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Jane’s Best Bets (12/1 – 12/5)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!  Just think…in less than four weeks, Santa Claus is coming to town.  You better watch out for the many fun things going on this week!

On Wednesday, head over to the University of Dayton for their Narrative Enchantment: Nativity Stories in Gold and Blue, which is a visual display created by an award-winning illustrator.  You better not cry when you see Scrooge in A Christmas Carolat the Victoria Theatre.  At the Robert and Elaine Stein Galleries, bring in canned goods to create an artistic display, which will then be donated to the Foodbank as part of the Show of HeART: The Foodbank Installation.  At the Oakwood Dorothy Lane Market, attend the Season’s Greetings Beer Tasting. And in the evening, make your way over to UD Arena to watch the Flyers play East Tennessee State!

On Thursday, learn how social media can help grow your business by registering for Social Media Boot Camp at Sinclair.  If you’re a young professional interested in marketing and new media and would like to give back (after all, Santa knows if you’ve been bad or good), you will definitely want to learn about a new and wonderful group in town called CultureMASH at their launch event at Wright State.  And if you’re a young professional in the defense industry, definitely check out the Young AFCEAn End of Year Social at the Pub at the Greene.  For a good laugh, head over to the Victoria Theatre to see the stand-up comic Lisa Lampanelli.  Santa knows who is naughty and nice, and according to what I’ve heard, Lisa’s stand-up routine is more of the former, as she has been hailed the “Queen of Mean”…however, she is well-liked by many!  If you’ve been making a list of all the songs of the 70s you know and love, then you’ll be able to listen to them as part of 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s at The Loft Theatre.  And if you would like to hear another style of music, watch the University of Dayton Orchestra, as they put on a FREE show!

On Friday, head over to the PNC 2nd Street Market to make Azra’s Favorite Christmas Cookies.  Watch the Miami Valley Dance Company’s Performance of the Nutcrackerat Bellbrook High School.  Attend the Downtown Dayton Partnership’s First Friday, which is an amazing art hop downtown.  Don’t worry, if you’re not an art fanatic, there are plenty of other things to do while you’re downtown!  Ice skate at RiverScape (that sounds like the beginning of a tongue twister) to some music like the professionals do as part of their DJ Skate: Holiday and Top 40, or take a Horse-drawn Carriage Ride. At the Schuster Center, check out the Dayton Philharmonic’s performance, ‘Twas the Night: Holiday at Home’. At The Loft Theatre, be entertained by 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s.  And finally downtown, I am so pleased to announce that Bryan Adams will be performing at Victoria Theatre!  Yeah, I’m pretty sure that “Bryan Adams” is a common name, but I checked and it is THE Bryan Adams…you know, the singer!  Please forgive me for the fact that my words come straight from the heart…I’m just that excited about it!  At Triangle Park, take the kids and attend the City Of Dayton Winter Wonderland to experience a fun, outdoor light display…just tell them to be good for goodness sake.  And if you are in the suburbs, consider seeing A Christmas Carolat the Beavercreek Community Theatre, the Washington Township Woodland Lights, or Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smellsat Town Hall Theatre in Centerville.  I don’t think little Junie is aware of the fact that Santa knows if she’s been good or bad!

On Saturday, you better be making a list of the things you would like to do, as there are so many awesome events from which to choose!  Santa Claus will REALLY be coming to town and you can have breakfast with him at Rusty Bucket at the Dayton Mall or at Polen Farms.  Also at Polen Farms, you can attend their Holiday Boutique to find unique holiday gifts.  Not sure how unique they are, as there will also be the Christkindlmarkt German Christmas Bazaar at Dayton Liederkranz Turner and the Omega Holiday Bazaar at Omega Baptist Church, which both offer one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.  Kind of reminds me of the quote, “You’re unique, just like everybody else.”  I guess it’s the same way with Christmas gifts.  Sorry, I digress.  I’m thinking Santa must have a pretty busy day, as he will also be at Uno’s Chicago Grill and at the PNC 2nd Street Market for Pet Pictures with Santa.  While at the PNC 2nd Street Market, you can also participate in the Christmas Walk, which is my kind of walk as it is a “noncompetitive walk for the health of it”.  Although my kind of walk is probably more like the We Care Arts Cookie Walk going on at We Care Arts in Kettering, which is a wonderful organization that seeks to change disabilities into possibilities through art.  If you’re in downtown Lebanon, check out the Historic Christmas Festival and Horse Drawn Carriage Parade.

Continuing with Saturday…At the Victoria Theatre, check out Mooseltoe:  The Moosical…gotta love puns!  Also for more theater action, check out Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells at Town Hall Theatre, the Miami Valley Dance Company’s Nutcracker at Bellbrook High School, or A Christmas Carol at the Beavercreek Community Theatre.  If you enjoy music, consider listening to The Dayton Philharmonic ‘Twas the Night: Holiday at Home’at the Schuster Center, the UD Ebony Heritage Singers at the University of Dayton, or 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s at The Loft Theatre.  Eat and dance the night away with The Soul Express Band at the Dayton Neighborhood Ballat the Dayton Masonic Center.  Give those vocal chords a workout (although you may need to see one of my colleagues for voice therapy afterwards!) by cheering on the Flyers as they take on Miami at UD Arena.  At the University of Dayton’s campus, you will be able to see Holiday Happenings – DCDC2’s Family Holiday Performance, in which there will be fun-filled dance performances to traditional and non-traditional holiday music.  And finally on Saturday evening, I am excited to be  celebrating with Generation Dayton at their Annual Holiday Party at the Old Courthouse downtown!

On Sunday, you will once again be able to get some holiday shopping accomplished at the Omega Holiday Bazaar at Omega Baptist Church and the Christkindlmarkt German Christmas Bazaarat Dayton Liederkranz Turner.  If you’re looking for something musical, check out Mooseltoe:  The Moosical at Victoria Theatre, 8-Track: The Sounds of the ’70s at The Loft Theatre, Afternoon Musicales: Dayton Music Club at the Dayton Art Institute, Advent Dinner and Choral Program at Westminster Presbyterian Church, or the UD Choral Union/ World Music Choir/ Hands in Harmony at the University of Dayton.  And if you love all the Christmas decorations this time of year, hit up the Washington Township Woodland Lights!

You better not pout because you can’t hit up all these awesome events this week!  I’m confident that whatever you choose to do, you’ll have an awesome time!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

What do you call Santa when he has no money?
Saint “Nickel”-less!

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

So This is Christmas…

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8-Track:8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

The Sounds of the 70’s

THE HUMAN RACE THEATRE COMPANY

Grab Your Boogie Shoes!

The Human Race Presents

A Unique Holiday Offering

So this is Christmas and what have you done?

Another year older, a new one just begun.

A very merry Christmas and a happy new year,

Let’s hope it’s a good one without any fear.

Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon & Yoko Ono – December 6, 1971

Holiday fare at the theatres can often get stale and repetitive.  I love a good Dickens’ tale or Nutcracker ballet like anyone else but wouldn’t it be a great to start a NEW holiday tradition, Recently, we’ve seen local production of fresher holiday fare including classics like Miracle on 34th Street and White Christmas (currently playing at La Comedia) to edgier offerings like Eight Reindeer Monlogues. Nationally, TWO new holiday musicals are making the rounds – a new musical adaptation of the classic holiday film A Christmas Story and on Broadway – a musical staging of the more recent film, Elf.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

This holiday season, amid all of the standards, The Human Race Theatre Company is inviting you back to the age of bellbottoms, flower power, and draft dodging.  Fifty of the greatest hits of the 70’s wrapped into one rock ‘n’ roll evening doesn’t seem like typical holiday fare but The Human Race is betting on 8-Track: The Sounds of the 70’s.

From the creator of the 60’s musical revue Beehive comes this all new retrospective that the Minneapolis Star Tribune has called “an infectious, joyous celebration.”  The show is cleverly split into 8 “tracks” or themes like War and Peace and Disco that give the show a thematic tie to the decade it represents.   Be prepared to hear classic songs from Donna Summer, Helen Reddy, KC & The Sunshine Band, The Carpenters, The Bee Gees among others.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

The other thing you can be sure of is that these songs will be expertly executed. Under the direction of Human Race Resident Artist Scott Stoney, the cast of five include TWO locals-made-good including EBONY BLAKE and JJ TIEYMEYER – both Wright State graduates and both now New York based. Neither are strangers to the Loft. Blake was seen in Jitney and the workshop presentation of Nefertiti (Ms. Blake was last seen here in Dayton on the national tour of The Color Purple that played the Schuster Center).  Tiemeyer has been seen  in A Christmas Carol and Man of La Mancha with The Human Race.  The cast is rounded out by JENNIFER WREN (Brigadoon at the Schubert) and JONATHAN BURKE (National Tour of Cats).

So go ahead and indulge in your “ghost of Christmases past” and dancing mice but don’t miss the holiday Disco party at the Loft.

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.Photos by Scott  J. Kimmins

Tickets & Performance Information:

The Human Race Theatre Company - Dayton, Ohio8-Track:  The Sounds of the 70’s  – December 2 through 22 at The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St.

Various performances days and times, visit  www.humanracetheatre.org or Ticket Center Stage for ticket information.

Tickets also available by calling (937) 228-3630 or toll-free (888) 228-3630

Group tickets for holiday outings (or otherwise) at (937) 461-3823 x 3113

-DB

8-TRACK: THE SOUNDS OF THE 70'S - The Human Race Theatre Co.

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

onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com - Shane Anderson, David Brush, Katherine Nelson & Russell Florence, Jr.Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company.Katherine Nelson, a senior theatre major at Cedarville University, serves as the Literary Intern for ETC.  The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

Choirs, Choruses & Holiday Concerts

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Is Glee getting you “gleeked” out for choral music?  Sure, you can get more with the reality TV show The Sing-Off (featuring local group, Eleventh Hour as the FIRST high school group on the show), but maybe you’re looking for some local opportunities to experience some cool harmonies and hear songs re-vamped for voice.  Luckily, in Dayton you have a variety of outlets specifically for choral fun, so here I highlight a handful of groups with upcoming holiday concerts.

Disclaimer: There’s no way I can highlight them all even as I attempt to stick to adult groups, so if you want to share info on the fantastic college/university and youth choruses in the region – or if I missed an adult group, share in the comments.  But before we dive in, I will let you know that if you want to catch a short concert and take a break from the hustle of your work day, you can enjoy music from some local school groups when you visit downtown for Holiday in the City Noontime Entertainment.

When you hear Dayton Philharmonic, you may think orchestra – but I’m talking about the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Chorus (DPOC).  Having just recently become  members of Chorus America, the DPOC is the official chorus of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.  DPOC member Pam Miller Howard shares that their “goal is choral excellence and community involvement.”    It is part of their mission to serve as part of the orchestra during the regular and summer seasons, but they also offer choral-only concerts, workshops, clinics, joint concerts and other educational outreach.

The DPOC has been around for a while.  According to their Web page, it was back in 1935 that the DPOC was founded as an all-volunteer chorus to enhance the Orchestra’s programming.  They’ve grown since then; their October concert boasted a chorus of over 140 members.   And they’ve become a well-travelled and well-versed group, too; they’ve toured Europe and performed recently (2008 & 2010) in New York City.  But even with all those perks, this chorus is driven by quality and the love of the music.  Howard says, “Singing and hearing choral music is good for the soul.”  Wanna know if the DPOC is the kind of music good for your soul before checking them out in person?  You’re in luck – Dayton Public Radio airs concerts featuring the DPOC.

Check out the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Chamber Chorus (a select chorus of the DPOC) at the December concert: Messiah with the DPO which will be December 12 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dayton at 4:00pm.  This year they will be performing the entire work which is a unique opportunity.

The Bach Society of Dayton is our next stop on this tour of choral music.  “Dedicated to bringing the art of the great choral singing to Dayton,” they are 54-singers strong highlighting the history of top-quality choral music.  The focus for the Bach Society is the classics – music that has stood the test of time yet continues to inspire.  Some things are beautiful in any century, and they introduce Dayton to the great works first made famous by Vivaldi, Barber, and (of course) Johann Sebastian Bach.

Collaboration is key to the Bach Society of Dayton as they strive to develop an appreciation for choral music.  Their Web site speaks about collaboration in a powerful way, “when we reach out to our community we share something each of us holds dear.”  They are truly singing for the love of the music.  They are most dedicated to their young person outreach; in recent years they’ve worked with the Muse Machine, many local high schools, the Gem City Ballet, Sinclair Community College, Wittenberg University, Carillon Brass, and players from the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.

Sweet Sounds of the Holidays on Sunday, December 5, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. The Bach Society, along with the Kettering Children’s Choir Chorale under the direction of Bruce Swank and the Kettering Advent Ringers directed by Joan Ulloth Dorgan, present this seasonal favorite of Christmas and Hanukkah music.

So – you may think of the DPOC or the Bach Society when you think of choral music, but there’s more than traditional choral offerings in our fair city.  The classics are well-represented, but for people who enjoy voices coming together for more contemporary works – there are numerous options for you as well.

Celebrating their 20th Anniversary, Musica!(yes, the exclamation point is included) is a smaller ensemble of singers who explore many different forms of music.  Their Web site shares their home-grown history – Musica! was started by a group of 8 friends who sang for a friend’s party and they decided to keep going and share their voices with the public.

Now they have expanded to offer a subscription series, CDs, and specialized performances.  Local singer, Megan Rehbring, is excited to be a part of Musica!  She says, “We do an interesting mix of music, and not much ‘traditional’ choir music, so the concerts are really fun.”  Rehbring is right that it’s not what is generally considered traditional; selections from this season include songs from musicals, spirituals, seasonal carols, and classic fare.

The Sounds of the Season concert is advertised to “ring in the holidays with several new Christmas arrangements and a festive medley of carols entitled A Baroque Christmas.”  December 18 @ 8:00 PM at Fairhaven Church and December 19 @ 3 PM at Lutheran church of our Savior.

The Schuster Center Celebration Choir was established to sing at the grand opening of the Schuster Center – that’s it, story over.  Except it’s not over – the singers had such a good time doing it, that they wanted to stay together and continue singing.  Dayton Power and Light sponsors this choir that’s by the community / for the community.  According to Dave Brush from the Victoria Theatre Association, the 40-50 members of this group are a demographic microcosm of the city, and they focus on giving back by singing at Urban Nights, the Grande Illumination, the Spring Concert (together with the Children’s Choir), and in partnership with community groups.  They’ve also been selected to sing the National Anthem at the Dragon’s Games a few times.   With a wide-spectrum of singers with different tastes and talents, they’ve been known to sing everything from Broadway to opera and classical to holiday.   But what remains the same is the focus on providing an outlet for community members to sing, grow their skills, and share their talents with the greater community.

The Schuster Center Celebration Choir joins with a collection of choirs from local churches, the  Sinclair Handbell Choir, and the Oakwood Accordion Band to bring full voice to the Dayton Philharmonic’s upcoming SuperPops performance Holiday at Homethis weekend at the Schuster Center.

For even more contemporary fare in this tour of the diverse choral options in town, we come to the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus.  Their mission is two-fold in their attempt to encourage excellence in vocal arts as well as achieving a gay-affirming presence in the region.   Board President, Allen Kimbrough says, “The DGMC promotes the idea of obtaining and sustaining our individual and human rights, celebrating diversity within our culture and community, and the freedom to express our commitment to the value of opening minds and eliminating prejudice by honoring our differences.  Our music is a testament to these core values, which move us ever forward to succeed in reaching these goals.”

The crowds that they are getting at their shows and the partnerships they’re developing regionally and nationally are a testament to their drive and dedication to produce great works that support their mission.  But while they are serious about their goals – I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how FUN this group is.  In addition to great harmonies for exciting and unique musical selections, they include some simple choreography, fun costumes, and various props to keep the audience engaged and enjoying the overall experience of each show.  These boys, inspired by music director Jason Schuler, know how to have a good time and that energy is contagious.

Kimbrough continues, “Our audiences can expect a broad repertoire of music in a variety of visible and accessible venues.”  December shows include  Celebrate! Songs of the Season on December 4th, at St. John’s United Church of Christ in the Cannery District on 3rd Street.  Community outreach performances are scheduled at First Baptist Church on December 5th, Christ Episcopal Church in Springfield on December 10th, the monthly PFLAG December meeting on December 14th, and Barnes and Noble Bookstore on December 19th.

And finally, there’s the phenomenal group from Fairmont High School, Eleventh Hour.  I know, I know – I’m not highlighting youth choirs in this article – but c’mon!  Starting December 6, they’re on national television on The Sing-Off, so they have to get a little love.  Check out their version of “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” to get into the spirit and then catch their free concert at Fairmont High School on December 8.   Voices only as this small acapella group makes contemporary songs sound like they don’t need any instruments besides these seven voices.

So there’s a *small* sampling of some of the great choral options in the region and ways to get into the holiday spirit while supporting these local music groups.  How are you fitting music into your winter schedule?

Move On…

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Chris Erk - Photo by Kidtee Hello…a conversation with Chris Erk

The Tap Factor

Dayton is a tap town.  There, I said it.  Most people in this city and region probably had no clue, and yet this is  another thing that Dayton should be really proud about.  It’s been a whirlwind of a year for tap dance in Dayton.  First, we come to the painful realization that Sharon Leahy and Rick Good’s RHYTHM IN SHOES was closing up shop after 20-some years…but then we start hearing news of other amazing dance projects in the works.  We hear of South Park resident Kandee Thacker-Mann (who had performed with the legendary Savion Glover) teaching urban kids the art of tap dance through her company SOLE PURPOSE.  Then, out of the blue there’s news of another new tap company in town….THE TAP FACTOR.

THE TAP FACTOR?  Honestly, the first time I saw a flier advertising the studio, I assumed that it was some of the soon-to-be-former R.I.S. members, establishing their next project.  Upon a little bit of investigation, we started to hear about this new guy in town, one Christopher Erk…he’d been in some Broadway tours and all.? ? A Broadway tour that ended in Dayton, Ohio?  How did a star performer in TAP DOGS end up in Dayton?  This Chris Erk guy was kind of elusive at first…until a quick introduction on Fifth Street one day, then the occasional friendly wave across a bar or on the street.  Then SLAM! The Tap Factor started shaking things up in Dayton!  The Tap Factor - photo by Sarah BabcockThe first gig…at Urban Nights; a special guest appearance at R.I.S’s last performance; SOUL’D OUT DAYTON at C{Space; Broadway caliber guest performers flying in from NYC to teach master classes around town; THE DAYTON TAP PROJECT at Stivers.

I contacted Chris…I wanted to find out more about this force that suddenly flew into town less than a year ago.   What did I find out? 1) Besides talented, he’s a really nice guy.  2) He really appreciates our city & the artistic environment here. 3)  He’s on his way out of town.? ?

onStageDayton:  Chris, Dayton is just getting to know you as a performer in our arts scene…but, you came to our city after a pretty interesting career in New York and on the road. For our DMM readers who are just being introduced to you, just who the heck are you?

Chris ErkChris Erk:  I am originally from CT where I grew up dancing extensively and training in musical theater and drama. When I was 15 years old I was hired for the National Tour of Tap Dogs with whom I went on to tour internationally for 5 years. After putting some time in on the road I settled in NYC where I lived and worked as a tap dancer/teacher/choreographer for the next 5 years. Work there was diverse. I spent a lot of time covering the bases of what the dance world could offer. From corporate entertainment, the teaching and convention circuit, to independent and company projects, there was plenty to get mixed up in while living in the city, and many friendships developed along the way. The exposure gained in my first stint of my career has geared me up for round two.

OSD:  It seems that you are quite connected on the national dance scene…what do you find exciting about the future of American dance?

Chris Erk & Janet Schroeder - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  The thing that excites me most about the future of the American dance scene is that there is a lot more going on by a lot more people. I notice the country realizing that it doesn’t take much to get something done. Communities are starting to come alive and more groups are being formed. I find the “flash stardom” shows are showing that there is a shot out there for the average Joe. I also think that globalization and internet sharing are making cross culture exchanges “the norm”. That alone is making for a deeper creative pool which in turn yields a more diverse product for a wider audience to enjoy.

OSD:  We are sorry to hear that your time in Dayton is coming to an end. What personal opportunities did your time here provide for you as an artist and an educator?

The Tap Factor - Urban Nights, May 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Leaving Dayton is definitely not going to be the easiest thing to do. From the moment I got to town I was given warm reception and the open heart of the town. Good luck and favor kept coming at the rate of disbelief. I couldn’t fathom that the town was really as kind as it seemed. Whenever there was a hand in need there was a hand indeed.

As an educator, I would say that I got to have my cake and eat it too. Whether I was teaching “Broadway Bounders” at WSU, giving the recreational class at Sinclair their first tap steps, enriching the experienced dancers at the local studios, or getting my hands dirty getting the Tap Factor crew comfortable to take their tap to the streets to share with the town, the breadth of what I had to offer as an educator and coordinator was full spectrum here in Dayton. As any teacher can tell you, you learn as much as your students do, and in that, I was spoiled here. I will not take that for granted as I move on.

I found that there are community supported opportunities for everyone who wants to participate in the arts in any capacity. As an artist, the work just flowed out stimulated by the backdrop and resources made available by the city. All of the work that I created in town was a product of good company. I am not set out on a mission to accomplish anything in particular as much as I just like to have a good time tapping with others. If there was no one to work with, there would have been no work produced on my end. In all actuality the demand was steady and therefore in a short time, we got a lot of great work done.

Soul'd Out Dayton - July 2010 @ C{Space - Photo by Sarah BabcockIn Soul’d Out, the show I produced at C{space, I found that I was able to utilize every bit of skill I had under my belt as well as get my feet wet as a producer. In that experience I was able to dance, teach, choreograph, create, delegate, coordinate, share, invite, collaborate, direct, host, design, etc…all in one show. Artistically and beyond, there was no stone unturned.

OSD:  You mentioned what a fantastic working environment Dayton is for artists, what factors make you feel that way?

The Tap Factor - Urban Nights, May 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Dayton has many hungry people ready for action. They just need to be led and to know, it really isn’t that hard to get something done. There is a venue and audience for all. The theater community itself is thriving which also adds for good stimulation, incubation, and cross pollination. It is nice to have this website, for instance, as a go to for people to get plugged in to what’s happening in town. There is art in everything and Dayton seems to get it. The main factor in all of it is that it costs a fraction of the price you would pay in any major city. If you have goals and a plan, Dayton is the canvass to get ‘er done. I also must attribute the Downtown Dayton Partnership for being a major catalyst and supporter for my work here. The exposure of The Tap Factor would have been dwarfed it it weren’t for frequent supported events that allowed us to get busy.

OSD:  In the past year you have had the opportunity to collaborate with several other arts and community organizations…what are some of the highlights from these experiences?

Rhythm In Shoes members at Soul'd Out Dayton - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  I would have to say that I was honored to have at least one opportunity to dance with Rhythm in Shoes. They joked and announced me in their final show at the Cityfolk festival as it being my first and last gig with the company. I was sad for that to be the case as I had gained much respect for their historical contribution to the town. They gave me their blessing and came out of retirement for a moment to perform with me and my friends in Soul’d Out.  It really was a treat.

Zoot Theatre Co. Puppet at Soul'd Out Dayton - Photo by Kidtee HelloI am also sad to leave with out getting some puppets tapping for Zoot. I may have to make sure I get that taken care of at some point. I was also treated with the task of choreographing Gypsy at the Dayton Playhouse. That was my first community theater experience and a blessed one.

As I had mentioned before, the DDP has been a great resource to lean on, from writing press releases, finding space, to booking gigs, they really are there to be taken advantage of if one wishes to get pugged into the Dayton Circuit. I have also made great friends with some local movers and shakers. Local artist Mike Elsass and Peter Benkendorf of Blue Sky have been readily available for engagements in candid guidance and encouragement. Without their vote of confidence, some of the moves I made may have been handled with less follow through.

My future was headed towards, of course developing The Tap Factor, but also working with Ann Rassmusen to create space and opportunity for people who need a chance and a helping hand in getting their work out to the world. I believe there is a void in that capacity here in town and it will be exciting to see if and what will be created and by whom.

OSD:  November 13th’s “Dayton Tap Project,” was most likely your last gig in the city. What story were you able to tell through your performance? What type of audiences were you hoping to reach & what is the personal message that you wanted them to take away from the show?

The Dayton TAP ProjectCE:  In The Tap Factor segment in the showcase, you pretty much got a point for point account of the works that have come out of my time here. It was a nice recap and a great chance for me to dance with some of the company members that have been around through the whole process. I  also cut up the stage with my best friend, Anthony Russo.  There was tap dancing as you know it and may have never seen before. There were no age or language barriers up.  It’s good clean fire. This was a priceless opportunity…I’m just sayin’…I want audiences to just have fun and let loose with us. No messages to be stated here. Each individual will make of it what they will.

OSD:  What’s next for you?

The Tap Factor 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Next I am going to go back East and throw my self back into the whirlwind of NYC. There is a lot to latch onto. I plan on spending time developing my craft, continuing my college education, and reuniting with my professional peers to see what’s been shaking. I know I will have a wealth of experience from my time here to share.

OSD:  Chris, thanks for taking time to chat with onStageDayton, we wish you well and hope that you will spread the word on the East Coast what a great arts scene Dayton, Ohio has!

Chris Erk - The Tap Factor, Urban Nights, May 2010 - Photo by Sarah BabcockCE:  Trust me, I have been an advocate for Dayton since the moment I landed here. I have already had several friends in to get hands involved the arts scene. There are still stories to unfold about what the future holds for the arts in this town. There is a storm brewing up here and I will continue to let the world know that they are about to find out! I am not one to predict the future. I never would say that my time here had ended. All I can say for now is peace and love to you Dayton, onward. There is magic happening here and in due time it’s going to pop and the secret will be out. Trust I will be back for the party. Thank you! See you soon 🙂

In our conversation, Chris kept discussing how much he has enjoyed his time in Dayton, and the many great people & things to do that he’s heard about but hasn’t yet had the opportunity to meet/experience.  You can tell what an organizational genius he is, because he went ahead made some lists and emailed them to me!

My Top 10 things I need to do before leaving Dayton:

1. Meet an Ervin

2. Box at Drakes Gym

3. Get on one of Dayton’s Bike paths

4. Have a Bad Juan Margarita

5. Go to the Dayton Arts Scene

6. Teach a class at Stivers

7. Dance one more time with the Puzzle of Light

8. See a show at the Loft

9. Go to a UD game

10. See a show at Canal Street Tavern

Top 10 favorite people:

1. Joe Deer (WSU Theatre)

2. Tristan Cupp (Human Race Theatre Co./Zoot Theatre Co.)

3. Ann Rassmusen (C{Space)

4. Mike Elsass (Artist/The Color of Energy Gallery)

5. Peter Benkendorf (Blue Sky Project)

6. Kristen Wicker (Downtown Dayton Partnership)

7. Russel Florence, Jr. (onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com)

8. Brian Sharp and Wade Hamilton (Dayton Playhouse)

9. Gina Nuerer (Sinclair Theatre)

10. Susan Byrnes (Artist/UD’s ArtStreet)

My Top 10 Spots I am taking with me!

1. Lihn’s

2. South Park Pizza Tavern

3. Tanks

4. Oakwood Starbucks

5. Christopher’s

6. Palermo’s

7. Cedarland Bakery

8. 5th Street Deli

9. Boston Stoker (iced tea)

10. Brixx Cafe

Photos by Sarah Babcock & Kidtee Hello

-SA

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

onStageDayton on DaytonMostMetro.com - Shane Anderson, David Brush, Katherine Nelson & Russell Florence, Jr.Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company.Katherine Nelson, a senior theatre major at Cedarville University, serves as the Literary Intern for ETC.  The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze at Schuster Center

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Dayton’s Victoria Theatre Association is bringing Cirque Dreams Holidaze to the Schuster Center this holiday weekend (11/26-11/28)!  Created and directed by Neil Goldberg, Cirque Dreams – Holidaze is an original new musical extravaganza filled with spectacle, imagination and whimsy. Ornaments come to life as costumed characters perform astonishing feats that celebrate the holiday season. An international cast of acrobats, aerialists, singers, dancers and musicians fill the stage, the air and dangle from a gigantic and magical tree. Gingerbread men flip through the air, toy soldiers march along thin wires, snowmen balance, penguins spin, and reindeer soar high above a landscape of holiday wonderment.  A great show to bring the whole family to!

“Cirque Dreams Holidaze has truly earned its name: the vibrant colors and cheerful voices will delight audiences from three to ninety three.” – Third Coast Digest

“I must say that was one of the most awesome shows I have ever seen!  I sat in awe and on the edge of my seat through the whole show.  I was nervous about how my children would react to the makeup and the acts, but they LOVEd  it!  My daughter even asked if it was going to be long because she didn’t want to stop watching.  My four year old loved it, too, and said it all was his favorite when I asked him what his favorite part was!” – My Milwaukee Mommy

Location:
Schuster Center

Showtimes:
November 26 – 8 p.m.
November 27 – 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.
November 28 – 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Tickets:
On Sale Now!
Adult: $70, $56, $46, $36
Children 12 & Under: 50% Off A & B Section Seats
(Plus Service Fees. Prices Subject to Change.)
BUY TICKETS

10 ?’s with Chef Carrie Walters

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Carrie Walters is the Corporate Chef for Dorothy Lane Market and is responsible for researching and developing new recipes, menus, and programs. She plays a key role in the  annual Food and Wine Show (which always sells out)  and other special events for DLM. As a food stylist, she has designed in-house food shots for the DLM website, and electronic and print publications, in addition to television commercials and other multimedia venues.  Here she shares some tips to make your holiday cooking easier:

Carrie is an accomplished chef who has been the keynote speaker for many groups, ranging from ten to over 300 people. One of the most  popular instructors at the DLM School of Cooking, Carrie teaches a variety of classes, always with her approachable demeanor, contagious enthusiasm, and interactive teaching style. A classically trained chef, Carrie earned her culinary degree in Seattle.

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

I would have to say beef. At DLM we have the best beef in the business. All it needs  is some simple cooking methods and some salt and pepper.

What ingredient do you dread?

Red and Green Bell Peppers. I think they are over used! Yes, their color adds a lot to a dish but their flavor tends to overpower everything else.

What’s your favorite dish to make?

At home with the change of season I like to braise a lot. I make a lot of pot roasts, soups and  anything else with sauce! Another dish I keep coming back to is roast chicken, It makes everyone in my house happy and the leftovers are great!

What’s your favorite pig out food?

Thai and Vietnamese-I love all the fresh clean flavors. I like the combinations of fresh herbs, citrus and chiles. I think I could eat shredded papaya salad everyday and never get sick of it.

What restaurant, other than your own do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?

I love Linh’s, Akashi, and House of Thai for my Asian fix. I’ll take Meadowlark for lunch any day of the week!

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Cooking really supposed to be fun and relaxing. Don’t over think or stress about it.  Its all about getting to sit down with people you love and share some food. Make it simple.

If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why?

I’d cook for my parents who never got the chance to know me as a grown woman and 2 of my favorites Chef Instructors from my culinary school days. I’d cook some of my Mom’s old favorites with my own twists. All executed, of course,  with the classic skills Chef Hawley and Chef Ruegg taught me.

Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

I really respect both Norman and Calvin Mayne. They let me do what I am good at!  I love being able to wear lots of hats-creating recipes and programs, writing and teaching. DLM is a company that I am proud to represent .

What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?

A perfect day would be to take an early hike at either the Gorge or Sugarcreek Reserve  with my family , then maybe do a little shopping at the Greene and then see a movie or a play. Unfortunately the reality of my time off is trying to catching up with all the laundry and running my kids around!

Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story:

We were filming a TV show with Sara Moulton at the School of Cooking  a couple of years ago and one of the dishes were supposed to be a specific type of chicken There was a live audience watching my every move waiting for Sara to show up. Our chickens never made the air flight to Dayton so last minute I had to use solid frozen Cornish hens for the camera. I had to “paint” on some color for the birds to look cooked. I used a concoction of kitchen bouquet, molasses and soy sauce. Even after all that we still had a couple audience members wanting to taste those birds!

Jane’s Best Bets (11/24 – 11/28)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

As it is Thanksgiving week, I want to take a minute to say how very thankful I am to all of you for reading Jane’s Best Bets!  And thank you to DaytonMostMetro.com for giving me the opportunity to write on a topic I am so passionate about!  Here’s to another great week in Dayton!

On Wednesday, consider getting a FREE t-shirt by donating blood at the You’re The Ticket To Saving a Life at Community Blood Center! Don’t worry…you’ll be eating plenty of food tomorrow, so I’m guessing your blood supply will be okay.  At PNC 2nd Street Market, do your last minute Thanksgiving shopping as part of their Stock-Up Wednesday event.  And in the evening, be sure to catch the UD Flyers’ next win as they play Florida A&M at the UD Arena.  And if you want to get in the spirit of Thanksgiving and have a good laugh, check out the Thanksgiving Eve Show at Wiley’s.

On Thursday, with it being the Thanksgiving holiday, I’m going to keep it brief.  Consider participating in the The 32nd Annual Turkey Trot in downtown Miamisburg to counteract all the delicious food you’ll be eating later in the day.  And from what I’ve been told, you DON’T have to be a runner…walking is perfectly acceptable!  Over at the Dayton Convention Center, attend Thanksgiving in Dayton ‘A Feast of Giving’, in which several sponsors are helping to continue the Beerman family Thanksgiving dinner tradition.  Regardless of where you go, have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING and eat some turkey for me!  Gobble Gobble!

On Black Friday, set your alarm clock early so you can catch some of those fabulous deals.  Just be sure I don’t see you on the news later because you got into a fight over a super deal on the Emerson 32” LCD HDTV they’re selling at Wal-Mart! If you’re not up for fighting the crazy crowds, there are many other ways to officially kick off the Christmas season on Friday so let me fill you in one little secret…Downtown is THE place to be!  If you want to burn off some of those calories from all that turkey you ate the day before, head to the MetroParks Ice Rink Grand Opening Weekend at Riverscape.  Visit Santa and allow your kids to do a little shopping of their own at The Tike’s Shop, as well as see the Wonderland Windows (the old Rike’s holiday displays) at the Schuster Center.  Check out some amazing gingerbread houses as part of the Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays Contest at the Old Courthouse.  Over at Kettering Tower (which is actually in downtown, not Kettering!), bring the kids to the Holiday Village, which will include festive crafts and games.  Also for the kids, The Junior League of Dayton will be sponsoring their 2010 Holiday Hunt.  In addition to all these great events, there will also be a Street Fair on Third with free carnival rides, a McPherson Town Holiday Home Tour, and a Sounds of the Season concert at Fifth Third Center, where Culture Works brings together several local choirs for a free holiday concert!  And finally while you’re downtown, you won’t want to miss the Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights (Dayton Holiday Festival) at Courthouse Square.  Oh…and if your legs are exhausted from doing all that shopping early in the morning, take one of the Horse-drawn Wagon Rides to get from location to location!  Or if you want to kick your feet back and enjoy a show where others are doing all the legwork, head to the Schuster Center to see Cirque Dreams – Holidaze, which is a holiday musical with an international cast of acrobats, aerialists, singers, dancers, and musicians!  Whew, I’m exhausted!  If you don’t remember everything I said about Friday, don’t worry – just remember the word “downtown” and the rest will take care of itself!

On Saturday, head back downtown for one of the many things you may have missed, since after all, how could you possibly fit it all in on one day?!?!  There will be The Tike’s Shop, Wonderland Windows, and Cirque Dreams – Holidaze at the Schuster Center; Carriage Rides and ice skating as part of MetroParks Ice Rink Grand Opening Weekend at Riverscape; the Virginia Kettering’s Holiday Train Display at Kettering Tower; and the McPherson Town Holiday Home Tour.  Also, check out the PNC 2nd Street Market and bring a non-perishable item or two to donate to the Foodbank as part of the Food for Friends event.  At Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm, they will have a Holiday Art Fair and Open House.  If you are looking for a Christmas tree, head out to Choose & Cut Christmas Trees at Young’s Jersey Dairy.  Bring your dancing moves to the Dayton Mall and participate in Dance Along Nutcracker…all are welcome!  And finally in the evening, support the AIDS Resource Center by watching The Rubi Girls present ‘The Show Must Go On’ at Club Masque.

On Sunday, to be perfectly honest, I’m probably going to need to rest due to all the hustle and bustle from the previous days!  But if you’re game, there will still be many events going on strong in the wonderful Dayton region!  Have “Some-Fun” at the Schuster Center with crafts, entertainment, and more.  While there, be sure to check out Wonderland Windows and The Tike’s Shop if you didn’t get a chance to see them earlier in the weekend.  Or, check out the Cirque Dreams – Holidaze show.  If you’re no Peggy Fleming, attend Fundamentals of Skating at Riverscape.  And finally, if you’re a beer lover, attend the Tapping Dogfish Head Burton Baton at Chappy’s.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Why did the police arrest the turkey?

They suspected it of fowl play.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!   And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Culture Mash – Helping Those Who Help

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(submitted by Shana Douglas)

CultureMASH is an organization of young leaders, in all facets of marketing including new media, that are using their talents and skill sets to give something back to the community.  Our mission is to identify groups that represent causes across the Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus regions who have had an impact on the community, but are looking to take their efforts to the next level.

Using our talents, we hope to organize communities on and offline, to create, share and amplify both simple and transparent messages that extend far beyond the social network wall. Social media has had a tremendous impact on the success of nonprofits in gaining awareness encouraging involvement and raising funds. Whether in a training capacity or full fledged campaign management, CultureMASH will assist these groups with their marketing efforts and needs.

A large part and additional focus of CultureMASH is making the connect between the younger generation and community outreach initiatives. Through our Social 101 Tour, we will visit elementary schools, high schools both colleges and universities across the region teaching the pros and cons of social networking, safety concerns and how to effectively use these new tools. In doing so, we hope to encourage young adults to use their talents and new knowledge of these resources to do the same as CultureMASH, whether independently or alongside our organization.

Shana Douglas and Carla Hale (photo by Frank Coleman)

We are comprised of remarkable talent, innovative thinking and a diverse spectrum of creative insight. Founders Shana Douglas and Carla Hale have great faith in this social good initiative and excited to get started.

Our official launch is on Dec. 2 and promises to be an emotional and inspiring evening. We would like to invite our young people, business owners, community leaders, marketing professional, nonprofit groups and those who are interested in making a real difference to attend this event. For more details you can visit www.culturemash.org.

New Public Art Project in Dayton: 510project

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Gallery 510 Fine Art and Involvement Advocacy announced 510project, a new public art initiative to take place in the front window of Gallery 510 Fine Art, appropriately located at 510 East Fifth Street in the Oregon Arts District.

Performance. Installation. Art Making… A window looking in… A window looking out… Artists engaging Community… Community engaging Artists… Transformation.

Each month 510project invites an artist and the community to a different kind of conversation about:

• the relevance of art in the society;

• the role of the artist and the audience;

• what it means to be a creator, viewer, participant and collaborator – and what it means to BE Dayton.

The genesis for 510project was a conversation between community catalyst Peter Benkendorf and artist Loretta Puncer. According to Puncer, who owns Gallery 510, “I think we both felt that artists who live in Dayton have much to contribute to addressing the challenges we face in the community. They just need a viable venue to begin the conversation. We are excited to have identified our first three artists, all of whom we agree have something important to say about our collective future.”

Opening Installation

Rodney Veal - "Seen/Unseen"

November 27 – December 3, 2010, Seen/Unseen with artist Rodney Veal

Friday, December 3, 2010, live performances at 7:00 and 8:00 PM, followed by artist/community conversation

Seen/Unseen is a media driven performance art installation that allows the audience to observe and interact with the work from a multiplicity of angles. It challenges patrons to really “see,” taking their participation out of passivity into active participation and engagement. When we can only see through a portal that is no larger than a peephole, what do we become as artists and audience?

Using video/sound collage and performance, independent choreographer/media artist Rodney Veal, hopes to challenge the viewers to “see” the unseen power they posses to impact and change how the performance unfolds, and ultimately how they engage with others. Seen/Unseen, ruminations on life, death and race, will only exist in the ephemeral state in which all performances exist with only the documentation serving as the finished work of art.

Upcoming Artists

December/January: Issa Randall, Dayton

January/February: Leigh Waltz, Miamisburg

About the Collaborators

Founded in 2008, Gallery 510 Fine Art has developed into a showcase for contemporary art and fine crafts with a focus on local emerging and established artists.  The gallery collection features paintings, drawings, linocuts, ceramics, fiber, wood, art glass and jewelry.  We endeavor to attract and include those new to the contemporary art scene, as well as serve knowledgeable collectors.  The gallery is located in the heart of the Historic Oregon District in Dayton, Ohio.

Involvement Advocacy, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation, is committed to strengthening the Dayton region by acting as a catalyst for imaginative, entrepreneurial, community-driven solutions to pressing social, economic and civic challenges. These collaborative solutions will include citizen, government, business, institutional, organizational and philanthropic players. Involvement Advocacy’s principle program is Blue Sky Project, (www.blueskydayton.org), a juried, international summer artist residency committed to producing ambitious and meaningful works of contemporary art. It includes a strong youth development component and an emphasis on art making as community-building. The organization was also the originator of the 2009 Ten Living Cities Symposium, a response to the Forbes America’s Ten Fastest Dying Cites list.

Jane’s Best Bets (11/17 – 11/21)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Saturday’s game was officially a great start to the UD basketball season…Go Flyers!  I’m guessing this week may fly by, as there are many great things to keep you busy!

On Wednesday, instead of going to the gym and sculpting your own body, head to Rosewood Art Center to see others doing the work for their HWD 2010, which is a regional sculpture competition…the art kind!  If you’re looking for free tickets to an event, look no further.  At the Community Blood Center, You’re The Ticket To Saving a Life, so take a minute to donate blood!  You’ll get a FREE “Your Ticket to Saving A Life” t-shirt, plus you’ll be registered to win tickets to the Ohio State vs. Michigan game on November 27th.  If that’s not an incentive, I don’t know what is!  They do say you should eat after donating blood, so consider heading to the yummy DiSalvo’s Deli for their Meal of the Month or to Bullwinkle’s in Miamisburg for their All You Can Eat for $19.99 special.  And in the evening, you may want to check out the Old Time Acoustic Jam at the Trolley Stop.

On Thursday, wake up early and help your body de-stress by attending Yin Yoga at Kira’s Oasis.  Create a Holiday Centerpiece for only $10 at 2nd Street Market…which would totally score you some brownie points with your mom (if it could only have given my Brownies a few extra points this past Sunday)!  Thursday is National Philanthropy Day, so consider heading to the Schuster Center for their celebration, in which they will give out several awards.  Stop on by the Dayton Visual Arts Center where artist Paula Willmot Kraus will be giving a Gallery Talk.  The Dayton Art Institute is a key destination for your Thursday, as you will receive free admission to the exhibits 100 Years of African-American Art and Marking the Past/Shaping the Present: The Art of Willis ‘Bing’ Davis. Did you hear that I said FREE??? Thanksgiving is a week away, but you can have your Thanksgiving Dinner now courtesy of the Stockyards Inn as part of their Turkey Thursdays.  Or, if you would like to figure what kind of wine to serve at your Thanksgiving dinner next week, consider allowing the professionals at A Taste of Wine in Miamisburg help you by attending their Holiday Tasting.  Up at The Caroline in Troy, join HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Emerge) as part of their Third Thursday.  And after a day full of fun, attend the Homefull’s Annual Sleep-out Challenge at Garden Station Community Garden and Art Park in honor of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week.  You might want to bring out your thermal underwear!

On Friday, if you like to eat, attend the 81st Annual Waffle Shop at Christ Episcopal Church Fellowship Hall, which will raise money to support programs that benefit the Dayton community.  In addition to homemade waffles, there will be many other foods from which to choose, as well as a craft bazaar, bake sale, rummage sale, and raffle.  Plus, Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell will serve as a celebrity baker!  Another lunch-time option is joining Generation Dayton for their 4th Friday Lunch at Spinoza’s.  For those of you who don’t trust me and are doing the math, it’s actually the third Friday this month due to the Thanksgiving holiday!  At the Funny Bone, see the stand-up comedy routine of Tony Rock, Chris Rock’s brother.  There will be An Evening of Astronomy at the Boonshoft for all you star gazers.  If you want to feel like you jumped (or flew) straight from the movie Aladdin, attend the Ronald McDonald House Exclusive Lounge Party- Arabian Nights at the Dayton Country Club.  There will be live music from the band Out of the Attic, dancing, games, belly dancing, and more!  Plus, proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House.  Over at the Dayton Art Institute, the Max Brod Trio will be performing as part of their Vanguard Concert Series.  And even though your work week might be officially over, check out the musical Working presented by Wilmington College.  

On Saturday, bring your entire family and your Christmas spirit to the amazing Salvation Army Kroc Center for their Christmas at the Kroc, which is a FREE event!  There will be a variety of activities, including crafts, carriage rides, pictures with Santa, and a story time, so this is one event your kids will not want to miss!  For those of you who bleed scarlet and gray, consider watching the OSU Game at The Pour Haus, where they will have drink specials and a Buckeye feast!  You might not be able to buy love, but you will be able to buy tickets to the Classical Mystery Tour: Music of the Beatles at the Schuster Center, which will kick off the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s Rockin’ Orchestra Series.  Sounds like a great event!  Or “come together” with your friends to see the Beatles’ tribute band Ticket to Ride at Gilly’s.  And over in Wilmington, the musical Working will again be performed at Wilmington College.

Finally on Sunday, start the day off with Sunday Brunch Las Americas Style at Las Americas downtown.  At Carillon Park, attend Ringing in the Holidays, where there will be delicious food and drinks, as well as live entertainment, a raffle, and a silent auction.  And if you like comedy, check out Open-Mic Night at Wiley’s in the Oregon District.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

What did George Harrison say to his guitar while it gently wept?
Don’t Fret.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!   And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Dayton History is Ringing in the Holidays at Carillon Park!

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Ringing in the Holidays is back!  This enchanting evening will kick off the holiday season with style for a 16th year on November 21, 2010 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Guests will be treated to live music by the Stivers Ringing Tigers Handbell Choir and the Erik Augis Trio, tasty hors d’oeuvres, delicious desserts, and specialty cocktails while giving them an opportunity to bid on auction items and purchase chances to win fabulous raffle prizes. This year’s Winter Get-Away Raffle features trips to Chicago and Hilton Head Island. The event also features the third in a series of hand painted commemorative ornaments, depicting Deeds Barn, by artist Melanie Haislip.

Ringing in the Holidays, presented by Liberty Savings Bank & Rieck Services, is a fundraiser supporting the educational programs, conservation efforts, and daily operations of Dayton History, which operates Carillon Historical Park, Old River Park, Paul Laurence Dunbar State Memorial, Patterson Homestead, Memorial Hall, Old Court House and Hawthorn Hill – Orville Wright’s home.  The programming of Dayton History reaches over 160,000 visitors each year.

The highlight of the event is our “Dayton’s Most Delightful Dessert” contest, featuring gourmet desserts from eight of our region’s finest chefs.  Guests will be invited to sample each of the offerings throughout the evening to vote for the People’s Choice award.  Expert judges will award the Critic’s Choice and Best Presentation awards.

See our Event Calendar listing or see more details on DaytonHistory.org.

Q & A: Shaun T Brings The Insanity

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The man pictured above with the wide smile and the abs of steel is certifiably insane.

And to anyone gutsy enough to endure the pain he inflicts, that’s a good thing.

Best known for his high-octane, super-charged workout program Hip Hop Abs, fitness instructor Shaun T has created a new 60-day home fitness regimen called INSANITY – a total-body conditioning program designed for maximum effort, maximum pain and maximum results.

The New Jersey native has instructed thousands in person and millions at home through his best-selling Beachbody DVD videos.  He’s had television appearances on The Tyra Banks Show, QVC, CNN, Dr. Oz and The Ellen Show and now he’s bringing his intense and exhilarating brand of fitness to the Dayton area – conducting one of his exhausting “Insanity Master Class” sessions at the Kleptz YMCA in Englewood on November 20th.

DaytonMostMetro.com recently spoke with the popular fitness trainer about his life, energy and the refute of flabbiness:

DMM: So Shaun, you received a B.S. in Sports Science and you also minored in Dance and Theater. Did you have a clear concept of your career goals when you first enrolled in college, or did the interest in fitness develop later on?

ST: When I first enrolled in college I actually wanted to do communications.  I was set on being the anchorperson for some news station.  But what happened was…I gained 50 pounds from living the crazy college life…

DMM: Wait a minute.  You gained 50 pounds in college?

ST: You know you’re in college doing your studies…you get your food card, you go to the buffet!  You don’t have to pay for it, you know?  You can go to the food court whenever you want.  You eat pizza, stay up late…nobody’s telling you to go to bed.  Once in a while, you might have a frat party! [Laughs] So, it was all of that.  I literally looked in the mirror one day and said, “You need to pull it together!”

I ended up changing my major to sports science.  I was always an athlete and I started going back to the gym and fell in love with the whole ‘body/mind’ relationship.  So from that point on, it was just just crazy!  I had teach one of my classes an aerobics class, and I decided to a hip-hop dance class because I didn’t want to do just some boring old aerobics.

DMM: What did you do immediately after college?

Fitness personality Shaun T

ST: After graduating I went into corporate fitness.  I kind of did like the corporate health thing…never to imagine that I’d be where I am today!  But I feel like I’m living everything that I learned in college, believe it or not!  Health promotion was my specialization, you know.  Theater/dance…I’ve done that as well.  I did everything I wanted to do – as far as what my degree set me up for.  Now I’m just capitalizing upon it and taking it further to help inspire people.

DMM: How were you introduced to dance?

ST: My first real experience was when I had to teach a class in college.  I was 21.  The director of the fitness center was like, “Wait a minute. You can cue. You can teach. You can dance.  What’s going on here?” [Laughs] For me, it was just natural.  I always wanted to dance, but when I was a kid I played football, basketball and track and field.  That was my life, you know what I mean?  So growing up, my passion wasn’t [in dancing].

DMM: Moving forward,  Hip Hop Abs was released in 2007, correct?

ST: Yeah, it was released to the public that year.

DMM: What was the philosophy behind that product?

ST: I instruct different types of people.  I have people who are very fit, and I have people that are set in a sedimentary lifestyle.  The common goal of trying to get “flat sexy abs” was to create a product that was fun.  Because in my dance classes, it was just fun!  To see people come back to me and say, “Oh my god. You’re class was so fun!” was satisfying.  So I wanted to create something fun that people would do every day, but also that was easy to follow.  And while you’re doing the movements, you’re focusing on your core – so you don’t get bored.  I wanted people to lose weight…and the people that were in shape, I wanted them to have fun working their core also.

DMM: Tell me about your current product Insanity.  It’s being called “the hardest workout plan on DVD”.  So this isn’t just Hip Hop Abs 2, right?

ST: I created Hip Hop Abs when I was in the dance and choreography stage of my career.  But when I went to create Insanity, I went back to the foundation of my life – which was athletics.  I wanted to create something that people could do that they would never be able to say, “I didn’t have a good workout today!’.  If you do Insanity – even if you only have 15 minutes – you still feel like you got your workout in.

Also, you can waste a lot of time in the gym.  Some people spend like two hours in the gym and they don’t really need that. With Insanity, I’m showing them that you can get faster, quicker results in a shorter amount of time.  You actually learn how hard you can work out!

There’s a fair amount of plyometric moves in Insanity.  That sounds like a big word.  But, it’s about having control over your body…and using your muscles to gain power and speed.  I want people [in Insanity] to use their body as their equipment.  There’s no need to go out and buy multiple sets of dumbbells.  It’s actually easy and accessible for anyone to do.

DMM: I was watching some of your Infomercials on television and YouTube.  A lot of people say the same thing about your Insanity workouts: “They kicked my ass, but I feel great!”

Shaun's newest workout DVD challenges you to "Dig Deep!"

ST: This might be a little deep! [Laughs] But, in addition to working out physically, it’s also mental.  It’s kind of like going through your own boot camp.  And you’re in control!  Someone who’s in really good shape can work out alongside someone who is just starting out because you’re both are going to push yourselves as hard as you can.  The first person might do 30 reps while the other did 10, but they both worked hard!

So that’s why people feel good because every two weeks we do a fitness test.  Every two weeks you see your numbers get better and your reps getting higher.  You know you’re getting results.  It’s not just about looking good.  You feel good about yourself.

DMM: But you certainly push people to motivate them.  Have you ever had anyone walk out of your classes before?

ST: No.  The reason why is because I give that speech at the beginning of class.  I tell everyone, “This is your workout, not mine!”  I encourage people to take a break.  Because what’s going to happen down the line is they’re going to notice that they’re taking fewer breaks.  And that lets them know that they’re getting more in shape.

DMM: What would you be doing if you weren’t instructing, traveling and making DVDs?

ST: Hmmm.  [Pauses] If I wasn’t doing anything in fitness, I would have tried to become a Navy SEAL.

DMM: Really?

ST: That, or I would be a detective.

DMM: What’s your favorite junk food, man?  I know you slip sometimes!

ST: Let me tell you something.  Me and donuts… [Laughs] Actually, it’s donuts and salt and vinegar potato chips!  If they’re in a room with me, there’s a serious conversation going on in my head.

DMM: Lastly, what can the participants of your Insanity Master Class on Nov. 20 expect from Mr. Shaun T?

ST: Just high energy motivation!  It’s going to be a happy and intense time.  I tell everyone all the time that I can be in a room with 200 people, but please believe that everyone will have an experience with me face-to-face.  I will get to everyone in that room!

Shaun T will be conducting his Insanity Master Class Saturday, Nov. 20 at 9 a.m. at

Kleptz YMCA

1200 W. National Road

Englewood, Ohio 45424

To register, or for additional information please call 937-836-9622.

Shaun is available for photos and autographs after class.

Coming Up in Dayton Theatre 11/11-11/24

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2010 – WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2010

Dayton Playhouse: W;t

Dayton Playhouse: W;t (Photo Credit Art Fabian)

The last few weeks, I’ve been recovering from surgery, a process that has been unfortunately long, stressful, and exhausting. But in the midst of that, I had the opportunity to see the national tour of Spring Awakening at the Victoria Theatre last week, and for those two and a half hours, I forgot my pain and exhaustion as I watched and enjoyed an amazing piece of art. The experience reminded me of the incredible power of theatre, and how moving and cathartic seeing a show can be.

We all have plenty of stresses in our lives, and theatre can be a great way to cast those aside for a few hours as we lose ourselves in a show, many of which will still teach us something about life and ourselves in the process. Whether you want to do that by laughing (Anything Goes) or crying (Wit), there’s a show for you in Dayton these next two weeks. And, performing in a show can be just as cathartic, so be sure to check out the auditions below, too.

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING SOON

W;t

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

The Story: English professor Dr. Vivian Bearing has just been diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer; words and her wit are her only defense, since the hospital gown and Boston Red Sox cap cannot protect her from a body that has turned into an enemy and a cure that may be worse than the disease. Ultimately, “we uncover a new appreciation for the simple, the maudlin, and the kind, and see the triumph of the human spirit.”

Dates: November 12 – 21, 2010

Tickets: (937) 424-8477

More Information: Dayton Playhouse: W;t


The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs

TOWN HALL THEATRE – LANDMARK CHILDREN’S THEATRETown Hall: Three Little Pigs

The Story: When Piggsylvania’s highest court puts him on trial, things don’t look so good for Alexander T. Wolf —  everyone from judge Prudence Pig to the court reporter is rooting into the truth about his so-called terrible deeds! In this fresh musical adaptation of the familiar story, audience members (ages 4+) decide the way the story ends.

Dates: November 19 (7 pm), 20 – 21 (3 pm), in special performances at the Schuster Center’s Mathile Theatre

Tickets: Ticket Center Stage or call 937-228-3630

More Information: Town Hall Theatre, Victoria Theatre Association: Three Little Pigs

…SHOWS CLOSING SOON

Anything Goes

WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY

WSU: Anything Goes

Anything Goes (Photo Credit WSU)

The Story: In this musical set aboard an ocean liner bound from New York to London, Billy Crocker is a stowaway in love with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is unfortunately engaged to Lord Evelyn Oakleigh; former Evangelist turned nightclub singer Reno Sweeney falls in love with Lord Evelyn; gangster Moonface Martin attempts to escape the law, and Hope’s mother only desires to maintain her social standing.

Dates: October 28 – November 14

Tickets: 937 775-2500

More Information: Wright State University: Theatre season

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

I Hate Hamlet

PLAYHOUSE SOUTH

Auditions: Nov 15 & 16, 2010, 7:00 pm

Performances: January 21-23 & 28-29, 2011.

Directed by Ray Gambrel

The Story: In this dramatic comedy, television actor Andrew Rally is struggling in his professional and private lives, attempting to play the role of Hamlet (which he hates) and deal with his girlfriend’s unrelenting chasteness. The dilemma deepens when the ghost of John Barrymore appears to try to convince Andrew to persevere in the role… while an old deal-making friend suddenly offers Andrew the chance at a new television deal.

More Information: Playhouse South: I Hate Hamlet, DMM Event

The Octette Bridge Club

The Spitfire Grill at BCT

The Spitfire Grill at BCT (Sept 2010)

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

Auditions: November 15 & 16, 2010, 7:00 pm

Performances: January 28 – February 6, 2011

Directed by Jim Lockwood

The Story: Eight sisters in a small Rhode Island town meet twice a month to play bridge and gossip; the ten year span of the show, exploring the eras of WWI and WWII, shows the changes in the sisters, their relationships, and the world.

More Information: Beavercreek Community Theatre: Auditions

One Short Day

…SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE THEATRICALLY MINDED

An Evening with Sutton Foster

SPRINGFIELD ARTS COUNCIL

Sutton FosterThe Basics: Broadway sensation Sutton Foster, known for originating roles in four shows, performs selections from her debut solo album, “Wish,” in a night of laughter and music. Music Director Michael Rafter accompanies Sutton on the piano in this evening filled with some of Broadway’s best.

Date: November 13, 8:00 pm

Tickets: 937-328-3874

More Information: Springfield Arts Council, DMM Feature

Broadway Rocks

DAYTON PHILHARMONIC

The Basics: In this dynamic review, four top-notch Broadway vocalists join the DPO: Broadway RocksDayton Philharmonic in an evening of musical theatre classics from shows such as Wicked, Rent, Tommy, Phantom of the Opera, The Wiz, Mamma Mia, and more, backed by a full orchestra and chorus.

Date: November 12 & 13, 8:00 pm

Tickets and More Information: 888-228-3630, Dayton Philharmonic, DMM Feature

SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE

Would you like to submit theater news for DaytonMostMetro.com’s onStageDayton features?  Email Shane, Dave & Katherine at onStageDayton@gmail.com

~KN

onStageDaytonKatherine Nelson is a senior theatre major at Cedarville University who focuses on performance, playwriting, and stage management. She’s the Literary Intern with locally based Encore Theater Company, where contributors Shane Anderson and David Brush also work. The local theater company recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon Arts District, along with Zoot Theatre Co & Rhythm In Shoes. Encore Theater Company has a mission to help develop new works of musical theater, most recently Next Thing You Know and The Proof, two new musicals in development.

Expressing Herself with Song – Tony Award winner Sutton Foster bound for Springfield

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Sutton FosterIn the hearts of many musical theater enthusiasts, Sutton Foster is in a class all her own.  A genuine triple threat with a radiant personality and a terrific belting voice, Foster, 35, continues to be one of the most sought after and admired actresses working on the Great White Way. Her star-making, Tony Award-winning performance in 2002’s Thoroughly Modern Millie cemented her leading lady status within the New York theater scene, and she further displayed her charm and versatility in Little Women (2005, Tony nomination), The Drowsy Chaperone (2006, Tony nomination), Young Frankenstein (2007) and Shrek the Musical (2008, Tony nomination). Last spring, she particularly wowed theatergoers with her strikingly nuanced portrayal of Fay Apple in the excellently conceived concert presentation of Stephen Sondheim’s Anyone Can Whistle at New York’s City Center, which, in my book, is in the running as one of the best NYC productions of 2010.

Having ended her first foray off-Broadway in Paul Weitz’s dark comedy Trust opposite Zach Braff (Scrubs), the Statesboro, Georgia native and sister of Tony nominee Hunter Foster (Urinetown) is on tour in support of her beguiling 2008 debut CD optimistically entitled Wish (Ghostlight Records). The CD is an infectiously intimate collection ranging from Duke Ellington tributes (“I’m Beginning to See The Light,” “I Like the Sunrise”) and bygone chestnuts (“Warm All Over,” “My Romance,” “Once Upon a Time,” “Come the Wild, Wild Weather”) to pop numbers (“Up on the Roof,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders”) and little known gems (“Danglin’,” “My Heart Was Set on You,” “Flight”).

On Saturday, November 13 at Springfield’s Kuss Auditorium, Foster will sing selections from Wish in addition to songs she introduced on Broadway. She will be accompanied by her musical director Michael Rafter (Swing!, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Everyday Rapture), and expect a few surprises along the way.

In advance of her concert, presented by the Springfield Arts Council, Foster discussed her craft and career.

onStageDayton: What does musical theater mean to you?

Sutton Foster: It’s everything to me. It’s my true passion…and honestly has changed my life. I’ve had moments in the theater, both as an audience member and on stage, where I have been transported. It’s powerful. To express yourself with song is very powerful.

OSD: What are some of your favorite musicals?

SF: Sweeney Todd is my all-time favorite. I also love Spring Awakening, The Light in the Piazza, West Side Story.

OSD: Do you have any musical theater influences?

SF: Patti LuPone has been a huge influence in my life. I used to listen to her sing over and over again in my room and try and sing like her.

OSD: How did it feel to win the Tony for Thoroughly Modern Millie? What did that win signify?

SF: It was a dream come true. I still to this day can’t believe that happened and that I now have a Tony in my apartment. I used to practice my Tony Award speech in my bedroom when I was a kid…I guess (winning) signified that I had made it in some way, but I think, more importantly, it signified to my family, especially my extended family, that maybe I could make a career out of doing this.

OSD: What are some of the most eye-opening experiences you’ve had thus far in your career?

SF: I think, how hard it is…the sacrifices you have to make to do eight shows a week. How ‘unglamorous’ it can be at times…how it can be difficult to deal with being criticized publicly. But it’s also a beautifully small, supportive community, and I have made friends and relationships that I’ll have for a lifetime.

OSD: Are you excited to play the iconic Reno Sweeney in the Broadway revival of Anything Goes this spring? Do you have an idea as to how you plan to portray the role?

SF: We don’t start rehearsals until January so I’m still very much in the early stages. But I’m thrilled and honored to take on this challenge.

OSD: Are there any dream roles you’d like to perform in the future?

SF: One of my favorite shows is Me and My Girl. I’d love to play Sally in that…or The Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods.

OSD: Can you share a little about the genesis of your Wish CD? What do the songs represent as a whole? Did you always intend to create an eclectic song list rather than a CD devoted to show tunes?

SF: I think when my music director Michael Rafter and I started looking at songs we chose material that spoke to us personally, and that is why the list is a bit eclectic. We really wanted our ‘first album’ to be true to us and where we were when we recorded it. We started working together on Millie back in 2001, and started working toward an album back in 2004, so this has been years in the making. And I think it’s my proudest achievement thus far.

OSD: Are there any tunes from Wish that hold a special meaning or are personal favorites?

SF: “Sunshine on My Shoulders.” I’m a huge John Denver fan, and I knew I wanted to include one of his songs on the album. And Michael wrote the arrangement for the song and it was just perfect. I also love the duet “Flight” that I sing with Megan McGinnis.

OSD: What are your thoughts on the current state of musical theater? Are new voices being heard?

SF: Well, I think they have been. Tom Kitt – Next to Normal – Lin Manuel Miranda – In the Heights…new shows like Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson. I think the envelope is being pushed now more than ever.

OSD: Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring musical theater performers?

SF: Don’t be an asshole. Respect your teachers, your peers…and take opportunities…you always have more to learn.

See event details on the DMM Event Calendar

Sutton Foster sings ‘Someone Else’s Story’

Playbill Video Cue & A: Sutton Foster

What: An Evening with Sutton Foster

When: Saturday, November 13 at 8 p.m.

Where: Kuss Auditorium, Clark State Performing Arts Center, 300 S. Fountain Ave., Springfield

Cost: Adults $30-$50; Students (age 22 and under) $20-$40. Tickets can be purchased by calling (937) 328-3874 or visiting online at www.SpringfieldArtsCouncil.org. Group discounts available by calling (937) 324-2712.

Jane’s Best Bets (11/10 – 11/14)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Sunday’s Patriots vs. Browns game may be considered an upset, but to be quite honest, I’m not sure why.  My family sure wasn’t upset…GO BROWNIES!  If you weren’t watching the game, hopefully you were out having fun participating in one of the many events going on in Dayton this past week!  Here’s to another week with a variety of things to do!

On Wednesday, sip some wine at The Wine Gallery downtown for their Anniversary Tasting! Approximately 50 different wines will be featured and they will have complimentary food.  Or if you’re more of a beer lover, then attend the Beer Tasting at The Caroline in Troy.  Drive to The Winds Café and Bakery in Yellow Springs for their 21st Annual Garlic Dinner if you don’t mind a little garlic on your breath.  If you’re like me and love G-O-D, then you will want to attend the Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg’s production of the wonderful musical Godspell at the Baum Opera House.  I heard that the kids put on an outstanding performance!  For a good drum roll (and perhaps a dumb joke to follow!), see DRUMLine Live at the Schuster Center.  Also, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be performing at the Nutter Center if you prefer to get in the Christmas spirit a little early this year.  And finally, if you would like to give back, then bring your canned goods to the “Can”nery for their Holiday Food Drive, which will benefit the Foodbank.  Or, purchase a new toy or clothing item to help needy kids as part of the YWCA Dayton Holiday Wish List Donation Drive.

On Thursday, get your exercise and “Jump” into Art with jumpstART at the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery.  Although ARTtoBUY will be happening for a while, on Thursday only, jumpstART will be providing light food, good wine, and some art appreciation.  If you are an introvert and would prefer to buy art-type gifts by yourself, then attend Live Art, Give Art at the Cannery Art and Design Center’s fourth annual holiday gift gallery.  Are you a young professional that would like to meet other young professionals in the Dayton area?  If so, come to Champps, grab a drink, and do some social networking as part of Generation Dayton’s Thirsty Thursday.  Plus, you will have a chance to win a $25 gift card to Champps, which you are welcome to use to buy me a drink!  At The Neon, the Ohio Liberty Film Festival will be going on, so if movies are your thing, then you should plan to attend. And if can’t wait until Thanksgiving for your turkey dinner, then gobble your way to the Stockyards Inn for their Turkey Thursdays.

On Friday, all you businesswomen will want to attend the Women in Business Networking winstitute at the Dayton Racquet Club. If you’re sick and tired of that old couch but don’t have the money to purchase a new one (or are just environmentally conscious), consider turning it into a beautiful work of art at the Reinvent Your Furniture Workshop at the Cannery Art and Design Center.  If you are a college student who would like to learn a little bit about leadership, then attend Leadership Truths: Everything A College Student Needs to Know at Urbana University.  In addition, the premier young professional groups in the Dayton region will be on hand to help you get connected with all things Dayton!  (Honestly, this is how I have become connected in the Dayton community, so I highly recommend it!)  At the Schuster Center, join the Philharmonic Orchestra and some top vocalists for Broadway Rocks.  I’m not sure if they will be of the igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic type, but the performance will feature several hits from wonderful shows such as Wicked and Phantom of the Opera.  For more info, be sure to check out this article on DMM!  Also downtown, the Ohio Liberty Film Festival will be happening at the Engineers Club.  And, if you’re looking for an evening of dining and dancing in a beautiful setting, be sure to get your tickets today for the Dayton Urban League Gala at the Dayton Art Institute!

On Saturday, head to the Dayton Women’s Club for their Annual Holiday Bazaar.  If you feel like you’re wearing the same thing over and over again and need something new in which to put your arms and legs, but don’t want something that will cost you an arm and a leg, attend the Swap ‘n Shop ’til You Drop Charity Benefit.  Grab three friends and register your team for the URS Oregon District Barstool Open, which is a 9-hole, 9-bar indoor miniature golf outing.  From those who have attended in the past, I have heard it is a super fun time.  Plus, proceeds benefit local children and adults with disabilities, so I’m all “fore” it!  In the evening, you can also support the Cystic Fibrosis Association by attending the Dayton Shining Stars Gala at the Engineers Club.  For some musical/theater options, see the Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg’s production of Godspell at the Baum Opera House, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at La Comedia, Playing by Life’s Rules’ at the Ray & Joan Kroc Theatre, Broadway Rocks at the Schuster Center, An Evening with Sutton Foster at Clark State Performing Arts Center, or the Choral Concert at Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theatre.  Are you already missing the summer?  If so, attend an Indoor Tropical Bash at Norton’s featuring the Parrots of the Caribbean, a wonderful Jimmy Buffett Tribute band that is sure to put on a great show!  Or make your way to UD Arena to watch the Flyers take on Mount St. Mary’s.  Go UD!

On Sunday, if you’re not watching the Browns’ next victory, consider making the drive to Fairfield for Jungle Jim’s International Wine Festival, where there will be over 400 wines!  That is a lot of alcohol, so be sure to bring a DD…or rather have a DD bring you.  Downtown, celebrate the 20thAnniversary of the renovation and re-opening of the Victoria Theatre with Viva Victoria!.  The celebration is absolutely free…just be sure to get your ticket from Ticket Center Stage.  If you didn’t get a chance to check out the Ohio Liberty Film Festival at The Neon, Playing By Life’s Rules’ at the Ray & Joan Kroc Theatre, or Godspell at the Baum Opera House, now is your opportunity to do so.  And finally, if you want to get in the spirit of Christmas with a little spirits (which is much more acceptable than non-stop Christmas music in November!), attend the Holiday Tasting at Arrow Wine in Centerville.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

I was trying to write a song about drinking but I couldn’t get past the first few bars.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!   And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Through Conquests And Crusades…To Chunkin’

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Talking Trébuchets With Dayton’s Own American Chuckers

Regardless of one’s own opinion on violence, weapons of war often bring about a sense of awe just with their cunningly destructive force. One of the weapons of war that never fails to fascinate is the trébuchet, a mechanical siege engine dating back, in a less sophisticated form, to the 5th century B.C. The trébuchet, through the aid of engineering, became fearsome engines of war, growing larger, delivering a more devastatingly larger payload with more range and accuracy, playing a pivotal role during both Crusades and then all the way into the late 1400’s. With the advent of gunpowder, the trébuchet faded away as a weapon of war, its last known use being in 1521 during a siege of an Aztec capital. The first shot, however, managed to do nothing more than to fling the payload high into the air…until gravity took over, sending the payload plummeting straight down, destroying the trébuchet itself.

This is an illustrative point about how much mechanical engineering and applied mathematics are needed to not only manufacture the siege machine, but to fine-tune the trajectory so that you don’t create a scenario that looks as if it was intended for a Warner Bros. cartoon. In recent years, trébuchets have been used more for recreational purposes, flinging anything from flaming pianos to small cars far afield for the amusement of onlookers.

The premier event for this spectator sport is the Punkin’ Chunkin’ World Championships hosted by the World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’ Association (WCPCA) and has been held in Bridgeville, Delaware since 1986. The WPCA is a nonprofit organization which raises money for scholarships and charitable organizations through this event. They break the machines up into categories, including air cannons, centrifugals, catapults and trébuchets. I was able to speak recently with Patrick Imlay, the team captain of Dayton’s own American Chucker. The first thing I asked him was about the design of Team American Chucker’s trebuchet, which did not follow the mechanics of a historical trebuchet.

“It’s called a floating arm trebuchet, so the weight comes straight down and the arm actually rolls across a rail to make the arm go forward.” Patrick went on to describe the engineering principles and physics behind the machine. “If the weight falls in a straight line, that gives you more efficiency. If a weight swings along an arc, like a traditional trébuchet, that is less efficient. So, the higher the weight falls, the more energy you get out of the weight and the straighter the weight falls, the more energy you’ll get. With our machine, what it is doing is accelerating at about 9.8 meters per second squared and from the time it’s released, it’s accelerating downward, so the higher we can get it, the more acceleration and velocity we will get and the more energy we will have to throw with.”

Even though I flunked remedial math in high school, I was fascinated with the physics behind what most would be happy to view as a devastatingly ass kickin’ machine. Imaly stated that some of the refitting that they were doing on the trébuchet for this year’s competition dealt with increasing the weight and reinforcing the machine to be able to withstand the aforementioned weight.

“What the weight does is, the bigger the arm is, if there is more weight, it helps the arm turn the corner without slowing down. More weight creates more momentum, which means that as you try to turn a heavier, longer arm, with more weight you will turn it equally as fast. There’s a certain point where, if you have enough weight, you’ll turn that corner regardless of the size of the arm. There’s a trade off between the amount of weight you lift up and the structure that it’s going to take to lift all that weight, and the structure that you want to have in place to handle all of that weight that is falling.” As an example, Imlay then explained, “So, if you put 30,000 lbs fifty feet up in the air and drop it, your system has to be able to handle all of that force or you have to transfer all that force to the pumpkin. If you have a misfire, you have 30,000 lbs of weight coming down onto something. Most of what we do to tune the machine is to keep it light and efficient.”

All this talk gave me the urge to take my silverware and make a makeshift trébuchet to launch some chicken wings onto that table over by the door. You know, the one with the guy talking annoyingly loud on his cell phone. In fact, I have had fleeting dreams of building a trébuchet for home use. I have fantasized about being able to launch my lawn clippings several blocks over with the hopes of making a bulls-eye onto that guy’s house who lets his dog crap in my yard.

Okay, back to the competition. The Punkin’ Chunkin’ World Championships has become a big thing in the last ten to fifteen years, gaining more attention and coverage form the media outlets. The Science Channel has even dedicated a whole show to the competition, which airs on Thanksgiving. As the attention has increased, so has the level of competition.

“Right! Just in one class there were eighteen machines and there were easily sixty machines out there at that contest. The first day last year (2009), they barely got all the competitors done. It went all morning, through the day until dark.” Imlay added that, “The second and third day went pretty quick about having the next team ready and putting them on the clock. They put you on the clock and then you have to fire within that window, then they measure the throw…their pretty methodical about structure of going down the line.”

In 2009, American Chucker entered the competition for the first time and managed to walk away with second place. With each competitor allowed to have three throws, after which the distance is measured and recorded. American Chucker’s throws were relatively consistent, being 1,427.28 ft, 1,424.27 ft and 1,885.99 ft. In contrast, the first place winner, Yankee Siege’s numbers were rather erratic, which were 1,298.16 ft., 1,869.32 ft. and it’s winning throw of 2,034.21 ft. Imlay explained to me the reason for Yankee Siege’s inconsistent throws.

“It’s weight is called a hinged swinging weight, so there’s a fixed pivot point and then the weight basket is hinged so that it can drop farther, but in the end, when you watch the machine throw, it continues with this violent rocking and that is all the energy that is left in that machine while, with our machine, the load comes straight down and kind of bounces once and that is all the energy that is left.” Imlay went on to say that, “Because of the way Yankee Siege is built and how inefficient it is, they end up dropping a lot of weight…twelve tons of weight…and they end up with a lot of left over energy in the machine which means that the whole machine has to be bigger and stronger so that the weight doesn’t break it.”

Since our conversation had been almost exclusively focused on the physics of punkin’ chunkin’, I decided to ask a more personal question to end out interview: Had Imlay ever thought about duct taping a co-worker, family member or friend up and launching them form the American Chucker?

“No.” he said, then after a moment of thought added, “Maybe some of the people on the team have thought about doing that to me.”

Even though the 2010 Punkin’ Chunkin’ World Championships are already over, I will not reveal the results. This will not stop me, however, from making sucker bets with my family on Thanksgiving Day while we watch the program on the Science Channel at 8:00 pm, which will be hosted by Jamie and Adam from the Mythbusters.