On Stage Dayton

The Reluctant Communicator

February 23, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Despite the fact that Larry Shue decided to use the Ku Klux Klan as the momentum-killing dark underbelly of his 1983 Southern fried farce “The Foreigner,” it doesn’t deter the amusement of Sinclair Community College’s entertaining presentation, which opened Friday, February 18 nimbly directed by Nelson Sheely.

The charming Isaac Hollister is perfectly cast as Charlie, the unassuming titular Englishman who visits a quaint fishing lodge (rustically designed by Terry Stump) to escape the worry of his wife’s ailing health. The opening minutes are slow, but the comedy kicks into gear once the colorfully unsuspecting folks at the rural Georgia lodge are told Charlie is from a faraway country and doesn’t speak English. It’s a treat to see Hollister exude a sense of timid bewilderment, particularly in moments of eavesdropping, that delightfully evolves into sly confidence as Charlie settles into his surroundings and ultimately becomes an unlikely hero. He is particularly terrific uttering gibberish in Act 2.

Melissa Kerr Ertsgaard, one of Sinclair’s most versatile performers, returns with another strong turn as Betty, the hospitable lodge owner who wants nothing more than to ensure Charlie’s comfort even while screaming in his face. Steven Brotherton, a standout in Sinclair’s marvelous production of “Dog Sees God” last season, is likeable once more as the dim-witted Ellard, who humorously becomes Charlie’s English teacher. As Ellard’s sister Catherine, Sarah Parsons forms a pleasant rapport with Hollister and is well-matched with Nicklaus Moberg as David, a minister with evil on his mind. Travis Clyburn energetically tackles the stereotypical Owen, David’s redneck partner in crime. Chris Hahn has fun as Froggy, Charlie’s British confidant. Aisha Ahmed, Nicole Dine, Lyrit Ertsgaard, Katie Kluck, Rebecca Knowles and Josh Smith complete the cast.

The Foreigner continues through Saturday, February 26 in Blair Hall Theatre, Building 10, at Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St. Performances are Thursday at 7 p.m. and Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Act One: 70 minutes. Act Two: 60 minutes. All seats are reserved and cost $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. All Thursday tickets cost an additional $5 and includes pre-show appetizers and cash bar. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/arts

Victoria Theatre Association Reveals 2011-12 Season

February 23, 2011 By Shane Anderson Leave a Comment

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

2011-2012 Season Announcement

The Victoria Theatre Association hosted a special event Tuesday evening to announce their upcoming season to a Wintergarden-packed collection of special guests, subscribers and donors. The event had a theatrical flair complete with special lighting, dramatically unfurled banners, a prop or two and even a cash bar. The focus of the event was to build a buzz for the upcoming productions that will be included on the various series offered by the organization for the 2011-12 season.

The line up includes many titles that will be familiar to Dayton audiences. The biggest surprise of the evening was the announcement that Wicked would make a return trip to the Gem City. The musical broke VTA box office records just a year ago. The witches will return to the Schuster Center in Spring 2012. The big questions will be whether or not the Dayton market will be able to support another 3 1/2 week run of the mega-musical, and whether the VTA staff will ever be willing to voluntarily wear green again.

Some promising moments in the Broadway series include the first visit of Jersey Boys, the 2006 Tony Award winning musical and Wishful Drinking starring Carrie Fisher, the one woman Broadway show starring everyone’s favorite inter-galactic princess.

The Human Race Theatre Company’s contribution to the 2011-12 Broadway series will be the world premiere production of Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical. This musical about the legendary stage & screen star from the Cincinnati area was developed by area writers Janet Yates Vogt & Mark Friedman. The show received a developmental workshop in the Human Race Theatre Co. 2010 summer Musical Theatre Workshop.

There are additional local ties in at least two of the productions on the schedule. 1986 Wright State University alum Brad Sherwood, mostly widely recognized from his appearances on the TV program Whose Line Is It Anyways? will return to Dayton in Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood: Two Man Group. Muse Machine alum Benjamin Magnuson will appear in the cast of the 25th anniversary production of Les Miserables. Ben has a couple major Broadway credits under his belt, most notably his performance as Anthony in the recent John Doyle revival of Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd, alongside Patti Lupone & Michael Cerveris.

Besides a few questionable selections, the 2011-2012 line up of VTA performances should prove to be fairly well received, yet it still seems like very safe programming. I can understand the desire to play it safe in the current economic climate, but I was really hoping that there would be at least a couple of envelope pushing titles (similar to the inclusion of Spring Awakening & Avenue Q on this season’s Star Attractions…perhaps Next To Normal or even the recent revival of Hair). It sounds as if the upcoming Avenue Q is selling quite well, so I hope that there are a couple of additional Star Attractions, yet to be named, even if only one-night-only affairs.

Below is the official press information for each of the shows listed in four of the major series offered. The VTA offers additional programs such as The Discovery Series for kids, the Mid-Day Arts Cafe, the ImPACT series and other educational opportunities. Read about these other offerings and more information about the organization at www.VictoriaTheatre.com.

Season subscriptions for the 2011-2012 Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Hospitals Broadway Series are on sale now via Ticket Center Stage and may be purchased at the Box Office, online at www.ticketcenterstage.com or by phone 937/228-3630 or toll free at 888/228-3630. Ticket Center Stage hours are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday noon – 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance.

Victoria Theatre Association 2011-2012 Selections:

Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN

October 4 – 9, 2011– Schuster Center

The classic Mel Brooks movie is ALIVE…and it’s headed to Dayton! This wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that’s Fronkensteen) as he attempts to create a monster — but not without scary and hilarious complications. The brains behind the laughter is mad genius and three-time Tony® winner Mel Brooks himself — who wrote the music and lyrics and co-wrote the book along with his record-breaking, award-winning team from The Producers.

Adult situations and language.

TRACES

December 6 – 18, 2011 – Victoria Theatre

TRACES combines awe-inspiring acrobatics with infectious urban energy. With versatile artists who deliver dazzling, gravity-defying displays of skill, dance, and acrobatic brilliance. Created by 7 Fingers, an astonishingly talented company that has pioneered a whole new brand of theatrical entertainment, this unique new show is described as “Family Friendly and Urban Date Night Cool!” by Chris Jones of The Chicago Tribune.

JERSEY BOYS

January 17 – February 5, 2012 – Schuster Center

Too Good to Be True!,” raves the New York Post for JERSEY BOYS, the 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30! JERSEY BOYS, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album and most recently, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”

Authentic, profane Jersey language and adult situations.

TENDERLY: The Rosemary Clooney Musical
By Janet Yates Vogt & Mark Friedman
produced by The Human Race Theatre Company

February 21 – March 4, 2012 – Victoria Theatre

The story of film actress and legendary singer Rosemary Clooney comes to life on stage in TENDERLY, an engaging new musical that captures the highlights of her amazing career and the challenges she faced as wife, mother and performer. Hear her beloved and classic songs, meet the characters who touched her life, and follow this remarkable woman on a journey that leads to ultimate triumph.

WISHFUL DRINKING starring Carrie Fisher

April 10 – 22, 2012 – Victoria Theatre

The daughter of Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie Fisher became a cultural icon when she starred as “Princess Leia” in the first Star Wars trilogy at 19 years old. Forever changed, Carrie’s life did not stay picture perfect. Fisher is the life of the party in this uproarious and sobering look at her Hollywood hangover. A colorful evening of what Fisher calls “talking about myself behind my back,” Wishful Drinking is a breezy combination of one-liners and behind-the-Hollywood-scenes-gossip, all relayed with Fisher’s withering, dry humor.

Adult language and situations.

WICKED

May 30 – June 24, 2012 – Schuster Center

Entertainment Weekly calls WICKED “the best musical of the decade,” and when it first played Dayton in 2010, it broke box office records and sold out in record time. Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony® Awards, WICKED is Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon and was just named “the defining musical of the decade” by The New York Times.

THE FLYING KARAMAZOV BROTHERS

October 7, 2011 – Victoria Theatre

Four times triumphant on Broadway, the award-winning Flying Karamazov Brothers are back with an unforgettable spectacle of music, comedy, dance, theatre and juggling. “100 minutes of cleverness and comedy go by in a flash,” “It’s the Julliard String Quartet meets Monty Python,” and “as close to a sure thing as can be found on stage.” “It’s unleashed fun!” Come join the Flying K’s in proving with each unique performance, that the unexpected events in our lives are the best part of being human.

GONE MADIGAN with KATHLEEN MADIGAN

February 3, 2012 – Victoria Theatre

“One of America’s funniest female comics” (Jay Leno), “The funniest woman in America” (Lewis Black) and “One of my favorite comedians” (Bob Costas), comedienne Kathleen Madigan has made a name for herself around the globe since her winning bout on the 2004 “Last Comic Standing.” In addition to three CDs and now four DVDs of her hilarious work, she has been seen extensively on TV including E!, CNN, “The Tonight Show” (10 appearances), “The Late Show with David Letterman” (5 appearances), “The Conan O’Brien Show,” HBO, Comedy Central, and ESPN.

COLIN MOCHRIE & BRAD SHERWOOD: TWO MAN GROUP

April 28, 2012 – Victoria Theatre

Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood, stars of the EmmyR-nominated “Whose Line Is It Anyway?,” have teamed up to present an evening of extraordinary improvisational comedy. Using their quick wit, Colin and Brad take contributions from the audience to create hilarious and original scenes — just like a live version of “Whose Line”! Their high-profile presentations have played to sold-out venues all over the country. “A two-hour laugh riot!” – Springfield Sun News

Star Attractions appeal to the cultural and ethnic variety of our community and may include blockbuster Broadway hits, cutting-edge off-Broadway theatre, family-friendly shows and concerts. Ranging from one-week runs to single-evening events, Victoria Theatre Association’s Star Attractions are presented to appeal to a variety of different audiences and guaranteed to provide you with the finest entertainment.

DAVID SEDARIS

October 27, 2011 – Victoria Theatre

The celebrated NPR humorist comes to the Victoria Theatre for an evening of cutting wit, social satire, and riveting conversation, including a question and answer session! Experience live, the hilarious brilliance that created the national bestsellers: Naked, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, When You Are Engulfed in Flames, and his latest best-seller, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk. “One of America’s most prickly and most delicious, young comic talents.” – The Washington Post

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT

October 30, 2011 – Schuster Center

Winner of the 2005 Tony® Award for Best Musical, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT is the outrageous new musical comedy lovingly ripped off from the film classic Monty Python and The Holy Grail. Directed by Tony® Award-winner Mike Nichols, with a book by Eric Idle and music and lyrics by the Grammy® Award-winning team of Mr. Idle and John Du Prez, SPAMALOT tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Flying cows, killer rabbits, taunting Frenchmen and show-stopping musical numbers are just a few of the reasons audiences everywhere are eating up SPAMALOT.

Adult content.

LES MISÉRABLES

November 22 – 27, 2011 – Schuster Center

DREAM THE DREAM. Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25^th anniversary production of Boublil & Schönberg’s legendary musical, LES MISÉRABLES, with glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. This new production has been acclaimed by critics, fans and new audiences and is breaking box office records wherever it goes. The New York Times calls this LES MISÉRABLES “an unquestionably spectacular production from start to finish.” NY1-TV proclaims “musical theatre fans can rejoice: ‘Les Miz’ is born again.”

BAM PERCUSSION: THE BLUE BARREL SHOW

November 5 & 6, 2011

Meet three completely odd characters who will have you rolling – and dancing! – in the aisles: BAM! Fabulous drumming is mixed with zany, slide-splitting humor, and the results are contagious. With audience participation, quick-witted humor and impeccable timing, BAM has performed for thousands all around the world, including extensive tours of Europe, Canada, Asia, South America, Africa and more, making it clear we all laugh in the same language.

GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS

December 3 & 4, 2011

Exponents of the 25-century-old tradition of Chinese acrobatics, the Golden Dragon Acrobats defeat gravity and fear with feats of balancing, tumbling and startling gymnastic wizardry. They captivate audiences everywhere with the charm and swashbuckling showmanship of ancient skills, such as the Dancing Plates, the Diablo Yo-Yo, and The Tower of Chairs. Don’t miss this thrilling parade of contortionists, jugglers and dizzying, seat-wiggling entertainment.

STINKY CHEESE MAN & OTHER FAIRLY STUPID TALES

Based on the book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith

February 4 & 5, 2012

Poor Jack. He’s got to use his wits to save himself from the terrible Giant, but a host of familiar fairytale characters keep messing up his plans – and then there’s that annoying Stinky Cheese Man! The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales deconstructs the tradition of the fairy tale. Characters slide in and out of tales, Cinderella rebuffs Rumpelstiltskin, and Goldilocks meets the Three Elephants. Nothing is quite the same as you remember it, but all is hilariously fun!

THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS LIVE

March 24 & 25, 2012

Seatbelts everyone! The Magic School Bus® celebrates its 25th anniversary with an all-new musical adventure. Ms. Frizzle’s students are putting on a play about global warming, and they need some cold, hard facts. The Friz and her reptilian sidekick, Liz, know just where to find them! This is no ordinary field trip, as a hop on the Magic School Bus takes the class and the audience on a whirlwind tour. From the Arctic to the Equator, they see telltale signs of climate change and learn how conservation, recycling and alternative energy can make a positive difference.

Tickets & Performance Information:

WHY SUBSCRIBE?

Series subscribers receive many perks, including VIP service and the chance to purchase single tickets to shows before tickets go on sale to the general public.

GUARANTEED SEATS & THE BEST SEATS.

By the time tickets go on sale, the best seats will be snatched up by our series subscribers. Sometimes just getting a seat at all is a challenge! Buy the series of your choice and get the best seats for every show!

SAVINGS.

With the Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Broadway Series, you’re getting six shows for the price of five– and saving as much as 15 percent over buying single tickets. Subscribe to all six Broadway shows for as little as $244, the three-show Variety series for as little as $83, and our five-show Family series for just $52!

ADVANCE SALE OPPORTUNITIES.

All series subscribers or season ticket holders can buy extra tickets to series shows–including JERSEY BOYS and WICKED–before they go on sale to the general public. Plus, you get the first crack at tickets to new shows as they’re added to our calendar!

FLEXIBILITY.

With subscriber exchange privileges, you can change your plans and change your seats for another performance time–no problem! A small up-charge fee will be applied if you switch into a more expensive performance.

TICKET INSURANCE.

If you misplace your tickets, just call Ticket Center Stage and we’ll reprint them for you.

DISCOUNTED PARKING.

Only series subscribers can purchase prepaid parking at the Arts Garage at Second and Ludlow Streets (to the west of the Schuster Center) at a discount! You’ll pay only $5 a park–instead of $7 for event parking. Parking packages are available for all three series.

GREAT ENTERTAINMENT.

Mark your calendar now with as many great performances as you like. We all need to relax and recharge, and there’s nothing like a fabulous performance to do just that!

SEASON TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW!

To become a Miami Valley & Good Samaritan Hospitals Broadway Series subscriber, call Ticket Center Stage, at (937) 228-3630 (toll free (888) 228-3630), or subscribe online.

Not a subscriber? Call 937/228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com and purchase your subscription today!

Please note: New subscribers will be seated per their requests once renewing subscriber’s requests have been handled.

-SA/VTA Press Release

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

He Almost Loves Her The Way She Is

February 17, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Steve Strawser and Wendi Williams in Fat Pig (photo by Peter Wine)

FAT PIG

Dayton Theatre Guild

By Russell Florence, Jr.

In Neil LaBute’s incredibly thought-provoking 2004 comic drama “Fat Pig,” the second installment in his definitive “image trilogy” which includes “The Shape of Things” and the Tony Award-nominated “reasons to be pretty,” the easygoing Tom, a bachelor with commitment issues, has difficulty assessing his attraction to and future with plus-sized Helen, an amiable librarian who isn’t shy about what she eats or how she feels.

In a perfect world, this engaging couple, who meet casually during lunch and share common interests that fuel their compatibility, would be able to look past concerns of physicality or judgment from colleagues. However, happiness is fleeting in the LaBute universe. The controversial playwright/screenwriter/director doesn’t necessarily care about happily ever after, preferring instead to spotlight the cruel, vindictive ways men and women bruise and destroy relationships. This was powerfully realized in his direction of the underrated 2008 film “Lakeview Terrace,” a tale of interracial suburban hell starring Samuel L. Jackson, Patrick Wilson and Kerry Washington. Although his biting yet casually conversational dialogue caters to a frank, locker room mentality that can be off-putting, his particularly engrossing depictions of young adults adrift in romance or craving peer validation sting with truth.

In the Dayton Theatre Guild’s compelling production of “Fat Pig,” deftly staged with palpable tension by Fran Pesch, leading players Steve Strawser and Wendi Williams form an appealing bond illustrating a natural progression of budding love attempting to endure in spite of superficial obstacles. The understated Strawser isn’t a thirtysomething which makes Tom less hip in LaBute’s contemporary context, but he believably fashions the character as a meek charmer with a flighty personality prone to cowardice and being frozen by his own paranoia. Williams’ wonderfully sharp and ultimately heartbreaking portrayal of Helen radiates with cool self-awareness. Thanks to her unpretentious performance, it is apparent that Helen is a strong woman secure in her body who will confidently face anything with humor and grace no matter what the future holds.

Additionally, Nicolas Bauer as Tom’s annoyingly chauvinistic friend Carter and Amy Askins as Tom’s jealous ex Jeannie are dynamically brutal. The handsome, intimidating Bauer epitomizes masculine tactlessness, and excellently delivers Carter’s gripping monologue detailing his adolescent disgust of being seen in public with his overweight mother. Askins fiercely infuses Jeannie’s prickly persona with scorned, conceited flair, which beautifully evaporates opposite Strawser and Williams in the devastatingly honest final scene solidifying LaBute as one of the finest voices of his generation.

Fat Pig continues through Sunday, February 27 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, Act One: 60 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes.

Tickets & Performance Information:

Neil LaBute’s FAT PIG – through Sunday, February 27 – Performance Times Vary (click for details)

Tickets Prices: $11 student / $16 senior / $18 adult

Location: Dayton Theatre Guild at The Caryl D. Philip’s TheatreScape – 430 Wayne Ave. Dayton, Ohio 45410 (MAP)

Contains adult situations and language.

Tickets are on sale now through DTG’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 278-5993 (due to a volunteer staff, phones are not monitored continually).

For more information about Dayton Theatre Guild’s entire 2010-2011 season, visit www.DaytonTheatreGuild.org

-RF

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Mistaken Identity: Classic Farce Opens at Sinclair

February 16, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The Foreigner

SINCLAIR THEATRE

Larry Shue loved his comedy. And not just any comedy – but slapstick, drag down, knock out, CLASSIC comedy. Even though The Foreigner opened to sell-out audiences in Milwaukee in 1984, the script feels more like the golden age of comedy a la Sid Caesar. Under the expert direction of Nelson Sheeley, Sinclair Theatre tackles Shue’s classic romp beginning this weekend.

Set in a resort fishing lodge in Georgia, the comedy revolves around two of its guests, Englishman Charlie Baker and Staff Sergeant Froggy LeSueur. Charlie is so painfully shy that he is unable to speak. To explain it away, Froggy claims his companion is the native of an exotic country who does not understand a word of English. Before long, Charlie finds himself privy to assorted secrets and scandals freely discussed in front of him by the other visitors. These include spoiled Southern belle Catherine Simms and the man to whom she is somewhat reluctantly engaged,and impregnated by, the Reverend David Lee, a seemingly humble preacher with a dark underside. Her younger brother, Ellard, a chubby and somewhat “slow” boy is a simpleton who tries to teach Charlie how to speak English. Owen Musser, the racist county property inspector, plans to oust property owner Betty Meeks and convert the lodge into a meeting place for the Ku Klux Klan.

The Foreigner is undoubtedly a great evening of laugh-out-loud antics.

It’s hilarity heaped upon hilarity in a style as old as the Greeks, perfected by Carol Burnett, and still the stuff of television sitcoms. In an unprecedented feat for such a wild farce, Shue won two Obie Awards and two Outer Circle Critics Award for Best New American Play and Outstanding Off-Broadway Production of 1984. The only other major return to New York for the play was the 2004 Roundabout Theatre Production starring the then fresh-off-The Producers Matthew Broderick. However, Shue never saw the success of his work following the Milwaukee original cast as he passed away just one year after its premiere. He was just 39, and still his two major plays – The Foreigner and 1981’s The Nerd are indeed a part of the American Theatre fabric.

The Sinclair cast includes: Chris Hahn, Isaac Hollister, Melissa Kerr Ertsgaard, Nick Moberg, Sarah Parsons, Travis Clyburn and Steven Brotherton.

-DB

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Tickets & Performance Information:

Larry Schue’s THE FOREIGNER – February 08-26 – Performance Times Vary (click for details)

Tickets Prices: $15 Adult; $10 Students/Seniors/Sinclair Employees

Location: Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, Sinclair Community College – 444 West Third St, Dayton, OH 45402 (MAP)

Tickets are on sale now through Sinclair Theatre’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 512-2808

For more information about Dayton Theatre Guild’s entire 2010-2011 season, visit http://www.sinclair.edu/arts/theatre/season/index.cfm or contact Sinclair Theatre via email at box.office@sinclair.edu

Shhhhh….

February 11, 2011 By Shane Anderson 1 Comment

Vincent Holiday

Dirty Little Secret

presented by J.T. Ryder & Vincent Holiday

A while back, while at the DMM contributor holiday party, J.T. Ryder mentioned to me that he was putting together a new kind of show. Now, J.T. Ryder has quite a backstory – he’s a mysterious, intellectual, no-nonsense kind of guy…used to work in the circus (no joke), used to guard diamonds (no joke), seriously loves the Dew (addiction) and passionate about what he does (whatever that is) – I was more than a little bit intrigued about what kind of show this guy might be developing, especially when words like vaudeville and burlesque started creeping into the conversation. A little over a month later, that show is a reality. J.T. Ryder and Vincent Holiday will be presenting A DIRTY LITTLE SECRET next Wednesday night in the Oregon District’s Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub and they’ve got an interesting line-up.

I had a few more questions for J.T. about what exactly this secret is:

onStageDayton: When we first spoke about this new show happening, it was being billed as a burlesque or vaudeville-style show. What exactly are we talking about here?

Geborah

J.T. Ryder: I originally began describing Dirty Little Secret as a burlesque style event, but that was a bit of a misnomer. Although it has elements of burlesque and vaudeville, it has evolved into more of a variety show. I would like to have some true burlesque in the show, but most of what I am seeing is more like plain old stripping. It would be great if I could find something local that was more in the realm of skit comedy, kitsch or a classy portrayal rather than just pasties and panties. I think that the show has evolved into the realm that it needs to be in: a wide ranging variety show of divergent acts that an audience would never really see all in one place.

OSD: When I think “variety show” I think of Rowan & Martin, Sonny & Cher , The Gong Show and all the Late Night programs. Images of stupid human tricks, chimps on tricycles and ukelele-wielding musicians come to mind. What genres of entertainment can audiences expect?

Patricia Berg

J.T.: Well, there is Henrique Couto, who is a comedic musician, and he will be opening the show with songs and banter. Geborah will then take the stage and she is a jazz hip-hop dancer, and I’m even intrigued to see what she is going to come up with. Patricia Berg is next up. She is an absolutely phenomenal vocalist. She has performed in such elegant venues that I finally had to ask her what she expected from this show and it came down to the vibe and the creativity that this show offered. Rounding out the show will be Underbelly, which is a comedy/improve troupe out of Cincinnati. Holding the whole thing together will be our emcee, Vincent Holiday, who will introduce and interview the acts as well as doing some of his own monologues. It’s kind of like a Tarantino soundtrack: it is all from different genres and different eras, but it all seems to blend well together.

OSD: This event is taking place in Wiley’s Comedy Club in the Oregon District. Is there anything planned to give the experience a different vibe than a night at the comedy club?

Underbelly

J.T.: Yes, there is also going to be a special wait staff in place. I want the whole evening to be an immersive experience from the moment the customer walks through the door. The waitresses will be decked out in their favorite retro/pin-up style outfit and will be a prominent part of the evening. I know one girl has a little 1940’s style outfit prepared, with black fishnet stockings and all the accouterments. I have not been really specific as far as era or anything…I think it will be fun just to see what everyone shows up in.

OSD: J.T. I have a question that you don’t want to answer. It’s regarding teh fishnet stockings that you mentioned in the above answer and Henrico. ((Publishers Note: this question has been removed for public decency reasons. It involved J.T. Ryder’s Dirty Little Secret and fishnet stockings. -B. Pote)

J.T.: My God, Shane! I can’t believe that you would ask me such a question! You should be ashamed! Ashamed I say!

OSD: The show sounds really intriguing and I’m sure other performers in the area might be interested in getting involved in future editions. Will there be more “Dirty Little Secrets” down the road? What other types of acts would you be interested in including?

Henrique Couto

J.T.: We are kind of waiting to see what the outcome of this show is before cementing the next show in place. There has been a lot of interest from various performers and artists that want to be involved. Some of the elements that will be added to future shows will be theatrical groups, storytellers and music from different genres like boogie-woogie and surf music. I am also looking for people with skills for short sets like jugglers, magicians and entertainers such as that. The one thing we do have set in stone is a show coming up on March 23rd which will feature The Invisible Man Corporation, which is a true sideshow out of Austin, Texas.

OSD: Austin, Texas? The city has a motto of “Keep Austin Weird.” I imagine The Invisible Man Corp. Sideshow is pretty entertaining. I’ll have to google them.

J.T.: They have the whole freakshow thing in place. There is a sword swallower, a fire-eater, a glass eater, a glass walker, a human blockhead…they have it all. It should be a very, very interesting evening.

Tickets & Performance Information:

J.T. Ryder and Vincent Holiday Presents A DIRTY LITTLE SECRET

When: Wednesday, February 16th at 8:00 pm.

Where: Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub at 101 Pine St. in the Oregon District.

Who: Vincent Holiday, Henrique Couto, Geborah, Patricia Berg and Underbelly.

How: Admission is $10.00 – Reservations can be made by calling (937) 224-5653.

Booze: Cash Bar with drink specials (credit cards will be accepted, but no tabs will be run).

-SA

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We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre: 02/10 – 02/23

February 10, 2011 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

ETC: Cait Doyle's Hot Mess in Manhattan

Thursday, February 10 – Wednesday, February 23

Renowned dancer Twyla Tharp observed that the arts are the only way one can run away without leaving home, and the shows in the greater Miami Valley area these next two weeks reflect that concept well. While there are a couple of deeper shows, there are quite a few comedies and musicals, which range across a spectrum from the witty Twelfth Night to humorous Hello, Dolly! One thing all of these shows have in common, however, is the ability to remove us from the stresses of our daily lives. This is also true of the deeper plays – like Fat Pig – which can provide escape while concurrently challenging us to consider social issues. This can be just an effective a tool for kids busy with school, so be sure to check out the children’s auditions while you’re at it. For those two or two and a half hours, you can step away from whatever occupies your thoughts, relax, and just enjoy a show… “running away” to take a breath, reenergize, and just laugh.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

The Last 5 Years

SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

The Story: Cathy is a struggling actress; Jamie, a rising writer. Over the course of five years, they fall in and out of love, The Last 5 Years chronicling that journey in an emotionally powerful and intimate song cycle.
Dates: February 10 – 13, 2011 One weekend only!
Tickets: $10 at the door
More Information: Springfield StageWorks

Fat Pig

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

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

Play On

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE

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

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Twelfth Night

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

The Story: After being shipwrecked, Viola pretends to be her drowned brother. When she falls in love with her employer, for whom she’s delivering love notes to the Lady Olivia, the result is a classic love triangle in this hilarious Shakespearean comedy of mistaken (and disguised) identities. HRTC sets this production in 1927 America, complete with speakeasies, tights, and all the music of the Roaring Twenties!
Dates: January 27 – February 13.
Tickets: Ticket Center Stage
More Information: Human Race Theatre Company: Twelfth Night

Hello, Dolly!

Hello, Dolly! cast (Photo Credit Scott Huck)

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

The Story: Dolly Levi, adored by all (especially the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant) is a self-termed meddler, but this time, she’s scheming to arrange her own marriage, to the well-known and rich Horace Vandergelder. In this optimistic and fun musical, Dolly charms (and meddles) her way into his heart, setting up a few other matches along the way.
Dates: February 3 – 5, 10 – 12; curtains at 8:00 pm, with additional Saturday performances at 2:00 pm. Call for info on additional student and senior citizen matinees.
Tickets: Cedarville University: Tickets
More Information: Cedarville University: Theatre Season, DMM behind-the-scenes preview

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Spelling Bee cast (Photo Credit John Gebhardt)

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: Six eclectic students in the throes of puberty compete (along with some volunteer audience members) in pursuit of spelling bee fame; the adults and hosts aren’t so far from childhood themselves! In this fun and interactive musical, the students learn where they can stand out and fit in all at the same time.
Dates: January 28 through February 13; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm.
Tickets and More Information: Dayton Playhouse, call the box office at (937) 424-8477, and read my DMM feature, s-y-n-e-r-g-y and spelling .

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

The Phantom Tollbooth

ZOOT THEATRE COMPANY

Auditions: Friday February 11, 2011 – 6 – 8 pm
Performances: April 15 – 30, 2011, at both Town Hall Theatre and the Schuster Center Mathile Theatre
The Story: In this adaptation of the youth classic, after the very bored Milo receives a make-believe tollbooth, he is transported to the Lands Beyond, a fantastic and imaginitive world. He meets Tock the watchdog, the floating Alex Bings (whose legs have not yet grown down to earth), Dynne (a monster made of smoke), and many others, ultimately learning the boundlessness of imagination.
Directed by John Lavarnway
More Information: Actors of all ages will perform a one-minute monologue with a puppet (provided). Zoot Theatre Company

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

THT: Junie B. Jones (Dec. 2010) (Photo Credit Mike Long)

Auditions: February 23, beginning at 3:45 pm; February 26, beginning at 8:45 am. Register in advance.
Performances: May 6 – 22, 2011
The Story: “Right from the start, Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over their freshly-hatched brother duck. He just doesn’t seem right. His feet are way too big, he’s a lousy quacker and, well, he looks downright ugly! Even his parents are embarrassed to show him to the rest of the barnyard. Feeling miserable and alone, “Ugly” leaves home and begins a dangerous journey that will take him to a place where he, too, can be beautiful.” (THT)
Directed by Brittany Hayden-Hinkle
More Information: (937) 433-8957, Town Hall Theatre

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRE

Auditions: February 22 – 23, 2011, from 7 – 8:30 pm (see contact information below to schedule a 5-minute appointment)
Performances: April 8 – 17, 2011
The Story: Alice falls down a rabbit-hole into “a world of talking animals, comic royalty, and races where the contestants run in circles!” (BCT) This children’s adaptation provides a contemporary view of the Carroll classic, where “nonsense makes quite good sense” and we can believe as many as six impossible things before breakfast.
More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre, 429-4737, or email kids@bctheatre.org

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Queen Nur’s “Sweet Potato Pie and Such”

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL: “Creative Connections”

The Basics: Using a wide repertoire of folktales, African percussion, song, and dance, the “incomparable and entertaining storyteller” Queen Nur performs and tells stories that originated on the African continent but spread throughout the world. This family-oriented show will sure to keep all audience members clapping, stomping, and celebrating African-American heritage.
Date: Wednesday, February 16, at 7:30 pm
Tickets: Free; seating is first-come, first-served.
More Information: Springfield Arts Council

Cait Doyle’s Hot Mess in Manhattan

ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

The Story: Carrie Bradshaw is a Lie. In this stylistically encompassing new musical, we journey through the wilds of New York City life in an honest, hilarious, contemporary, and touching look at one woman’s interaction with the city that never sleeps. Encore Theater Company is pleased to be the host theatre for the out-of-town tryout of this New York bound musical.
Date: Saturday, February 12, 8pm at Sinclair Community College (Building 8 )
Tickets: http://brushfire.e-vent.info/Events/Sinclair/Start.aspx

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Valentine Tip – Take her to the Dayton Ballet’s “A Streetcar Named Desire”

February 10, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Kettering Health Network presents Dayton Ballet’s sizzling, A Streetcar Named Desire along with the very athletic Freudian Slip, Five Flights up and Basics, Valentine’s weekend, Feb. 10-13, 2011 at the historic Victoria Theatre.

Premiered in 2008, Karen Russo Burke’s steamy A Streetcar Named Desire was called “…a triumph…” by Dayton Daily News arts reporter Terry Morris, and includes a hot original score plus stunning choreography. Audiences will delight in the revivals of additional repertory pieces on the program including another Russo Burke favorite, Freudian Slip, a tongue-in-cheek showcase of the athleticism and beauty of the Company’s female dancers. Stephen Mill’s Five Flights Up is a fun and cheeky vaudevillian ballet. The final ballet on the program, Dermot Burke’s Basics, highlights fast-paced physical choreography by the Company’s male dancers and is so intense even the audience is out of breath at the end!

Performances of Dayton Ballet’s A Streetcar Named Desire will play Thursday, Feb. 10 at 8 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 12 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 13 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now and start at $20! Call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or (888) 228-3630 or visit online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Ticket Center Stage hours are Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday Noon-4 p.m. and two hours prior to each performance.

Permission to utilize A Streetcar Named Desire material is by arrangement with The University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee.

Founded in 1937 by Josephine Schwarz, Dayton Ballet is the second-oldest professional dance company in the United States and holds a unique historical place in the nation and in the Miami Valley. Performing in the state-of-the-art Schuster Center and the historic Victoria Theatre, Dayton Ballet is known as the “Company of Premieres.” Throughout the last decade, Dayton Ballet has been one of the top three dance companies in the nation in the production and presentation of new work.

Under the leadership of Director, Dermot Burke, Dayton Ballet has 15 professional dancers and is supported by the Board of Trustees and the Associate Board. Committed to its mission to “educate, enlighten and entertain,” Dayton Ballet presents new works and traditional American dance classics as well as remaining devoted to its youth education and community outreach programs, including the Dayton Ballet School.

Dayton Ballet is a non-profit organization funded by the Ohio Arts Council, Culture Works, the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals.

‘Dolly’ Is Back And Looking Swell

February 10, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

The delightfully meddlesome world of Mrs. Dolly Gallagher Levi, the matchmaking busybody of 1890s New York who can incite applause by her sheer presence and reputation, comes alive with lighthearted warmth and sophisticated finesse in Cedarville University’s exceptional production of Jerry Herman and Michael Stewart’s 1964 musical “Hello, Dolly!,” adapted from Thornton Wilder’s “The Matchmaker” and elegantly directed by Robert and Ruth Clements.

Pleasantly interpreting Herman’s sunny songs along the lines of an actress who sings, Jessica Diane Hickling, a superb Annie Sullivan in Cedarville’s production of “The Miracle Worker” last season, astutely inhabits the title role with a strikingly clear and cunning grasp of Dolly’s meticulous and strategic aims centered on her desire to wed wealthy Yonkers curmudgeon Horace Vandergelder (a believably aggravated Alexander James Mol). Hickling is a knockout whenever Dolly’s mind games take precedence, especially in the hilarious Act 2 dinner scene at the ritzy Harmonia Gardens restaurant, and she expertly builds her funny, sincere and incredibly engaging portrayal to a life-affirming plateau that duly reflects Dolly’s inspirational epiphany of living to the fullest and being willing to love again after years of merely existing in “a personal haze.”

“Dolly” has always required a strong leading lady, but stronger featured portrayals as well which is absolutely the case here. The very endearing, brotherly duo of Gabriel Pyle and Josiah Hutchings respectively shine as Vandergelder’s humble, sheltered employees Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker. Pyle, a charming bundle of nerves and a joy to watch, wonderfully conveys Cornelius’ newfound confidence and rebelliousness, and also crafts an adorable romance with sweet soprano Anna Zavodney as millinery shop owner Irene Molloy. He notably joins Zavodney for a lovely rendition of “It Only Takes a Moment,” poignantly delivering the tune’s terrific monologue with an expressive self-awareness. The energetic, goofy Hutchings provides great comic relief and is perfectly matched with the bubbly Lindsay McGee as Minnie Fay, Irene’s perky assistant. The laughs continue with solid work from Joshua McLeod as Ambrose Kemper, Grace Pilet as Ermengarde, Amy Brown as Ernestina, Benjamin Isaac as Rudolph, Samantha Sumler as Mrs. Rose and Matthew Glenn Scheerschmidt as an overly emotional Judge.

Further, Katy Russell and Alexandra Turner supply flavorful, sharp and unified choreography from the pageantry of “Put On Your Sunday Clothes” and the farcical “Motherhood March” to the waltz-filled “Dancing” and the frenzied “Waiter’s Gallop” that precedes the iconic title number which arises with considerable flair.

In addition to directing, the Clements are respectively responsible for the production’s outstanding set and costume design. Robert supplies a dazzling chandelier for Harmonia Gardens, and Ruth’s marvelously authentic contributions remain eye-catching at every turn. For the ensemble-friendly “Sunday Clothes” she specifically dresses the ladies in a colorful sea of blue, burgundy, green, pink, purple and yellow and places the men in crisp white tuxedos.

In a rare move for a big, brassy show geared toward a large orchestra, Herman’s score, conducted by Beth Cram Porter, is played by only four musicians (two pianos, percussion and bass). Even so, this significant alteration gives each number a surprisingly appealing parlor quality proving how effectively Herman captured the essence of the late 19th century.

A hit from start to finish, Cedarville’s thoroughly entertaining “Dolly” is not only the must-see of the week, but one of the best productions of the season.

Hello, Dolly! continues through Saturday, February 12 in the Stevens Student Center at Cedarville University, 251 N. Main St., Cedarville. Performances are Thursday at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. Act One: 75 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $10-$15. For tickets or more information, call 1-866-612-0014 or visit www.cedarville.edu. In related news, Cedarville’s 2011-12 season will consist of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None (October 2011), Arthur Miller’s The Crucible (February 2012) and Neil Simon’s A Star-Spangled Girl (April 2012).

An Emerging ‘Hot Mess’ Comes To Town

February 8, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. 1 Comment

Cait Doyle

Cait Doyle’s “Hot Mess in Manhattan”

presented by Encore Theater Co. & Sinclair Theatre

One Night Only! Win Tickets! Read on…

Cait Doyle will bring her award-winning cabaret act-turned-New York-bound musical comedy “Hot Mess in Manhattan” to Dayton courtesy of Encore Theater Company Saturday, February 12 at 8 p.m. in Building 8 of Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St.

Described as “an honest, hilarious, contemporary and touching look at one woman’s interaction with the city that never sleeps,” “Hot Mess” contains songs from 12 burgeoning musical theater composers such as Adam Gwon (“Ordinary Days”) and Ryan Cunningham and Joshua Salzman (“I Love You Because,” “Next Thing You Know”). Doyle, her creative team and fellow cast members will also rehearse the show and partake in a developmental residency February 8-13 at Encore’s artistic home in the Oregon District. Under the direction of David Ruttura, “Hot Mess” will incorporate Jeremy Pasha (“Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Seussical”) and Tim Shelton (“Brigadoon,” “Twelfth Night”) in multiple roles along with music director Vince Peterson and cellist Dan Delaney.

Doyle, a Syracuse University graduate and fan of “Sunday in the Park with George” and “Crazy for You,” received the 2009 MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs) Award for “Hot Mess,” which was performed at New York’s Duplex. The New Jersey native recently made her Lincoln Center debut in John Znidarsic’s Songbook Series. In addition to the San Francisco premiere of “The Last 5 Years” and the New Hampshire premiere of “John & Jen,” her eclectic credits include “The Wizard of Oz,” “Underwear: A Space Musical” and “All Men Are Asses, All Women Are Crazy.”

onStageDayton recently caught up with Doyle to discuss her show as she prepared to leave the Big Apple for the Gem City.

onStageDayton: What inspired the creation of “Hot Mess in Manhattan”?

Cait Doyle: The first thing that inspired “Hot Mess in Manhattan” was “Sex and the City.” “Sex and the City” the first movie, to be exact. I believe on opening weekend that movie made a billion dollars. I thought, “My life is more realistic, but just as interesting/funny as ‘Sex and the City.’ I should make a billion dollars!’

OSD: And the show is based on your experiences?

CD: Yes. I once sublet from a global pop star and accidentally almost killed her poodle. I managed Dylan’s Candy Bar and two guys came in (and) convinced me they were Dylan’s brothers so I gave them $80 from the register. I held a dog hostage from a guy I was dating so he would pay attention to me. I’d have these long narrative tales I’d tell at dive bars and everyone would tell me that it had to be a show – that it ‘sounded like a show.’

OSD: Was it difficult choosing the right songs? Did you purposefully select up-and-coming composers?

CD: I was really lucky with how organically the right songs and composers evolved. From the beginning, however, I was committed to (specifically) using only the emerging composers of New York City with the exception of Mike Mahler, but he wrote his contribution ‘Starbucks’ when he was living in the city. I also thought shoving 12 different composers/styles into one show would help musically reflect what is the story of the ‘Mess.’

OSD: What is it about New York City that sparks creativity?

CD: I think it’s true that there are some wildly ridiculous, cinematic moments that happen only in New York. Where else can block by block appear to be a whole different world? As someone who grew up in and around NYC, I didn’t understand the allure of ‘New York’ tales until I started working on ‘Hot Mess in Manhattan.’ People seem to be really fascinated by it.

OSD: Can you describe the challenges inherent to turning what was essentially a cabaret act into a full scale book musical?

CD: I think getting the first draft out and on its feet will be the hardest part. After doing this trial (with) Encore Theater, I think the revisions and future incarnations will be easier. If it’s not I’m going back to managing the candy store.

OSD: You have appeared in such shows as ‘John and Jen’ and ‘The Last 5 Years.’ What is it about musical theater that speaks to you?

CD: I enjoy seeing and performing musical theater because it brings emotion out of me; something about a situation being so important and full that it needs to transcend from speaking to singing. I started doing musical theater in high school because I wasn’t good at anything else. (I) was obsessed with being in clubs for my college applications, and I saw a sign in the hallway that said ‘Spring Musical meeting. No auditions, and free pizza.’

OSD: When did you become familiar with Encore Theater Company?

CD: I learned about Encore Theater when they reached out and had me do a podcast on MusicalWorld. ‘Hot Mess in Manhattan’ involves several composers they are interested in so it was a natural progression.

OSD: What are the future plans for ‘Hot Mess in Manhattan’? More readings and workshops? Perhaps a fully staged presentation in New York?

CD: We absolutely plan on both! This is truly the first incarnation of what the show will be. We’re hoping to see what works in Dayton, what the audience responds to, and then cement in the things that work. Post Dayton there are plans to do a couple other drafts/workshops with the ultimate goal of an off-Broadway run and having it licensed for productions elsewhere. Once the songs are set we are moving on to a cast recording distributed by Sh-K Boom Records.

Tickets & Performance Information:

Cait Doyle’s HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN (One Night Only)

Hot Mess in Manhattan will be performed Saturday, February 12 at 8 p.m. in Building 8 at Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St. Advance tickets are $15 each or $55 to purchase a cabaret table of four. All tickets are $18 on day of show.

Tickets are available at the Sinclair Theatre Box Office by calling (937) 512-2808 or by visiting www.EncoreTheaterCompany.com

For more information about Cait, visit www.hotmessinmanhattan.com

Win Free Tickets!

The Encore Theater Company, Sinclair Theatre & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN!

We will be giving away a pair of tickets to the show…BUT…if we get 25 Facebook shares, we’ll make it a TABLE OF FOUR! If we get to 50 FB shares, we’ll throw in a $25 gift certificate for an Oregon District Restaurant for food/drinks after the show! All you need to do is:

Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page (The more shares, the better the prize).
Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
Leave a comment below, answering the following question…Cait Doyle’s show is about all the crazy things that happen to her while living in the Big Apple…Tell us the craziest thing you’ve ever experienced in the Gem City (No Names please…to protect the innocent/guilty).
The deadline to enter is NOON on THURSDAY, February 10th.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Error: Contact form not found.

Stage & Screen: WSU Grad to Present Concert at The Neon

February 6, 2011 By Shane Anderson Leave a Comment

HERE WITH ME:

CHRISTIAN DUHAMEL LIVE IN CONCERT

The Neon Movies & The Human Race Theatre Company

Regional Premiere!

I had a meeting down at the DMM clubhouse (office) yesterday. The conversation kept coming back to how frustrating it is to hear people say things like “there’s nothing to do in Dayton,” and “nothing happens here, I can’t wait to move to_______________.” PEOPLE! – THE MOST AMAZING THINGS HAPPEN RIGHT HERE! IN DAYTON! You’ve just got to pay attention!

Of course, if you are reading this article on DaytonMostMetro.com, I’m probably just preaching to choir. So, please, share it.

Our downtown gems of theater, THE NEON (movies) and THE HUMAN RACE THEATRE CO. (live) are teaming up to present a concert. ? A concert at a movie theater? You gotta hand it to both organizations, both are willing to take chances on something new, both embrace innovation. Tuesday night they will try something new, together….present a concert of music by an up & coming new musical theatre composer!

The setting is a terrific idea! I’m actually a little bit miffed that I didn’t think of it first for the organization I work with. The Neon has a terrific set-up for an event that will feature live song and stories. Grab a beer, glass of wine or even a cup of coffee to go along with those junior mints and settle in for an evening of new musical theatre songs by Christian Duhamel.

Duhamel is in town working on Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT at “the Race.” He portrays Feste, the clown (and musician) in the unique production which has been reset in Jazz-Age America. Besides acting, Christian is also a composer. He has composed for theater, including several original musicals and a songbook. Tuesday evening’s concert will feature Christian, and a few guests, singing songs (& telling stories) from his repertoire.

CHRISTIAN DUHAMEL was named one of Seattle BroadwayWorld.com’s Top 10 People to Watch in 2011. He is a Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Award-winning composer, lyricist, playwright, director and musical director and was the inaugural recipient of the Young Creator’s Award from Music Theatre Ventures. His musicals and songs have been performed on stages and at cabarets across the nation. In 2009 he published his first songbook, “Here With Me: A Collection of Songs by Christian Duhamel.” Mr. Duhamel earned his BFA in Acting-Musical Theatre from Ohio’s Wright State University. www.christianduhamel.org.

onStageDayton had a few questions for Christian about his career, his music & returning to Dayton:

onStageDayton: For our readers who don’t know you, how did you first end up in Dayton? Where are you based currently? How has it felt to return to Dayton as an actor & musician in The Human Race Theatre Company’s production of Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT?

WSU Theatre

Christian Duhamel: I first came to Dayton as a transfer into the acting-musical theatre program at Wright State. I grew up in a suburb of Seattle, Washington, and after graduating from WSU and working around the country for a bit, I moved back to Seattle and have lived there the last 4 and a half years, working as an actor, writer, composer, musical director, director, coach and educator.

The Loft Theatre

Returning to the Race has been a huge honor and joy. From previous involvement in Race productions and also from being an audience member, I know the Race puts on high-quality productions. When I received the offer to play this amazing role (Feste) at this amazing theatre and additionally, to compose music for two of Shakespeare’s lyrics, I knew could not pass up the opportunity.

OSD: Besides being an actor and musician, it seems that you are also a musical theatre composer. At what point did you decide to put pen to paper to write a musical? What was that first musical and have you written any since?

Christian Duhamel

CD: In high school I was highly involved in choir and drama, and here I got my first taste of creating new works: writing plays, arranging vocal jazz charts and writing choral and jazz music. When I began college, writing was placed on a back burner as I focused on my acting training. After I transferred to Wright State, I rediscovered my passion for writing, and wrote my first musical, REINVENTING ROMANCE, which was produced at Wright State, went to the regional level of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, and I went on to the national level with awards for playwriting, music, lyrics and direction. Since then I’ve written several new musical theatre pieces: THE WAR CYCLE, which looks at American involvement in the many wars of the 20th Century; ICARUS ASCENDING uses the mythological characters Icarus and Daedalus to examine the relationship between fathers and sons; RED, a contemporary retelling of Little Red Riding Hood; and A BEAUTIFUL END, which is the story of two real women who worked the western burlesque circuit in the late 1800’s. I have also self-published my own songbook called HERE WITH ME: A Collection of Songs by Christian Duhamel.

OSD: Do you collaborate with other writers in your musical theatre writing?

CD: I write cabaret material on my own and with another Wright State graduate, Kristina Wilson. I am currently working with several new collaborators on the development of several new musicals. Hopefully you’ll hear more about those pieces soon!

OSD: It seems that there is a bit of a resurgence of of musical theatre writing happening in America…a whole new generation of new musical theatre writers are creating very personal, emotional works (instead of the song & dance spectacles of the past). What do you think is the impetus of this new movement? What do you think the next few years holds for new musicals in the American theatre landscape?

CD: I think musical theatre, like all art forms, is following a natural ebb and flow: Mozart wanted to write operas about real, contemporary situations, and in Chekhov’s The Seagull, Trigorin craves “new forms.”

Concert Guest Aaron Vega with wife Claire Kennedy

If I had to take a stab, I’d attribute the current shift to a generation of minds who experienced 9-11, can learn from a seasoned Sondheim, and who are growing up dealing with the “relationship disconnection” caused by that wonderful invention: the internet.

In the next few years, as we see 65 million dollar spectacles taking stage, I imagine more writers will strive to bring the focus of the musical back to the emotional spectacle of a character’s internal life, and then we’ll shift the other way again.

OSD: What should audience members expect when they come to The Neon on Tuesday night? What should they NOT expect as well?

Darian Taschner

CD: Tuesday night will be a relaxed evening filled with music I’ve written, including a couple of songs with collaborator Kristina Wilson. The Neon has the perfect atmosphere (and open bar) for an evening of something a little different. I’ll be telling stories about the origins of the music and the impact particular pieces or being a writer has had on myself and my family.

Alexandra Sunderhaus

I’ll be joined by guest artists Aaron Vega (WSU grad, actor and director of Twelfth Night), and Alexandra Sunderhaus and Darian Taschner (the female leads from WSU’s Jekyll and Hyde). There won’t be any production numbers, just me behind a piano with some outstanding voices singing new music for the people who join us.

Tickets & Performance Information:

HERE WITH ME: The Music of Christian Duhamel

One Night Only. Tuesday, February 8th, 9:30 pm

THE NEON, 130 E. Fifth Street, Dayton, OH

(937) 222-8452

Tickets ($5) are available presale at The Neon.

Concessions will be available at the event, including beer, wine & coffee beverages.

-SA/Press Release

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

VIDEOS:

Invisible Woman by Christian Duhamel

Performed by Ashley Fitzsimmons
Produced by CONTEMPORARY CLASSICS
Presented by ACT’s Central Heating Lab

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1m69lGIoykA
Couldn’t You Stay By Michael Mahler
Performed by Christian Duhamel & Jenny Shotwell
Produced by Contemporary Classics

In the Company of Helen

February 6, 2011 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

FAT PIG

Dayton Theatre Guild

Neil LaBute’s dark comedy premieres at downtown theatre.

For his entire career, playwright/film director Neil LaBute has explored a wide variety of genres. Consider his film work like In The Company of Men, dark comedies Nurse Betty and Death at a Funeral, and even bona fide horror films The Wicker Man and Lakeview Terrace. LaBute has mastered the art of the dark comedy – exploring the darker side of the human psyche in ways that make us oddly uncomfortable and questioning our own darkness.

Neil LaBute, playwright

What I think strikes most people as fascinating is that LaBute’s language always feels ‘real’, colloquial and in turn, honest. One really feels as if they are listening to REAL people having REAL dialogue (sometimes TOO real). One of the best examples of LaBute’s influence on American theater and cinema opens February 11 at Dayton Theatre Guild.

Fat Pig tells the story of Tom – a well built attractive man who meets and falls in love with the quite plus-sized but ever-charming Helen. When people in Tom’s life begin to discuss why he is dating such a large woman, Tom must decide where HE stands. It is a fascinating exploration into society’s treatment of those we deem unfit, in this case, plus-sized. Neil’s language is smart and engaging and provides a great “what would you do?” discussion starter. If you want to see what the contemporary American theatre sounds and looks like, LaBute’s Fat Pig is great choice. Dayton Theatre Guild is to be applauded for producing this daring and important play and I, for one, was thrilled to see it on their season. It is also quite timely as a Broadway production of Fat Pig (directed by LaBute himself) is headed to Broadway this spring starring Dane Cook and Julia Stiles.

Here in Dayton, the Guild production features Amy Askins (Jeannie), Nicolas Bauer (Carter), Steve Strawser (Tom), and Wendi Williams (Helen). The production is under the direction of Dayton Theatre Hall Of Fame inductee Fran Pesch. There is honestly no better place for LaBute’s work than the Guild (with the exception of the Human Race). DTG has a track record of choosing daring titles by contemporary exciting playwrights and Fat Pig, to me, is a harbinger of good things to come. Later this year, the Guild will present the local premiere of the one-woman tour-de-force Golda’s Balcony (about Israeli Prime Minster Golda Meir) as well as Theresa Rebeck’s acclaimed Mauritius.

Neil LaBute's FAT PIG at Dayton Theatre Guild - February 11-17, 2011

The cast of Dayton Theatre Guild's FAT PIG. L to R: Nicolas Bauer, Steve Strawser, Wendi Williams, Amy Askins

-DB

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Tickets & Performance Information:

Neil LaBute’s FAT PIG – February 11-17 – Performance Times Vary (click for details)

Tickets Prices: $11 student / $16 senior / $18 adult

Location: Dayton Theatre Guild at The Caryl D. Philip’s TheatreScape – 430 Wayne Ave. Dayton, Ohio 45410 (MAP)

Contains adult situations and language.

Tickets are on sale now through DTG’s Online Box Office, or via phone at (937) 278-5993 (due to a volunteer staff, phones are not monitored continually).

For more information about Dayton Theatre Guild’s entire 2010-2011 season, visit www.DaytonTheatreGuild.org

Dayton Theatre Guild at the Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape

‘9 to 5’ Thrives On Nostalgia

February 5, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

9 to 5: The Musical

presented by the Victoria Theatre Association

“9 to 5: The Musical,” Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick’s shaky adaptation of the 1980 workplace revenge film of the same name, struggles to overcome its dated discrimination premise and an assortment of hit and miss tunes, but there are commendable elements nonetheless in its reconceived, well cast national tour, which began its regional premiere Tuesday, February 1 at the Schuster Center courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association’s Miami Valley and Good Samaritan Hospitals Broadway Series.

A greater sense of nostalgia in the form of a terrific pop culture-inspired show curtain as well as Parton’s warm, folksy introduction and closing commentary (including a sing-a-long) effectively distinguishes the tour from its unnecessarily flashy, vocally erratic and unsurprisingly short-lived 2009 Broadway counterpart. There is also a sharper character-driven focus and tighter pace that director/choreographer Jeff Calhoun establishes that keeps the show entertaining and engaging even when three labored fantasy sequences and a swarm of bad jokes and crude lyrics become cringe-inducing.

The core trio of Mamie Parris as ditzy divorcee Judy Bernly, “American Idol” runner-up Diana DeGarmo as voluptuous Doralee Rhodes, and three-time Tony Award nominee Dee Hoty as no-nonsense Violet Newstead form a compatible bond. Each character exudes a genuine, down to earth sensibility so it’s easy to empathize with the torment they endure at the hand of their bigoted boss Franklin Hart, Jr. (Joseph Mahowald in a terribly one-dimensional role). The endearing Parris actually finds depth in what could easily be perceived as a thankless part. Her belting soprano absolutely sparkles in “Get Out and Stay Out,” which powerfully culminates in a “Wicked” style reminiscent of “Defying Gravity” or “No Good Deed.” The naturally perky DeGarmo remains a vocal knockout and couldn’t be more charming. Her poignant rendition of “Backwoods Barbie” is a meaningful highlight, but she’s also great leading the rousing ensemble number “Change It.” Hoty, a wonderful authoritarian, particularly makes the most of Act 2 opener “One of the Boys,” Parton’s meager attempt at writing a razzle-dazzle show tune.

Enjoyable featured turns are given by the very funny, spontaneous Kristine Zbornick as Hart’s infatuated secretary Roz Keith, Gregg Goodbrod as Joe, Wayne Schroeder as the Colonel Sanders-esque Tinsworthy, and scene-stealer Jane Blass as the boozy Margaret.

Although there’s no escaping the fact that the best number in the show was written over 30 years ago, “9 to 5” is better here than in New York with an intent to please Parton admirers as well as fans of the film and its era.

9 to 5: The Musical presented by The Victoria Theatre Association at the Schuster Center

(L to R) Diana DeGarmo, Dee Hoty and Mamie Parris in '9 to 5'

9 to 5: The Musical continues through Sunday, February 6 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets. Remaining performances will be held today at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Act One: 70 minutes. Act Two: 45 minutes. Tickets are $36-$90. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

In addition, the show notably contains two Wright State University alums: swing K.J. Hippensteel and stage manager E. Cameron Holsinger.

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Splendid ‘Night’ at Loft Theatre

February 2, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

The Human Race Theatre Company offers an effortlessly enchanting, stunningly designed presentation of William Shakespeare’s comedy “Twelfth Night,” a multilayered tale of gender reversal, mistaken identity, mismatched romance and unabashed silliness that opened Friday, January 28 at the Loft Theatre.

Aaron Vega, a Wright State University musical theater graduate and, at 28, the youngest director to stage a Human Race production, elegantly helms with a fresh and impressive awareness of the play’s conceptual intricacies and sparkling language. His decision to transport the setting from traditional Illyria to America during the Roaring Twenties is certainly a clever choice strikingly conveyed throughout the action by the cool, suave presence of pianist-vocalist-composer Christian Duhamel as witty clown Feste. Still, his astute attention to establishing the various pursuits of the Bard’s appealing characters, inhabited by a stellar cast, elevates the material beyond the unique era presented.

Claire Kennedy, who proved her worth as an expressive Bard interpreter in Wright State’s 2006 production of “As You Like It,” was born to play lovestruck intermediary Viola, who is separated from her presumably dead twin brother Sebastian (the amiably unassuming Justin Flagg) and ultimately develops feelings for Duke Orsino (an earnestly understated David Dortch) while disguising herself as his devoted pageboy Cesario. Kennedy, whose plaintive rendition of “Danny Boy” is an emotional highpoint, looks perfect in the role (gender bending was a signature fad of the ‘20s after all) and assumes a charming, adaptable masculinity (notice her uncertainty as to how she should hold a cigar) that grows more endearing when Cesario is wooed by the formidable Lady Olivia (a feisty Sara Mackie), Orsino’s object of affection.

Wonderfully cohesive comic relief, occasionally delivered in the audience, is supplied by the uninhibited Tim Lile as Olivia’s loutish and unapologetically flatulent uncle Sir Toby Belch, Josh Stamoolis as goofy Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Jennifer Johansen (a remarkable Lady Capulet in the 2008 Human Race production of “Romeo and Juliet”) as Olivia’s cunning maid Maria, and Scott Stoney as the humble Malvolio, who is humorously tricked into thinking Olivia is in love with him. Kevin Malarkey as Valentine and Matthew M. Moore (who directed an excellent “Much Ado About Nothing” last season at Cedarville University) as Sea Captain/Anthonio complete the cast.

Additionally, scenic designer Dick Block, costumer Lowell A. Mathwich and lighting designer John Rensel beautifully evoke the look and feel of the 1920s.

“Twelfth Night” is a lighthearted escape from the winter doldrums that clearly suggests Vega’s first attempt at Shakespeare for the Human Race will not be his last.

Twelfth Night continues through Sunday, February 13 at the Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St. Performances are Wednesday-Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15.50-$39. Act One: 70 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. A special open forum discussion will be held following the Sunday, February 6 performance. For tickets, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.humanracetheatre.org. Also, Christian Duhamel will perform a concert of his original songs entitled Here With Me Tuesday, February 8 at 9:30 p.m. at the Neon Movies, 130 E. Fifth St. For more information, visit www.neonmovies.com.

In related news, the Human Race’s 25th anniversary/2011-12 season, an entire slate of local premieres that have collected nearly 25 Tony Award nominations, will consist of Yasmina Reza’s 2009 Tony Award-winning dramatic comedy God of Carnage (Sept. 8-25, 2011), Tony Kushner and Jeanine Tesori’s 2004 Tony Award-nominated musical Caroline, or Change (Nov. 3-20, 2011; directed by Scott Stoney), John Logan’s 2010 Tony Award-winning Mark Rothko-themed drama Red (Jan. 19-Feb. 5, 2012; a partnership with the Dayton Art Institute who will present a Rothko exhibition during the run), August Wilson’s 2005 Tony Award-nominated drama Gem of the Ocean (March 28-April 15, 2012); and Mark Allen, Gaby Alter, Gordon Greenberg and Tommy Newman’s musical Band Geeks (May 31-June 17, 2012; directed by Kevin Moore).

Joyful ‘Bee’ at Dayton Playhouse

February 2, 2011 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

"Spelling Bee" cast; photo credit John Gebhardt

Although William Finn, Rachel Sheinkin and Rebecca Feldman’s 2005 Tony Award-winning “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” has quickly reached ‘done to death’ status in the Miami Valley, its fifth area presentation courtesy of the Dayton Playhouse, which opened Friday, January 28, is a joyful affair that finds great heart within the high octane, racy humor.

You may have fond memories of seeing this musical about six colorful adolescents nervously yet enjoyably aspiring to spelling perfection presented by the University of Dayton, Victoria Theatre Association, Wilmington College or Wright State University, but there is definite merit in the Playhouse’s well cast, well sung incarnation. Despite a slightly erratic energy level and a few comedic bits that go overboard or grow overlong, director Natalie Houliston, with lively assistance from choreographer Erica Hamilton, credibly establishes a character-driven playground of fun that is particularly magnetic in the more introspective musical numbers and reflective moments.

Lilting soprano Corinne Derusha, naturally embracing the bouncy, emotive musicality within Finn’s terrific score, leads the proceedings as excited host and former champion Rona Lisa Peretti. She also maintains an appealing chemistry with the delightfully droll Errik Hood as Vice Principal Panch. The outstanding Hannah Berry is truly heartbreaking as shy bookworm Olive Ostrovsky, who enters the competition without parental support. Berry has the audience rooting for Olive at the outset when she tenderly sings “My Friend, The Dictionary.” Matthew Smith lets loose with hilarious abandon as the persnickety William “Magic Foot” Barfee, a whiz with an attitude. David Thomas, a good fit as eccentric underdog Leaf Coneybear, brings engaging subtlety to “I’m Not That Smart.” Bobby Mitchum, in his Playhouse debut, sums up the distressed Chip Tolentino with a funny, audience-friendly take on “My Unfortunate Erection.” Charity Farrell winningly returns to the Playhouse as overachiever Marcy Park and delivers a luminously carefree rendition of “I Speak Six Languages.” Lindsay Sherman, clothed in cute polka dots by costumer Erin Winslow, exudes a perfect amount of spunk and desperation as Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre. As comfort counselor Mitch Mahoney, Muse Machine alum David Stone finally has a role that suits his powerfully soulful tenor. He joins Berry and Derusha for an incredibly passionate, spine-tingling, show-stopping version of “The I Love You Song” that feels as if Finn wrote it just for them.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee continues through Sunday, February 13 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 60 minutes. Act Two: 53 minutes. Audience participation is encouraged. Tickets are $10-$15. The musical, which contains adult language and themes, is not recommended for children under the age of 13. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.org

Calling “Dolly”: behind the scenes as a stage manager

February 2, 2011 By Dayton937 7 Comments

Jessica Hickling as Dolly Levi (Photo Credit Beth Porter)

HELLO, DOLLY

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

Win tickets to this show! Read on…

5:17 pm

Balancing my prompt book and score, yellow legal pad, and Chai tea, I dart between two ladders (bearing paint-splattered shop workers, detailing the archway) to stand on the stage. Our first dress rehearsal begins soon, and the DeVries Theatre is busy. Properties supervisors cross the stage with a tray of tiered glasses and a stack of suitcases; our technical director oversees crew members counterweighting the chandelier at the flyrail; show director, Bob Clements, is deep in conversation with a designer.

I’m the Stage Manager for this production of Hello, Dolly! at Cedarville University, where I’m a senior theatre performance major. I applied and was selected as SM last spring, and have been thinking about or working with the show in some capacity since; the time has both passed slowly and flown by.

The rehearsal sign-in I posted earlier tells me that so far, cast members have arrived on time. Failure to do so results in fines – ordinarily $1/minute, but twice that during tech week. Although the program here is small, the professors work hard and creatively to instill professionalism in us.

I visit dressing and makeup rooms, greeting people and checking progress, before heading back upstairs. The couple of hours before rehearsal begins have a strange pacing, a mixture of urgent and quiet. The theatre is busy as people hurry to finish tasks, yet the pace is controlled, and these few moments are calm. In a little while, I’ll start calling the time until costume checks, go over the lighting effects with the designer, and ensure everything is ready; but for now, I drink my tea and review the opening sequence of cues.

7:24 pm

CU: Hello, Dolly (photo credit Beth Porter)

Ensemble (photo credit Beth Porter)

We’re a little late starting costume checks, but that is understandable for first dress, and I work to keep everyone moving. The costumers have done an amazing job with each of the thirty-eight cast members: the women are gorgeous in long, jewel-toned dresses and ornate hats; the men dashingly sport white tailed suits.

Student wardrobe manager, Amanda, a measuring tape draped over her shoulder, takes notes; I catch a glimpse of her spreadsheet, orderly and extremely detailed. Don, our eclectic and beloved design supervisor, surveys the actors individually, commenting on details many wouldn’t even know to notice. Pushing up his round glasses, he crosses his arms. “Where are his spats? He’ll need spats,” he says, and immediately a crew member rushes downstairs to pull some.

8:35 pm

“Are the actors in place?” I inquire over our intercom headsets. After receiving confirmation, I prepare everyone for our initial cues. After delaying start time to accommodate for costumes and tech, we’re finally ready to begin. “Standby follow-spot… Mrs. Porter and F1, go.”

The musical director appears from the archway, a spotlight illuminating her walk into the pit; she bows before our imaginary audience, raises her hands, and at her cue the overture begins. I breathe and mentally run through the cues: Take follow spot out and narrow lights on ramp. Transitional lights. Curtain up…

9:59 pm

The makeup room is busy, though not overwhelming, during intermission. Ben greys his hair, Charlee attaches facial hair, and Jessica adjusts her hatpins. “Ten minutes,” I announce, receiving a chorusing, “Thank you, ten!” from those in earshot. After refilling my water bottle, I return to the light board, put on my headset, and open my score to the entr’acte. Five minutes to end of intermission…

“Kate?” The light board operator gets my attention. “We’re using the chandelier here for the first time tonight, and I need to check the programming.”

Hello, Dolly! cast (Photo Credit Scott Huck)

“I’ll get the designer,” I offer, and call into com, “Carolyn, we have a lighting question. Could you run up please?” A moment later, she appears in her ornate costume and hat; Carolyn is also an ensemble member. Multiple interests and skills are common to the dedicated majors of our department. Jessica plays Dolly and designed the hair/makeup; Denise is an ensemble member, scene shop employee, and dramaturg; beside stage managing, I’m an electrician and student box office manager. Our program is conducive to educating those with multifaceted aspirations; many of us take both upper-level design and performance classes. Professor (and Dolly director) Mr. Clements stresses that we never know where we’ll have the opportunity for employment, so should be versatile and marketable, and always “do the ordinary extraordinarily,” no matter what that “ordinary” may be.

10:39 pm

Listening both to the show’s dialogue and com headset’s hum, I call the lighting cue an instant before the waiters dance onto stage bearing silver trays. I say, “Standby for L53…” Stanley enters. “L53, go.”

“Standby for Follow Spot 26…” Dolly is going to arrive at the Harmonia Gardens restaurant; the waiters and cooks scramble into place. Stanley breathes his line and I see the tip of the feather from Jessica’s headdress behind the backdrop. “F26, go.” Jessica, in a sparkling sapphire gown and with a gaze that intermingles flirty and reminiscent, enters as Dolly into the light. She is beautiful, and the waiters see it, their eyes on her every movement.

“Hello, Harry, well, hello, Louie, it’s so nice to be back home where I belong…”

The men unite for their verse of the song. “Standby for L54.” Dolly crosses back to the stairs, t urns her head slightly, and looks out wistfully just as I call, “go,” and the lights shift with her thought…

Rehearsing for the Harmonia Gardens

11:52 pm

“Let’s go ahead and get started with the production meeting,” I say, and begin to ask each team member for their feedback and discussion items. “From my perspective, I felt the show went well. We have a few things we need to adjust, but otherwise, cues and scene changes went well, and the show ran smoothly…”

A few remaining actors, just out of hair and makeup, shuffle through the theatre on their way home. During the next forty-five minutes, we discuss aspects of the show from costume design to dramaturgy, handling issues that arose and coordinating our work; when I dismiss the meeting, only a few are able to head home, but the majority of technicians stand and go to continue working.

1:05 am

As I go to the design lab to email our rehearsal log, I pass Amanda laying out snacks on a chair by the props table. “This is for the props crew,” she explains, “although you can have some, too.” She continues explaining that several of the students are each setting food out for a crew, to show their and the cast’s appreciation. Our department, in many ways, is like a family, and we look out for each other. The properties supervisors, exhausted but surprised, come over to take a moment’s break as I again towards turn the lab to get ready for tomorrow’s rehearsal.

Before the Parade Passes By…

Performance Information

The Story: Dolly Levi, adored by all (especially the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant) is a self-termed meddler, but this time, she’s scheming to arrange her own marriage, to the well-known and rich Horace Vandergelder. In this optimistic and fun musical, Dolly charms (and meddles) her way into his heart, setting up a few other matches along the way.
Dates: February 3 – 5, 10 – 12; curtains at 8:00 pm, with additional Saturday performances at 2:00 pm.
Tickets: Cedarville University: Tickets
More Information: Cedarville University: Theatre Season

Win Free Tickets!

The Cedarville University Theatre & onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com have teamed up to give you a chance to win tickets to HELLO, DOLLY! We will be giving away up to TWO pairs of tickets for the second weekend of the show! (February 10-12) All you need to do is:

Share this article on Facebook or Twitter…just click the appropriate button at the top of this page.
Fill out the contact form at the bottom of this post.
Leave a comment, answering the following question…Dolly Levi is a matchmaker…Have you ever had someone set you up on a blind date? What’s your worst/funniest blind date story? (no names, please…to protect the innocent/guilt)
The deadline to enter is 9AM on FRIDAY, February 4th.
Winners will be selected randomly from all of the entries.

Contest Closed

Present Mirth Hath Present Laughter

January 28, 2011 By Shane Anderson 1 Comment

Twelfth Night

The Human Race Theatre Co.

What is love? ’tis not hereafter;
Present mirth hath present laughter;
What’s to come is still unsure:
In delay there lies no plenty;
Then come kiss me, sweet and twenty,
Youth’s a stuff will not endure.

Seize the day. Enjoy the moment. Youth won’t last. Carpe Diem.

Aaron Vega has a vision. Take the bard’s classic comedy, Twelfth Night (orginally set in ancient Illyria) and plop it into an American / Jazz Age / F. Scott Fitzgeraldean setting. Cool.

You gotta be creative and have some guts to do something like that, no? Well Vega is and does! At 28, Aaron Vega (recognizable to most WSU & Loft Theatre audiences from his appearances on-stage) now holds the record as the youngest director of a production in The Human Race Theatre Company’s history.

The show, one of Shakespeare’s classic comedies, was written in 1601. It earns it’s name from the 12th night after Christmas Day, referred to as the Eve of the Feast of the Epiphany in the Catholic faith. In Shakespeare’s time, however, this 12th night had become quite the uproarious occasion, and the Bard felt compelled to contribute an evening’s entertainment to the frivolity. What better contribution to the revelry than a plot featuring shipwrecks, misguided romance, mistaken identity, merry pranksters, and, (of course) cross-dressing.

“if music be the food of love, play on.”

Don’t expect to hear lutes or panpipes accompanying this production, instead a wide range of music from the 1920’s, from Gershwin to Fats Waller. Additional music has been composed by WSU grad Christian Duhamel, who also appears on stage as Feste, the clown.

onStageDayton questioned Vega about his unique vision for the production & his first experience directing in the Loft.

onStageDayton: What was your goal in setting this production in 1920’s Jazz-Age America instead of the original Ancient Illyria?

Aaron Vega & Claire Kennedy in 2009's Lend Me A Tenor

Aaron Vega: Playing it in the ‘20s will help tell the story to a modern audience. The poetry of Shakespeare can be a hurdle for some audience members who aren’t used to it, so placing the story into a time-period that we all have at least a vague visual knowledge that helps people relax and enjoy the beautiful story. That being said, most people that have never seen or heard Shakespeare except in a high school English class, will find themselves pleasantly suprised at how much they will understand the poetry of the language.

OSD: By moving the plot into a more modern setting, what kinds of problems did this present to you and your actors? What creative freedom did it provide?

AV: The question I asked was, “does this help or hinder the story?” We’ve all heard about Shakespeare shows that have been placed in settings that don’t make any sense. HAMLET set in space springs to mind as an example. It was a fairly logical step to set it in the ’20’s because of all the rich history in this country at the time. Women’s suffrage, prohabition, jazz, etc. I knew we were onto something when the actors started coming to me with ideas about their characters based on the period AND supported by the text. It helped us go further and deeper with a play that can sometimes be played just for laughs.

OSD: Do you think that your choice to change the time and place of Twelfth Night might make the show more appealing to an audience that might normally not choose to attend a Shakespearian production?

AV: Yes. Yes. Yes. But again, give the play 8 minutes and then you’ll really be shocked at how much ANYONE can enjoy the language. The story is so accessible and there are so many characters, that everyone watching will be able to connect to at least one of the characters on stage. The actors and I have worked very hard to make sure that the play remains human. All of the relationships, character’s intentions or plots-even clowning-say human. It’s really been quite lovely to watch. The setting only amplifies that. It’s easier for me, as an audience member, to feel connected to a character if they’re dressed at least a bit like me. The second you put someone in poofy pants, and poofy shirts, even I get turned off.

OSD: This is your first directing gig with The Human Race and you are the youngest director in the history of the company–What has this experience been like for you? Following in the footsteps of great local directors such as Kevin Moore, Scott Stoney and Marsha Hanna, did you ever find yourself questioning your creative decisions throughout the process?

AV: It’s been a joy and an honor. I’ve questioned a few decisions early on but I had Marsha Hanna and Kevin asking the tough questions and making sure that I was as specific as I needed to be. They’ve been incredibly gracious and supportive. The other side of the story is that there is a larger staff at The Human Race Theatre Company, in their office and scene shop (where they build all of their beautiful sets), who have also been tremendously supportive. It’s nice to know that there are theatre companies in this country who are still dedicated to local audiences and telling a beautiful stories on the stage. My wife and I live in New York City and the amount of work has been getting smaller and smaller due to the economy and theaters closing their doors. The fact that a professional theatre company with such a good national reputation is still willing to produce the classics AND call Dayton, Ohio it’s home is truly inspiring. That is all because of people like the staff at the Human Race and specifically their leadership in Kevin Moore and the late Marsha Hanna.

OSD: Now that the show is about to open, what excites (or terrifies) you most about preparing for audiences to see this new version of classic Shakespeare?

AV: The actor’s dedication to the humanity of the characters is what keeps inspiring me. My dream is that people in the Miami Valley will choose live theatre as an entertainment option in a world that is becoming increasingly more disconnected. The Human Race Theatre Company at The Loft Theatre is Dayton’s opportunity to directly engage in their community and have a collective experience with other people from the area. It’s also fairly inexpensive and a wonderful way to enjoy their day. They’ll remember the play for the rest of their lives. Can any of us say that about the last TV show we watched?

Marsha Hanna

Twelfth Night is the fourth production of the 2010-2011 Eichelberger Loft Season of The Human Race. It will be the first Human Race production in more than 20 years without Artistic Director Marsha Hanna, who died January 3 of complications from esophageal cancer.

The cast of Twelfth Night is a result of local and national auditioning, including many members with local ties. It includes two Human Race Resident Artists, Tim Lile as Sir Toby Belch and Scott Stoney as Malvolio. Vega’s wife, Claire Kennedy (Lend Me a Tenor, A Christmas Carol), plays Viola, whose disguise as a man sets off the play’s events. Another WSU alum, Sara Mackie (Green Gables) plays Olivia.

Yellow Springs native Kevin Malarkey, a UC College-Conservatory of Music senior, is Valentine. Matthew Moore of Cedarville plays the Captain and Antonio. David Dortch, a veteran of Blue Jacket, plays Orsino.

Jennifer Johansen of Indianapolis (A Christmas Carol, Romeo and Juliet) is Maria. Josh Stamoolis, longtime Cincinnati Shakespeare resident performer, is Sir Andrew Aguecheek. And Justin Flagg, from the Royal Scottish Academy via New York, is Sebastian.

Behind the scenes, Dick Block designed the set, Lowell A. Mathwich the costumes, Rich Dionne the sound, Resident Artist John Rensel the lighting. Heather Jackson is the production stage manager, Scott Kimmins the Technical Director, with Heather Powell on props, Andrew Ian Adams on wardrobe and Nathan Dean on sound.

Photos by Scott J. Kimmins

-SA/Human Race Theatre Co. Press Release

We encourage local theatre companies to submit calendar items HERE, and official press releases to onStageDayton@gmail.com.

Tickets & Performance Information:

TWELFTH NIGHT (January 28 – February 13 at The Loft Theatre, various performance times).

More information and tickets are available through www.humanracetheatre.org, by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or toll free (888) 228-3630. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Schuster Center box office, or at the box office at The Loft two hours before curtain.

On Stage Dayton

VICTORIA THEATRE ASSOCIATION

2011-2012 Season Announcement

Victoria Theatre Association 2011-2012 Selections:

Tickets & Performance Information:

SEASON TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW!

Steve Strawser and Wendi Williams in Fat Pig (photo by Peter Wine) FAT PIG

Dayton Theatre Guild

SINCLAIR THEATRE

The Foreigner is undoubtedly a great evening of laugh-out-loud antics.

Tickets & Performance Information:

Vincent Holiday Dirty Little Secret

presented by J.T. Ryder & Vincent Holiday

Tickets & Performance Information:

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

The Last 5 Years

SPRINGFIELD STAGEWORKS

Fat Pig

DAYTON THEATRE GUILD

Play On

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Twelfth Night

HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

Hello, Dolly!

Hello, Dolly! cast (Photo Credit Scott Huck)

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Spelling Bee cast (Photo Credit John Gebhardt) DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

The Phantom Tollbooth

ZOOT THEATRE COMPANY

Honk!

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE THT: Junie B. Jones (Dec. 2010) (Photo Credit Mike Long)

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRE

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

Queen Nur’s “Sweet Potato Pie and Such”

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL: “Creative Connections”

Cait Doyle’s Hot Mess in Manhattan

ENCORE THEATER COMPANY

Cait Doyle Cait Doyle’s “Hot Mess in Manhattan”

presented by Encore Theater Co. & Sinclair Theatre

One Night Only! Win Tickets! Read on…

Win Free Tickets!

HERE WITH ME:

CHRISTIAN DUHAMEL LIVE IN CONCERT

The Neon Movies & The Human Race Theatre Company

Regional Premiere!

Tickets & Performance Information:

Dayton Theatre Guild

Neil LaBute’s dark comedy premieres at downtown theatre.

Tickets & Performance Information:

9 to 5: The Musical

presented by the Victoria Theatre Association

HELLO, DOLLY

CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY

Win tickets to this show! Read on…

5:17 pm

7:24 pm

8:35 pm

9:59 pm

10:39 pm

11:52 pm

1:05 am

Before the Parade Passes By…

Performance Information

Win Free Tickets!

The Human Race Theatre Co.

“if music be the food of love, play on.”

Tickets & Performance Information:

Steve Strawser and Wendi Williams in Fat Pig (photo by Peter Wine)

FAT PIG

Vincent Holiday

Dirty Little Secret

Spelling Bee cast (Photo Credit John Gebhardt)

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRE

THT: Junie B. Jones (Dec. 2010) (Photo Credit Mike Long)

Cait Doyle

Cait Doyle’s “Hot Mess in Manhattan”