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Downtown Dayton

Dayton Porchfest is back on August 16th

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Dayton Porchfest. Photo by Libby Ballengee

Getting that sinking feeling that the summer is over? Not so fast! We have one of the biggest music festival events of the year happening on Saturday, August 16th: Dayton Porchfest.

“Dayton Porchfest celebrates the breadth and depth of the Dayton music scene, while the porch and backyard venues allow the performers and the audience to deeply engage,” organizer Peter Benkendorf shared with us. “The diversity of the line-up means there is something for everyone. Throw in some food trucks, a beer garden and a family-friendly environment, all wrapped up in the charm of the St. Anne’s Hill Historic District, and you have all the makings for one of Dayton’s most popular summer events.”

Dayton Porchfest was founded in 2017, inspired by the original Porchfest, which was started in 2007 in Ithaca, NY and Larchmere Porchfest in Cleveland, which began in 2009. Today there are over 200 Porchfests throughout the United States and Canada, with Dayton being the 94th to join this growing movement.

Dayton has a rich musical history and active music scene that continues today. Dayton Porchfest is committed to reflecting that diversity in its selection of musical artists, from funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old-timey music with deep Appalachian traditions here. The festival also celebrates the ethnic diversity of the region, a reflection of our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade.

Dayton Porchfest is an initiative of The Collaboratory, a civic innovation lab that moves ideas to action. The Collaboratory provides infrastructure for people and organizations to collaboratively develop community initiatives that generate new economic, civic and creative opportunities and value. The result is a healthier, more thriving region. All proceeds from Dayton Porchfest go to support the work of The Collaboratory.

Event Details:

When: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 12:15 – 6:45 PM
Where: St. Anne’s Hill Historic District, Dayton, Ohio
Cost: Free and family-friendly

Schedule:

  • 12:15 – 12:45 PM: Pre-Porch Kick-Off with T.R.S.S. Drum Corps
  • 1:00 – 6:45 PM: Main event – “If this porch is rockin’ then please come a knockin'”
  • 7:00 – 9:00 PM: Afterfest at Levitt Pavilion Dayton
  • 7:00 – 10:00 PM: Music at Fifth Street Brewpub

Tips for attending:

  • Bring water and stay hydrated
  • While the streets are tree-lined, you can bring shade with you with a hat and/or sunglasses
  • This is a walking event, so please wear comfortable shoes
  • Please bring cash to tip the performers

For more information and to view the interactive map of participating porches, visit www.daytonporchfest.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heartsiq’s Third Annual “Mixtape” Festival is this Saturday with Two Stages, Vendors, and Art at The Brightside

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Heartsiq is a queer focused arts and entertainment group based in Dayton, OH that presents monthly curated live music and visual arts events around town, monthly “Queeraoke” events at The Oregon Express, and other queer focused events throughout the year.

On June 7th, they’re presenting their 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival featuring queer artists, live musicians, DJs, MCs, vendors, and more on multiple stages at The Brightside Music and Events Venue.

“We’ve changed the game this year for Pride!” Kacie Clover, Heartsiq Partner said. “Get ready for a local vendors market, a DJ rave room with go-go dancers, a talk show, local acts, and so much more!”

Heartsiq has grown over the last three years from a monthly showcase to their third annual Mixtape Festival over Pride weekend with dozens of events at multiple venues every year.

“We need Pride now more than ever. Queer joy is important. Queer joy is necessary. Queer joy is revolutionary” Ky Heart, Founder and Partner said. “We’re here and we’re not going anywhere. This festival is going to be Heartsiq like you’ve never seen it before! ”

If you’re interested in attending Heartsiq’s Mixtape Festival or other events, organizers say these events are for everyone.

“The definition of queer people and queer identities is always growing,” Clover said. “Heartsiq is a home for every single person.” She continued “Hosting Heartsiq has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The opportunity to promote LGBTQ artists, as well as spread queer joy has been a dream,” Heart said.

Attendees can get more information and tickets at heartsiq.com

How To Go?

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Doors 5pm

All ages – must have 21+ ID to drink alcohol

Tickets:

Single ticket – $12 in advance

5 Ticket Pack – $50 in Advance

At the door ticket – $15

Venue:

The Brightside Music and Events Venue

905 E. 3rd St. Dayton, OH 45402

https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/

Heartsiq’s 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival – June 7th

Schedule:

Side A – Ballroom Stage

6pm to 1am

DJ FEZ @boostohhs

DJ Sexbox @dylanfauxreal

Illwin @_illwin

Side B – Bar Stage

Starting at 9pm

Leggy @leggyband

Trade Like Qualities @trade_like_qualities

Izzie Morrow @izziemikael

Burlesque Dancers

Ophelia Plenty @defective.deity

Thrillda Swinton @thrilldaswinton

Indica Blows @cultofindica

Eris Minx @erisminx

Rude Burlesque @rudeburlesque

Ethera @ethera___

Magnus Lovesong @magnuslovesong

Zinnia Butterfly @zinnia.butterfly.burlesque

Kiara The Bearded Beauty @kiara_thebeardedbeauty

Cinnamon Spell @catinth3dark

Glad Ala Jara @guad.ala.jara

Moon Lyte @moon.lyte.dancer

Gertrude The Cherry @gertrudethecherry

Delusiona Grandeur @ballerinadentata

Elixir The Enigma @elixirtheenigma

John Waters special screening kicks off Yellow Springs Mini-Fest

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The Yellow Springs Film Festival is excited to announce its annual Mini-Fest this spring, with a new addition this year: an expansion to Dayton! The event kicks off at The Brightside in downtown Dayton, featuring a special screening of the cult classic Cecil B. Demented to celebrate its 25th anniversary, along with a Q&A session with its legendary director, John Waters.

The Yellow Springs Film Festival, which began in 2023, is a newly established film festival that has received widespread acclaim from attendees, media, and both local and film communities. For the first time, the festival is extending its reach beyond Yellow Springs, with organizers hosting an event in Dayton, thanks to generous support from The Berry Family Foundation.

“We’re thrilled to host one of our all time favorite directors screening one of his finest — and to expand into Dayton for our first event outside of Yellow Springs will hopefully engage more film fans in the Miami Valley,” Yellow Springs Film Festival Co-Founder, Eric Mahoney, shared with us. “The Brightside is such a fantastic room and we love partnering with them in bringing exciting events to town.”

Waters, who began his filmmaking career in the mid-60s, is renowned for his low-budget, provocative films that garnered a devoted fanbase, including Hairspray, Cry-Baby, and Pink Flamingos, among others. This event offers a rare chance to explore the creative genius of one of cinema’s most fascinating directors! 

Cecil B. Demented offers a thrilling cinematic experience. The story revolves around an independent film director and his rebellious team of teenage filmmakers who abduct a top Hollywood actress, forcing her to star in their underground project.

Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters. Grab yours now and be part of this extraordinary celebration!


How to Go?

Thursday, April 17th

Doors 6pm / Show 7pm

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

$35 general admission seated

$100 VIP – Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters.

Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ysff-presents-cecil-b-demented-screening-with-john-waters-tickets-1247234555129?aff=oddtdtcreator

Dayton Battle of the Bands kicks off at The Brightside!

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The 5th annual Dayton Battle of the Bands kicks off on January 16, 2025 at The Brightside Music & Event Venue. This exciting music series, presented by the venue along with Venus Child Productions and Sound Valley, highlights up-and-coming original bands across a variety of genres.

The series runs for 6 weeks, every Thursday from January 16, 2025 through February 27th (skipping Feb 20th for sold out Kim Deal concert). The winner of each week moves onto the Finale, held in the Brightside’s Ballroom on Sat, March 8th.

The playoffs result from a 50/50 mix of audience and judges’ votes. Every attendee receives a ballot upon entry and utilizes ranked-choice voting to select their top three favorite bands. Each week, music industry insiders and special guests serve as judges, with their votes carrying greater influence.

“Despite the ‘battle’ name, this series has been such a fun way to discover so much of the creative talent brewing in Dayton,” organizer Libby Ballengee shared with us. “Maybe you’ll find your new favorite band!”

The participating bands get professional photos to add to their press kit and the chance to audition for bookers from around the city including Levitt Pavilion, Blind Bob’s, Oregon Express, and more! This year, Dayton Battle of the Bands is partnering with Concert Archives to offer bands consolidated feedback from judges.

Photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

For the Finalists who perform in the Finale, they all receive a video of one of their songs performed live, which is provided by Sound Valley. This is such an awesome asset for the band’s press kit. They also receive cash prize, free pizza for rehearsals from Dayton Pizza Factory, among other perks.

For the grand prize winner – they get all above plus an EP recording session with Dayton Sound Studios, a spot on Levitt Pavilion Dayton’s summer schedule, free t-shirts from Little Monster Printing, and $1000.

Past winners include: The Katawicks, Bohemian Funk, crabswithoutlegs, and Freakquency.

More details about Dayton Battle of the Bands can be found at their website: daytonbattleofthebands.com

HOW TO GO:

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St. Dayton, OH)

  • Jan 16 – Week 1 – Alternative / Rock
  • Jan 23 – Week 2 – Singer-Songwriters
  • Jan 30 – Week 3 – Hip Hop / Rap / R&B
  • Feb 6 – Week 4 – Hard Rock / Metal / Punk
  • Feb 13 – Week 5 – Americana / Bluegrass / Folk
  • Feb 27 – Week 6 – Funk / Jam / Reggae / Ska
  • March 8 – Finale featuring the winners from each week

7pm doors open / Music 7:30pm – 10pm

All ages

$10 advance, $15 at the door

Tickets & information available at
https://www.daytonbattleofthebands.com
Or https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/

BREAKING NEWS: Kim Deal kicks off first-ever solo tour at The Brightside

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Photo of Kim Deal by Kristin Sollecito

The Brightside Music & Event Venue proudly announces that Dayton music icon Kim Deal will kick off her first-ever solo tour supporting her new album Nobody Loves You More right here in her hometown. This unforgettable evening will be held at The Brightside on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Tickets went on sale Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 11 am.

Kim Deal is a transformative force in the music industry. Known for her pioneering work with two legendary alternative rock bands, The Pixies and The Breeders, her influence spans four decades. She is also a cherished figure in the Dayton music community, inspiring countless artists and fans alike. This concert celebrates Kim and her place in Dayton’s vibrant musical history.

Her debut solo album, Nobody Loves You More, released last month to much acclaim. Its diverse influences are evident throughout, thanks to collaborations with the late Steve Albini, members of The Breeders, and other respected musicians. Most importantly, this album showcases Kim’s exceptional abilities.


After the exciting Dayton concert on February 20th, the tour will continue on to the vibrant cities of London, Boston, New York, DC, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Barcelona, along with many other culturally rich destinations.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to get to host this show at The Brightside and add Dayton to the tour,” said Carli Dixon, co-owner of The Brightside. “And as a female-led venue, it’s a great joy for us to host Kim Deal, such a local female hero to all of us. We couldn’t be more excited!”

HOW TO GO?
Thursday, February 20, 2025.
The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, 45402
Doors open at 7pm / Show starts at 8pm
All ages (under 18 with parental supervision)
Tickets $30 General Admission here:
https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/kim-deal-nobody-loves-you-more-tour-2025-02-20-the-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-389968

More information on the venue at thebrightsidedayton.com
More information about Kim Deal at kimdealmusic.com

Erika Wennerstrom in Dayton for special “Up Close & Personal” shows

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Erika Wennerstrom, the lead vocalist of the renowned rock band Heartless Bastards, is returning to her hometown of Dayton this holiday season. She will perform two special “Up Close & Personal” shows at The Brightside Music & Event Venue. The December 19th performance sold out so quickly that Wennerstrom decided to add a second date on December 18th. Although this show is nearly sold out, a few tickets remain available.

“We are excited to welcome Erika back to Dayton for the holidays,” said Music Booker Libby Ballengee. “It’s a rare opportunity to see her in such a cozy venue. What a delight!”

Tickets for the show on December 18, 2024, cost $30 and can be purchased on the venue’s website: thebrightsidedayton.com. Doors open at 7pm., with the show starting at 8pm. It’s an all-ages event.

 

Dayton Battle of the Bands 2025 Schedule Announced

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The schedule for the 2025 Dayton Battle of the Bands has been announced! This is a fantastic chance to explore up-and-coming local talent and original music from the Dayton region. This year’s event series features 26 bands over 6 weeks, culminating in a grand finale featuring the top 6 acts.

The 2025 Dayton Battle of the Bands schedule

The annual series kicks off on January 16, 2025, at The Brightside Music & Event Venue, located at 905 E Third St. The playoff rounds run every Thursday through February 20th (keeping February 27th as a possible snow date). The finale will take place on Saturday, March 8th. Each week is dedicated to a different genre from: Alt / Rock, Singer-Songwriter, Hip Hop, Metal / Punk, Americana / Bluegrass, and Funk / Reggae.

This venue has become a favorite among music enthusiasts, offering plenty of free parking, superb acoustics, a friendly ambiance, and attentive staff. Although it hosts numerous private events, showcasing local artists remains a top priority.

“We receive so many requests from local bands wanting to perform here, making it quite a challenge to accommodate them all in our hectic schedule,” said Music Booker Libby Ballengee. “The Dayton Battle of the Bands is an excellent opportunity for us to showcase these new bands and consider them for larger shows throughout the year.”

Arrianna Holiday performing at The Brightside
Photo by Jordan Freshour

The organizers aim to elevate these bands in their musical careers. Every band is provided with professional photography for promotional purposes and garners significant local social media exposure. Additionally, they receive valuable industry feedback from their partners at ConcertArchives.org. Additionally, other music venues and festivals in Dayton, including Levitt Pavilion, Oregon Express, and HoliDayton, attend the Dayton Battle of the Bands to discover talent for their own lineups.

“While it’s termed a battle, we see it as a beautifully collaborative music series,” stated Carli Dixon, co-owner of The Brightside. “We are part of the local musical ecosphere and strive to continue uplifting local musicians.”

Finalists enjoy a plethora of rewards, such as a live music video produced by Sound Valley Dayton, pizzas for band practices from Dayton Pizza Factory, and a cash prize from The Brightside, along with other benefits. The winner of the Dayton Battle of the Bands will receive an EP recording session at Dayton Sound Studios, a performance spot in Levitt Pavilion’s summer 2025 lineup, 50 personalized t-shirts from Little Monster Printing, and $1000 from The Brightside, among other prizes to be announced.

Through December 7th, series passes are on sale for just $50 for all 6 weeks of competition and the finale. This saves $25 off the regular pre-sale price and $60 off the regular at-door rate for the entire series.You can purchose those at this link: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/dayton-battle-of-the-bands-full-series-2025-03-08-the-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-70fc21/orders/new

Event Organizer, Libby Ballengee Photo by Jordan Freshour

Dayton Battle of the Bands is made possible by a partnership between The Brightside, Venus Child Productions and Sound Valley Dayton. This all female-run festival of local music is one that you will not want to miss!

Visit the Dayton Battle of the Bands website for tickets and details: https://www.daytonbattleofthebands.com/

Sugar Plum Tea is a Family Favorite Holiday Tradition

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The Dayton Ballet Barre‘s annual Sugar Plum Tea is a tea party before the matinee performance of The Nutcracker by the Dayton Ballet. Children, parents, and grandparents alike enjoy this wonderful holiday tradition! It takes place in the beautiful Dayton Woman’s Club, exquisitely decorated for the season and within walking distance of the Schuster Center.

The ticket includes tea party foods: cute sandwiches, fruit, and desserts, with hot beverages including hot chocolate, tea, and coffee. Children get to participate in a short dance class from the Sugar Plum Fairy and a reading of The Nutcracker under the Christmas Tree – both are perfect for taking photos of your little loved one and prepping them for the performance.

“We love hosting this every year, and helping make beloved childhood memories,” organizer Libby Ballengee shared with us. “Even if you’re little ones are too small to attend the performance itself, this is a fun way to introduce them to The Nutcracker tradition.”

Please note – this event/ ticket does not include a ticket to the Dayton Ballet performance. Those are purchased separately through DaytonLive.org

How to Go?
Sugar Plum Tea at Dayton Woman’s Club – 225 North Ludlow Street in Dayton
Sunday, December 22, 2024
Doors open at 12 p.m. (due to event set-up, we cannot let patrons in earlier than noon)
Event 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Dayton Ballet performance starts at 2:30 pm across the street – needs separate ticket)
$25 per ticket (all attendees – adults & children – need a ticket): www.ticketsource.us/dayton-ballet-barre

Mystery Night features “Clue” Movie Party

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Join Dayton Dinner Theater for a night shrouded in mystery, featuring themed food, drinks, music, trivia, and an interactive screening of the classic film Clue! This exciting event, held at The Brightside, includes creative pizza from Dayton Pizza Factory, a delightful salad, an appetizer, and dessert crafted by Baker Benji. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Award-winning and nationally known actor Andrew Mitakides will be leading an interactive murder mystery skit. Musician Matt will be performing live mystery songs and playing name that tune.

And of course, costumes are encouraged. Choose your favorite character to wear!

Doors open at 5:45 pm, with food and live music from 6 to 7 pm. The movie begins at 7 pm, followed by a brief intermission for dessert and trivia at 8 pm, concluding the film around 9:15 PM.

HOW TO GO?

Nov 24, 2024 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH

Tickets $28 – available here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/clue-mystery-movie-party

Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise we have open seating. For table reservations or other questions, please email   Daytondinnertheater@gmail.com

Dayton Dance Initiative Presents: Unite and Ignite

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You’re invited to immerse yourself in a world of captivating dance performances during the highly anticipated “Unite and Ignite” showcase, hosted by The Dayton Dance Initiative on June 28th and June 29th at the PNC Arts Annex.

The Dayton Dance Initiative (DDI) is dedicated to fostering collaboration among dancers and choreographers from from the Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Mutual Dance Theatre, and Wright State University. During their summer off-season, these dancers come together to present their own original works, which is a real delight for Dayton arts fans!

DDI’s goal is to create a platform where they can explore innovative dance experiences that reflect the diverse talents within Dayton’s artistic ecosystem. This season the company is led by a new Artistic Director: Jennifer Sydor.

“Unite and Ignite” promises to take you on a breathtaking journey, highlighting a versatile repertoire of choreography that encapsulates the Dayton region’s artistic diversity. Each performance will offer a fusion of styles and storytelling, leaving you feeling inspired and connected to the artistic spirit of the community.

Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of Dayton’s dance community at the PNC Arts Annex. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of artistry and unity.


How to Go?
Dates: June 28th at 7:30pm and June 29th at 2pm and 7:30pm
Venue: PNC Arts Annex
Program: Eight original works of choreography performed by dancers and choreographers from Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Mutual Dance Theatre, and Wright State University
Tickets – $33.50, Students/$28.50
Dayton Live Box Office: (937)228-3630, https://www.daytonlive.org/events/unite-ignite/


WYSO Presents snarls, Jess Lamb and the Factory with Siri Imani, and Dos.Grandiose

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WYSO 91.3 FM and The Brightside are teaming up to celebrate the southern hemisphere of Ohio music — Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati representing — with a benefit show to support WYSO on Friday, May 3, 2024.

 

Indie rock’s snarls (Columbus), soul’s Jess Lamb and the Factory with Siri Imani (Cincinnati), and hip-hop’s Dos.Grandiose are set to perform, blending an eclectic and electric night of live music.

The show coincides with the release of snarls’ second LP, With Love; a two-fer-one in an already three-fer-one show! See the music video for snarls’ single “Heavy Drinker” for the VHS-era fun video-pop vibes they’ll surely bring to Dayton. They were also deemed Five Guys’ Artist of the Month for April 2024. (Yes, the burger restaurant.)

snarls is Chlo White, Riley Hall, and Mick Martinez, who are all worthy of capital letters, even if their collective name is spelled otherwise. (Though the sources on that capitalization do vary.)

Jess Lamb can simultaneously harness a quivering, devastating voice like Tracy Chapman and command a room like Janis. (Yes, that one.) Lamb received worldwide recognition with an appearance on American Idol, though the Over-the-Rhine dream pop-soul tunes Jess Lamb and the Factory make would’ve caught our attention regardless of J-Lo’s input.

Alongside Lamb at the Brightside show is Siri Imani who can spit out the perfect amount of words within the ideal amount of syllables, stamping exclamation marks on everything she’s featured on.

Dayton’s performer/songwriter — and self-proclaimed cannabis connoisseur — Dos.Grandiose toys with trap and lo-fi beats while sprinkling in his brand of synth-based funk. To prep, check out the Bad Genes presents: Star Platinum EP with Dos.Grandiose and Zola182.

The three-act night is so mixed it’ll be like you’re listening to the radio — but in person. And what better way to do that than at The Brightside, for WYSO by WYSO?

 

**How to Go?**

Friday, May 3, 2024

The Brightside at 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

Doors 7 pm / Show 8 pm

All ages welcome!

Tickets $20 advance: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/99957/orders/new#/

There are limited VIP tickets available with reserved seating (includes 4 tickets)

Tickets available at the door: $25 day of show

Special thanks to our sponsors Yellow Springs Brewery and Emporium Wines and Underdog Cafe

Dayton Battle of the Bands 2024 Line-Up Announced

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It’s here! The Dayton Battle of the Bands 2024 line-up has been announced! The 4th annual local music showcase features 6 weeks of playoff rounds starting on January 18, 2024, and a finale on March 9, 2024 at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.

The series was launched in 2020 pre-pandemic by The Brightside, Venus Child Productions, and Sound Valley Dayton. A few of the features that differentiate this showcase from other Battle of the Bands include: playoff rounds are decided by a mix of audience and judge’s votes, each week of the playoff rounds features a different genre of music, and plays down the idea of it being a “competition.”

Photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

Organizers explained that in this competition, simply participating is a “win.” All the bands who participate get to network with industry professionals, perform in front of area music bookers, and get professional photos from Jordan Lynn Freshour. The finalists who move on all get a cash prize, the opportunity to perform on the big stage at The Brightside, and get a live music video of one of their songs from Ashley Karsen, of Sound Valley Dayton. The grand prize winner gets all of the above, plus free pizza for rehearsals from Dayton Pizza Factory, custom band merchandise from Little Monster Printing, a performance next summer at Levitt Pavilion, and an EP recording session at Dayton Sound Studios.

Along with helping up-and-coming bands get to the next level in their music journey, the Dayton Battle of the Bands team is inspired to help introduce Dayton audiences to new music to love.

“People are busy, so it’s hard to keep up with what’s new with the local music scene,” organizer Libby Ballengee shared with us. “Having a curated showcase like this during the winter especially, when people have fewer other entertainment options, makes it more enticing to come out and check out new bands. We’re trying to stimulate Dayton’s curiosity about the music being created here. Plus the shows are 7:30-10pm, so plenty of time to get home and to sleep!”

FULL SCHEDULE:

Jan 18, 2024 – WEEK 1 – POP / ROCK

– Ace Slite, Arianna Holiday, Dukes of Owls, The Bruins

Jan 25, 2024 – WEEK 2 – AMERICANA / FOLK / SINGER-SONGWRITER

– Austin Wolfe, Jeff William Butcher, Mrs. Midwestern, The Nautical Theme

Feb 1, 2024 – WEEK 3 – HIP-HOP / R&B

– Blanch Robinson, Damac, D. Knight, Dos.Grandiose, MelinaMarie

Feb 8, 2024 – WEEK 4 – ALTERNATIVE / PUNK / METAL

– ATTN Deficit Squirrel, DayGloom, Sheller, Toxic Nobility

Feb 15, 2024 – WEEK 5 – COUNTRY / BLUEGRASS

– Controversy For Breakfast, Possum Creek Ramblers, The Barnharts, The Shady Pine

Feb 22, 2024 – WEEK 6 – FUNK / JAM / PROGRESSIVE / JAZZ

– EverybodyEats, Freakquency, Intergalactic Spaceforce, KindHost

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH

Tickets available at thebrightsidedayton.com by Jan 1, 2024

$10 advance / $15 day of show for the playoff rounds

7pm Doors open / 7:30pm – 10pm music starts

All ages welcome

More information: https://www.daytonbattleofthebands.com/

 

Dayton Dinner Theater presents Holiday Movie Classics

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Are you looking for fun holiday events to do this month? Dayton Dinner Theater is presenting three Christmas themed movie parties that are great for date nights, or small groups of friends & family: Elf, A Christmas Story, and Christmas Vacation.  See these classic holiday fils on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.
Before the movie starts enjoy live music and food that is directly inspired by the movie. The Brightside bar is open, and features themed drinks as well! During the movie, Dayton Dinner Theater features their famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although the movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly. Costumes are encouraged!
Schedule: Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm,  a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.
When: Elf – Sunday, Dec 3, 2023
             A Christmas Story – Sunday, Dec 17, 2023
             Christmas Vacation – Friday, Dec 22, 2023
Where? The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.
Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.

Jazz-Pop Concert Features Up-and-Coming Bands

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This year’s Dayton Battle of the Bands winners, Crabswithoutlegs, are a young 9-piece jazz-fusion band that has been impressing Dayton audiences since their debut last year. They’re back at The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Thursday, November 9th, with another up-and-coming Ohio band: Eastwood. 

Eastwood hails from Columbus, and is making their Dayton debut. The band effortless mixes pop, soul, and funk into an original sound that is absolutely engaging. Both bands inspire confidence in the next generation of the Dayton music scene. If you’ve been missing Gilly’s and Canal Street Tavern, this is an evening you will not want to miss!

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Doors 7pm

Show 7:30-10:30pm

All ages welcome

$10 advance / $15 day of show

Tickets available here: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/88622/orders/new

Featured photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

Art Parkd Music & Arts Festival features the Next Generation of Dayton Talent

By

Eleanor Dakota performs at Art Parkd

Art Parkd is a grassroots music festival featuring Gen Z artists, and is one that Dayton music fans should really take note of. It’s located in Grafton Hill, and is happening this Saturday, October 7th and has a fantastic daytime schedule, running 3-9pm. No late nights for those who don’t like to be out late, and for those ragers out there, it’s a great pre-game before evening festivities.

Affordability is another other reason to buy a ticket to this festival. Pre-sale tickets are only $5! Even if you’re unsure if you can make this festival, buy a $5 ticket as a donation. Why? This festival features the next generation of Dayton talent, and they deserve all the support we can give them.

Art Parkd is the brain-child of the uber talented Sophia Munoz Daughtery, who is a local photographer and event organizer. Supported by her friend Jennifer Kash, the festival was launched last October to rave reviews. This year’s event promises to be even better!

If you want to see emerging talent that will delight and surprise you, please check out this event! More info and tickets available at: https://www.artparkd.com/

Musicians and bands performing include:

Frank Calzada

Proxy.Exe

Crabswithoutlegs

Isicle

Grandace

Dos.Gradiose

DJ Don

The Rosies

Jay Hill!

 

HOW TO GO?

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Time: 3pm – 9pm

Location: 609 W. Riverview, 609 W. Riverview , Dayton, United States

Buy $5 advance ticket here: https://allevents.in/dayton/art-parkd-dayton-music-and-art-festival/80002106649205?ref=smdl