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Improv Comedy Workshops in Dayton

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Film Dayton member and Dayton native Paul Stelzer, who co-founded The Hashtag Comedy Company in Columbus, will lead these  workshops. Paul has performed improv comedy since 2012. For the past 10 years, Paul has taught “Introduction to Improv” classes.  He’ll be leading two FREE improv comedy workshops this week in  Dayton. If you’ve ever wanted to try improv comedy, this is YOUR chance! It’s all happening at the FilmDayton offices located inside the Dayton Mall. Here are the two dates/times:
* Thursday, October 23rd — 7:00pm
* Sunday, October 26th — 1:00pm
If you or someone you know has always wanted to try comedy, this is a great opportunity to learn the basics of improv comedy and have a lot of FUN doing so! This will be a safe, supportive, encouraging environment where we learn and laugh a lot!
Paul shares, “Since I took my first class in 2012, improv comedy has been the most wonderful gift to me. As a founding member of The Hashtag Comedy Company in Columbus, it’s always a thrill to perform improv for a live audience. And sharing my love of improv with the beautiful people who take the classes and workshops I teach is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done in my professional life. ❤“
Learning improv comedy is a wonderful way to:
* Increase your confidence in social situations.
* Improve your presentation and public speaking skills.
* Stretch your comfort zone by trying something NEW and exciting!
* Make new friends.
* HAVE FUN!
He’d love to see YOU at one of the workshops scheduled on Thursday (7:00pm) or Sunday (1:00pm). Each of these two workshops will cover the same material and will run approximately 75 minutes. The Facebook Event link is posted in the Comments section below. Please pick a date and RSVP by email [email protected]. We’re gonna have a lot of FUN! But it won’t be the same with YOU. ❤“

Final Weekend for Gratifying ‘Dial M’ at Theatre Guild!

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Dayton has an amazing theatre scene with some excellent actors. I was lucky enough to catch up with one of the best, Matt Meier! He is part of the dynamic cast of ‘Dial M for Murder!’ at the Theatre Guild!

937: Hi Matt! So, so good to see you! Tell me…Why was ‘Dial M of Murder’ chosen for the Theatre Guild this year?

MM: Each year, a committee reads dozens of scripts and assembles the complete season, balancing all sorts of factors. The Guild is known for doing shows that are often new to Dayton audiences, and while many people might remember the Hitchcock film, the region hasn’t seen a stage production of it for a long time. It’s a riviting script, written by Frederick Knott in the 1950s, and still holds up nearly 75 years later! Who doesn’t love a good crime thriller?

937: Listen, I am addicted to ‘Investigation Discovery Channel’, soooooo…..Anyway, what can the audience expect from this production?

MM: Director David Shough brings his rich artistic vision to every production he leads. ‘Dial M’ features a beautiful art deco-inspired set by Red Newman, fabulous midcentury costumes by N. Lynn Brown, dramatic lighting, and a jazzy underscore that masterfully builds suspense. 

937: Sounds like theatrical perfection! What is a brief plot line you can share with us about the story?

MM: A cunning husband. A flawless plan. One fatal call. In this razor-sharp, midcentury mind game of deadly charm, calculated lies, and impetuous greed, the plot to commit the perfect murder begins to unravel. What follows is a taut and twisted Hitchcockian thriller—where life and death hang on the line.

937: Hitchcock truly was/is a master. Love how these stories endure, on and off stage & screen! What are you hoping people walk away feeling with this show?

MM: This show is just fun! You’ll find yourself rooting for the bad guy and also hoping he gets caught in his web of lies. It will keep you guessing til the very end!

937: And I know the Guild has stellar casts….

MM: Oh yes….in this production we have Cora Ceipek as Margot Wendice, Jared Mola as Max Halliday, Matt Meier as Tony Wendice, Danny Lipps as Captain Lesgate, Jim Walker as Inspector Hubbard and Frank Maranje as Thompson.

937: A fantastic group indeed!! I know this is the last weekend. If we want to catch the show, can you give us dates and times?

MM: Yes, sadly this is the final weekend — Friday, Oct 24 at 8pm; Saturday, Oct 25 at 5pm; Sunday, Oct 26 at 3pm.

937: I have such respect for the Theatre Guild thanks for sharing this with us Matt. Any parting words?

MM: Dayton is fortunate to have such a strong theatre scene, and we invite you to be part of it! Tickets are available online at DaytonTheatreGuild.org. 

937: THANKS MATT!!!!

MM: Thank YOU, Josh!!

Maria Steals Your Heart in ‘Sound of Music’ at Schuster!

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The musical version of the beloved story has a way of exposing different views from the beloved characters. Much more so than the film. Facing the oncoming threat of fascism, the characters are faced with personal as well as worldly problems. Through it all, from opening to ovation, Cayleigh Capaldi (Maria Rainer) wins the evening with her naive, sweet, and humor-filled portrayal of the precocious lead. Of course, no cast works without the rough and sour Georg Von Trapp, played by Kevin Earley. His loving transformation is quite believable and endearing.
The kids are all strong and allow each other to have their moment. Haddie Mac as Brigiita is a standout with her many words of wisdom. There are no ‘weak players in this dynamite cast. Kate Loprest may be my favorite Baroness Elsa Schroeder, ever. (Drink in hand!)  And speaking of favorite versions, watch out for the performance by Christiane Noll.  Her, at times, fun-loving, and stalwart at others, portrayal of Mother Abbess is just so satisfying. Climb Every Mountain, at intermission, was a goose bumper!
Yes, the show packs what you remember….goat-herders, cuckoo clocks, and an occasional Nazi symbol. What this production is able to do is keep us buoyant and filled with optimism. It can, indeed, be a lesson for our world today.
Seeing the number of young people in the audience, their eyes filled with joy as they watched the kids break into song and dance. Seeing the number of adults, moved to tears by the love story that progresses so seamlessly through the plot. Seeing ‘The Sound of Music’ alive and well on stage. It took us away from a world of hurt into a world of hope!
For dates and times go to http://daytonlive.org

An Evening of Jazz, Bossa Nova, and Global Harmony at Joui Wine

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This Wednesday, Dayton music lovers are invited to experience something truly special: an intimate concert featuring the remarkable musical partnership of trombonist and vocalist Natalie Cressman and composer and guitarist Ian Faquini at Joui Wine. Presented by Venus Child Productions, the evening promises an evening of sophisticated jazz, Brazilian grooves, and enchanting vocals that will transport audiences across continents and musical traditions. Local singer and recent Berklee graduate Kammeron Frost opens up this special evening of live music.

Though calling Cressman and Faquini a duo understates the depth of their musical collaboration, their partnership represents something far more expansive. Hailing from San Francisco and Brasilia respectively, the two artists have cultivated a singular creative communion that draws from their shared love of the Brazilian songbook, jazz, Impressionism, and sophisticated pop songcraft.

What sets this duo apart is their fearless eclecticism. Their original compositions weave lyrics in Portuguese, French, and English into a rich tapestry of sounds that borrows from multiple stylistic traditions. Accompanied by the warm tones of acoustic guitar and trombone, their sumptuous two-part vocal harmonies create a richly orchestrated sound that belies the intimate duo format, seeming to emanate from a much larger ensemble.

Cressman, a trombonist, vocalist, and songwriter, brings sophisticated melodic sensibility to the ensemble, while Faquini’s composition and guitar work provide both harmonic depth and rhythmic vitality. Together, they’ve created a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary, sophisticated yet deeply soulful.

HOW TO GO?

Join Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini for an evening of live music this Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Joui Wine, located at 117 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., with the show running from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This is an event for ages 21 and up.

To learn more about the artists, visit Natalie Cressman’s website

Dial ‘M’ for Murder at Dayton Theatre Guild

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A cunning husband. A flawless plan. One fatal call. In this razor-sharp, midcentury mind game of deadly charm, calculated lies, and impetuous greed, the plot to commit the perfect murder begins to unravel. What follows is a taut and twisted Hitchcockian thriller—where life and death hang on the line.

Dial ‘M’ for Murder is presented by arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection

Oct. 10–26, 2025

‘Anthropology’ hits the stage at Sinclair this weekend!

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It is always great to see something new on the stages in the Dayton area. This time around, it is ‘Anthropology’ at the Sinclair Theater. We got the scoop on the performance! So excited to chat with the show’s director, Gina Neuerer!

937:  Why did you choose Anthropology?

I read the script of anthropology and immediately wanted to be part of telling this story. The playwright, Lauren Gunderson, is an incredibly creative storyteller and is telling a thriller of a story with anthropology! You’re on the edge of your seat, holding your breath, all the way through to the end. From an educational standpoint, the script offered our performance students the ability to develop deeply layered characters and the technology students the opportunity learn computer and video design and engineering skills.

937: It really is about finding the script that puts it all into play like that!!  What do you hope audiences gain from this production?

I look forward to the audiences experiencing this fast-paced, beautiful story. I look forward to the audience being witness to the love and grief within this family and the many ways we cope with trauma and how it is possible to come together after we break apart.

937: Which of course means the story must be a doozie….can you gives us insight into the story itself?

When Merril creates an AI version of her sister, she finds herself questioning the difference between reality and fiction.  As her creation begins to develop motives of its own, Merril’s life is thrown into chaos as her family gets pulled into the power of a well-programmed machine.  A story that intertwines the love of family with AI technology, anthropology will take you on a journey that will have you questioning what is real and what is not.

Here is a quote from the playwright:

“While anthropology is a roller coaster of the contrasting tensions between technology and its creators,” says Gunderson, “this play is truly a very human story of family, grief, resilience, love and sisterhood… all new technology – like all art – is first and foremost a method of expressing and coming to understand ourselves.”

937: This sounds so intriguing, and THRILLING!!   What days/times is it showing?

The show runs at 7pm on

Oct 10, 11, 14, 16, 17, 18

And 2pm on Oct 12

The cast consists of Tiffany Higgins, Adalia Gaynier, Rosi Green, Kimberly Borst, and Ryan Ford.

Where: Sinclair Community College, Black Box Theatre (Building 2), 444 W. Third St., Dayton  

Ticket Information: $15 plus $2 service fee. No at-the-door ticket sales. All tickets must be purchased online at: www.sinclair.edu/tickets

 

This Must Be the Party Returns to The Brightside for “Stop Making Sense” Celebration

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This Must Be the Party!

Get ready to dance. One of Dayton’s most acclaimed musical events is back, and it’s bringing the legendary energy of The Talking Heads to The Brightside‘s Ballroom this October.

This Must Be the Party returns for an all-star musical celebration that features a complete recreation of the iconic Stop Making Sense album, one of rock music’s most beloved records. If you’ve experienced this event before, you know it’s not just a concert—it’s a full-throttle dance party that captures the experimental spirit and infectious groove of David Byrne’s masterpiece.

The evening kicks off with special guests The Nth Power from New York, a trio that brings together an impressive mix of musical talent and diverse backgrounds. Fronting the band is singer and guitarist Nick Cassarino, whose previous work with the Jennifer Hartswick Band and tours with hip-hop legend Big Daddy Kane showcase his versatility across genres.

On bass is Nate Edgar, whose credits include the bands Groovechild and John Brown’s Body, providing the low-end foundation for the group’s groovy sound. Completing the trio is drummer Nikki Glaspie, a powerhouse musician who spent five years as Beyoncé’s world-touring drummer before joining Ivan Neville’s New Orleans funk outfit, Dumpstaphunk.

Together, The Nth Power demonstrates that great music knows no boundaries—bringing together artists from jazz, funk, hip-hop, and rock traditions into one unified sound.

HOW TO GO?

Date: October 10, 2025
Venue: The Brightside (905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH)
Doors: 7:00 PM | Show Starts: 8:00 PM

Tickets:

  • $25 presale general admission
  • $30 day of show general admission
  • $160 reserved tables with 4 tickets (limited quantity)

Get tickets here: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/this-must-be-the-party-with-special-guests-the-nth-power-2025-10-10-the-brightside-music-event-venue–9dcc83

All ages are welcome, though patrons under 18 will need parental supervision. Those 21 and over should bring valid ID if they wish to purchase beverages.

A heads-up for attendees: this is a standing show with limited seating available for those who need it. This is a dance party, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended—you’ll want to be able to move freely as the music takes you on a journey through one of the greatest albums ever made!

 

Sinclair Theatre presents 𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮 Oct 10 – 18

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When Merril creates an AI version of her sister, she finds herself questioning the difference between reality and fiction. As her creation begins to develop motives of its own, Merril’s life is thrown into chaos as her family gets pulled into the power of a well-programmed machine.
 
A contemporary thriller telling a story that intertwines the love of family with AI technology.
The show runs October 10- 18

With ‘Threads,’ TheatreLab expands board and season.

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TheatreLab Dayton announced their season a week or so ago. Titled ‘Threads,’  TheatreLab is hoping to expand on its connection to the community and its drive to be unique in its 2025-26 season.

‘We called the season Threads because for us, theater is really about connection, and that feels especially important right now. Every show this season has that sense of space and nostalgia built into it – these stories that remind us where we’ve been, who we are, and how we connect to each other. It just felt like the right moment to lean into that, and to give audiences a chance to share something meaningful together in the room.’ said Executive Director, Philip Drennen. New works, old favorites and a few surprises highlight the 2025 -2026 season:
I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Nov 6-9
The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Jan 22-25
Nunsense, March 26-29
Amour, May 18-24
No Map, Just Music kicks off the season and Drennen explained the unique choice. ‘We picked No Map, Just Music: A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt because her catalog honestly has something for everyone: rock, folk, country, soul, and just incredible storytelling. It’s such a wide range of music, and it connects with people in so many different ways. We’ve got an amazing live band made up of local singers and musicians, and of course the powerhouse vocals of Charity Farrell leading the night. And hosting it at The Brightside just felt right – it’s really become a Dayton staple for live music, so it’s the perfect venue for a celebration like this.’
Among the surprises TLD is excited for is
having a new guest director! ‘We’re so excited to be closing the season with Amour. Part of that is because we get to work with Joe Deer, he’s a legend in the Dayton theater community and it’s such a thrill to have him on board. And honestly, Amour is one of those gems that doesn’t get produced very often, so a lot of people may not know it. But it’s such a beautiful show, and I think audiences are going to be really surprised by how moving and magical it is.’ Drennen said.
TheatreLab is also on a mission to expand their board to improve community input. ‘We realize that now is the time to get more folks involved in our evolution. Last year, we created a new board that really looked at how to make TLD solid, while looking at new ways to use our talented team! We are adding more people to our board as the word has gotten out that TLD is a positive place for creatives!’ said board member, Josh Stucky.
Drennen piped in, ‘We’ve also got some really fun events planned this season, things like trivia nights, karaoke, and of course all of our usual pre-show parties. And beyond the shows themselves, we’re expanding our volunteer base, so there are lots of ways for people to support and get involved with TheatreLab. It’s really about building community, both onstage and off!’
For tickets and information on how you can get involved go to:

A Burlesque Musical: Wit, Rhythm & Rhinestones

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After two years of teasing, planning, and rhinestoning every last detail, the show they’ve been dreaming of is finally here.

They’re giving your favorite musicals the RUDE twist: stripped-down, glammed-up, and dripping in sass. From jazz hands to pasties, expect bold vocals, sharp wit, and a whole lot of sparkle.

Its Broadway, reimagined with burlesque flair and it’s one night only.

7 Course Wine Pairing at Whisperz Speakeasy

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 This event is a modern interpretation of a French classic – A Seven Course Wine Pairing expertly presented by Michael Schiaparelli of Skurnik Wines where we’ll focus on Old Vine Wines from countries across Europe. Indulge in expertly crafted dishes perfectly paired with a selection of premium European wines, each sip enhancing every bite. From savory appetizers to decadent desserts, this curated menu promises to delight your palate and tantalize your tastebuds. Purchase your tickets now for an unforgettable evening at Whisperz Speakeasy with this exclusive event on Monday, September 29th at 6:00 pm

Join us for a night of exceptional flavors, great company, and the sophisticated ambiance of Whisperz Speakeasy’s refined setting. This ticketed event has limited seating and will be closed to the public. Tickets are $75 per person and include the entire menu of the Seven Course Pairing. Additional drinks may be purchased and there will be special pricing on the selected wines of the evening for take home purchases.

Reserve your spot now and savor the best of Dayton’s culinary and wine scene — one course, one glass at a time! You may purchase tickets by stopping in the Speakeasy Tuesday – Saturday after 4pm, by calling us at 937-312-4864, or by clicking here to purchase tickets on our website. www.thedrinkerys.com

The Gin Game

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Step into the world of The Gin Game, a gripping, two-person play where a simple card game unravels complex emotions, long-buried truths and vulnerabilities rise to the surface. With sharp dialogue and poignant humor, this Pulitzer Prize-winning drama explores aging, isolation, and human connection. The Gin Game is a theatrical tour de force that’s as heartbreaking as it is unforgettable.

*WARNING: Play Contains Strong Language

 

 Performances are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 3:00 PM.  

Resounding Applause: The Dayton Philharmonic’s Triumphant Return!

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Elegant. Energetic. Celebratory. Last night was one of those nights in which you wish you could bottle the magic. The Dayton Philharmonic‘s kick-off to the 25-26 season was electrifying. Under the direction of  Keitaro Harada, the orchestra took on a new kind of vitality, and the audience sat up and listened!

‘Honestly, it was a triumph,’ said Elaine Gounaris. ‘I was floored,’ Brent Johnson stated. ‘It felt amazing,’ said Philharmonic musician John Kurokawa.

Harada knows how to command the musicians, while adding that charisma that any audience would eat with a spoon. His intense, passionate movements are only matched by his occasional nods and smiles assuring us he is having a blast! Harada is a recipient of the Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award and has only begun his 5 year tenure here in Dayton.

In this, his inaugural concert, we got to feel all the feels. (Even the Star Spangled Banner felt more humbling!) ‘The Inextinguishable’ symphony by Carl Nielsen, kicks things off with a round about look at life…and features a personal favorite…the Timpani! It is in that first act that you are captured…and ready for more! (The audience gave a standing ovation at intermission….ummmmm that says it ALL!)

Garrick Ohlsson, joins the Phil in the second half to bring Sergei Rachmaninoff‘s ‘Piano Concerto No. 2’ to perfect life! *Ohlsson is the only American pianist to bring home a gold medal awarded at the International Chopin Piano Competition! Astounding pianist!! It is the Rachmaninoff concerto that you are reminded of the power of music. Strong, soft, loud and moving…emotions run high. (Yes, Celine Dion fans, you are hearing overtones of ‘All By Myself’ in the Adagio…for older fans think Eric Carmen!) I whispered to my hubs ‘There is just something deep in Rachmaninoff’s music….he understood how music feels!’

Finally, let me say that getting to meet and greet with the musicians after the show may seem slight…but to see their pride, and hear their stories is a connection that should continue. BRAVO!!

As one who has loved orchestral music my entire life, I think Dayton is on to something. And, of course, it comes with a big ‘thank you’ for the contribution Neal Gittleman has shown to our community of music, for 30 years! Wow…what a legacy.

 

 

 

 

 

The Rubi Girls “Top Floor Hits”

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Get ready for an unforgettable evening of glitz, glam, and fierce entertainment as The Foundry proudly hosts “Top Floor Hits” This high-energy event brings together food, fun, music, and stunning performances to celebrate pride, community, and fabulousness – all while raising funds for the Rubi Girls Foundation, which supports the LGBTQ+ community.
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General Admission: $55 – Limited Ticket
For this event, community seating is part of the charm. You may find yourself dining beside fellow guests—an invitation to connect, converse, or simply enjoy the shared rhythm of a great cause. Welcome to THE FOUNDRY with a touch of spontaneity.
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Includes:
Pizza, Salad Bar, Cheese & Charcuterie & Whipped Feta (5pm-630pm)
Reserved Seat -All Tables are Community Seating, unless otherwise noted
Drag show performance
Access to the Meet & Greet + Red Carpet
$10 from each ticket supports the Rubi Girls Foundation
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Walk-in Tickets (Standing Room Only): $30 Limited Tickets
Entry Only – No Food & Standing Room Only

TIFF Day #9 – 2025

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Hello Dayton937 & NEON Fans,

My last day was short but very sweet.  The morning was spent exploring Toronto a bit…and then in the afternoon, Jake and I attended two films – both of which were treats for very different reasons.

My first film of the day is almost certainly getting a big Hollywood release – ROOFMAN (dir: Derek Cianfrance – USA) “Starring Channing Tatum and Oscar nominee Kirsten Dunst, this wildly entertaining drama from Oscar-nominated director Derek Cianfrance (TIFF ’10’s Blue Valentine) tells the real-life story of Jeffrey Manchester, the “Rooftop Robber,” and his efforts to evade capture.” (TIFF Catalog) Though I came away wondering a bit more backstory and motivation, the film ultimately worked for what it set out to do.  Tatum and Dunst have incredible chemistry on screen, and the performances are fun and embraceable.  It’s a fascinating story with documentary footage at the end to clarify the “reality” of it all, and overall, I was glad to be along for the ride.

My last film of the festival is from a TIFF favorite – Guillermo del Toro – who has played films like PAN’S LABYRINTH and THE SHAPE OF WATER here – FRANKENSTEIN (dir: Guillermo del Toro – USA) “Oscar-winning director Guillermo del Toro’s visually sumptuous adaptation of Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece finds Oscar Isaac as the brilliant scientist whose unearthly creation, eerily and ingeniously conjured by Jacob Elordi, blurs the boundaries between life, death, and madness.” (TIFF Catalog). Going into this film, it seemed like it would be ready-made material for del Toro (and perhaps treading old territory)…and that notion isn’t wrong.  But I was somehow still surprised at how much I liked this film.  The 2.5 hours seemed quite tight, and the production designs (mostly practical and not so much CGI) were stellar.  I’ve read a couple reviews that say the film lacked intimacy, and I think they’re terribly wrong.  There are some really tender moments, and though quite different than the novel on which it is based, I think it poses many of the same great questions that Shelley had in mind.

So that’s it!  32 Films over 9 Days, great Q&A’s, running into old friends and colleagues, appreciating the community’s embrace of great cinema…Toronto knows how to throw a festival, and TIFF is a special time of year for me.  I appreciate you reading about my adventures, and I can’t wait to bring some of these films to our screens at THE NEON.

Thank you so much to Dayton937 for allowing me to use their platform!

My best,
Jonathan

Catch Jonathan’s previous tiff posts:

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