On Stage Dayton

A couple of sublime moments at the ballet

March 16, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

With the “Diversity in Dance” concert, Dayton Ballet highlighted what works well for this regional ballet company. Once again the tantalizing prospects for a full fledged renaissance are on display. From the work of legendary choreographer and co-founder of the Joffrey Ballet to the rich and tantalizing movement construction of Susie Payne, This was a concert of bountiful returns.

I have to impress upon the Dayton arts community what a rarity it is to see classical and or neoclassical ballet repertory being presented with a live orchestra. This symbiosis of elements adds a third contextual layer of interpretation and experience for the viewer. Having performed to live orchestration many times myself as a performer it changes how and what is being danced at the molecular level not to mention the spiritual. The fact that we got to see it in conjunction with the re-staging of a Gerald Arpino masterwork is worth the price of admission.

Dayton Ballet in Gerald Arpino’s Reflections. Photo Credit: Scott Kimmins

“Reflections” was a neoclassical master class in what is usually missing from present day choreographers, innate musicality and the ability to translate it into choreography. With it’s almost Balanchine-like phrasing and musical weaving, The Dayton Ballet dancers accompanied by the Dayton Philharmonic under the masterful baton of Neil Gittleman kicked off this concert with a Joie de Vivre that was at once effervescent and steely in design. In shades of gray and pink, the women and men weaved beautifully rendered lattice work of patterns and tableaus. with particular attention being payed to several playful, athletic variations and Pas de Deux’s, most notably Abby Phillips and Evan Pitts, which left an indelible impression long after the bows.

The second work on the concert was “Dreams of Flight” by Dayton original, Susanne Payne. This was a bravura choreographic work that showcased the incredible skills of the Dayton Ballet men. In her program notes she says the work was loosely inspired by “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coehlo and that it is rigorously athletic. The latter part was an understatement as the piece evolved and built to it’s rousing conclusion. While Susanne was weaving her metaphoric choreographic alchemy, you could not help but be pulled into its intoxicating adrenaline-spiked power. This was a visceral, heart-stopping epic work that in lesser hands could have been maudlin and overwrought. “Dreams of Flight” tapped into layers of emotional, intellectual and spiritual connectivity wrapped up in a rich and utterly original movement vocabulary. It was in turns, playful and childlike, mature and insightful. While it was danced with athletic vigor and panache, this was a triumphant success for not only the dancers and the choreographer but also the company itself. I have always stated that when a dance company breaks out of routine and embraces the new and unexpected, we all walk away winners.

Case Bodamer and Abby Phillips in Susie Payne’s “Interactions”.

Your next chance to see the Dayton Ballet in action will be in the upcoming show, New Directions.
The show opens this Thursday March 20th and runs through Sunday March 23rd at the Victoria Theatre.

This performance includes:
Dermot Burke’s “Fête des Courtiers”
Susie Payne’s “Interactions”
Jessica Lang’s “From Foreign Lands and People”
Karen Russo Burke’s “Canyons”

Buy New Directions tickets online or by calling
the box office at (888) 228-3630.

‘Expecting Isabel’ Review – Dayton Theatre Guild – Whatever It Takes

March 13, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

The cast of Expecting Isabel includes (back row l to r) Rick Flynn, Dorothy Michalski, Ellen Ballarene, Joshua Lisec, Amy Taint (front row l to r) Rachel Wilson and Angela Timpone. Not featured: Shawn Hooks and Angele Price. (Contributed photo)

Lisa Loomer tackles the very delicate subject of infertility with humor and tenderness in her eye-opening 1998 contemporary comedy “Expecting Isabel,” breezily directed by Robb Willoughby at the Dayton Theatre Guild.

Down-to-earth Manhattan couple Nick and Miranda, respectively relatable as an aspiring sculptor and greeting card writer, eagerly endeavor to have a child, but face continuous obstacles along the way. In addition to coping with colorful input from Nick’s larger-than-life Italian family and Miranda’s tipsy mother, the duo attempts everything from marriage counseling and support groups to fertility drugs and medical tests incorporating animal experiments. In fact, their painstaking pursuit leads them to separation, particularly as Miranda seeks solace with her mom while Nick moves back in with his animated brood. Even so, in spite of disappointing setbacks, they remain committed to their ultimate desire to start a family, a decision that eventually leads them on the complicated yet fulfilling road to adoption.
Rachel Wilson and Shawn Hooks are believably compatible in the leading roles. Quickly pulling the audience in at the outset during Miranda’s revealing opening monologue, Wilson delivers a firm, appealing portrayal. Her performance possesses the engaging complexity and tangible exasperation required to bring credence to the play’s most fascinating character, an emotionally scarred woman with a rocky family history who honestly hadn’t thought about having a child. Hooks, amiable and supportive in a less flashy role, earnestly conveys Nick’s genuine longing to become a father, especially in Act 2 as his benevolent impulses gets the best of him.
Loomer, perhaps best known as the co-screenwriter of “Girl, Interrupted,” propels the comedy by having the ensemble portray multiple characters. Ellen Ballerene (Tina), Rick Flynn (Sal), Joshua Lisec (Dominic), Dorothy Michalski (Yolanda), Angelé Price (Pat), Amy Taint (Lila), and Angela Timpone (Isabel) step up to the plate beyond stereotypical caricature. Most of their moments are geared toward comic relief, but Price deserves special mention for bringing substantive poignancy to her portrayal of Lupé, an overburdened Hispanic mom faced with a critical decision.
One day amid a parade of baby carriages, Miranda is gently reminded “everything you went through was part of the path.” Parenthood certainly spurs challenges and Loomer cautiously advises to expect the unexpected.

“Expecting Isabel” continues through March 16 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $11 for students. For tickets or more info: Call (937) 278-5993 or visit daytontheatreguild.org

A Triumph of the Will and Artistry: DCDC Returns to the Victoria Theatre Stage

March 12, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

As a diverse cross-section of concert-goers filled the Victoria Theatre there was a palpable buzz that vibrated through the space. Seasoned lovers of dance and neophytes alike, eagerly awaited the concert of “world” premieres to begin. Seeing this many patrons still clamoring for artistic offerings of this Dayton institution, one cannot help imagining one angel in particular is smiling from heaven.

To make the case for being a world class dance troupe, it requires that the talents and skills of the dancers and choreographers be showcased and presented to maximum effect. Performing at the Victoria Theatre truly provided the best framing vehicle for the beauty and youthful vitality that moved before us.

It was stated in one of the three curtain speeches of the evening that it had been the dream of the artistic director, Debbie Blunden-Diggs , that she was committed to a vision of an all new choreographic works concert in honor of the forty-five year anniversary of the DCDC. That commitment produced one of the strongest concerts performed by the company in years.

with Marlayna Elyse Locklear, Dorse Brown, Kimberly Jones, Abby Leithart and Hershel Deondre Horner III. Photo provided by Geek With A Lens Photography.

The concert began with a polymorphic collage of kinetic movement specificity from Ronen Koresh. “Exit 7” began with a taut, repetitive ensemble section that evocatively set the the tone for the loosely linked dance vignettes to come. Dancers moved with a punchy precision while navigating rows of chairs highlighted individually by shafts of overhead lights. The choreography had a refined ritualistic tone that echoed throughout the rest of the work. There was a collective need to make sense of our rapidly splintering and fragmented society. This fragmentation led us on a journey, that was filled with at times moments of sensual despair, cheeky humor, and audacious physicality. It was brought to a dazzling close by the ensemble of dancers generating a sound collage of their own voices as an accompaniment to the visceral climax of the highly engaging and unique work of Mr. Koresh.

The work of Donald Byrd was a master class in combining engaging modernist movement material with spoken word in a heady mix of social and geo-political commentary and satirical undertones. It is the type of artistic work that only someone of his elevated artistic ability can accomplish.

Watching this work unfold and weave its intellectual spell on us in the audience, I could not help but envision this as being a truly post-modernist effort in every sense of the word. From the sublime verbal barrage of the narrator, exquisitely brought to life by Nabachawa Ssensalo, to the beautifully patterned and group movement invoking the bio-mechanics of cotton picking, this is a work worth savoring and repeating.

In the work of Rodney Brown”The Gatherer/wee Thing”, a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Sheri “Sparkle” Williams. One comes away with a sensory trip contemplating of not only Sheri as 40 year veteran, but also the future of DCDC as relevant fixture of the arts community. I would argue that DCDC is the only element of our community as a cultural component that transcends the bounds of our provinciality. An exportable cultural product that would hold up well under the glare and scrutiny of the world stage. All this from watching a “lion in winter” dancing star perform a nuanced solo on the Victoria theatre stage.

All photos provided by Geek With A Lens Photography.

The evening concluded with the work of Ray Mercer, “Tossed Around”; a work whose brevity was not welcomed. This work felt incomplete for all of the right reasons. Visually engaging, physically energized choreography that hit you in the solar plexus and that filled this reviewer with with pure unmitigated joy for being in its presence. As the yellow chairs flew from the wings to be caught by the dancers as they moved in ever increasing complex movement patterns, you were left wondering if and how frenzied and complex the choreography could evolve into. It was like getting your hands on the first chapters of an amazing serialized page-turning novel. You were hungry for more.

Seeing this company of young dancers and seasoned veterans in this concert performing such world class and dynamic artistic works left me breathless and most importantly hungry for more.

Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg presents: The Music Man!

March 5, 2014 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg

The Music Man

The Theatre: Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg, or CPAM, is a non-profit children’s theater dedicated to promote, to all area youth, the appreciation of the performing arts through education, practice and performance. Our goal is to enrich the lives of those participants by strengthening the performing arts community. They feature classes and performances in the historic Baum Opera house in Downtown Miamisburg.

The Show: Later this week, the kids of CPAM are going to take on Meredith Wilson’s classic piece of Americana, The Music Man. This musical tells the tale of Harold Hill, a traveling ~~con artist~~ salesman who inspires the stiff-necked citizenry of fictional River City, Iowa to invest in the future of their town by putting together a Boys Band. Of course, Hill himself will lead it, and all the instruments, music and uniforms are available from him. For a fee. He never expected to meet Marian Paroo, the suspicious librarian-cum-piano teacher. The result is a beloved piece of musical theatre that gives us the songs, “76 Trombones,” “(Ya Got) Trouble,” and “Shapoopi,” among many others. By the end, you’ll wish you could play right along with the band.

Dates: Music Man opens Saturday, March 8th. The times and dates run as follows: 3/8 and 3/15, 2 pm and 7 pm. 3/9 and 3/16, 3 pm and next week, 3/13 and 3/14 at 7 pm.

Tickets: Tickets are available by following the link at CPAM’s page, here, and the prices are $17 for reserved seating, $15 for general admission and $13 for seniors (60+), military members and children ages 3-11.

Location: The Baum Opera House is located at 15 First St in Downtown Miamisburg.

TICKET GIVEAWAY
DMM has 2 pairs of tickets fro the Thursday, March 13th 7pm show. To enter our drawing, please like this post and fill out the form below. We’ll announce our winner this Friday. [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Human Race Announces 2014-2015 season

March 4, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Human Race Theatre Company, Dayton’s only professional regional theatre company, launches its 28th season next September with a richly diverse 6-play combination of productions on its Eichelberger Loft Series. “Selecting the season is one of the hardest, yet most exciting parts of my job,” says Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore. “Thanks to a wonderful committee of readers, I am able to hand select just the right shows for our audience. It’s a season for everyone, with something old and something new; something funny, and something blue.”

The 2014-2015 season includes Miracle on South Division Street, a wholly divine intervention; Mame, a larger-than-life laugh riot; the world premiere of Family Shots, a still life in motion; Taking Shakespeare, a lesson in self-discovery; and Crowns, a celebration of spirit; as well as a special added production of the current Off-Broadway hit Buyer & Cellar, a diva lover’s delight.

The six plays perform in The Loft Theatre, The Human Race’s intimate 212-seat downtown performance space, located in the Metropolitan Arts Center at 126 North Main Street. The plays are scheduled for three-week runs and musicals are scheduled for four-weeks, with a number of associated special events: a Thursday night preview performance, preceded by the “Inside Track” discussion with the director; Friday Opening Night with a free post-show party with the cast in The Loft Lobby; Lite Fare at The Loft, a Tuesday night pre-show dining in The Loft Lobby, with food items provided by Citilites Restaurant; a “While We’re on the Subject” talkback following a Sunday matinee; and a Saturday night signed and audio-described performance opportunity.

THE 2014-2015 EICHELBERGER LOFT SERIES SEASON LINEUP

Miracle on South Division Street

by Tom Dudzick

September 4 – 21, 2014

60 years ago, Grandpa Nowak had a vision of the Virgin Mary in his Buffalo, New York barbershop and had an unusual statue of her made to commemorate the miracle. For decades, his family has faithfully tended to his quirky shrine—a source of hope and inspiration in an otherwise run-down part of town. That is until a deathbed confession knocks them for a loop in this hilarious hit comedy that proves when it comes to local legends, there’s more than meets the eye.

Mame

Book by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee
Music and Lyrics by Jerry Herman
Based on the novel by Patrick Dennis, and the play Auntie Mame by Lawrence and Lee

October 30 – November 23, 2014

Mame Dennis is a free-wheeling eccentric without a care until she becomes the guardian of her ten-year-old nephew, Patrick. Now it’s up to her to open new windows and show the boy worlds he never knew existed. Through the Roaring 20s and the Great Depression, Mame teaches Patrick how to “live, live, live”—whether he’s willing or not. It’s the dazzling Broadway musical that proves life’s a banquet, featuring the classic songs “We Need A Little Christmas”, “It’s Today”, “Bosom Buddies” and, of course, “Mame”.

A World Premiere Production!

Family Shots

by Michael Slade

January 22 – February 8, 2015

Charming family patriarch Sam Baker lies in a hospital bed, recovering from an apparent heart attack, but his wife, Marsha, won’t stop making the crisis all about her—much to the dismay of their son, Aaron. The young photographer wonders why his parents even stay together while dealing with his own issues as a newlywed. Intimate, yet universal, this new work by Michael Slade (Under a Red Moon, Gingerbread Children) is a wildly funny and touching comedy about marriage—its joys, challenges and responsibilities—and what’s worth fighting for.

A Special Valentine’s Event!

Buyer & Cellar

by Jonathan Tolins

February 12 – March 1, 2015

An out-of-work actor in Los Angeles, Alex takes on the oddest of odd jobs when he’s hired to work in the museum-like basement “mall” of an American entertainment icon’s lavish home. He spends his days alone and in awe, tending to a lifetime of countless mementos, until the lady of the house—the “Funny Girl” herself—appears and they strike up the unlikeliest of friendships. It’s an outrageously unbelievable comedy that will go down “like butta” as one talented performer takes on all the roles, even the dynamic “Babs”.

Taking Shakespeare

by John Murrell

April 16 – May 3, 2015

When a longtime, disillusioned college professor is asked to tutor her dean’s son through his freshman Shakespeare class, she finds it to be as much a test for her as it is for him. Although they seem to have nothing in common, as they explore the Bard’s Othello together, they learn more about each other—and themselves—than either is ready to admit. While they draw strength from the play, they come to understand what it means to live up to expectations.

Crowns

by Regina Taylor

adapted from the book by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry

June 11 – July 5, 2015

When troubled Brooklyn teenager Yolanda is sent to live with her church-going grandmother down South after the death of her brother, she finds healing in the personal stories of the ladies of the congregation and the hats that adorn their heads. Through time and space, their intimate histories create a soulful, joyous triumph of song, dance, culture and glorious “hattitude” in this powerhouse gospel musical like no other.

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND TICKETS

Subscriptions are available in 3-, 4- and 5-show packages, as well as in Flex Pass plans. Package prices range from $102 – $190, and discounted subscriptions are available for students. Both renewing and new subscribers may place their orders with Ticket Center Stage by calling (937) 228-3630 or by visiting the Schuster Center Box Office. New subscribers will be seated starting May 5. Single tickets to Miracle on South Division Street and Mame go on sale August 5, tickets to Family Shots go on sale October 28, tickets to Buyer & Cellar go on sale December 2, and tickets to Taking Shakespeare and Crowns go on sale February 10. Buyer & Cellar is not part of subscription packages, but subscribers can purchase tickets in advance when renewing or ordering a new subscription. Productions, performance dates and ticket prices are subject to change.

More ticketing and performance information on The Human Race Theatre Company’s 2014-2015 and 2013-2014 Loft seasons are available online or by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630, and at the Schuster Center box office.

The Human Race Theatre Company was founded in 1986 and moved into the Metropolitan Arts Center in 1991, taking up residence at the 212-seat Loft Theatre. In addition to the Eichelberger Loft Season, The Human Race produces for the Victoria Theatre’s Broadway Series, the Musical Theatre Workshop series, and special event programming. The Human Race, under the direction of Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore, also maintains education and outreach programs for children, teens and adults, as well as artist residencies in area schools, The Muse Machine In-School Tour, and summer youth programs. Human Race organizational support is provided by Culture Works, the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District, the Shubert Foundation, the Erma R. Catterton Trust Fund, the Jesse & Caryl Philips Foundation Fund for the Development of New Works, the Virginia W. Kettering Foundation and the Ohio Arts Council, which helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The 2013-2014 season sponsor is the Jack W. and Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation of the Dayton Foundation, with additional support from Jim and Enid Goubeaux, KeyBank, the Sam Levin Foundation, Premier Health, Heidelberg Distributing Company and Morris Home Furnishings.

Victoria Theatre Association Announces Additional CELTIC WOMAN Performance

February 27, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Victoria Theatre Association announces the addition of a 7 p.m. show for the global music phenomenon CELTIC WOMAN on May 18, 2014 at the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center in downtown Dayton. Tickets for the 3:00 p.m. show are going fast and are nearly sold out.

“The ladies of CELTIC WOMAN were so impressed with the Dayton audience and the Schuster Center in May 2013, they announced they were coming back from stage,” said Ken Neufeld, President & CEO of Victoria Theatre Association and The Arts Center Foundation. “We are excited to welcome them back on May 18, 2014. The show is selling so well, we have had to add a second performance to meet demand.”

Tickets are available in person at Ticket Center Stage, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center, by phone at 937-228-3630 and online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Tickets start at $46.50.

After School Tuesdays at The Human Race Theatre’s Creativity Center @ The Caryl D. Philips Creativity Center

February 24, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Kids, spend an afternoon The Human Race Theatre Company’s Creativity Center and you will be transported into the imaginative world of theatre. Each week will be designed to introduce a new skill or theatrical area. Develop your skills in improvisation, explore stage makeup technique, write a dramatic script, choreograph a new dance, act out your favorite myth or tall tale. Learn monologues, rehearse scenework and participate in mock auditions. And best of all, make new friends! Healthy afternoon snacks will be provided. This activity is for kids ages 8 – 13.

Event Details:

When: Tuesday February 25, 2014 03:00 PM – 06:00 PM

Cost: $15 pre-reg/$18 at the door

Event Contact Info: Marilyn Klaben

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 461-3823 x3132

Victoria’s 2014-2015 season offers ‘Billy,’ ‘Joseph,’ ‘Mormon’ & More

February 14, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Cast members of “The Book of Mormon”
Photo by Joan Marcus

The Victoria Theatre Association combines recognizable titles with fresher fare for a 2014-2015 season absolutely bound to please unlike any other lineup from the organization in recent memory.
The Premier Health Broadway Series, Projects Unlimited Variety Series, Star Attractions and PNC Family Series were announced Thursday, Feb. 13 in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center. Emceed by Larry Hansgen of WHIO AM/FM, the event incorporated business and community leaders, media personalities and Victoria subscribers in addition to Victoria donors and friends. Attractive promotional banners and an assortment of entertaining production snippets also accented the breezy ceremony.

Curiously, the Star Attractions can be considered the true headliners, especially 2011’s “The Book of Mormon,” the irreverent, naughty, nine-time Tony-winning joy ride from the creators of “South Park” and “Avenue Q.” The musical, which will only run one week and is sure to quickly sell out, should have jumpstarted the organization’s 2015-2016 lineup (it arrives in August 2015 after all), but kudos to the Victoria for securing such a hot commodity and being willing to push the envelope as never before. Also, Stephen Schwartz’s popular “Wicked” will return to the Schuster Center for the third time and for three weeks. Even so, I’m particularly thrilled for the overdue local premiere of 2010’s “Billy Elliot,” the remarkable 10-time Tony-winning Best Musical based on the outstanding 2000 film of the same name about a young boy’s passion for ballet.

The Broadway Series, always the main attraction, supplies a very promising six-show slate. Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Pirates of Penzance” is an odd inclusion (a tour has launched in celebration of the show’s 135th anniversary), but be thankful for 2012’s five-time Tony-winning play “Peter and the Starcatcher” (a “Peter Pan” prequel full of brilliant storytelling and stagecraft), 2012’s charming Gershwin outing “Nice Work If You Can Get It,” the tuneful return of 1995’s “Smokey Joe’s Café” (which played the Victoria Theatre during its last engagement well over a decade ago) featuring legendary troupe the Coasters, a new, vocally enticing production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” starring “American Idol” alums/husband and wife Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo, and the Human Race Theatre Company’s local premiere of Christopher Durang’s dysfunctional family comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” the 2013 Tony winner for Best Play.

The Variety Series supplies evenings with Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee/singer-songwriter J.D. Souther (ABC’s “Nashville”), mind reader/comedian Eric Dittelman, and the Nobodies of Comedy Tour featuring up-and-coming comedians who have appeared on Comedy Central, “Late Show with David Letterman,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson.” The Family Series features Zoot Theatre Company’s production of “The Velveteen Rabbit” in addition to tours of “Pinkalicious: The Musical” and “Robin Hood.”
“Every show and every Season is a leap of faith,” said Victoria and Arts Center Foundation CEO and President Ken Neufeld in a press statement. “Certain shows touch us and inspire us to share the story, the songs and the message with our audience. 2014-2015 will be a season audiences will reconnect with some familiar titles that may surprise them as well as connect with some of the very best work from the contemporary stage for both the Premier Health Broadway Series and Star Attractions.”

Season tickets for the 2014-2015 Broadway Series and Variety Series are on sale now by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visiting online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Single tickets will go on sale this summer. Single tickets for “The Book of Mormon” and “Wicked” will specifically go on sale in 2015. Additional Star Attractions and Family Series selections as well as the lineups for the Cool Films Series and National Geographic Live! Series will be revealed at a later date.

2014-2015 Premier Health Broadway Series

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Oct. 21-26, 2014 – Schuster Center)

Smokey Joe’s Café (Nov. 11-23, 2014 – Victoria Theatre)

The Pirates of Penzance (Jan. 20-25, 2015 – Schuster Center)

Nice Work If You Can Get It (Feb. 10-15, 2015 – Schuster Center)

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike (March 10-22, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

Peter and the Starcatcher (June 9-14, 2015 – Schuster Center)

2014-2015 Star Attractions
Billy Elliot: The Musical (Nov. 28-30, 2014 – Schuster Center)

Wicked (Apr. 29-May 17, 2015 – Schuster Center)

The Book of Mormon (Aug. 18-23, 2015 – Schuster Center)

2014-2015 Projects Unlimited Variety Series

Singer/songwriter J.D. Souther (Oct. 10, 2014 – Victoria Theatre)

Mind reader/comedian Eric Dittelman (Feb. 6, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

The Nobodies of Comedy Tour (Apr. 10, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

2014-2015 PNC Family Series

The Velveteen Rabbit (Dec. 6, 2014 – Victoria Theatre)

Pinkalicious (Feb. 2, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

Robin Hood (May 2, 2015 – Victoria Theatre)

For more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com or www.victoriaheatre.com

Sunny Drake To Perform Transgender Seeking… at Antioch College

February 12, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Sunny Drake (photo by Tania Anderson)

The Antioch College performance program is hosting Transgender Seeking…, a solo performance by artist Sunny Drake on Friday, February 21, at 7:00 p.m. in the Glen Helen Auditorium.

Drake, an award-winning Australian queer and transgender theater maker, performer and educator will explore queer relationships as “the space between our big political visions and our messy lives in trying to live up to them.”

Recently featured in Gscene Gay Magazine, writer Eric Page wrote, “Drake is one of those rare provocative performers who are uber-smart but ultra cozy at heart… one of the most interesting and touching performances I’ve seen in a while.”

Based in Toronto, Drake has toured his work extensively in Canada, Europe and the United States. He recently won the SummerWorks RBC Professional Artist Award (Canada’s biggest juried theater festival), and was honored by NOW Magazine (Toronto) for “Outstanding Performance” and “Outstanding Design.”

Transgender Seeking… has been generously supported by Antioch College’s Community Council, and is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Gabrielle Civil, associate professor of performance, at [email protected].

Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame Nomination Forms Now Online

February 11, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Nominations are being sought for 2014 Dayton Theatre Hall Of Fame inductees. Any member of the Dayton arts community is eligible to receive this annual award designed to recognize individuals who have dedicated themselves to theatre arts in Dayton. Completed nomination forms and two letters of recommendation must be received by May 10, 2014 and will be reviewed by the Hall of Fame Committee. Online nominations can now be submitted by going to www.daytonys.org or you can receive a nomination form by contacting the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame Nomination Committee Chair, Barbara Jorgensen, at [email protected].

Established in 2002, the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame was created to honor local theatre artists and patrons of the arts. It is designed to acknowledge people whose life-long participation, innovation, and creativity have influenced the Dayton arts culture. The Hall Of Fame recognizes their contributions to the arts by perpetuating their legacies. The Induction Ceremony will be held in conjunction with the annual DayTony Awards Presentation on August 9, 2014 at Sinclair Community College. The Awards Ceremony is open to the public. The 2013 inductees were Darrel Anderson, Chris Harmon, John Kenley, and Kay Frances Wean. The Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame is operated and governed by the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame Executive Committee.

Spend Father’s Day With Bill Cosby!

February 7, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The last time Bill Cosby was in Dayton was 2003, when he was the last act to play at Memorial Hall, before they mothballed it. Now 11 years later, one of America’s most beloved comedians of all time, Cosby, whose comedy transcends age, gender and cultural barriers, will return to town to play the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, Sunday, June 15 at 7 pm. Cosby has captivated generations of fans with his comedy routines, iconic albums and best-selling books, including “Fatherhood,” “Time Flies” and his current bestseller, “I Didn’t Ask to Be Born, (But I’m Glad I Was.)”

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNXqB0K58QQ’]

Bill Cosby broke television’s racial barrier with “I Spy,” becoming the first African American to co-star on a television series while winning three consecutive Emmys^©. He created and produced the Emmy^©-winning cartoon “Fat Albert” and the “Cosby Kids,” which began airing in the 1970s and was made into a film in 2004. The show, based upon Cosby’s childhood in Philadelphia, was designed to educate and entertain.

The former Navy serviceman’s illustrious list of accomplishments includes roles on the children’s educational show “Electric Company” and creating and producing the Emmy^© award winning “Little Bill,” which is based on his bestselling book series. Cosby has received the Kennedy Center Honors, the Presidential Medal of Freedom (America’s highest civilian honor), the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the Marian Anderson Award. Among his many awards for his stand-up comedy albums are five Grammy^© Awards, eight Gold and five Platinum records.

Perhaps Cosby’s greatest contribution to American entertainment and culture is “The Cosby Show,” about a close-knit, upper class black family. Cosby said his intent was to portray an American family. Time magazine called the show “an encouraging sign of maturity in matters of race.” “The Cosby Show” dominated the No. 1 spot for years, earning nearly unanimous critical praise. Life magazine described the program as “a gentle, whimsical, warmhearted” show whose “delicious ordinariness of its pleasures and tribulations has given millions a fresh, laughter-splashed perspective on their own domestic lives.”

Don’t miss the iconic Bill Cosby at the Schuster Center, on his Comedy Central “Far From Finished Tour“, Sunday, June 15 at 7 pm! Tickets go on sale Feb. 14, and start at just $39.25. Ticket are available the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center or by phone at 937-228-3630, 888-228-3630 and online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Godzilla Set To Invade Yellow Springs Playhouse

February 7, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

QUICK! LOOK!

RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!

IT’S GODZILLA!

The 500 foot dinosaur-like creature that has rough, bumpy gray scales and a long tail that could wipe out buildings with a single swipe. The lizard that has terrorized Japan and the world will once again come to instigate havoc on the mainland.

The Yellow Springs Kids Playhouse will be presenting the musical parody of GODZILLA!, written by Corrie Van Ausdal in collaboration with Phillip and Gordon Reynolds and musician Blaze Wright. The show will begn starting tonight at the Glen Building in Yellow Springs.

For those who aren’t aware of the story involving Godzilla, the story begins in the island called Lagos Island. By surviving the extinction of the dinosaurs, Godzilla mutated to be the its size by the nuclear fallout of atomic bomb tests performed on the island near Lagos Island called Rongerik. Godzilla was awakened when an American hydrogen bomb was tested in the Pacific Ocean. The large monster made its way toward Tokyo, with the goal of destroying much of the city. The fictional character was conceived and came to the big screen for the first time in 1954. Since then, Godzilla has become a huge phenomenon in the entire monster movies ever created. In the Japanese pop culture, Godzilla is still widely popular and is still one most recognizable feature.

The Yellow Springs Kids Playhouse was founded in 1995 and was a summer theater experience for the youth. The playhouse started commissioning original musicals from playwrights regional and nationally couple of years later. The mission is simple-develop youth who are interested in being future actors, leaders, patrons, and audiences and enhance art awareness in the community. To achieve this, they will do it through the education of arts and the creation of original multimedia theater for youth. Over 1200 youths have participated in the productions, with some going off to becoming professionals in theatre and performing arts.

GODZILLA! centers around the 500 foot monster rising from the sea and destroying everything that gets in its way. The cast of teens and young adults will travel around the world, risking their lives and hoping the save all mankind. The play will feature visual effects by local graphic artist Zane Reichert, as well as live sound effects and music directed by Xavier Suarez. Also part of the production are Bear Wright, Duard Headley and Sumayah Chappelle. Along with these folks are musicians Sam Salazar and Jason McClean , sound effects creator Maddie Allen, Assistant Director/Antioch student Hannah Craig, and Stage Manager Amy Cunningham. All of the performances will also showcase a one-night only celebrity guest star.

GODZILLA! will be taking over Yellow Springs starting tonight at Glen Building, which is located at 405 Corry Street. The performance dates and times are:

February 8th @ 7pm

February 9th @ 3pm

February 14th @ 7pm

February 15th @ 7pm & 10pm

Tickets $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students.

‘The Magic Fire’ Review – Wright State University – Our Private World

February 7, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

The cast of Wright State University’s production of “The Magic Fire” (Contributed photo)

Wright State University returns to sophisticated fare with a beautifully executed regional premiere of Lillian Groag’s semi-autobiographical, thought-provoking Argentinean drama “The Magic Fire.”

Commissioned and originally produced in 1997 by the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the engrossing, highbrow “Magic Fire” concerns a close-knit family of European immigrants living in Buenos Aires circa 1952 during the divisive Juan Peron regime. As chaos consumes the streets with ever-present military force, the argumentative, opinionated, opera-adoring Bergs are reticent to join the fray, opting instead to safeguard themselves within their own private world of culture and music they hope cannot be vanquished. The symbolism of their behavior and the play’s title astutely mirrors the final act of Richard Wagner’s opera “Die Walküre,” specifically Wotan’s decision to encircle his sleeping daughter Brünnhilde with an artificial wall of fire that only the bravest of men can penetrate. However, when the brother of the family’s housekeeper seeks shelter in their home, it becomes impossible to ignore the political turmoil swirling in their midst.

Groag’s poetic, female-driven look at differing generations and changing times is simultaneously endearing and confusing in its scope. Her decision to conceive the material as a nearly three-hour memory play lends itself to numerous moments of heartfelt earnestness and subtle grandeur, but the key reason why narrator/protagonist Lise (Layan Elwazani) looks back on her life is muddled. In Tennessee Williams’ “The Glass Menagerie,” one of the greatest memory plays, disillusioned Tom is kicked out of his home by his domineering mother only to be haunted by the memory of his fragile sister, prompting him to reflect. Here, it is a mystery why Lise so emphatically desires nostalgia. Nonetheless, despite conceptual flaws including an abundance of overlapping arcs, director Lee Merill supplies elegant stage pictures bolstered by her innate grasp of classical music and superbly evocative assistance from lighting designer Samantha Jelinek.

The aforementioned Elwazani is an emotionally strong focal point seamlessly weaving in and out of the flashbacks shaped around the events of Lise’s seventh birthday. She also establishes a gentle kinship with the adorably precocious Ally Miller, who portrays young Lise with tenderness and feistiness. As Otto Berg, Lise’s father who fled Nazi-occupied Austria, Mathys Herbert excellently grasps the character’s pivotal choices and deep affection for opera. DeLee Cooper (who also choreographs) is a genial presence as Amalia, Otto’s dutiful wife. Mimi Klipstine completely satisfies as diva Elena Guarneri, Amalia’s actress-sister out of work because she refuses to support Peron. Tommy DiMassimo vigorously inhabits Gianni “Juan” Guarneri, Amalia’s passionate father. Kristina Hopkins is perfectly tipsy as Paula Guarneri, Amalia’s aunt. The terrifically expressive Alyssa Brembeck charms as 98-year-old Mussolini-hating matriarch Maddalena Guarneri, who arrived in Argentina with her husband in 1890. The handsome Stephen Kell is fittingly authoritative and enigmatic as General Henri Fontannes, a Peron loyalist and neighbor of the Bergs specifically drawn to young Lise. Logan Torbet is firm and fiery as newspaper publisher Alberto Barcos, who despises Peron and therefore loathes Henri. Jasmine Easler brings quiet dignity and a no-nonsense sensibility to her role as housekeeper Rosa Arrua. Diana Frankhauser (Clara Stepaneck), Julia Gomez (Leila) and Julian Rojas (Santa Arrua) are noteworthy. Taylor Hinkle portrays young Lise at certain performances. Merrill’s first-rate artistic team includes costumer David J. Castellano, scenic designer Lydia Watson (filling the revolving stage with trunks and crates suggesting a family on the move), sound designer James Dunlap, and dialect coach Deborah Thomas.

In related news, WSU’s 40th anniversary 2014-15 season will consist of “Fences” (Sept. 18-28, co-directed by W. Stuart McDowell and Sheila Ramsey), “Hot Mikado” (Oct. 23-Nov. 9, directed by Greg Hellems with choreography by Teressa Wylie McWilliams), “Romeo and Juliet” (Nov. 14-23, directed by Sandra Crews in the Herbst Theatre) “Pride and Prejudice” (Jan. 29-Feb. 8, directed by Marya Spring Cordes), the musical “Peter Pan” (Mar. 19-Apr. 5, directed by Joe Deer and starring Bruce Cromer as Captain Hook), and the local premiere of “Sondheim on Sondheim” (Apr. 17-26, directed by Jamie Cordes in the Herbst Theatre).

“The Magic Fire” continues through Feb. 9 in the Festival Playhouse of the Creative Arts Center at Wright State University, 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn. Performances are Feb. 5 and 6 at 7 p.m., Feb. 7 and 8 at 8 p.m., and Feb. 8 and 9 at 2 p.m. Act One: 1 hour and 50 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call the WSU box office at (937) 775-2500.

A Muse Sparkles Brightly at the DCDC ReVisioning Concert

February 6, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

What makes a legend? In the dance world, it is a dancer whose singular talent that has been burnished to a blinding artistic brilliance by time. Sheri “Sparkle” Williams, the vessel for the post modern choreographic sensibilities of Rodney Brown, is that legend.

“The Gathering/wee Thing” had it’s world premiere in 2012 as part of the world premiere of the Julia Reichert and Steve Bognar Documentary Film “Sparkle” at the Dayton Art Institute.
I had the great fortune of being in the audience for the sold out event, a powerful testimony to the magical allure of Sheri “Sparkle” Williams, and bearing witness to her masterful talents. The powerful combination of Rodney Brown’s multifaceted and textured choreography and the magisterial interpretive skills was absolutely intoxicating.

As a reviewer I am grateful for the opportunity to revisit this work and that a larger audience will get an opportunity to experience this indelibly awe-inspiring work of art.

The fact that Sheri “Sparkle” Williams is receiving the Ohio Governors Award for Arts Excellence this spring is another reason we all need to be at this concert to show our appreciation and gratitude for a woman and an artist who defies categorization and all the normal laws of the physical universe. I cannot imagine any obstacles or excuses for not attending this show.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gOMZFZrSj4′]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ_EFJquDwQ

ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 3:00pm
Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
For tickets to ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled please contact Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630 or www.ticketcenterstage.com.

‘Working’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – It’s a Living

February 4, 2014 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Suzanne Clabaugh and William “Kip” Moore rehearse a scene from “Working” with director Jim Lockwood (Contributed photo)

The Dayton Playhouse delivers an admirable, often touching production of Stephen Schwartz and Nina Faso’s 1978 musical “Working,” based on Studs Terkel’s 1974 book “Working: People Talk About What They Do and How They Feel About What They Do.”

Nearly 30 wide-ranging occupations from a publicist and project manager to a community organizer and fundraiser are the lifeblood of this meaningful, intermissionless outing insightfully conceived from a series of interviews. The allure of the material, including additional contributions by Gordon Greenberg, rests in its endearing simplicity reminding us that every worker contributes to the productivity of our society. Some jobs may seem trivial or underhanded, but all of them undeniably serve a purpose. The dialogue, flowing with smooth transitions by director Jim Lockwood, is peppered with personality and depth by an assortment of terrific songwriters including Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, Mary Rodgers, Micki Grant and James Taylor. The Playhouse uses the revised 2011 version, which particularly trims the cast to six and incorporates new professions (including a Verizon tech support and fast food delivery employee) and two songs from Tony Award-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (“In the Heights”). Interestingly, the revised script also effectively remembers the unemployed.

A true ensemble showcase, “Working” features enjoyable, entertaining portrayals from a vocally sufficient cast. Matt Poliachik incites laughs and groans as a privileged student who seemingly has his life all planned out. He also offers a sincerely plaintive rendition of Carnelia’s wonderful Billy Joel-esque tune “The Mason.” Matthew Clifton is equally humorous as the aforementioned fast food worker and a crazed ex-newsroom assistant. Lynn Kesson, sweet and grounded, particularly joins Clifton for the impactful duet “A Very Good Day,” which focuses on the joys and concerns of an elder care worker and a nanny. Suzanne Clabaugh gives credence to her earthy assignments as a prostitute and cleaning lady. Tori T. Tuccillo adeptly inhabits an agitated school teacher (“Nobody Tells Me How”) and an energetic waitress (“It’s an Art”). In addition to rendering a tender version of Schwartz’s moving “Fathers and Sons,” William “Kip” Moore, in a welcomed return to the Playhouse, simply mesmerizes as a retiree discussing the monotony of his daily routine (“Joe”).
Scenic designer Chris Newman’s metropolitan backdrop, Allison Eder’s understatedly organic choreography, and musical director Lorri B. Topping’s fine onstage band are added benefits.

“Working” continues through Feb. 16 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The production is performed in 90 minutes without intermission. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit online at www.daytonplayhouse.com

A New Choreographic Perspective on DCDC Concert Stage

February 4, 2014 By Rodney Veal Leave a Comment

One of the many pleasures of a mixed repertory concert is the diversity of artistic voices and choreographic invention. You, as an arts patron are privy to work that has not been seen and disseminated by others; part of a special moment that only occurs once, bearing witness to a premiere performance. Who doesn’t want to be an early adopter?

Ray Mercer is the least known choreographer premiering work on the ReVisioning concert, however he brings a unique and never the less impressive biography to the fore. Mr. Mercer, currently starring on Broadway in Walt Disney’s “The Lion King,” has had an eclectic performance career that has taken him from the concert stage to the bright lights of Broadway, having worked with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Rod Stewart and Garth Fagan. His choreographic work has been presented all of over the country on companies such as Philidanco, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and now Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.

Because of Mr. Mercer’s background, I am curious to see how his aesthetic sensibilities meld with the talents of the DCDC dancers. Oh how I love the unpredictability and the visceral experience of the new and so should you.

Check out the work of Mr. Ray Mercer.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abb8CmmcNT4′]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUyTwPlh3Ts

ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 3:00pm
Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
For tickets to ReVisioning 45: New Works Unveiled please contact Ticket Center Stage at 937-228-3630 or 888-228-3630 or www.ticketcenterstage.com