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Arts & Entertainment

Dayton Live 2023/2024 Season: Lions, Tinas and Chers…..OH MY!

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Breath-Taking, Jaw-Dropping, Show-Stopping! Dayton Live put the word out about their upcoming season last night in style. Starting off with a fun scavenger hunt of titles, people were invited to make their way through the catacombs of the Schuster’s back stage, stopping intermittently to ‘guess a show’! For my friend Amy and me, it was fun challenge. Being that we both love Broadway, and are always up for some trivia, we gave it a whirl. I missed one….Amy did as well…..that doggone ‘Grinch’ and his theft of Christmas stumped us…we were sure it was Elf, The Musical! Nonetheless, we scored well with the other 5….and YOU WILL , TOO! What a fun, ambitious, diverse season is in store.

Aaron Sorkin’s take on Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird kicks off the season. The classic story (which I was lucky enough to see recently) is elegant and paced perfectly. Sorkin is unafraid to keep the conversation uncomfortable and raw. In a world of banned books, this this is timely, important and heart-wrenching! (October 17-22. 2023.))

Seuss’s ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas‘ comes to full-on life for the holiday season. Being a former elementary teacher means the stakes are high as this classic will be viewed by many a youngster! They will let us know just how much they love….er, hate….the Grinch! (November 14-19. 2023.)

See ‘Hadestown!’ See ‘Hadestown!’ Take my word for it. This is one of those shows that people ask about, wonder about, think about…and I’m reassuring you, it’s a mesmerizing musical. Focused on the tale of Persephone and Hades…retold brilliantly….you will find yourself immersed in this one. (March 12-17. 2024.)

‘Simply the Best’ artist of my lifetime, ‘Tina, the Tina Turner Musical‘ promises great songs, that well-known story and the inside look at how it all melded together. From childhood, to concert queen, this musical is a romp, a rage and a redemption! (April 9-14. 2024.)

Is there any opening moment more exciting than that of ‘The Lion King?‘ That first few minutes…the goosebumps…the humbled crowd….WOW! Beloved by audiences the world over, Disney put together one helluva show, and lucky us, it is back! Still one of the most ingenious recreations of a film ever brought to people live! You can’t go wrong. (May 1- 12. 2024.)

And to round out the fun….one of Dayton’s Favorite on your feet, sing-along sensations….’MAMMA MIA!‘ The songs, buoyed by that ABBA flare, carry us through a plot…at times a bit hard to believe….and into a fun, oft-times silly, love story! The show is/was a smash hit…and it’s light-hearted, upbeat soul continues to satisfy! (June 11-16. 2024.)

Also, of note…..the Forever Diva herself….CHER…and her life are told through ‘The Cher Show!’ Can you imagine over 30 hits, sixty years of performing, multiple awards…the hair….the gowns….the energy that is Cher. What a fun ride this promises to be! Get your tickets quickly for this special add-on which only shows (February 2-4. 2024.)

Always check in with daytonlive.org  as there always seems to be something magical taking place in our great city! This looks to be yet another fantastic season.

 

 

 

McCoy on Movies: The Super Mario Bros. Movie

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Video game movie adaptations level-up with stellar and fun The Super Mario Bros. Movie

“Sega Ge-ne-who?” Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt), Princess Peach (voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy) and Toad (voiced by Keegan-Michael Key) in a scene from Nintendo and Illumination’s THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE, directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic. © 2023 Nintendo and Universal Studios.
DIRECTORS: Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Keegan-Michael Key, Jack Black, Charlie Day, Seth Rogen, Fred Armisen, Kevin Michael Richardson and Sebastian Maniscalco 

WEB SITE: https://www.thesupermariobros.movie/

THE BACK STORY: Inspired by the longstanding series of best-selling video games, THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE finds Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt) and his younger brother Luigi (voiced by Charlie Day) trying to get their small plumbing business off the ground. Their old boss Spike (voiced by Sebastian Maniscalco), however, keeps giving them guff about it and the rest of their family doesn’t seem to be as supportive as they would hope for, either.
Then, in a magical series of events, Mario and Luigi slip – quite literally – down into a pipe only to discover they are no longer in Brooklyn anymore. While Mario has entered the Mushroom Kingdom ruled by the benevolent Princess Peach, Luigi has found himself in a much darker world where the monstrous Bowser (voiced by Jack Black). Making matters worse is the fact that Bowser wants to marry Princess Peach, who wants nothing to do with him … So when he discovers that Luigi is the brother of the man that may foil his plans for world domination, Bowser is determined to take out the competition.
With the Mushroom Kingdom doomed without a hero, his brother in need of rescuing and a desire to prove himself, Mario – along with a help from a few friends that should be familiar to longstanding gamers – is ready to level up.

 

THE REVIEW: THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE is good. In fact, it’s far better than you would likely expect it to ever be and capable of being in the first place. Why? Because thanks to a clever script, voice cast that nails their respective roles and visuals that pay tribute to the games that inspired them and bring them to living digital life, MARIO BROS. delivers a film that is enjoyable across generations without needing a cheat code to entertain.
Taking elements from the Super Mario games as well as Donkey Kong Country, Super Smash Bros., Luigi’s Mansion, Mario Kart and Diddy Kong Racing,  MARIO BROS. cleverly blends various games together to create an enjoyable, engaging story that’s fun for adults and children alike. Those who grew up running through pipes, dodging fireballs and seeking power-ups will appreciate the way they are woven into the fabric of the Mario Bros.’ world, as they will certain homages to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and other prominent titles of that system’s era.
Similarly, younger fans will enjoy the adorable nature of Toad and his fellow toadstools, the classic villain who wants to be loved as perfectly played by Jack Black and Mario’s relatable nature as a small guy that comes up big when it counts. While fans of Charles Martinet may be sad the original voice of Mario isn’t featured more prominently in the film (yes, he’s in there), there’s no need to fear. Say what you want about Pratt, but he does an extremely commendable job giving life to everyone’s favorite digital plumber with Charlie Day doing the same for his green hatted brother.
In a role it seems like he was born to voice, Seth Rogen makes Donkey Kong a very fun ape to be around; Fred Armisen likewise does a nice job voicing the Larry David-like Cranky Kong with veteran cartoon voice actor Kevin Michael Richardson giving a perfect voice to the Emperor Palpatine-like sidekick to Bowser.
Throw in some well-constructed humor – Black really does play Bowser perfectly – action sequences that are perfect tributes to the games that inspired them without feeling forced and a perfect run time (the film is barely over 90 minutes with credits and it’s nearly perfect. Will that inspire a sequel? Probably – and if/when it does, it will have a lot to live up to for certain.
Fortunately, Nintendo’s and Illumination’s partnership shows that when someone puts care into a video game film adaptation, it won’t leave audiences looking to pull the plug and restart their cinematic console.
OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):
 

 

 

 

 

McCoy on Movies: AIR: Courting a Legend

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“Man, I’m telling you – one day we will sign and then end our business relationship with a rapper from Chicago and both moves will be great for business!” Howard White (Chris Tucker, pictured) discusses the basketball shoe game with Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon) in a scene from AIR: Courting a Legend. Credit: Ana Carballosa © Amazon Content Services LLC.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE: 
DIRECTOR: Ben Affleck

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Chris Tucker, Jason Bateman, Chris Messina, Matthew Maher, Viola Davis with Marlon Wayans and Matthew Maher

 

 

THE BACK STORY: Long before Nike was the worldwide leader in all things athletic apparel, the Beaverton, Ore. based company was known for running shoes … And not much else. For in the basketball shoe market, Adidas was king with Converse running a close second. In 1984, the era of Reaganomics, revolutionary technology, sitcoms and the explosion of pop music icons, third place meant being last to the point that if something didn’t change, Nike CEO Phil Knight (Ben Affleck) was faced with the prospect of shutting down his company’s basketball division altogether.
Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), however, believed there was one athlete that could change the company’s fate if they could just get him to sign with the company. Who was that man? None other than the man who would eventually go on to be known as “His Airness” – and in the eyes of meany, the greatest competitive athlete of all time, Michael Jeffrey Jordan (played by Damian Delano Young).
Problem is, everybody knows that Jordan is not going to sign with Nike. His intentions are to sign with German-based Adidas despite the loss of its founder and namesake Adolf Dassler. And not only does Jordan’s agent David Falk (Chris Messina) know it, so does Nike Basketball exec Howard White (Chris Tucker), Head of Basketball Marketing Rob Strasser (Jason Bateman), Jordan’s former USA Basketball coach George Raveling (Marlon Wayans) and Jordan’s mother, Deloris (Viola Davis).
But since he’s a gambling man and believes that Jordan is the future of not only Nike, but basketball itself, Vaccaro isn’t ready to take “no” for an answer, what is about to transpire is going to change the sneaker industry forever … As long as he can find a way to get Jordan to sign on the dotted line …
THE REVIEW: Ask any dedicated sneakerhead what is the most important sneaker of all-time is and the odds are beyond good that it will be one with the famous “Jumpman” logo. For as AIR illustrates in great, gripping detail, one man can in fact change the world – and the efforts Vaccaro and company went through to get him is as an American story as sneakers are an industry.
With an all-star ensemble cast, you’d expect each actor in AIR to, much like a basketball team itself, play their positions well en route to trying to achieve their championship aspirations. AIR‘s squad does so on an all-star level from start to finish, each role meaning something no matter how big or small it may be.
Whereas Damon’s Vaccaro is the point guard keeping everything moving and functioning, Tucker comes in with flash and scores in bunches when he uses his charisma and quick wit. As shark-like agent David Falk, Messina’s interactions with Damon’s character likewise play out like intense one-on-one scrimmages.
Affleck’s portrayal of Knight captures all of the Nike head man’s famous (alleged) quirks expertly with Bateman coming in to play the veteran teammate that tries to keep things calm but knows he can’t stop Damon’s character from doing what he’s going to do, so he’s willing to sacrifice to do what’s best for all involved. Add in Davis’ strong performance as Jordan’s mother and the cast is a delight to watch.
Kudos must also be given, however, to the painstaking detail with which Affleck crafts AIR. Every 80s homage – from the fashion and music to the technology involved (remember when having a car phone was a big deal?) serves to enhance the film’s aesthetic as much as its storytelling. In re-creating that world so well, it really showcases the 80s entrepreneurial spirit that was so crucial to Nike’s growth so well in addition to setting up all the dominos that would fall following its historic deal.
In short, those looking for a great film with equal parts of comedy and drama, inspiration and inspired storytelling, AIR is worth lacing up your sneakers for and heading to the theater this spring.
OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):
 

 

 

 

 

Sleuth at La Comedia

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The ultimate game of cat and mouse is played out in an English country house owned by celebrated mystery writer, Andrew Wyke. Invited guest Milo Tindle, a young rival who shares Wyke’s love for games, declares his intention to run off with Wyke’s wife. The two men devise an elaborate revenge/power game; through their style and cunning, the stakes continue to rise, leading to the play’s inevitable, heart-stopping finish.

Sleuth premiered on Broadway in 1970 and received the Tony Award for Best Play. The 1972 film adaptation starring Laurence Olivier and Michael Caine earned four Academy Award nominations. In 2007, a second film starred Michael Caine and Jude Law, with Caine taking on the role previously played by Olivier.

Don’t miss the thriller Sleuth, along with La Comedia’s delicious buffet!

‘Human Race’ Spins Familiar Stories for 2023/2024!!

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The Human Race Theatre Company announced their upcoming season Monday night at the Loft Theatre! The theme is ‘Stories in Motion!‘ Marking the event, fans and friends of the HRTC were invited to grab a glass of their favorite beverage (Pinot Grigio for me…), find a seat and prepare to hear about the six shows that will make up their 2023/2024 season. In a fun, right off the bat twist, the audience was made aware that this time around, the stories may seem familiar…but the telling is somehow a surprise! That surprise is one that must be experienced…and how better than at the HRT itself.

Kicking off the season is ‘This is Tom Jones,” (September 7-25, 2023) by Mark Brown. The musical takes us back to the days of mop tops in Great Britain, where scandalous affairs and 60’s songs abound! (Katie Pees gave us a comical look into the show as part of the preview. Always entertaining when Katie’s in the house!)

Number two on the list is Pearl Cleage’s “Angry, Raucous and Shamelessly Gorgeous.” (October 26 – November 13, 2023). The plot centers around an actress seeking a replacement for herself, when an ambitious adult entertainment performer takes on the challenge! What could go wrong??

Next up sounds like another treat….Reindeer Sessions…announced with giant antlers intact…(December 8-23, 2023), written by Eric Ulloa. Get this…Blitzen has anger issues, there’s a broken red nose…and suddenly we are immersed in a different version of the famous Rudolph tale. Obviously, the familiar ride we have taken for years in the traditional holiday song will have a different ring to it!

The fourth story was previewed with a large octopus tentacle, which seemed appropriate when the title was revealed….Shipwrecked! An Entertainment: The Amazing Adventures of Louis de Rougemont as Told by Himself. (February 22-March 10, 2024.) High seas, stories from around the world, large sea animals and fish tales are highlighted in this story by Donald Margulies.

Peerless, by Jiehae Park is up next. This dark comedy plays off of MacBeth and features high school students plotting to get into college. The description brought on many laughs as the options unfolded in this twisted tale. It plays April 25-Mat 12, 2024.

And last, but not least….and believe me the audience was stunned to hear it…is ‘The Kite Runner” (Yes that Kite Runner, the beloved novel by Khaled Hosseini which has been adapted for the stage by Matthew Spangler.) The amazing story of love, forgiveness and redemption comes to life in a joint venture with Dayton Live. WOW…..this one is a must-see! The show plays May 28-June 2, 2024.

The announcement party was pure fun! And the titles were exciting…brought to life in relatable ways by members of the HRTC and their board. Leaving the event, you could feel a great sense of ‘They really put together a season this year.’  Think about it…high school drama, reindeer, Tom Jones and Afghanistan. They have definitely given us stories to hear and witness. Here’s to a great 2023/2025 for the entire Human Race!

All tickets are available through Dayton Live Box Office at 937-228-3630 or DAYTONLIVE.COM.

Multiple Ticket Options available.

Parent’s Day Out is one those of you with children should check out….I don’t have kids, but if I did….what a fantastic IDEA!!

Renewal packages will be available mid-April and new subscriptions can be purchased soon after.

For more information about the upcoming season, click this link: www.humanracetheatre.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Human Race 23-24 Season Announcement

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Join us at the Loft Theatre for our live announcement and be the first to hear about the inventive stories coming to our stage in the 2023-2024 Loft Season!
We want you to be there when we make the announcement. As one of our biggest fans, you love The Human Race for our incredible stories, characters and production value—brought to life in a way that can only be found in our theater. You won’t want to miss what we have in store next.
We promise our upcoming season will continue everything you love about The Human Race in our Next Act of imagination and creativity.

‘Gimme, Gimme, Gimme’ an ABBA Sing-Along, DGMC Style!!

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Are you a ‘Super Trouper?’ Come, sing-along!

I was so excited to catch up with Marc Driscoll of Dayton‘s fabulous Gay Men’s Chorus! Word is out about their upcoming sing-along with ‘Mamma Mia‘ the movie. I had to get more information, so we met….and it went something like this!

JS: Marc! So good to see you. So, tell me about your upcoming benefit!

MD: The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus is having a Benefit….A Mamma Mia Sing Along which  will be held Sunday, April 16 at the Plaza Theatre in Miamisburg (33 South Main Street Miamisburg). Doors will open at 5:00 with the show starting around 6:00. Tickets are $20 a piece and can be purchased through the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus website: daytongaymenschorus.org

JS: That sounds fun, and fantastic! A Sing-Along can mean different things to different people. Elaborate on what folks can expect!

MD: Oh sure…The night will feature a limited song selection from the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus leading into the main event. Audience members will view the 2008 film Mamma Mia featuring the hit songs of ABBA. During the movie, lyrics to songs will appear on screen and audience members will be encouraged to sing along with the film. In addition to this there will be “call out” moments during the film to get members engaged in the story.

JS: The great thing is, we all are familiar with ABBA‘s music, so it surely will have people at ease to sing! You boys always have prizes and such at your events. What about this time around?

MD: Before the show and during the intermission audience members will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for gift baskets featuring donations from several local vendors. Audience members can also purchase alcoholic beverages, soda, and snacks similar to any experience at the movie theatre.

JS: Now look sir, the alcohol will really put people at ease to sing! Good thinking!

MD: YES!!! The idea for the night is for folks to let go and have fun singing along with the movie. It is an opportunity to raise money for the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus, but also to have fun with members of the chorus in the audience.

JS: I was in the chorus for one day…literally…but I realized right away, you gentlemen are pros at this. Which brings me to how smart you are to provide the lyrics….

MD: Oh yeah, for sure. The will appear on screen as the movie is playing… This is similar to the traditional “bouncing ball” or karaoke experience.

JS: And I know it’s a benefit for the chorus. How will the proceeds be used?

One of Dayton’s Treasures!

MD: Money raised will be used for things like purchasing the rights to music, securing performance venues, salaries for support staff etc.

JS: Venues like the Plaza Theater!

MD:  Exactly! The Plaza Theatre in Miamisburg has been beautifully restored and will be an awesome venue to get to experience ABBA.

JS: Should people dress in a certain way, or do their hair ABBA style?

MD: People are encouraged to wear resort wear or tropical wear to help get in the mood of the film.

JS: Super fun! Before I let you go, what else does the DGMC have coming up…I know you have a devoted fan base, for sure!

20 Years of the DGMC…and more to come!

MD: This year we have been celebrating the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus’ 20th season, and we have been practicing since January to prepare for our Spring show, “Still Gay After All These Years.” This will be held on June 17th at the Dayton Masonic Center at 8:00 PM.  This show will be a review of some of our favorite songs throughout the twenty years. In addition, this show is part of our DGMC Gives Back theme for the year. This means that the June concert will be 100% free!

JS: What a treasure we have in Dayton with you guys!! Congrats on 20 years! I know the sing-along will be a hit! THANK YOU for meeting with me!

MD: THANK YOU!

 

About the DGMC: Founded in 2003, DGMC is committed to continually reaching for excellence in choral music, forging active community partnerships and educating others about the value of diversity. We offer a broad range of musical styles from serious to the sublime—heavy to hysterical. Our members have a dedication to the choral arts and the desire to become part of a singing, gay-affirming community—and, no, you don’t have to be gay to join us!

 

 

 

 

 

“Girls Night Out – The Show” comes to The Brightside

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Ladies, this is your chance to enjoy yourselves! This Saturday GIRLS NIGHT OUT THE SHOW makes a stop in Dayton at The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Saturday, April 1st. Girls Night Out is on their “About Last Night” tour, featuring several hot male dancers that are ready to rock your worlds.

Since the Living Room was destroyed in the tornados of 2019, there have not been many options for women seeking a wild night out. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, bachelorette, divorce, birthday, turning thirty, or just your own amazing self, this is a the perfect way to let your hair down with friends. These men are ready to entertain you!

The Brightside is a great place to see this show! It’s a beautiful space conveniently located downtown at the crossroads of 3rd St and Keowee, with off street, free parking available on both sides of building. They have a bar on-site to order drinks (note, there is no food on-site for this event).

Learn more about this specific show on social media @GIRLSNIGHTOUTTHESHOW on Facebook and Instagram, and @GIRLSNIGHTOUTLIVE on TikTok.

How to Go?

The Brightside – 905 E 3rd St., Dayton OH (off street, free parking available on both sides of building)

Saturday, April 1, 2023

Doors open at 7pm

Show 8-10:30pm

Must be 21+

Tickets can be purchased on line here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/girls-night-out-the-show-at-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-oh-tickets-557043942427

Wright State’s ‘On The Town’ Elevates Local Theater!

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WSU’s ‘On the Town’ is Old Broadway Elevated!

Dayton Theater has had a great winter. Name a theater company in the area and you will likely find a good review for their most recent endeavor. Most of those shows were based on contemporary, more recent scripts, Titles that are ‘of the now.’ So imagine how refreshing it was to see a good old-fashioned Broadway Show at the Gem of Musical Theater…WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY.

From Sets to Songs, ‘On the Town’ delivers!

I’m not going to lie…when I suggested ‘On The Town‘ to friends and family, there were questions….’You Mean Like The Movie on TMC?’ or  ‘On the Town...the sailor story…wasn’t that Sinatra?’ or ‘Wright State is Doing ‘On the Town?’ That’s an undertaking!’ I assured them, you can trust Joe Deer (Director) and the entire team! This team includes Music Director F. Wade Russo, who leads a 19 piece ‘on-stage’ orchestra! That alone is old-school magic. The show is around 80 years old…yes, 80 years old…but this production is alive and vibrant with choreography by Broadway’s Josh Walden. The dances are at times intricate and mesmerizing, and then, whimsical and bouncy! These kids can DANCE, and Walden obviously trusted their talents! They cover it all. From Ballet to 40’s Swing, the cast captures it.

‘But is it fun?‘ You ask? ‘The Movie was fun!‘ And it is. The sets harken to post war NYC and are a great blend of silly (T-Rex) and sound (the subway scenes.) Joe Deer’s direction allows the actors freedom to be goofy in those tongue-in-cheek moments, and reels in back in when the show returns to romance. It must be said that WSU’s version takes on the entire Leonard Bernstein score…..WOW! WOW! WOW! That’s an undertaking alright! You will recognize many of the songs, and may leave with ‘New York, New York- A Helluva town…the Bronx is up but the Battery’s down…’ repeating in your head.

These kids can dance!

It’s hard to highlight the cast individually as they all take on their role with spirit and enthusiasm. Tanner Gleeson (Gabey) is hard not to watch with his expressive presence and spot-on dancing.  Amy VanDyke (Ivy) pairs well with him as the love interest. Their Coney Island scene garnered applause mid-dance…it was well executed.  The other lead couples Ben Ohnemus (Chip) & Trinity Wolff (Hildy) and John Cuozzo (Ozzie) & Melissa Mataresse (Claire) keep the show moving forward with laughs and lunacy! Kevin Lausche‘s role as Pitkin was an obvious audience favorite as well. Just as enthusiastic are the musicians who handled the extensive score splendidly.

Look, big musicals are not easy to execute. There are so many moving parts, and each domino has to fall just right! And for this cast and crew it worked…beautifully. As I was leaving the theater, a patron said ‘Those students must be exhausted. They never stopped!’ My response…’Let’s hope they never do!’  Whatever magic happened that day, from a script now 8 decades old, with students in their twenties, is what theater should do! Leave you wondering….’How did they do that?’ Bravo WSU….for two and half hours, we were ‘Carried Away!’

Wright State is still the Gem of Musical Theater!

Performances take place April 6 at 7 p.m.; April 7 and 8 at 8 p.m.; April 8 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $23 for senior citizens and $15 for students.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the Creative Arts Center box office weekdays between noon and 4 p.m.

The show takes place in the Festival Playhouse.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hypnotist Rich Guzzi at Funny Bone

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Rich has been featured on Access Hollywood, TMZ, Parade Magazine, FOX, NBC, and more. Now you can see LIVE what many have said to be the most amazing display of comedy used to empower people’s lives – EVER!

Watch as Rich hypnotizes audience volunteers (including YOUR friends) right before your eyes. Then he puts them into the most outrageously funny scenarios you can possibly imagine. Rich demonstrates, using Humor and the Power of the Mind, how you can accomplish any goal you desire.

You will leave the show feeling good, having experienced a funny and uplifting event. You and your group will want to come back over and over again, and the next time, maybe you will volunteer yourself.

It’s time to gather your team, make your reservations, and grab your camera because you DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS!

How To Get Your House A Starring Role In A Movie

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As for how long the filming process takes, Grigsby says it depends entirely on the shoot.

“If they’re filming for three weeks, there’s generally  three days of prep and a wrap of three days after. You could be out of the house for an entire month if you’re willing to do that,” she said.  Most shoots in the Miami Valley last two to four days. Financial compensation for locations depends on the kind of house, the kind of scene and the size of the film. The key is to negotiate a rate that makes both parties happy, she said.  It’s not unusual to have a production pay to put you up in a hotel while they use your house.

While some people may be wary of handing over their property to film crews, Grigsby says the industry standard is to return the house exactly as it is found. Professional film companies will draw up a formal contract and provide insurance to cover any damage that could happen in the house, he said. Crews work professionally in the space and often cardboard-up walls and cover floors, she added. “By the end of it, your house should be back to normal in every way,” Grigsby explains.

Registering your house

Registering your property is done through an online registry run by FilmDayton and is free. The first step is creating a digital photo tour of your property, featuring as many wide shots as you can. If you can show multiple rooms in one shot, that’s great because then you can show action in different areas when you’re filming. Special features like pools, stairways, or interesting architectural details should be highlighted.  Here’s an example of what a listing looks like:

FilmDayton is hosting an information session this Monday night at their space on the 2nd floor of the Dayton Mall from 6-7pm.  Grigsby will talk about how the process works and what it means to list in their database. This event will provide property owners the opportunity to have their house, farm, cabin, trailer listed in our FilmDayton location database.  You are welcome to bring digital photo’s of your property and they’ll help you fill out the property information forms required to be in the database.   No contact info is shared with the public.
If there is any interest in your house, the commission will contact you directly to share production contacts with you.

 

Relativity Opens at Dayton Theater Guild

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In 1902, Albert and Mileva Einstein had a daughter. After 1904, the child was never seen or spoken of again. It is now 1942, and a reporter has come to interview Einstein about his mysterious family history, only to discover far more secrets under the surface. As the reporter questions Einstein about his theory of relativity and personal past, she develops a new, more pressing query: To be a great man, does one first need to be a good man?

It’s Opening Weekend at the Drive-In

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The Dixie Twin Drive-In Theater is a classic example of Americana that offers current day value with a touch of nostalgia. Located in Dayton, Ohio, “The Dixie” has 2 huge Screens, each with its own State-of-the-Art Digital Projector. We feature “First-Run” movies and play 2 movies per screen, per night, for an unmatched outdoor movie theater experience.

Starting this weekend, the outdoor movie season begins Friday & Saturday nights and expands to 6 nights per week (Closed Mondays) from Memorial Weekend through Mid-August. Toward summer’s end, they’ll go back to a Friday & Saturday schedule until the season ends around end of October.

📽 🍿 Movies start at dark and there’s a full Concession Stand of popcorn, pizza, burgers, chicken fingers, hot dogs, nacho’s, soft pretzels, ice cream, candy, slushies, fountain & bottled drinks, gatorade, hot cocoa, coffee and  even custom Dixie Merch! A short intermission in-between the first and second movie, allows for bathroom breaks and last chance purchases of concessions . Bathrooms are located on the north side of our Concession Stand.

 

Playing this weekend: JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4: 8 PM – 10:50 PM | R on both screens

Gates open an hour before the first movie starts. Movies start at dark. Open Rain or Shine.

🎥 Screen 1: (Furthest from Ticket Booth)  107.3 FM
🎥 Screen 2: (Closest to Ticket Booth)  105.3 FM

You can sit in front of or behind your car to prevent taking up more parking spaces. They ask that you do not sit on top of your car. Forgot your lawn chair? You can purchase one at the concession stand!  Sometimes car speakers aren’t loud enough to hear the movies, bring a portable radio if you plan on sitting outside of your car during the movie.

 

Ticket Prices:

🎟 Adults (13 & up): $10

🎟 Children (Ages: 12 – 5): $5

🎟 Children (Ages: 4 & under): Free

Military Discount: $1 (Must show valid ID)

Movies play rain or shine! However, if the weather is bad enough that it’s preventing them from playing the movies, they will issue rain checks to all cars to come back on another night

The grounds of the Dixie Twin are also home to a Sunday morning outdoor shopping experience! Visit The Paris Flea Market Sundays, 6:00am to 12:00 noon (seriously, people are shopping at 6 am with flashlights), starting April through October.

Dixie Twin Drive-In

6201 N Dixie Dr, Dayton, OH 45414
937-890-5513

Artist of the Week: Terry Hitt

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Terry is 88, and still paints in his studio two or three days a week. He says he loves working at K12 because “it’s filled with so much good energy and there are artists of all ages to talk to.”

Terry Hitt in His downtown studio at @k12galleryandtejas

 

When I first photographed and wrote about Terry seven years ago I called him a philosopher painter. That was partly because he was a pastor before becoming an art professor at the University of Dayton. It was also because of one of his past art projects, which I learned more about during my visit to Terry’s studio last week.
When he was teaching at UD, Terry and then eventually some of his students did a series of drawings of some of Dayton’s homeless people. The drawings were exhibited under the title “Portraits of Homelessness” and received national attention.
As he was starting this project I learned that Terry got advice from one of the twentieth century’s greatest photographers, Gordon Parks, about how to build a connection with his subjects. As it turned out, those connections continued after Terry’s art project was concluded. Terry told me how he was able to help some of the people he had sketched and also about how the project led him to some interesting adventures. If you want to know more you’ll have to drop by K12 some afternoon when Terry is painting.

Paddling Film Festival at The NEON

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The Paddling Film Festival is returning to the historic NEON theatre in Downtown Dayton, Ohio on March 23. Thanks to a partnership with Massie Creek Paddlers, Mudlick Tap House and Bonbright Distributors we are stoked co-host 2.5 hours of the best paddling films of the year.
The films offer something for every interest and skill level of paddling enthusiast; from armchair adventurer, hair on fire whitewater paddler, kayak angler to long distance traveler and conservationist. We have no doubt you will leave the NEON ready to protect our waterways and grab a paddle the first chance you get!
Be sure to join our pre-party at Mudlick Tap House for happiness hour, contests and a group hike led by Surf Dayton to the film festival. Bonbright Distributors will make sure you don’t go thirsty!
Get your tickets online at www.neonmovies.com

Wright State Theatre presents ON THE TOWN

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Wright State Theatre will present the landmark dance musical comedy, ON THE TOWN from March 17 – April 8 at Wright State’s Festival Playhouse. The production will feature Leonard Bernstein’s full score played by an onstage orchestra, and dazzling dances by guest choreographer, Josh Walden.

Trinity Woolf, Ben Ohnemus

ON THE TOWN tells the story of three sailors on 24-hour shore leave in New York City, at the height of World War II. Exuberant, bursting with youthful energy, optimism, silly humor, romance and exquisite music, Bernstein, Betty Comden and Adolph Green reinvigorated contemporary Musical Theatre when this show premiered in 1944. Though almost 80 years have passed since then, the show retains a freshness and vibrancy that audiences will find undeniably contagious.

John Cuozzo, Melissa Matarrese

Wright State Theatre’s production features a 19-piece onstage orchestra, led by Faculty Music Director F. Wade Russo, that includes students and faculty from the School of Fine and Performing Arts, as well as local professional musicians. This collaboration is a celebration of Wright State’s newly merged Arts programs into the School of Fine and Performing Arts. ON THE TOWN also features exciting new choreography by guest artist Josh Walden. Walden, a long-time Broadway veteran performer (42ND STREET, A CHORUS LINE, LA CAGE AUX FOLLES) directs and choreographs extensively across the US, with notable productions at some of America’s finest regional and off-Broadway theatres. Their visit has brought a level of excitement and energy that student performers will carry with them for their entire careers. Walden says, “All the choreography in ON THE TOWN has to be intrinsically linked to the clear storytelling of 3 sailors on leave for 24 hours in New York City.  From the launch of the ensemble welcoming the sailors with menacing smiles to the many ballets exploring the longing each character feels to connect, every step needs to be essential and deeply connected to want and need.  Now, couple all this with the disciplines of ballet and the stylistic moves of the movie musicals from the 40’s and you have our entire physical score.  And the students at Wright State University have all risen to this choreographic challenge with great skill and a full-body commitment.  ON THE TOWN has proven to be a great representation of their true triple-threat status.”

(left to right) Ben Ohnemus, Tanner Gleeson, John Cuozzo

“ON THE TOWN was a revolutionary musical in it’s time that raised the bar for what a Broadway musical could be in just about every way, while still maintaining an incredible sense of joy, romance and silliness.” says Director Joe Deer. “This new production captures all the energy of that moment and brings it vividly to life in ways that burst off the stage. Most of the characters are exactly the age of our students, who have found a joyful connection with the story that’s thrilling to see in rehearsal. And having a full orchestra and the incredible talents of our students, faculty and staff all harnessed to bring this exuberant show to Dayton is really a dream come true. Our gifted guest choreographer, Josh Walden, has brought a special level of artistry to this production, including four ballets and many other smaller dances that audiences will be dazzled by. I’m truly excited to share this with Dayton.”

Music Director, F. Wade Russo leads the largest musical ensemble Wright State Theatre has ever presented performing one of the musical theatre’s landmark scores. Russo says, “The collaboration between Music and Theatre programs on ON THE TOWN represents Wright State’s commitment to the artistic and professional development of our students.  It gives student musicians the opportunity to work and perform alongside their professors as well as with local professionals to hone their musical skills outside of the concert experience. The score is remarkable. Leonard Bernstein utilizes the jazzy rhythm of Gershwin, the boogie woogie swing style of Glenn Miller & Harry James mixed with the orchestral grandeur of Prokofieff, the contrapuntal precision of Bach and the lyricism of Jerome Kern to reflect the complicated urgency of life in wartime America.  Not unlike Lin-Manuel Miranda’s use of hip hop and rap to make the story of HAMILTON relevant to contemporary audiences.”

ON THE TOWN is directed by Joe Deer (Distinguished Professor of Musical Theatre), choreographed by Guest Artist Josh Walden, music directed by F. Wade Russo (Faculty Music Director) with Scenic Design by Pam Lavarnway (Emeritus Professor of Design), Lighting Design by Prof. Matthew Benjamin, Costume Design by Zoe Still (Instructor of Design) and student Associate Costume Designer Carrie Wieland. Properties are designed by resident Properties Master John Lavarnway, Sound by Department Sound Designer James Dunlap and Technical Direction by Kevin Nedberg (Department Technical Director). The production is Stage Managed by guest artist Nia Burns, with student Assistant Stage Managers Sarah Rowell and Juliette Trumbull. Major support for this production comes from The Musical Theatre Initiative at Wright State University and several private donors.

ON THE TOWN performs from March 17-April 8 (the last week of March will be off for Wright State’s annual ArtsGala). For tickets and information, contact Wright State Creative Arts Center Box Office atwww.wright.edu/theatre or (937) 775-2500