyn, NY filmmaker Eric Mahoney showcases an off beat group of characters in today’s Middle America.” (taken from website) You can see a trailer and read more about the film by visiting the official site.

If you were lucky enough to see Djuna Wahlrab’s short film FALLING UP, don’t miss seeing her set pieces and puppets at the 5th Street Gallery at Stivers School for the Arts. The exhibit is up and running…and it is completely stunning. Call (937)542-7448 for more details.

If you’re in the mood for an escapist, well-reviewed, hysterical, dirty-minded comedy…we’ve got you covered. CEDAR RAPIDS is set to open on March 11.

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for March 4 – March 10:

RABBIT HOLE (PG-13) 1 Hr 31 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

BIUTIFUL (R) 2 Hr 28 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:00, 5:00, 8:00

BARNEY’S VERSION (R) 2 Hr 14 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 4:45, 7:20, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Due to Oscar Season, we know that many of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.
March 11 CEDAR RAPIDS
TBD I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS
TBD SOMEWHERE
TBD TINY FURNITURE
TBD JANE EYRE
TBD WIN WIN

I Don’t Wanna Show Off, No More!

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THE DROWSY CHAPERONE - Victoria Theatre Association / Human Race Theatre Co. - March 8-20, 2011THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

Victoria Theatre Association & The Human Race Theatre Company

Win Tickets to Opening Night & Cast Party!  READ ON!

Five years ago this interesting little musical won five Tony Awards, including Best Book and Best Original Score.  Whoop-de-doo, you might say, but listen to this…The Drowsy Chaperone had a very humble beginning.  It started out as, get this, a bachelor party gift.  ?  Yes.  The show originated as a boisterous spoof on old-time, pre-golden-age musicals, performed for the bride and groom Bob Martin & Janet Van De Graaff.  Wait…wait, there’s more!  Now, try to follow this…Bob Martin (the groom) went on to star in the show (he was the first Tony nominee for Best Actor, whose character didn’t even have a name…he was simply known as “Man in Chair”) AND the lead female character was named Janet Van De Graaff (the bride….but NOT portrayed by the bride, but rather the stunningly beautiful Sutton Foster) who falls in love with an Oil Tycoon named Robert Martin (aka the groom)….and we haven’t even addressed why the chaperone is “drowsy.”

Confused yet?  Don’t Be!  Just go see this hilarious show!

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE - Victoria Theatre Association / Human Race Theatre Co. - March 8-20, 2011The show is good-natured fun with lot’s of silly characters and crazy situations.  The idea of the show is that the modern-day “Man in Chair” always chooses to listen to his favorite vinyl original cast album, that of the jazz age hit musical “The Drowsy Chaperone,” whenever he is feeling blue.  The album always lifts his spirits.  We quickly discover why, when the characters from the musical suddenly take over his cramped apartment, transforming his little world into a Broadway spectacle.  Various characters include Janet, a “Zeigfeld Follies”-type of showgirl, a stuffy rich dude, a couple of gangsters disguised as bakers, an over-the-top latin lover and the title character, Janet’s “drowsy chaperone”  (this grand dame is not sleepy, but rather “tipsy.”)

Victoria Theatre Association & The Human Race Theatre Company are teaming up to present a new production of this nostalgic musical comedy March 8 – 20, 2011 in the Victoria Theatre.

“Delightful, Sparkling Entertainment! You’ll be over the moon! We haven’t seen anything quite this original in a long time.” – Associated Press

The Drowsy Chaperone, the 21st show The Human Race Company has produced for the Victoria Theatre Association’s Broadway Series, is directed and choreographed by Kevin Crewell. The cast includes: Wally Dunn (“Man in Chair”); Pat Linhart (“Mrs. Tottendale”); Scott Stoney (“Underling”); Robb Sapp (“Robert Martin”); Christopher Gurr (“Aldopho”); Megan Nicole Arnoldy “(Janet Van de Graaff”); and Jana Robbins (“The Drowsy Chaperone”), to name a few. John Faas is the Music Director and Conductor, with set designs by J. Branson, provided by Music Theatre of Wichita.

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE - Victoria Theatre Associaion & The Human Race Theatre Co. - March 8-20, 2011Behind the scenes, Gregg Barnes is Costume Designer, Nathan D. Dean is Sound Designer, and John Rensel is Lighting Designer. Technical crew includes: Technical Director, Scott J. Kimmins; Head Carpenter, D. Tristan Cupp; Production Stage Manager, Heather Jackson; Assistant Choreographer, Megan Nicole Arnoldy; Dance Captain, Eric Byrd; and Properties, Heather Powell.

Now, you might worry, after all that talk about this being a “stag night” show and that you might want to trade in those tickets you bought for your kids or your Mom.  Let me reassure you that this is good, clean fun.  There might be a few comic sexual innuendos thrown in (as there are in most musical comedies) but overall this show would be appropriate for any age.  In 2006 I took my marching band students to NYC, and this was one of the shows we took in.  It was a first true Broadway show for many of the students & it served as a great introduction to NY theatre.  Those kids and the band parents (non-drowsy variety) all seemed to love the humor and the spectacle of this charming show.  I think you will too.

-SA/VTA Press Release

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

Tickets & Performance Information:

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE - Victoria Theatre Associaion & The Human Race Theatre Co. - March 8-20, 2011THE DROWSY CHAPERONE – March 8-20 – Performance Times Vary (click for details)

Tickets Prices:  range from $39 to $81

Location:  TheVictoria Theatre – 138 N. Main St. Dayton, Ohio  45402 (MAP)

For tickets call Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630, 888-228-3630, online at www.ticketcenterstage.com or visit the Box Office in person, located in the Wintergarden of the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center.

For more information about the Victoria Theatre Association, visit VictoriaTheatre.com.  For more information about The Human Race Theatre Company, visit HumanRaceTheatre.org

There will also be an opening night cast party, immediately following the March 8 performance held in the Kettering Reception Room, located on the 3rd floor (Balcony Level) in the Victoria Theatre. The party is free and open to all ticket holders, and includes free hors d’oeuvres and cash bar – plus the possibility of meeting members of the cast.

Audiences are invited to learn more about the show at a free Chase Background on Broadway pre-show talk Saturday, March 12 at 2PM and Thursday, March 17 at 7PM in the Kettering Reception Room. Chase Background on Broadway provides informative and entertaining talks by theatre professionals, focusing on production history, musical highlights, and insider anecdotes. These talks are held prior to the select matinee performances of each show in the Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Hospitals Broadway Series. Chase Background on Broadway is free and open to Broadway Series ticket holders, but seating is limited.

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE - Victoria Theatre Associaion & The Human Race Theatre Co. - March 8-20, 2011

Sutton Foster as "Janet Van De Graaff" in the Broadway production of The Drowsy Chaperone

Win Free Tickets!

The Victoria Theatre Association, The Human Race Theatre Company & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to the opening night of DROWSY CHAPERONE!

We will be giving away a pair of tickets to the show…BUT…if we get  25 Facebook shares, we’ll double the chances & give away TWO PAIRS OF TICKETS! Additionally, you will get to attend the cast party after the opening night performance! All you need to do is:

  • Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button (above or below the article) and if we reach 25 Likes or Tweets we will give away TWO pairs of tickets.
  • Fill out the contest entry form below.
  • Leave a comment in the Speak Your Mind section (below), answering the following question…“The Drowsy Chaperone” is an euphemism for the perpetually drunken state of the character…What is the silliest phrase you use to indicate someone is tipsy? (No Names please…to protect the innocent/guilty).
  • The deadline to enter is NOON on SATURDAY, March 5th.
  • Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Contest Is Now Closed

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And The Oscar Goes To…

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A meek monarch, a lesbian couple at odds, Beantown boxers and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg are among the diverse subjects from 2010 that captured the attention of the 5,755 members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences who determined nominees for the 83rd annual Academy Awards. “The King’s Speech” leads the pack with 12 nods, but don’t expect a sweep. Tight races lurk in multiple categories so anything is possible when winners are revealed Sunday, February 27 at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles. Here are my predictions in the top six categories.

BEST PICTURE

Colin Firth and Helena Bonham Carter in The King's Speech

“127 Hours”; “Black Swan,” “The Fighter,” “Inception,” “The Kids Are All Right,” “The King’s Speech,” “The Social Network,” “Toy Story 3,” “True Grit,” “Winter’s Bone”

Will/Should Win: “The King’s Speech”

Overlooked: “Animal Kingdom”; “Blue Valentine”; “Fair Game”; “Get Low”; “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”; “Mother and Child”; “Nowhere Boy”; “Please Give”; “Rabbit Hole”; “The Town”

It’s not an American story, but the crowd-pleasing “King’s Speech” is a triumphant, universal, superbly acted tale appealing to the Academy’s longstanding admiration for wonderfully executed period pieces. The over-praised “Social Network” is the most topical choice and could certainly win, but it lacks warmth and probably failed to connect with older voters. My heart remains with the terrifically contemporary “Kids Are All Right,” one of the finest depictions of marriage and family ever filmed that could have had a fighting chance if the number of nominees returned to the traditional five. Barring a last-minute surge for “Social Network” or an upset from “The Fighter,” “Inception,” “Toy Story 3” or “True Grit,” the “King” will prevail.

BEST DIRECTOR

Darren Aronofsky, “Black Swan”;  Joel and Ethan Coen, “True Grit”; David Fincher, “The Social Network”; Tom Hooper, “The King’s Speech”; David O. Russell, “The Fighter”

Will Win: Fincher

Should Win: Aronofsky

Overlooked: Ben Affleck, “The Town”; Danny Boyle, “127 Hours”; Derek Cianfrance, “Blue Valentine”; Lisa Cholodenko, “The Kids Are All Right”; Rodrigo Garcia, “Mother and Child”; Debra Granik, “Winter’s Bone”; Luca Guadagnino, “I Am Love”; Mike Leigh, “Another Year”; David Michod, “Animal Kingdom”; John Cameron Mitchell, “Rabbit Hole”; Christopher Nolan, “Inception”; Niels Arden Oplev, “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”; Roman Polanski, “The Ghost Writer”; Sam Taylor-Wood, “Nowhere Boy”; Peter Weir, “The Way Back”

The Emmy winning Hooper (“Elizabeth I,” “John Adams”) brought grace, intimacy and sophistication to “King’s Speech,” but he’s a relative newcomer in the film world. As so, the Academy’s Directors Branch would seem to favor the more established Fincher who worked wonders with Aaron Sorkin’s fast and furious screenplay. Still, it would be great to see Aronofsky win for masterfully weaving his gripping ballet mind-bender.

BEST ACTOR

Colin Firth - "The King's Speech"

Javier Bardem, “Biutiful”; Jeff Bridges, “True Grit”; Jesse Eisenberg, “The Social Network”; Colin Firth, “The King’s Speech”; James Franco, “127 Hours”

Will/Should Win: Firth

Overlooked: Ben Affleck, “The Company Men”; Jim Carrey, “I Love You Philip Morris”; George Clooney, “The American”; Leonardo DiCaprio, “Shutter Island”; Michael Douglas, “Solitary Man”; Robert Duvall, “Get Low”; Aaron Eckhart, “Rabbit Hole”; Paul Giamatti, “Barney’s Version”; Ryan Gosling, “Blue Valentine”; Aaron Johnson, “Nowhere Boy”; Ewan McGregor, “The Ghost Writer”; Michael Nyqvist, “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”; John C. Reilly, “Cyrus”; Ryan Reynolds, “Buried”; Kevin Spacey, “Casino Jack”; Ben Stiller, “Greenberg”; Mark Wahlberg, “The Fighter”; Denzel Washington, “The Book of Eli”

The surest bet of the night. Having unfortunately lost to Bridges last year for his phenomenally subtle work in “A Single Man,” Firth will reign for being equally sublime as the stuttering King George VI.

BEST ACTRESS

Natalie Portman - "Black Swan"

Annette Bening, “The Kids Are All Right”; Nicole Kidman, “Rabbit Hole”; Jennifer Lawrence, “Winter’s Bone”; Natalie Portman, “Black Swan”; Michelle Williams, “Blue Valentine”

Will Win: Portman

Should Win: Bening

Overlooked: Anne Hathaway, “Love & Other Drugs”; Sally Hawkins, “Made in Dagenham”; Catherine Keener, “Please Give”; Diane Lane, “Secretariat”; Lesley Manville, “Another Year”; Julianne Moore, “The Kids Are All Right”; Noomi Rapace, “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”; Julia Roberts, “Eat Pray Love”; Tilda Swinton, “I Am Love”; Hilary Swank, “Conviction”; Naomi Watts, “Fair Game”

The breadth of Portman’s fearless turn as perfection-obsessed ballerina Nina Sayers makes her the favorite, but she’ll have many more opportunities at Oscar glory. At 52, Bening, previously nominated three times and losing twice to Hilary Swank, gave the performance of her career as Nic, a beautifully complex woman coping with her partner’s infidelity and the unexpected presence of their sperm donor. It would be a thrill to see Bening’s marvelously compelling, less is more achievement duly rewarded.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Christian Bale - "The Fighter"

Christian Bale, “The Fighter”;  John Hawkes, “Winter’s Bone”; Jeremy Renner, “The Town”; Mark Ruffalo, “The Kids Are All Right”; Geoffrey Rush, “The King’s Speech”

Will Win: Bale

Should Win: Rush

Overlooked: David Andrews, “Fair Game”; Lucas Black, “Get Low”; Vincent Cassel, “Black Swan”; Bill Cobbs, “Get Low”; Chris Cooper, “The Company Men”; Matt Damon, “True Grit”; Michael Douglas, “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps”; Andrew Garfield, “The Social Network”; Armie Hammer, “The Social Network”;  Josh Hutcherson, “The Kids Are All Right”; Richard Jenkins, “Eat Pray Love”; Tommy Lee Jones, “The Company Men”; Ben Kingsley, “Shutter Island”; Ewan McGregor, “I Love You Philip Morris”; Ben Mendelsohn, “Animal Kingdom”; Bill Murray, “Get Low”; John Ortiz, “Jack Goes Boating”; Sean Penn, “Fair Game”; Pete Postlethwaite, “The Town”; Sam Rockwell, “Conviction”; Michael Shannon, “The Runaways”; Miles Teller, “Rabbit Hole”

In a less competitive year, Rush, who was so formidable and magnetic as speech therapist Lionel Logue, would be a shoo-in, but he already has an Oscar thanks to “Shine.” In an attempt to spread the wealth, the Academy will finally embrace the dynamic Bale, who should have won an Oscar for “American Psycho” and absolutely delivered one of the best performances by a child actor in “Empire of the Sun.” The cinematic chameleon left nothing undone as the larger-than-life Dicky Eklund.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Hailee Steinfeld - "True Grit"

Amy Adams, “The Fighter”;  Helena Bonham Carter, “The King’s Speech”;  Melissa Leo, “The Fighter”;  Hailee Steinfeld, “True Grit;  Jacki Weaver, “Animal Kingdom”

Will Win: Steinfeld

Should Win: Weaver

Overlooked: Annette Bening, “Mother and Child”; Marion Cotillard, “Inception”; Rosemarie DeWitt, “The Company Men”; Dale Dickey, “Winter’s Bone”; Kimberly Elise, “For Colored Girls”; Shareeka Epps, “Mother and Child”; Ann Guilbert, “Please Give”; Rebecca Hall, “Please Give”; Sally Hawkins, “Never Let Me Go”; Barbara Hershey, “Black Swan”; Cherry Jones, “Mother and Child”; Mila Kunis, “Black Swan”; Rooney Mara, “The Social Network”; Miranda Richardson, “Made in Dagenham”; Daphne Rubin-Vega, “Jack Goes Boating”; Sissy Spacek, “Get Low”; Kristin Scott Thomas, “Nowhere Boy”; Marisa Tomei, “Cyrus”; Mia Wasikowska, “The Kids Are All Right”; Kerry Washington, “Mother and Child”; Naomi Watts, “Mother and Child”; Dianne Weist, “Rabbit Hole”; Olivia Williams, “The Ghost Writer”

Extremely close to call. Weaver deserves to win as the cunningly affectionate yet chillingly malevolent matriarch in the little-seen “Animal Kingdom,” but this race is a newcomer/veteran showdown between 14-year-old Steinfeld and 50-year-old Leo. Steinfeld, a firecracker plucked from obscurity out of nearly 15,000 girls who auditioned for the role of Mattie Ross, should have been placed in the Best Actress category, but her sharp, impressively language-driven, wiser-than-her-years portrayal ignited the screen nonetheless. If she takes the prize, she’ll continue the recent trend of actresses winning here on their first nomination (such as Jennifer Hudson, Mo’Nique, Tilda Swinton and Rachel Weisz) and also become the youngest Supporting Actress champ since Anna Paquin (“The Piano”). Leo, a consummate character actress well-suited to play the fiery Alice Ward, might fall victim to her questionably smug Oscar campaign, vote-splitting with Adams and the magnitude of Steinfeld’s distinct work, particularly her screen time.

The 83rd annual Academy Awards, co-hosted by James Franco and Anne Hathaway, will be telecast live on ABC Sunday, February 27 at 8 p.m. For a complete list of nominees, visit www.oscar.com. In related news, The Neon Movies, 130 E. Fifth St. in downtown Dayton, and The Little Art Theatre, 247 Xenia Ave. in Yellow Springs, will host Oscar parties Sunday evening. For information about The Neon’s festivities, call (937) 222-7469 or visit www.neonmovies.com. For more information about The Little Art’s festivities, call (937) 767-7671 or visit www.littleart.com

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 02/24 – 03/09

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24 – WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2011

“it can be interesting to see if other people – like dead people who wrote books – agree or disagree with what you think… because it makes you – a larger part of the human community.” – Eurydice

I’m currently in the midst of rehearsing to play Eurydice in Sarah Ruhl’s beautiful play of the same title. When asked why she loves books, Eurydice says, “It can be interesting to see if other people – like dead people who wrote books – agree or disagree with what you think… because it makes you – a larger part of the human community.”

Theatre, I believe, does the same. We sit in performance spaces surrounded by other audience members, and all experience a show slightly differently; we perform on stages in front of any number of people, but only focus on the ones in the world of the play; we talk about plays and glance at reviews and comment on upcoming events.

I impulsively went to Chicago this past weekend to see two plays, and was reminded of these concepts as I spent some time in the audience. Seeing shows does bring us closer as human beings, whether with the two people we came with or the 212 in the audience, and that can be incredibly moving. So, these next two weeks, take someone you know to come see one of these shows, and enjoy being a part of that community.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Fat Pig DTG: Fat Pig

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

The Story: From the moment they meet, Tom finds Helen witty and charming, and they quickly fall in love. She happens to be quite plus-sized; Tom claims not to mind, but the people around him do. In this daring and provocative play, one of famed and cruelly witty Neil LaBute’s best, we explore societal treatment of the unfit, our despisal in others of what we fear in ourselves, and the ever-relevant question of whether size really matters or not.
Dates: February 11 – 27, 2011
Tickets and More Information: DTG: Fat P ig, DMM preview

Play On

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Story: In this behind-the-scenes comedy about an amateur theatre group, novice director Gerry Dunbar deals with a diva actress (supported by her doting husband) and their play’s haughty author (with a plethora of rewrites), rounded out by a cranky stage manager and technician. This riotous comedy exemplifies only too well the old theatre adage – “If it can go wrong… it will.”
Dates: February 17 – 19 & 24 – 26 at 8pm and February 20 & 27 at 3pm
Tickets and More Information: Brookville Flower Shop, (937) 833-3531

The Foreigner

SINCLAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Story: Charlie is pathologically shy; staying together at a bed and breakfast, his friend decides telling the other guests he is foreign and speaks no English will be the easiest thing to do… but once alone with the guests, he overhears more than he should – and much more than they want him to. “Based on what the NY Post describes as a “devilishly clever idea,” the play demonstrates what can happen when a group of devious characters must deal with a stranger who (they think) knows no English” (Dramatists).
Dates: Continues through Saturday, February 26
Tickets: (937) 512-2808 or http://www.sinclair.edu/arts
More Information: DMM event page, DMM preview

WSU: Picnic

Picnic

WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

The Story: In a small town in Kansas, everything is going calmly and according to plan for widow Flo Owens and her two daughters. Madge, the oldest, is on her way to being a trophy wife while the younger, more rambunctious daughter Millie is getting ready to go to college on a scholarship. However, Flo starts to worry about their safety when Hal, a handsome but troubled drifter, shows up… (WSU)
Dates: February 17th-19th & 24th-26th at 8:00 PM, February 20th, 26th, & 27th at 2:00 PM, and February 23rd at 7:00 PM.
Tickets and More Information: (937) 775-2500, onStageDayton Review

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Auditions: February 23, beginning at 3:45 pm; February 26, beginning at 8:45 am. Register in advance.

THT: Berenstein Bears (2011)

THT: Berenstein Bears (2011) (Photo Credit Mike Long)

Performances: May 6 – 22, 2011
The Story: “Right from the start, Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over their freshly-hatched brother duck. He just doesn’t seem right. His feet are way too big, he’s a lousy quacker and, well, he looks downright ugly! Even his parents are embarrassed to show him to the rest of the barnyard. Feeling miserable and alone, “Ugly” leaves home and begins a dangerous journey that will take him to a place where he, too, can be beautiful.” (THT)
Directed by Brittany Hayden-Hinkle
More Information: (937) 433-8957, Town Hall Theatre


La Cage Aux Folles

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Auditions: February 28 & March 1, 2011 (Callbacks March 3 & 4)
Performances: May 13 – 29, 2011
The Story: George (a glitzy nightclub owner) and his partner Albin (also the glamorous chanteuse Zaza)’s son is getting married… and in this musical, he brings his fiancée’s conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair. “The bonds of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly [in this] tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together… stay fabulous… and above all else, stay true to themselves!”
Directed by Doug Lloyd
More Information: Dayton Playhouse: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

First Friday

DOWNTOWN DAYTON PARTNERSHIP

The Basics: In this monthly event, Dayton showcases a variety of artistic, creative, and fun events and locations downtown. Gallery exhibits and entertainment provide a great way to discover downtown and have a great time!
Date: Friday, March 4 (and the first Friday of every month!)
More Information and Events Listing: Downtown Dayton partnership: First Friday

~KN