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Arts & Entertainment

Yellow Springs Film Fest Kickoff to Feature Kevin Nealon

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The Yellow Springs Film Festival is a celebration of creativity, connection and innovative performances exhibiting narrative and documentary feature films, shorts of all genres, stand up comedy and live music. The festival takes place annually, the first weekend in October.  Announcement of their kick off party for the 3rd annual  festival has revealed stand up comedian Kevin Nealon will be their special guest.

Nealon is an Emmy and SAG-nominated actor and comedian who sets himself apart from other comedic performers with his unique sense of humor, dry wit and likable demeanor. Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and received critical acclaim for his role in the hit Showtime series Weeds. Kevin currently produces and hosts his digital series Hiking with Kevin, and tours his stand-up globally. He will be releasing his latest book, I Exaggerate: My Brushes with Fame (Abrams), on October 25, 2022. Part art book, part memoir — the book is full of original full-color caricatures Kevin has created along with funny, endearing personal essays about his famous friends. Past guests include Michael Keaton, Jimmy Kimmel, Lin Manuel-Miranda, Cheryl Hines, Ray Romano, Al Franken, Hilary Swank, Kumail Nanjiani, Kate Beckinsale, Conan O’Brien, Adam Sandler, and more.

As one of the longest running cast members on NBC’s Saturday Night Live (1986-1995), Nealon created some of the show’s most memorable characters, including ‘The Subliminal Man’ and ‘Hans and Franz.’ Nealon’s recurring role as an anchor on ‘Weekend Update’ helped make the sketch a show staple. In 1988, he earned an Emmy nomination as part of the SNL writing team.

Each year YSFF gives a $3,000 prize through the Julia Reichert Award to an emerging female documentary filmmaker. In addition each year the festival provides a free educational seminar open to the public and partners with Wavelength Productions to showcase a program of short films directed by female or non-binary BIPOC filmmakers. 

The kickoff is Friday, October 3 · 5 – 6:30pm at the Foundry Theater at Antioch College.  Tickets can be purchased online for $40. Announcements of films to be screened and special events still to come.

Culture Works to Host A Regency Ball

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Culture Works invites you to be transported to a time of elegance, wit, and refined revelry at a Regency Ball on November 14, 2025. Join them for an immersive evening that celebrates Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, raises monies for the arts, and adds a piquant Regency flair to the season.

Whether you’re a seasoned historical dancer or a newcomer lured by the romance of empire-waist gowns and cravats, the Culture Works Regency Ball offers a unique opportunity to experience the grace and gaiety of a bygone era. Guests may choose Creative Black Tie or Regency Inspired formal wear. Reach out to local purveyors of finery, then don your flowing muslins, military coats, and dainty slippers—and come ready to promenade, converse, and waltz the night away under the glittering Arcade dome.

In the Regency period, such an evening would unfold in two parts: a select number of guests would be invited to join the dinner party before the dancing begins—an honor traditionally reserved for close acquaintances or distinguished guests. Following the meal, the ballroom would open to all attendees for the main event: an elegant night of dancing, music, and merriment. This tiered structure reflects the customs of the era, when invitations to dinner were limited and intimate, while the ball itself welcomed a broader assembly for socializing and spirited revelry.

In true Regency fashion, Culture Works is offering multiple options for participation. Begin your evening at 6:30 pm with a sit-down dinner from Bernstein’s Fine Catering, where guests are invited to engage in social intercourse and enjoy a meal inspired by historic menus, and complimented by fine wines. 

Then enter the ballroom where an ensemble will set the tone, playing the music of the era as renowned dance callers Tom and Toni Tumbusch guide you through the steps of traditional country dances. No partner? No experience? No problem—dances are taught and called in the moment, and the emphasis is on the festive, not perfection. Even Mr. Collins could show a fine leg under the Tumbuschs’ tutelage.

Or you can enter the ballroom at 8:30 pm, fresh from your dressing table. Late entry tickets allow guests to choose to be announced as they enter the ballroom. Then join in the dancing of traditional country dances, sample delicious desserts, enjoy complimentary punch, and use your drink tickets to enjoy something a bit stronger. Culture Works passport holders receive a $10.00 discount on late entry ball tickets, just enter your valid passport number on the ticket page.

Curtis Bowman, Director of Engagement for Culture Works, says “this Regency Ball is more than just a dance, it’s a celebration of community, culture, and imagination. From the moment you step through the door, you’re stepping into another world—one where letters arrive by post, glances across the ballroom matter, and every turn on the dance floor tells a story.” 

So press your gloves, polish your shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable night of elegance, connection, and time-traveling delight. One may use these links to acquire Tickets or engage as a Sponsor. We are so looking forward to it, there is no felicity like a ball. 

Artist Talk: Scarlett Trust

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Christine Gaffney is an interdisciplinary artist who recently received her MFA from CalArts and lives in the Dayton region. Gaffney’s sculptures and videos act as intimate self-portraits and reflections of her psyche and the complexities and dualities in female identities.

This event is FREE and open to all.

Tommy Davidson Returns to Funny Bone

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Tommy Davidson’s exceptional range – from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music accomplishments – have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer. Best known as one of the stars of the hit television show In Living Color, his visibility has allowed him to become a household name known for his innovative talent. Davidson started his career as a standup comedian in Washington DC, earning an ardent following. Tommy and Jamie Foxx, Jim Carrey, Damon Wayans and David Alan Grier — the uniquely talented cast of the most adventurous primetime variety show on television, In Living Color (1990), made TV history.

 

The iconic sketch show was recently honored with the ‘Groundbreaking Award” by TV Land in a star-studded salute guided by Whoopi Goldberg and this year celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Tommy’s film debut started opposite Halle Berry in Strictly Business. A range of feature film roles from Spike Lee’s Bamboozled, where he received acclaim and praise for his turn as “Womack/Sleep ‘N Eats,” to Juwanna Mann (Morgan Creek) and the pivotal cameo in Jim Carrey’s Ace Ventura II: When Nature Calls, followed. Recently, he starred in the landmark, award-winning documentary, I Am Comic, opposite Tim Allen, Lewis Black and in the feature doc, Dying Laughing, alongside Jamie Foxx, Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer and Sarah Silverman.

His elasticity as a performer is seen on the small screen with standout guest stints ranging from MTV’s Wild n’ Out with Nick Cannon, BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood opposite Kevin Hart, to ABC’s Celebrity Wife Swap. As a voice artist, America fell in love with Tommy as the star of Will Smith’s animated series, Youngin’s, Disney’s animated series The Proud Family, and alongside Michael Jai White in the critically-lauded spoof comedy, Black Dynamite (Adult Swim) as the character ‘Cream Corn.’
Tommy spent 3 years hosting ABC’s Vacation Creation, where the show grants once-in-a-lifetime cruises to deserving families who would never be able to afford them. Tommy’s stand up dates always sell out. He currently headlines “Off Color Comedy Tour” with Keenan Ivory Wayans, Shawn Wayans and David Alan Grier prompting all to ask,” Is ILC coming back?” He is also currently touring with Mike Epps and Martin Lawrence. In February 2020, Tommy released a personal memoir titled “Living in Color: What’s Funny about Me” which recounts his personal triumphs as having been abandoned as in infant, adopted and raised by a Caucasian family in Washington DC during the Civil Rights Movement. Also his sustainability in Hollywood and his experience with Race in the US. With Disney+ recently announcing the 2nd season of The Proud Family.

McCoy on Movies: Superman

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James Gunn brings humanity to an alien character with DC Universe lead film reboot

SUPERMAN

The most controversial movie of the year focuses on the choices we make as humans, what makes us human, fear of those different than us and takes aim at the evil corporations and billionaires do under the guise of helping society all while showing a person of color as one of the smartest on earth.
 

Go figure.

The first official cinematic entry in James Gunn’s tenure as the head of the DC Comics Cinematic Universe, SUPERMAN – the 2025 version – can be viewed in one of two ways: (1) This is a super “woke” (which ironically is the opposite of “asleep,” but that’s another conversation entirely …) film where an alien makes us look at our fear of those different from us, how they could take over and showing us this unrealistic view where all these DEI hires have to “save us” from evil, white, male billionaires …


OR

(2) This is a multi-layered film that, while not perfect, makes a character that has been portrayed historically as having one weakness as being vulnerable – not just to kryptonite, but a world that doesn’t understand him and at times, fears him. This is a film that likewise shows the true danger of letting the rich run wild with unchecked power, how propaganda can be near fatal to thought, progression and society … All while throwing in a mix of humor, secondary characters that actually contribute significantly to a story and a lead perfectly cast for his role.

Smart fans will take the latter approach.

RATING:

 

Shrek The Musical

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Join Epiphany Players Drama Ministry for their 34th musical as Aaron Brewer debuts as Director, with Music Director Kandis Gibson and Producers Michele Borns and Megan Wean Sears.  Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie; Caroline, or Change) and a sidesplitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears.

PERFORMANCES: July 10-20, 2025

Thurs-Sat, July 10-12 | 7 PM
Sun, July 13 | 2 PM Matinee
Thurs-Sat, July 17-19 | 7 PM
Sun, July 20 | 2 PM Matinee

Tickets: $18 Adults/$15 Seniors, Students & Military. Purchase online.

Hosted by Epiphany Lutheran Church, 6430 Far Hills Ave., Centerville. Learn more about Epiphany Players at our website.

McCoy on Movies: JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH

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JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH
There’s an old adage that says, “Give a man a fish, he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he’ll eat for a lifetime.” In the case of JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH, one might say, “Give a film studio a dinosaur and they’ll give an audience one really great movie. Let that same studio have a bunch of dinosaurs and they’ll give audiences the same formula with a few tweaks and watch as they keep buying tickets.”
There’s a scene early on in REBIRTH where Rupert Friend’s character explains to Scarlett Johansson’ character that over time, people lost interest in dinosaurs. That should serve as enough of a warning to the savvy film viewer to know that the next two hours are going to feature what you already know to expect from a Jurassic World film:
  • An evil corporate person who always thinks of profit over anything else to their own demise;
  • A nerdy scientist who values dinosaurs more than humans the way people who love dogs but have few friends do their pets;
  • Another example of helicopters NOT being a good idea in these situations;
  • Soldiers who seem to be trained at the Acme school of bad henchmen;
  • A character that seems like a goof at first but shows redeeming qualities;
  • A scared child that should never have been in this situation in the first place; and
  • A monster hybrid dinosaur that no one in their right mind would ever create, attendance needs of the actual park be damned.
So, despite the film’s title, there’s absolutely nothing new happening in JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH. But given the film’s massive July Fourth weekend box office tally, expect another Jurassic World film to spawn within the next 2-4 years.
RATING:

Matilda: The Musical at La Comedia

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Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and special powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her school teacher, Miss Honey, who recognizes her extraordinary personality.

The school’s mean headmistress, however, hates children and loves to punish those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts and could be the students’ saving grace!

Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

Matinees: Thursday, Friday & Sunday: Arrival time, 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. Buffet opens around 11:15, show begins around 12:30 p.m.

Evenings: Thursday – Sunday: Arrival time, 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. Buffet opens around 6:15 p.m., show begins around 7:30 p.m.

MJ: The Musical June 24 – 29

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He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Dayton in MJ, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award®-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. It’s thrilling sold out crowds on Broadway, in cities across North America, and in London’s West End… and now MJ is startin’ somethin’ in Dayton as it makes its premiere at the Schuster Center.

Oh Yes, Oh Yes, Oh Yes….This is the “CHICAGO” You Were Hoping For!

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Let’s face it, CHICAGO is a mainstay of Broadway shows… and TheatreLab Dayton is bringing you the CHICAGO you are hoping for. Punchy, funny, poignant, and true to the script….they are giving you the energy you need! Giving us a minute of their time, Mackensie King (Director) and Abby Kress (Roxie) sat down to talk about the upcoming stage staple.

937: Hi ladies, thank you for taking some time with us. I can tell you, from the outset, I love CHICAGO, but in its intended form, not the contemporary, less showy versions. I understand; you’re intentionally bringing it back to the Chicago we love. How did all of this come to pass?

MK: We really wanted to embrace the vaudeville spirit at the heart of the show. It plays with the classic ‘show within a show’ trope, and we’re intentionally breaking the fourth wall to invite the audience right into the fantasy unfolding on stage. The script itself has plenty of humor, but this cast has taken it to another level — they’re truly leaning into the comedy and delivering some big, belly laughs. And then there’s the choreography: Gage Wayne has created some absolutely stunning numbers. I think audiences will be tapping their feet and wishing they could jump up there and join in.

AK: This is a beloved musical by many so I hope audiences walk out having that classic Chicago itch scratched. I also hope they can identify the similarities this heightened, vaudevillian world has with the current political and social scenes we experience today.

937: Abby, I know Roxie is a beloved and coveted role….how are you feeling about it? And congratulations to you!

AK: Roxie is a dream role to take on, and challenging for sure. Physically of course, as the entire show is driven by song and dance numbers. Unlike other leading ladies, Roxie’s redeeming qualities are not heavily apparent in the script, that’s Chicago! As an actor, this poses another challenge to justify her choices throughout the show in order to deliver an authentic performance in the heightened world we’ve created.

937: Awesome….so ecited to see it. With that in mind, Mackensie, this season for TheatreLab has been interesting. How does CHICAGO fall into the theme?

MK: Reflecting on this season, one theme shines through: the powerful act of reclaiming one’s story. Chicago slots seamlessly into that narrative—giving center stage to women who not only find their voices but boldly rewrite the script. I’m always drawn to stories led by deeply flawed, complex characters. They invite us to see the world through their lens, challenging our assumptions and stirring empathy. Because really—who among us is perfect?

937: You have elevated those stories for sure this season. LIZZIE, FULL MONTY….people making their place in the world!! Ladies, what are you hoping people leave that theater feeling, or thinking?

AK: This show has a beautiful combination of TheatreLab veterans and fresh new faces! This cast is dynamic, talented, and so eager to entertain you. Chicago is the 2nd longest running show on Broadway, gripping audiences for over 25 years for a good reason. We are so excited to put a Dayton touch on a renowned favorite!

MK: She’s right….and beyond that, Now more than ever, we’re seeing just how much media — and our level of media literacy — shapes the way we view the world. With this piece, I really wanted to remind people that things aren’t always what they seem. Just because something is beautifully worded doesn’t mean it’s truthful. Art has always been one of the most powerful mirrors of our time, and I think it’s essential to dig deeper and find meaning, even in the material we think we already know.

937: Wow….what a great way to wrap this all together. Break many legs, and best to all of you! For more details:

https://www.simpletix.com/e/chicago-tickets-214975

The show runs

  • June 26 – 29, 2025. 
  • The Beautiful Northmont Community Auditorium, 4916 National RoadClayton, Ohio 45315

 

 

Dayton Dance Initiative CoLab II

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Dayton Dance Initiative proudly presents CoLab II — back by popular demand after the success of Making Moves: The CoLab in 2023! Now in its seventh season, DDI invites you to witness a dynamic celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community.
CoLab II is a fusion of Dayton’s most vibrant multidisciplinary artists, coming together to ignite the stage with six brand-new, original dance works featuring live and original music, costume design, film, creative non-fiction, dramaturgy, and more, all crafted by the incredible talents living and working right here in our city.
This year’s powerhouse lineup of dancers, choreographers, and artists hails from iconic local institutions including Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company 2, Wright State University, Cincinnati Ballet Academy, University of Dayton, Sinclair Community College, Discover Classical, and the Dayton Daily News.
Fueled by the generous support of the Montgomery County Arts District (MCACD) Special Projects Grant administered by Culture Works, CoLab II is more than a performance — it’s a bold statement of artistic unity, innovation, and the boundless power of creative collaboration.
Join us and experience the magic — where dance meets every corner of Dayton’s artistic heartbeat.

Reading: Vignettes of The Belonging Project

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join us for a public reading of the second draft of Vignettes of The Belonging Project at The Loft Theatre on Tuesday, June 17th!
The Kettering Foundation will host a reception with light refreshments at 6pm. The reading will begin at 7pm and a discussion will follow the presentation.
It’s free to attend. Please RSVP to [email protected].

Gem City Groundlings Reimagined Macbeth to Premiere at ‘Glass!’

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Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy has been reimagined for a modern age in Dayton’s most thrilling venue, The Roger Glass Center for the Arts. The  Gem City Groundlings, Dayton’s premier Shakespeare company, is proud to present a riveting new production of Macbeth, opening Thursday, June 19th and running through Saturday, June 27th at The Roger Glass Center for the Arts and The Levitt Pavilion.

This fierce 90 minute adaptation distills the essence of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy into a searing, suspenseful thrill ride of ambition, prophecy, and power. With a lean cast, minimalist design, and visceral performances (and oh yes, the fighting!), the Groundlings promise a Macbeth that is as haunting as it is unforgettable.

“Something wicked this way comes—fast, sharp, and dangerously close,” says Andrew Mitakides (Cofounder and Executive artistic director). “This production strips away the pomp to reveal the raw psychological terror beneath the crown.” Mitakides is also playing the lead role.

Featuring a cast of local and national talent—including performers from Washington, DC—this Macbeth reimagines the Scottish Play for a 21st-century audience while remaining faithful to the Bard’s original language.

This production is one of the first local theatre companies to play the ‘Glass’ with more to come in the future. The ‘Glass’ has shown great interest in presenting community and professional theatre projects that are produced in the area!

Don’t miss Macbeth!

Performance Dates:

  • Opening Night: Thursday, June 19 at 7:30 PM

  • Weekend Performances: Fridays & Saturdays at 2pm and 7:30 PM; Sundays at 2:00 PM

  • Levitt performances June 26th and 27th at 7pm. Closing June 28th

Tickets:

General Admission: $25 | Students/military and first responders 20

Available now at www.gemcitygroundlings.com/tickets

More About the Groundlings can be found here:

Gem City Groundlings is Dayton’s newest and most innovative Shakespeare company, committed to producing bold, text-driven theatre that connects timeless stories with modern audiences. From visceral tragedies to raucous comedies, we bring the Bard to the heart of the Miami Valley with passion, wit, and purpose.

Contacts [email protected] or [email protected]

Dayton Dines by Design: Art, Design, and Philanthropy Unite

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Prepare to be inspired: the inaugural Dayton Dines by Design is set to take center stage on June 25–26, 2025, bringing dazzling design, culinary elegance, and creative spirit to the heart of Dayton. Hosted in support of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA), this two-day fundraising celebration invites guests into a world of breathtaking tablescapes, curated by some of the region’s most talented designers, florists, artists, and design boutiques.

Dayton Dines by Design supports the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Photo of Keitaro Harada by the DPAA (Contributed)

Dayton Dines by Design will feature a stunning gallery of immersive tablescape installations, each a one-of-a-kind artistic vision, transforming traditional dining into a visual experience. This elegant affair begins with a festive Cocktail Reception on Wednesday, June 25, followed by an inspired Luncheon Event on Thursday, June 26. Tickets are sold separately for both events.

At the heart of the luncheon is keynote speaker Corey Damen Jenkins, a nationally acclaimed interior designer known for his bold, sophisticated work. Named to the prestigious AD100 and Elle Décor A-List, Jenkins has been featured in House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and his celebrated book Design Remix. His keynote promises to be as dynamic and stylish as his interiors.

Proceeds from Dayton Dines by Design will directly support DPAA’s education programs in ballet, opera, and orchestra—helping cultivate the next generation of performers and arts lovers throughout the region.

The Dayton Ballet & Dayton Opera are supported by Dayton Dines By Design proceeds.

“This event is about more than beautiful tables—it’s a celebration of creativity and community,” said Allyson Danis, Committee Chair “By supporting Dayton Dines by Design, you’re also supporting the young musicians, dancers, and vocalists who will shape our cultural future.”

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a patron of the arts, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Dayton Dines by Design invites you to take a seat at the table—and be part of something beautiful.

HOW TO GO?
Cocktail Party & Tour of the Tables | Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 5pm to 7pm

Luncheon & Keynote Presentation | Thursday, June 26, 2025 | 10:30am to 2pm

Location for both events: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, OH 45409

Tickets & More Information: https://daytonperformingarts.org/dayton-dines/

DGMC’s ‘The Power of Love’ celebrates Pride Month.

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The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus is presenting their Pride Concert titled, “The Power of Love!” The June concert is always important because it is the DGMC’s way to show excitement and appreciation of Pride Month. The DGMC felt it would be important to focus on “The Power of Love” to push back against some of the negativity that has unfortunately become so strong in our country and world.

The concert will daringly focus on all aspects of love, including romantic love, brotherly love, love of country, and love for our community. All of this through the strong, solid performances, people have come to love about the DGMC.

The concert will be a 1st as they perform at the Roger Glass Center for the Arts. The space in the Glass being utilized is actually designed for vocal performance. Surely, this will only enhance an already dynamic chorus.
Tickets can be purchased at the door or at the website: https://www.daytongaymenschorus.org/
Performances are on Saturday, June 14. There are two shows, 2 pm and 8 pm.
Don’t miss the show, which features favorites like “Love Shack,” “Defying Gravity,” and “Wannabe” as well as some lesser known pieces that are sure to get an emotional response from the crowd. See you at the Glass!

Pastime™ Film – World Premiere Red Carpet Screening + Cast Q&A

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With over two years in development, it’s Pastime™ we announce the first full-length feature film by Dayton based film Director, Corinthian Campbell (PastAfter Pictures) and Associate Producer, Johnny Catalano (Catalano Film, Co. LLC / Catalano Film Festival).
This has been an exciting ‘passion’ project and we’d like to invite you to join us for the upcoming World Premiere Red Carpet Screening at the Air Force Museum Theatre Saturday, June 14, 2025. This is going to be a great event followed by a Q&A with the Cast – Hosted by Associate Producer, Johnny Catalano (Catalano Film Festival).
Trust you’re able to join us and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. In the meantime, check out and share the trailer: https://pastimefilm.com and appreciate your help getting the word out as our Premiere is open to public!