Archives for September 2010

JOAN RIVERS: A PIECE OF WORKS – Opening at THE NEON!

September 21, 2010 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

I’m posting this update from Toronto…where I’m seeing three films a day (sometimes more) and sighting plenty of stars along the way. Perhaps you’ve been keeping up with my blog, too. Each day is posted separately, so just click on the day you’d like to read.

We are now playing JOAN RIVERS: A PIECE OF WORK. Hopefully you’ve seen the fantastic trailer and have been waiting for this film (the trailer is below). I saw it a few weeks ago and fell in love. That said, you should hurry down to see it. With the way we’re backed up right now, it might not stick around too long. In addition to JOAN, we’ll hold both GET LOW and GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE for another week.

Synopsis for JOAN RIVERS: A PIECE OF WORK: “Joan Rivers- A Piece of Work exposes the private dramas of comedian and pop icon Joan Rivers as she fights tooth and nail to keep her American dream alive. A unique look inside America’s obsession with fame and celebrity – Joan’s story is both an outrageously funny journey and a brutally honest look at the ruthless entertainment industry, the trappings of success and the ultimate vulnerability of the first queen of comedy. With unprecedented, unguarded access, the film takes the audience on a year long ride with Joan Rivers in her 76th year of life; it peels away the mask of an iconic comedian, laying bare both the struggle and thrill of living life as a groundbreaking female performer.” (taken from fandango)

The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is almost here, and festival passes are now on sale – just $40 for all six screenings and the opening night party! (Single tickets are on sale, too – just $8.00 each.) Check out the official website for images and trailers at www.daytonlgbt.com. As of right now, we have 4 artists planning to attend the festival. Casper Andreas – director of VIOLET TENDENCIES (Saturday, Sept. 25 at 9:30), Sarah Louise Lilley – star & producer of NOTHING HAPPENED and Jessica Provenz – writer and producer of NOTHING HAPPENED (Saturday, Sept. 25 at 3:00), and Heath Daniels – writer, star and producer of GO-GO REJECT (also on Saturday, Sept. 25 at 3:00) will attend the fest. These guest artists will be flying in from NYC and LA…and I hope they’ll have a warm reception with an enthusiastic crowd at each screening – please help to make it happen.

Here’s more great news. On Oct. 1, we will begin a one-week run of THE ELEPHANT IN THE LIVING ROOM – shot partially in Oakwood. This film just won Michael Moore’s film festival in Traverse City. “The Elephant in the Living Roomis an award winning documentary film about the controversial world of raising the deadliest and most exotic animals on earth as common household pets. The story follows the journey of two men at the heart of the issue. One, Tim Harrison, an Ohio police officer whose mission is to protect exotic animals and the public, and the other, Terry Brumfield, a big-hearted man who struggles to keep two pet African lions that he loves like his own family. This critically acclaimed film has won multiple BEST DOCUMENTARY awards including one by Academy Award winning director Michael Moore who describes it as ‘One of the scariest, most entertaining and technically perfect films.'” For more information on the film, visit the official website at www.theELEPHANTintheLIVINGROOM.com.

Living City Film Fest is at it again! This year, the festival will be a celebration of the career of Jeff Bridges. Titles include THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS, THE LAST PICTURE SHOW and THE BIG LEBOWSKI (each on 35mm)…there will be 5 films in all…and a full line-up of titles, sponsors and dates (October/November) will be announced next week.

I’ll be back at THE NEON on Saturday, and I hope to see you this weekend for JOAN RIVERS.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for September 17 – September 23:

Showtimes always available at www.neonmovies.com

GET LOW (PG-13) 100 Minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 5:00, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:00

THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE (R) 129 Minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 7:15

JOAN RIVERS: A PIECE OF WORK (R) Minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

COMING SOON (several dates will change):

Sept. 24 ANIMAL KINGDOM

Sept. 24 RESTREPO

Sept. 24 FAREWELL

Sept. 24 WILD GRASS

Oct. 1 THE ELEPHANT IN THE LIVING ROOM

Oct. 1 MAO’S LAST DANCER

Oct. 8 LEBANON

Oct. 8 IT’S KIND OF A FUNNY STORY

Oct. 15 A WOMAN, A MAN & A NOODLE SHOP

Oct. 15 NEVER LET ME GO

Oct. 22 YOU WILL MEET A TALL DARK STRANGER

Nov. 5 CAIRO TIME

Nov. 12 INSIDE JOB

Fall Equinox features 30 Wines under $30

September 21, 2010 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

This Wednesday, Sept 22nd Coco’s Bistro will host another of it’s 30 under 30 wine tastings. Featuring West Coast wines the Fall Equinox Tasting allows guests to choose 6-8 to sample 30 wines offered for only $30.They will also be serving light appetizers along with the tasting from their new fall appetizer menu that’s going to be coming out real soon.

While you’re there be sure to check out the plans on the lobby wall for the new Coco’s location, currently under construction on Warren Avenue. The new location will allow for more parking- about 40 more spaces than they currently have, private dining rooms for special events and a much larger bar area with it’s own menu that will stay open later. The actual dining area will stay about the same size, but the addition of special event space will be a major bonus, for the community. Coco’s has often hosted special events, but the current layout just isn’t very conducive and the noise level makes it almost impossible to hear. The new space even has a large outdoor dining space designated on the blueprints.

To reserve your spot for the wine tasting or to ask about the new location call 937-228-2626.

13.1 Miles to Freedom

September 21, 2010 By Dayton Most Metro 2 Comments

The 2010 Air Force Marathon was an amazing event that went well beyond my expectations. There were over 9,000 participants for all events (10k, 5k, half marathon and full marathon) and could not have been put together better. The 5k was held Friday night at the Nutter Center in Fairborn, with all other events taking place early Saturday morning.

Along with 4,302 other runners, I completed the half marathon. This was my first half marathon, I did a full marathon in 2009 but never a stand alone half, and am completely hooked. I ran the race in one hour and 55 minutes, which was just under my goal time of two hours. I have already signed up for my next half marathon in October, and am looking at another for November. There is a great one in Dayton on October 10, click here for more information.

Post-race. Me (middle) with fellow UD running club members Emma (left) and Karly(right)

The actual half marathon course was a tough, but beautiful one. A few long hills made the middle and later miles of the race tough, and agonizing for me, with some of the course winding through highway and some of it through parks. One of the coolest parts about the race was there were stations throughout the course that were themed and with different music playing. One station was themed 80’s, with another station filled with people dressed as nerds.

The men’s winner of the full marathon was Brian Dumm of Colorado Springs, Co., with a time of 2:27:49, also taking home the active duty member title. The women’s winner was Rebecca Murray of Franklin, Tn., with a time of 3:01:07. The men’s winner of the half marathon was Ben Payne of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla., with a time of 1:08:27, winning by only 32 seconds. The women’s winner was Christina Johnston of Xenia, Ohio, with a time of 1:18:20, also winning by a close margin of 35 seconds.

The 13.1 mile race seems to be a perfect distance for me, with a full being attainable but very tough and time consuming. The half marathon is the most manageable, in terms of training time for me. I really enjoyed my half marathon experience, and I will be eagerly awaiting next year’s race in the Gem City.

Music Video Monday: September 20, 2010 edition

September 20, 2010 By Juliet Fromholt Leave a Comment

The optional subtitle of this week’s Music Video Monday is “Juliet Apologizing for Slacking by Posting Three Videos.” That’s right three videos! There is a common thread between these videos, actually a few if you know your Dayton music scene history. We’ll stick to the basics: each video features a band that’s on the bill this Friday night at Gilly’s.

Jesse Remnant and the Trainwrecks recently completed recording a new album that promises to be well worth hearing.

Floods is a newer band of veteran local musicians that’s been getting lots of attention since their first show earlier this summer.

A Shoreline Dream hails from Denver but has a local connection. Bass player Adam Edwards is a Dayton native who played in Shrug and Flyaway Minion to name a few.

Full show details are at the Dayton MostMetro Events Calendar.

Monday Night Dinner & A Movie Deal

September 19, 2010 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

In a very affordable package the Sunrise Cafe and the Little Art Theatre have partnered to present a Monday night dinner and a movie package for just $20. The catch- you have to arrive in Yellow Springs for dinner by 6pm to take advantage of the this deal to make the 7:30 showing.

The Sunrise Cafe is known for using locally grown and organic food and has many vegan and vegetarian option. There is no deep fryer or microwave in the restaurant,

Thai Peanut Tofu

so you can count on lots of fresh, home made options. There is a special menu to choose from for the Dinner & a Movie promotion and it starts with your choice of soup or salad. The entree choices include Sunrise Crab Cakes, a 5oz Waguy Sirloin, Thai Peanut Tofu, a Surf & Turf option and several pasta and risotto options as well.
Desserts change weekly and according to the restaurant they’ve been featuring a lot of homemade sweet potato or pumpkin baked goods lately. The package does not include drinks, tax or gratuity. And for drink options, be sure and check out the extensive wine list or enjoy one of their signature cocktails like the tart raspberry martini or even a blueberry fizz.

The Sunrise Cafe is located at 259 Xenia Ave and Little Art is just down the road at 247 Xenia Ave in Yellow Springs.

Historic Grafton Hill- “Dayton’s best kept secret”

September 19, 2010 By Teri Lussier 8 Comments

You’ve been to the Dayton Art Institute, right? Maybe on Christmas Day? An exhibit, or a concert, or maybe a party or wedding? Greekfest? Or the Oktoberfest, perhaps? (The Oktoberfest is Sept 24-26, 2010- Go. Go!) How do you get to the DAI? Riverview? Yes, probably the most common way to get there, and unless you live in the downtown area, or are a real HouseNerd ( I just made that term up, but you can steal it) you most likely don’t spend time driving around the DAI neighborhood? I’m going to suggest you rethink that. One of the most interesting neighborhoods in the Greater Dayton Area is home to both the DAI, Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, and the Masonic Temple- the historic neighborhood known as Grafton Hill.

This morning, my business partner and I were talking to Grafton Hill neighbors about the community, and one of them told us, “Grafton Hill is Dayton’s best kept secret. It’s a community, but it’s more than community, it’s family.” That neighbor is not the only GH resident who feels that way, it’s a sentiment we have heard over and over by both the long term residents, and the newer residents, and by the way, long term in Grafton Hill is 40 plus years. I don’t know about where you live, but I do know there are very few neighborhoods in Dayton that can really claim to be family with multi-generations of unrelated neighbors who look out for each other, and multiple generations in the same family who are neighbors, all working together to make their neighborhood become the neighborhood of their dreams.

There is something unique about Grafton Hill. The story I heard from our clients, and two of the oldest neighbors- or, sorry Ed and Phyllis, I should say two of the longest-term residents- is that they each drove through the neighborhood and “fell in love”. And how can you not? This neighborhood is a HouseNerd’s heaven. Grafton Hill is one of those historic Dayton neighborhoods that was home to some of the wealthiest Daytonians at the turn of century. The Art Institute anchored the neighborhood as an area of affluence, but it’s in the homes that we can still see how wealth translated into distinct, custom-built homes, each unique and lovely its own right. It’s impossible for a HouseNerd to drive through the neighborhood without being gobsmacked by these homes. Not only is each home unique in style, they are huge! 2500-3900 square feet is not at all unusual, and some homes are much bigger.

Phyllis has lived in Grafton Hill since the 1960’s. “The same home?” I asked. “Oh no. I’ve moved several times.” Same with Ed, he’s lived in several different homes in Grafton Hill over the years. To understand how remarkable this is, you need to know that the historic district is only about an 18 block area. The home Phyllis lives in now sustained damage by a fire years ago and has had to undergo much rebuilding. To these residents though, the homes in Grafton Hill are treasures to be lovingly cared for, improved upon, and polished until they “shine like the gems they are” as our client likes to say. Any current owners are simply caretakers during this moment in time- well, I shouldn’t say “simply”. As one neighbor told me, “few people realize how much work is involved”. The phrase “labor of love” comes to mind.

Still, while the homes may draw new people into the Dayton Ohio historic district, when we ask residents what was their favorite thing about living in Grafton Hill, the consistent answer is, “the neighbors”. Now I know that regardless of where you live, there are very few neighborhoods anywhere in the country where the majority of neighbors could say that about each other. The very fact that both renters and home owners really enjoy and look out for each other says enormous amounts about the sense of community you find in Grafton Hill.

Next weekend, before you head into the DAI Oktoberfest, or, next month, at Halloween, take a drive through this beautiful neighborhood, or during the Holidays if Grafton Hill is holding a Home Tour- Go. You’ll be awestruck, gobsmacked, and who knows, maybe even you too will fall in love.

Photos: Teri Lussier

DAI Oktoberfest 2010 – Bringing Together Art, Music and Beer!

September 17, 2010 By Dayton Most Metro 58 Comments

Yes, it is that time of year again – time for one of the biggest and most popular festivals in the Dayton Region… welcome to the DAI Oktoberfest 2010! This festival is as old as me (now 39 years old) and happens 9/25 – 9/26 outside of the Dayton Art Institute, with a popular Friday night preview party the night before. And DaytonMostMetro.com has FREE TICKETS to give away – details at the end of this article!

I had the pleasure of talking to this year’s co-chairs – Margo and Greg Rubertus, long-time volunteers and associate board members with DAI. Oktoberfest is quite a production, with 15 subcommittees and over 800 volunteers. In fact, this year so many people volunteered that they had to turn away around a hundred people! This year the festival is presented by MillerCoors and features several domestic & specialty beers, 10 different craft beers, a cask opening (Saturday 1pm), beer & wine tastings and sixteen unique international beers with Spaten as this year’s German Beer Sponsor. But this event is not just about beer – since it is a DAI event, one can find a dazzling display of artisan pieces, unique food items, kid-friendly art activities and live music on two stages. And even if it rains, the tented area between the International Beer booth and the Main Stage has been extended to provide guests with a more enjoyable atmosphere, no matter what Mother Nature might bring! A good thing, because the DAI Oktoberfest 2010 expects over 30,000 attendees!

Another great addition to this year’s event is a bigger, better-than-ever Craft Beer Tent. Both the size of this popular tent and the number of craft beers offered have been increased. Savor a delicious craft brew while catching the big game on a large-screen TV – it doesn’t get much better!

The Home Brew Beer Contest is back by popular demand, to highlight some of the area’s most talented artists in the libations medium. Though samples are not available for public consumption, pre-appointed guest judges will decide who has Dayton’s best home brew through multiple tastings at Oktoberfest!

The MeadWestvaco FamilyFest provides free art activities and games for the kids from noon – 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Kids may also sign up for the free ProLiance Energy Museum Kids Club.

Free parking and shuttle service are available for Oktoberfest on September 25 and 26. Park at Imperial Packaging Corp. on Edwin C. Moses Blvd. (about one mile east of UD Arena) and take the free shuttle to and from Oktoberfest. Visitors may also park downtown and take the free RTA Oktoberfest shuttle from stops along Main Street, Second Street and Fifth Street in the Oregon District.

Oktoberfest hours are noon – 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 25, and noon – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 26. The museum’s galleries will be open noon – 6 p.m. on Saturday, with guided tours available from 6 – 7:30 p.m. The galleries will be open noon – 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Advance tickets for Oktoberfest are $4 for adults and seniors and $2 for students (ages 7-18). Tickets purchased at the gate are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors (60+) and $3 for students (ages 7-18). Children 6 and under are free.

Oktoberfest advance tickets may be purchased online at www.daytonartinstitute.org/oktoberfest, at the museum’s Visitor Services Desk during regular museum hours, or by calling 937-512-0136. Advance tickets may also be purchased at Arrow Wine & Spirits (all locations), Bee Gee’s Mini Mart, Culinary Company, Cuvee Wine Bar & Cellar, Dorothy Lane Market (all locations), Dublin Pub, LexisNexis and South Park Tavern.

The annual Oktoberfest Preview Party takes place Friday, September 24, from 7 – 11 p.m. Preview Party guests enjoy complimentary draft beer and wine, live entertainment by local favorite Velvet Crush, and great socializing and networking in a casual, less-crowded atmosphere. Guests will also have the first opportunity to purchase beautiful hand crafted wares by local and national artisans. The museum galleries, including the special exhibition Modern Masters from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, will be open to Preview Party guests from 7 – 10 p.m.

Space is limited and advance purchase of tickets for the Preview Party is recommended. Advance tickets are $45 for museum members and $55 for non-members. All Preview Party tickets purchased at the gate are $80.

Preview Party advance tickets may be purchased at the museum’s Visitor Services Desk during regular hours, by calling 937-512-0136, or online at www.daytonartinstitute.org/oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest 2010 receives support from Presenting Sponsor MillerCoors, Preview Party Sponsor Steve R. Rauch, Inc., Supporting Sponsors Clear Channel Radio, Liberty Savings Bank, MeadWestvaco and ProLiance Energy, and Patron Sponsors Arrow Wine & Spirits, Coca-Cola, Dayton City Paper, Grandview Hospital, Greater Dayton RTA, Imperial Packaging Corp. and Time Warner Cable.

AND NOW A CHANCE TO WIN FREE TICKETS…

We have SIX PAIRS & THREE FOUR-PACKS to give away, good for either Saturday or Sunday. Simply comment on this post with your favorite things about Oktoberfest (or what you look forward to if you’ve never been) and we’ll randomly choose winners on Wednesday September 22. Be sure to enter your correct email address, which will not be made public.

UPDATE (9/23/2010): Congratulations to Shana, CJ, Andrea, Mike, Brian, Kim, Melissa, Zack, Jane – you all have won DAI Oktoberfest tickets!

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #8

September 17, 2010 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

It was a great day – My last full day of films…capped off with a couple beers with old and new friends. I write this entry with mixed feelings. I love Toronto and would love screening movies and running from event to event all the time, but I’m also exhausted and want to sleep in my own bed.

First off, I saw 127 HOURS – the new film from Danny Boyle (director of MILLIONS and SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE) starring James Franco. This film about a rock climber who gets his arm trapped by a rock – and subsequently spends the next 127 hours alone with little in the way of rations – is an engaging and touching film. Franco does an incredible job – as he is in about 98% of the film. It might sound a bit monotonous, but in the hands of Boyle, the film is fresh, vivid and gripping. WARNING…this film has a scene that is absolutely not for the faint of heart – some have fainted at recent screenings.

Next up, I saw THAT GIRL WITH YELLOW BOOTS – and Indian film about a mixed-race girl who is on a quest to find her never-seen father in India. While searching, she takes up massage training and earns extra money by providing massages (often with extras) for all kinds of men. Though well-told and well-shot, I was never entirely engaged in this film. Some of the characters seems a bit trite & flat, and I was often disappointed in the decisions the main character made (she seemed so gutsy – yet continued to allow herself to be in bad situations). (There was also a device used at the end that I felt was “unfair” to the audience.) That said, the film did take unexpected turns – so I give it credit for not being predictable.

Lastly, I saw 3 (THREE) – the new film from Tom Tykwer – director of RUN LOLA RUN and PERFUME. This new film deals with the relationship of a man and woman who have been together for several years. Their relationship isn’t bad, it’s just that they’ve become more like siblings than lovers. Through the course of the film, they each meet a man (the same man – though unbeknownst to the other) who awakens a part of their souls. This film is provocative, sexy, and quite modern – albeit a bit “busy” and “cluttered” at time. Ultimately, it was a great way to end the fest. (Tykwer did a Q&A after the screening…and he repeatedly talked about how great audiences have been to him and his work in Toronto over the years. He mentioned that several men walked out of the screening in Venice a few weeks ago…and that audiences in Toronto seemed much more sophisticated and engaged. This sentiment was voiced by numerous directors over the past several days.)

A Tragedy in South Park…and Idina Flies into Cincy!

September 16, 2010 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Romeo & Juliet

SHAKESPEARE IN HISTORIC SOUTH PARK

A few years ago I met up with my family in Columbus to attend a Shakespeare in the Park production in German Village. While not a huge fan of “The Bard,” I still completely enjoyed the experience. The acting was terrrific, it was a perfect atmosphere-a great sense of community and idyllic summer evening under the stars with my family watching the Tempest. Fast forward a couple of years and the neighborhood in which I now reside in Dayton has the same great tradition.

This weekend marks the third outdoor Shakespeare production in the Historic South Park neighborhood in as many years. The passionate and dedicated troupe of actors and other volunteers have previously produced A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM (2009) and MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (2008). The 2010 Shakespeare in South Park Company will tackle it’s first tragedy in what will surely be a unique setting for the classic ROMEO & JULIET. As in past productions, a significant number of cast and crew are Historic South Park neighborhood residents.

From the Official Press Release:

Director Daniel Wilson has set the famous story of star-crossed lovers shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War and placed it near the border state region in a spot historically similar to Montgomery County, Ohio. As students of history know, it was a time when sympathies still ran hot. The Montagues (Romeo’s family) are depicted as Union soldiers and officers; Juliet’s Capulets as Confederates.

The director explains his choice for the play’s setting: “The Civil War’s causes are complex, but…those involved came to believe the only way to resolve their differences was through violence. Romeo and Juliet is a play about…non-violence. Friar Laurence (“Mother Laurence” in this production, played by Judi Earley), the only character respected by [both the Montaguesand Capulets], consistently preaches the need for balance and peace.”

By setting the play 150 years ago in America, Wilson finds renewed relevance in a 400-year-old play written in England and set in Italy. The divisive politics of today have left people unwilling to compromise. Shakespeare’s play reminds us that if we are unwilling to find peaceful solutions to our differences, our children will pay the price.

The venue for Romeo & Juliet will once again be the South Park Green, an intimate park located on Hickory Street. The troupe reports that they will be utilizing a historic two-story carriage house in the bordering property as a backdrop. This setting also provides a terrific opportunity for the famous “Balcony Scene,” utilizing a second story window and the foliage below.

A unique South Park presence in Romeo and Juliet will be the antique sword carried by Lord Montague. Made in Cincinnati about 1900, it was found in the attic of 130 Alberta Street during a mid-1980s rehab, and has remained with the house, passed to each successive homeowner.

Midsummer Nights Dream - 2009 - Shakespeare in South Park

Show times are 8:00 PM Friday through Sunday, September 17-19 at South Park Green on Hickory Street in the Historic South Park neighborhood.

Shakespeare in South Park productions are free to the public, while contributions are gratefully received and used to defray costs of the show. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket.

The weekend is calling for some gorgeous weather, with just a slight chance of rain on Sunday. If it does rain, don’t worry, the play will be staged at Hope Lutheran Church, 500 Hickory Street.

For more information, visit the Historic South Park website at historicsouthpark.org, or call 937-603-4893.

Win Tickets to Idina Menzel & the Cincinnati Pops!

Encore Theater Company’s MusicalWorld Podcast & DaytonMostMetro.Com’s onStageDayton team up to offer you an exciting opportunity to WIN TICKETS to see

IDINA MENZEL

IN CONCERT WITH THE CINCINNATI POPS ORCHESTRA

SEPTEMBER 24-26, 2010

Tony Award winner Idina Menzel has a diverse career on the stage, in films and in music. Menzel recently joined the cast of GLEE, the Fox juggernaut where she plays the coach of rival glee club Vocal Adrenaline, McKinley High Glee Club’s main competition. Last year, Menzel concluded a national tour promoting her album, I Stand. A skillful songwriter, Idina writes and performs her own music. She released the Glen Ballard-produced album for her record label, Warner Bros. Records, and played to sold out houses around the United States. Menzel performed her show in New York as part of the Mastercard Soundstage series, which aired on PBS. PBS also aired the concert version of Chess: The Musical, recorded at the Royal Albert Hall where Idina shared the stage with Josh Groban. In film, Idina appeared opposite Susan Sarandon, Patrick Dempsey and Amy Adams in Disney’s hit, ENCHANTED as well as Chris Columbus’ film version of the Pulitzer and Tony Award winning musical RENT, in which she reprised her role as Maureen. This was on the heels of her co-starring role in Robert Towne’s ASK THE DUST, opposite Salma Hayek and Colin Farrell.

In television, Idina recently completed an arc on the Grey’s Anatomy hit spin-off, PRIVATE PRACTICE on ABC.

Menzel completed her Tony Award winning performance, for Lead Actress in a Musical, in WICKED in December 2005. Helmed by Tony Award-winning director Joe Mantello, WICKED has played to packed audiences at the Gershwin Theatre since it opened in October 2003. Additionally, Menzel was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for her role as the misunderstood green girl.

Idina received a Tony nomination for her Broadway debut performance as Maureen, in the original production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning hit RENT. She also earned a Drama Desk nomination for her performance as Kate in Manhattan Theater Club’s Off- Broadway original musical THE WILD PARTY.

…but how do I win the tickets…?

REGISTER TO WIN

1. Become a Facebook fan of Facebook.com/MusicalWorldEncoreTheater

2. Post on our wall why you are “Idina’s Biggest Fan” -OR- post a YouTube video on our wall of yourself singing “Defying Gravity” or another Idina Menzel song (this one counts as two entries in our drawing!).

3. All entries will be entered into a drawing for TWO tickets to see IDINA MENZEL with the Cincinnati Pops September 24-26, 2010. (note: winner will need to make arrangements early next week with the onStageDayton staff for retrieval of the ticket voucher for the Idina Menzel tickets).

HURRY! – DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS

11:59pm on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #7 (+ sessions)

September 16, 2010 By Jonathan McNeal 1 Comment

Well I set out to see 4 films today…and I only saw 3.5. One film had been rescheduled, and I had the incorrect time written on my itinerary for the day. That said, I don’t like to comment on films which I didn’t screen in their entirety, so I’ll only mention the 3 films I did see. However, I did manage to sit in & participate in a few sessions this afternoon – and they were very insightful.

First off this morning, I went and saw POTICHE – the new film from Francois Ozon…one of my favorite filmmakers of all time. I was first introduced to Ozon by my friend and mentor Chuck Derry. He showed me a short film called X2000 just before I scurried off to Toronto for the first time back in 2002. At that festival, I saw 8 WOMEN…and my life was changed. (I proceeded to screen dozens of films starring all of the 8 women from the film over the course of the next few months.) But let’s get back to POTICHE. Set in the 1970’s, this period piece is a comedy that’s saturated with important details (it’s like NORMA RAE meets 9 TO 5…with a dash of SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER). It references other films (Catherine Deneuve plays a woman whose father founded an umbrella factory) and has hysterical, dated music cues. All-in-all, I felt like most of the audience wasn’t “getting” the film…but there were a handful of us who simply adored it. This has been my favorite comedy of the festival!

I then attended the latter part of a discussion among three screenwriters which was very well attended. The screenwriter/filmmakers were John Sayles, Dustin Lance Black and Massy Tadjedin (moderated by Franklin Leonard). It was quite insightful to hear the three talk about their craft.

After that, I went to IndieWire’s daily broadcast during the fest. In addition to a group of folks talking about the fest and making predictions to this year’s awards’ race, they had two special guests – Derek Cianfrance & Xavier Dolan. Though I haven’t seen BLUE VALENTINE (the film Cianfance was talking about), I had of course seen HEARTBEATS – so I was able to participate in the Q&A.

Lastly (in regards to sessions), I attended the first hour of a moderated talk with Christine Vachon – a true trailblazer for indie cinema in the past 18+ years. She’s funny, smart and kick-ass!

Next up, I went to see Dustin Lance Black’s feature – WHAT’S WRONG WITH VIRGINIA. (Black is the Academy Award winning screenwriter for MILK.) This film, starring Jennifer Connelly & Ed Harris, has had a mixed response. The performances are great, the set design is fabulous, and story is intriguing. The movie is about a woman who at first seems a bit “off balance”…and eventually we realize she’s mentally unstable. That said, as much as I truly cared about the lead character, I never really got into the film. (I will revisit this film down the road…as I was quite tired upon arrival to the theatre and I feel as though I may have missed some details.)

Lastly tonight, I saw a film from Iceland called MAMA GOGO (dir. Fridrik Thor Fridriksson). This film is somewhat autobiographical in regards to the director. It’s about a filmmaker and his strong relationship with his mother…as they both start to realize that something is wrong. That something is Alzheimer’s. Though some scenes were a bit “off,” others were gorgeous and spot-on. The lead actress is remarkable!!

OK. It’s 2:00. Time for bed.
One more full day tomorrow. I can’t believe my time is winding down so quickly.
More soon!!
Thanks for reading.

P.S. I had Dustin Lance Black sign a DVD copy of MILK. We will be using this as a prize during the LGBT Film Fest!

Where Am I? September 15, 2010

September 15, 2010 By Teri Lussier Leave a Comment

Hint: Cloister

Where Am I? September 8, 2010 was the Gem City Dog Obedience Club. That photo of frolicking pups was taken at their indoor location, 1654 Springfield St., Dayton. They have basic and advance training classes for all ages and interest levels. We’ve shared our lives with 4 different dogs and my own personal experience with just some basic obedience training is that it has made me a much more responsive and responsible dog owner. What’s your dog training experience taught you?

Sandwiches Now On The Menu!

September 15, 2010 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Downtowners just got another lunch option. The Boston Stoker on 2nd Street across from the Schuster Center will be test-marketing a limited lunch option. You’ll be able to choose a mesquite turkey sandwich, a deluxe ham sandwich, and a veggie sandwich with hummus, sprouts and spinach. Prices will be $6.95 for a half sandwich box lunch to $7.95 for a whole sandwich box lunch, which comes with a side of fruit or a bag of chips. Company officials have had success with this program at their airport location and may expand this program to other existing stores in the future.

X-Fest 2010 Pictures

September 15, 2010 By Dayton Most Metro 2 Comments

Frank Coleman was an official media photographer at last weekend’s X-Fest and took these shots… his hearing is just now returning. 🙂

[album: http://www.daytonmostmetro.com/wp-content/plugins/dm-albums/dm-albums.php?currdir=/wp-content/uploads/dm-albums/X-Fest 2010/]

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #6

September 15, 2010 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

After just 4 hours of sleep last night, I woke up, went across town to pick up tickets, and proceeded to see two films. I then had to take a nap (2 nights with just 4 hours of sleep got to me). I then woke to see one more…and so glad I got there in time.

First off, I saw a Canadian film starring Zach Braff & Isabelle Blais (from the incredible film THE BARBARIAN INVASIONS). The films is called THE HIGH COST OF LIVING (dir. Deborah Chow). In it, a RX, “high end” drug dealer accidentally hits a pregnant woman on the side of the street. He flees the scene and later feels guilty – so he investigates to see if she’s OK. Along the way, he befriends her and finds out that the baby inside her died as a result of the accident – and she will have to have stillborn birth. The film has an interesting set-up, but there’s ultimately something wrong. It simply didn’t work for me. The moments of zany behavior seemed thrown in to break the tension…and seemed out-of-place…but the overall sadness wasn’t working for me either.

Next up was a film that many people are comparing to Wes Anderson – SUBMARINE (from actor-turned-director Richard Ayoade). However, this film is Welsh…and it’s quite fresh – with a big heart mixed in with the left-of-center comedy. The story is one of budding love between teenage minor-outcasts…and all the angst, humiliation and great lengths to please that come along with that – especially when you’re dealing with eccentric kids. The movie is visually stylish with a brilliant script and some supporting parts from people I love (Sally Hawkins and Paddy Considine). There’s certainly an audience for this film. (The director and two leads did a Q&A after this screening. They were delightful.)

Lastly, I saw HEARTBEATS – the new film from Xavier Dolan. Dolan’s first, Cannes-winning film is the opening night movie of the Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Fest. (Incidentally, tickets are available. Visit daytonlgbt.com for screening details.) This new film follows a gay boy and his straight female friend. They both fall for the same blonde, tossle-haired boy…and the dynamic between the two friends shifts. With a gorgeous pallet, a great soundtrack, interesting photography, and some fun intercutting of “confessions” from people in the dating scene, this film is great. (Dolan introduced the film and held a Q&A after.)

I just got back from a party celebrating all of the queer content of this year’s festival. John Cameron Mitchell was guest DJing, and I met up with some new friends who associated with festival. It was a fun night, but I’m glad I’m getting to bed before 3:00.

First thing tomorrow is the new film from Francois Ozon – one of my favorite filmmakers of all time.

More soon!

Jonathan

Jane’s Best Bets (9/15 – 9/19)

September 15, 2010 By Dayton937 3 Comments

Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

This past week was a blast! One of the highlights for me was Urban Nights, where I was working the corner of Third and St. Clair. That really doesn’t sound right, so perhaps I should clarify – I was in charge of one of the pianos downtown and my job was to encourage people to play a tune or two. Thank you to all who stopped by to “steal the spotlight”…I enjoyed watching you tickle those ivories and hearing about all the fun things you experienced as part of Urban Nights!

Although it’s true we have to wait until May 13, 2011 for the next Urban Nights, there are plenty of other good things to choose from this week!

On Wednesday, if you were inspired by the belly dancers performing at Urban Nights, perhaps you’ll want to go to Kira’s Oasis to try it out for yourself with their Bellydance Class. Or, you could get a little dirty and head to La Comedia for dinner and the show, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. While there, be sure to try their famous Sweet Potato Souffle – it’s delicious! And if neither of these events tickle your fancy, head on over to The Neon for the Foxy Film Festival for a special screening of the 70s hit movie, Foxy Brown.

Moving on to Thursday…is your house (or office) so disorganized that it looks like it came right out of an episode of Clean House? If the answer is yes, then you’ll want to head to the Professional Enrichment Series: Giving the Gift of An Organized You at Sinclair. If you are interested in sports, fitness, and nutrition, then check out the Air Force Marathon Sports and Fitness Expo at the Nutter Center, which is also going on Friday. In the evening, all you movie buffs will want to go to The Neon for the Media That Matters Short Film Festival, which will include several short films that tackle a variety of social issues. There is also an article on DMM about this event with plenty of details, so check it out! If you’re a young professional, then attending the ‘Jump into the DAI’ JumpstART Party for Modern Masters is a must! For only $10, you get free admission to the Modern Masters exhibit, two drink tickets, food, and an admission ticket to Oktoberfest later this month! I LOVE great deals!

On Friday, there is no need to watch the Food Channel – you can sharpen your cooking skills by heading to PNC’s 2^nd Street Market for Market Meals to see live demonstrations. If you’d rather have somebody cook for you, that’s okay too. Head on over to Riverscape for the Taste of the Miami Valley. I have gone there for the past few years and the food is amazing – no matter your taste preferences, there is something delicious for you! Plus, there will be live music and cooking demos! Also in the evening, if you are an animal lover, consider supporting SICSA by eating terrific food, drinking cocktails, and bidding on some wonderful silent and live auction items at their Red Dog Charity Auction. Speaking of red dogs, I wonder if Clifford will be there. And if you like children’s theater and you’re “wonder”ring what you should do, then head on down to Town Hall Theatre for their production of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.

On Saturday, there are plenty of fun things to do if you’re not participating in the Air Force Marathon, or if you’re not too tired after running, walking, and/or skipping. I am actually skipping it, as I have not been disciplined enough to train for it…although I totally admire all of you runners out there! If you enjoy fashion, lunch, and shopping, all the while supporting adults and youth with disabilities achieve greater independence through art, then you’ll want to attend Fashionable Scarecrows – We Care Arts Style Show 2010. If you have young kids, then you will definitely want to check out The Dayton Mothers of Twins Club’s Fall Clothing & Equipment Sale. Although I don’t have kids of my own, I have heard about it from several people who have found great bargains there on infant/kids clothes, equipment, and much more! No need to have twins to be able to shop…it is open to the public!

If you have a “German” Shepherd, then you will want to take him to his very own version of Oktoberfest…Barktoberfest at the Centerville Library. There will be pet vendors, contests, games, and more! If you don’t have a German Shepherd, you can bring another type of dog, as I’m pretty sure dogs don’t discriminate. If you missed the chance to taste some delicious food at the Taste of the Miami Valley or loved it so much that you want to go back, head on over to Riverscape. With the help of the DMM Calendar, I “found” another great event for you while you’re downtown – the Found Art Show at c{space to benefit Garden Station. If you’re looking for a family friendly event, again, downtown has it! Bring the kids or grandkids and head on over to Fifth-Third Field for Dragons Movie Night with Heater and Gem. For your “entertainment tonight,” the movie E.T. will be shown and the Green Team will be performing fun skits. If you enjoy classic and antique automobiles and motorcycles, consider heading to Carillon Park for the Concours d’Elegance Preview Party (Concours d’Elegance is on Sunday). There will be delicious food, drinks, music, entertainment, and a variety of auction items. If you’re in Miamisburg, then you’ll definitely want to dance in the street while the Fries perform in between a Taste of Wine and T.J. Chumps. And if you live north of town, you can always head out to the Taste of Troy!

On Sunday, if you’re looking for something corny to do, head on over to Young’s Jersey Dairy to eat some yummy ice cream and to navigate Cowvin’s Corny Maze. See, didn’t I tell you I liked corny things?!?! If you want to go way back in time to the 1600s, check out the Ohio Renaissance Festival. And finally, if you’re a fan of antique and classic cars and motorcycles, park yours over at Carillon Park for the Fourth Dayton Concours d’Elegance.

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

How does a dog stop a DVD player?

It presses the “paws” button.

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!

This Week in Dayton Theatre

September 15, 2010 By Dayton937 1 Comment

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2010 – TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2010

This week is an exciting one in the arts, because September 12 – 18 marks the first national Arts in Education Week. Because four shows are up this weekend, it’s also a busy one in the Dayton region theatre scene. Those shows range from a children’s show to a Shakespeare, so no matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s definitely something to pique your interest.

Between the national observation and all the opportunities, then, it’s pretty much a perfect weekend to get out and see some of the great theatre that’s around Dayton! Here’s an overview of what’s going on this week…

Another Openin’, Another Show

…SHOWS OPENING THIS WEEKEND

Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr.

TOWN HALL THEATRE – All Children’s Theatre

September 17 – October 3, 2010

When a sleepy Alice tumbles down the rabbit-hole and into Wonderland, her madcap adventures are just beginning! From chasing the White Rabbit to racing the Dodo Bird, to having tea with the Mad Hatter and rapping with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, Alice meets one zany character after another while discovering some important things about herself.

Alice in Wonderland opens the Town Hall Theatre’s 19^th season, and features performers in grades 2 – 12. Performances will be held on Fridays at 7 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 3 pm; additional matinee performances are scheduled on Saturday, September 18^th at 11am, and Thursday, September 23^rd and 30^th at 4:30 pm. The show runs 70 minutes and is recommended for children ages 2 and up.

Town Hall Theatre is located at 27 North Main St. in the “Heart of Centerville,” directly beside Panera Bread. For the September 18 performance, the theatre is partnering with that Panera for “Taste of the Show,” where guests will be served a show-themed tea party (http://www.townhalltheatre.org/html/tasteOfTheShow.html ; $5, reservations required). Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors, and $6 for children 12 and under; all day of show tickets are $10. Reserve tickets online at www.townhalltheatre.org or call 937-433-8957.

Romeo and Juliet

SHAKESPEARE IN SOUTH PARK

By William Shakespeare
September 17 – 19, 2010: 8:00 pm

During the Elizabethan era, settings of Shakespearean plays varied widely through different times and places, based largely on whatever costumes (donated from the rich and prominent members of society) the acting company had available. Appropriately, then, Shakespeare in South Park has chosen a more recent setting for their production of the classic romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Director Daniel Wilson has set the famous story of star-crossed lovers shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War and placed it near the border state region in a spot historically similar to Montgomery County, Ohio; by doing so, he finds renewed relevance in the themes, providing apt reminders that if we are unwilling to find peaceful solutions to our differences, our children will pay the price.

This weekend is your only chance to see the performances, so don’t miss it. The play is staged outdoors at South Park Green at the intersection of Hickory and James, with a minimalistic set that takes advantage of a real two-storey carriage house at the back of the performance space (perfect for the famous balcony scene!). Make sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Admission is free, but contributions are gratefully received and used to defray costs of the show. Parking is available at Hope Lutheran Church (also the location in case of rain; 500 Hickory St) or Emerson Academy. For more information, visit the Historic South Park website at historicsouthpark.org or call 937-603-4893. Also, expect a special onStageDayton feature article soon about the show!

The Spitfire Grill

BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

Music & Book by James Valcq; Lyrics & Book by Frank Alley; based on the film by Lee David Zlotoff
September 17 – September 26, 2010

Following the feisty Percy Talbot’s release from prison, she follows her dreams and an old travel book to Gilead, Wisconsin, not realizing the town is a struggling one with little to offer. She gets a job at Hannah’s Spitfire Grill, the only local eatery, which happens to be up for sale; when it won’t sell, she suggests raffling it off in an essay contest. Things start heating up pretty quickly!

Performances of The Spitfire Grill are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, and Sundays at 3:00 pm, at Beavercreek Community Theatre in the Lofino Center (3868 Dayton-Xenia Rd, Beavercreek). Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for students, seniors, and BCT members. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (937) 429-4737, email [email protected], or visit http://www.bctheatre.org.

…SHOWS STILL PLAYING

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

LA COMEDIA DINNER THEATRE

Book by Jeffrey Lane; Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek; based on the film by Frank Oz
September 8 – October 31, 2010

Read last week’s column here for a synopsis and full description of this show! But, here’s a recap of ticket information:

Arrival times for Wednesday to Sunday evening performances are 5:30 – 6:00 pm; Wednesday and Thursday matinees and Sunday brunch, 10:30 – 11:00 am. For more information or tickets, call 1-800-677-9505 or (937) 746-4554 or visit http://www.lacomedia.com. Also check out the DMM event page here.

Part of it All

…AUDITIONS AND CASTING CALLS

Wit

DAYTON PLAYHOUSE

By Margaret Edson
Auditions: Monday, September 20 & Tuesday, September 21 – 7:00 pm
Performances: November 12 – 21, 2010

Auditions are this week! Last week’s column included a synopsis, cast breakdown, and special audition notes, so refer back to that for specific information. But remember that auditions will be held at the Dayton Playhouse (1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton), and auditionees should be prepared to read from the script. Resumes/headshots encouraged, but not required. Visit http://www.daytonplayhouse.com for more information.

~KN

Katherine 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. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC just concluded their summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton, which featured Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & the new musical in development Next Thing You Know.