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Archives for February 2012

Oscar Nominee ALBERT NOBBS Starts Friday at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

We’re moving forward this weekend with the new film starring Glenn Close –ALBERT NOBBS – nominated for 3 Oscars.  If you still need to see A DANGEROUS METHOD, you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. That said, we will continue to hold THE ARTIST – which has now become a “certified hit” at THE NEON.

Synopsis for ALBERT NOBBS: “Albert Nobbs is a woman passing as a man in order to work and survive in 19th century Ireland. Some thirty years after donning men’s clothing, she finds herself trapped in a prison of her own making.” Nominated for 3 Oscars – including Glenn Close for Best Actress.  Visit the official site.

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I’m delighted to announce that PINA is now officially on our schedule.  One of my absolute favorite films from 2011, this rich documentary about Pina Bausch, directed by Wim Wenders, will wow you – whether you’re familiar with Pina’s gorgeous choreography or not.  We may open this film as soon as February 24…so stay tuned!  (PINA will be presented at THE NEON via traditional 35mm, 2D projection.)

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On Saturday, February 25 at noon, The Junior Leaguers Club, Inc. will host a benefit screening of THUNDER SOUL.  “THUNDER SOUL follows the extraordinary alumni from Houston’s storied Kashmere High School Stage Band, who return home after 35 years to play a tribute concert for the 92-year-old “Prof,” their beloved band leader who broke the color barrier and transformed the school’s struggling jazz band into a world-class funk powerhouse in the early 1970s.” (taken from press notes)  Adult tickets (which include a glass of wine as well as soda & popcorn) are $30 each.  Student tickets (which include soda and popcorn) are $15 each.  For more information, please call (937)219-7501.  Proceeds from this event will go to The Junior Leaguers Scholarship Fund.  To check out more about THUNDER SOUL, visit the official site.

In regards to the Oscars, we’re getting set for our annual party on Sunday, February 26!  Once again, our friends at ThinkTV will help us to get a strong signal for the broadcast, and our friends at Square One Salon & Spa will give us a nice gift basket for our grand prize.  In addition, we’ll be giving out dvds, screenplays and soundtracks throughout the evening for randomly drawn correct guesses.  You must be present to win any prizes, and seating will begin at approximately 7pm – admission is FREE!  Ballots are already available in our lobby.

For remaining showtimes for this week (including Thursday’s special screening of RACE TO NOWHERE, presented by The Miami Valley School), visit www.neonmovies.com.

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

 

 

SHOWTIMES for Fri. February 10 – Thur. February 16:

ALBERT NOBBS (R) 1 Hrs 53 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:00, 7:20

 

THE ARTIST (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

 Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30 

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.  Many of these dates will change.In some cases, titles may disappear.

Feb. 24  PINA

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG 

TBD   SHAME

TBD   PARIAH 

March 9   A SEPARATION 

March 23   IN DARKNESS

March ?   WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

April ?  FOOTNOTE

Get Inspired to “Get out and Live” at this week’s Adventure Summit

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The Adventure Summit

The Adventure Summit

(from our friends at Five Rivers MetroParks)

When cabin fever hits its apex, Five Rivers MetroParks and Wright State University come to the rescue, co-presenting the biennial Adventure Summit. This year’s event is set for February 10-11 at the Wright State Student Union. Admission and parking are free. There is a full slate of inspirational speakers, engaging hands-on activities, and intense competitions:

Gary Fisher - Trek Bikes

Speakers

This year’s featured speaker is Gary Fisher, noted as the “father of mountain biking” who broke the mold on traditional bicycle racing and took his sport to the hills, riding on bikes he modified to better negotiate the craggy surface of Mt. Tamalpais in California. Fisher is credited with early mountain bike prototypes and now works for Trek, where he participates in designing innovative cycling products as well as racing. Catch Fisher’s presentation, “The Past, Present and Future of Cycling,” at 8:00 p.m. Friday, February 10, in the Apollo Room. Other speakers this weekend include Deia Schlosberg and Gregg Treinish, who will share their experiences on a two-year, 7,800-mile trek of the Andes. Their presentation will be 12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 11. Local speakers also are on tap.

Activities

Once you’ve been inspired by a speaker or classroom presentation, why not try a few activities? Take a kayak for a spin in the pool, get a grip on the climbing wall or participate in a fitness session such as yoga or cycling. There’s something for everyone, and because there’s no cost, you can try it out risk-free.

Bouldering Competition

Bouldering Competition

Competitions

There are several competitions throughout the weekend that are as much fun to watch as they are for those competing. The indoor duathlon includes a 2-mile run/walk, followed by a 6-mile bike ride and concludes with a second 2-mile run/walk. One of the most popular competitions is the bouldering challenge, in which participants (many of whom come from all over the Midwest) face off on the climbing wall. New this year is the Canoe Battleship. Teams compete to try and “sink” the opposition’s canoe while bailing out their own. Rounding out the weekend is a kayak challenge, where slalom racing hits the pool.

Expo

Those who are ready to bring adventure into their lives can do so at the exposition area. Mingle with local, regional and national outdoor-related exhibitors, a variety of outdoor clubs, specialty retail shops, outfitters, resorts, and more organizations that will help you reach your outdoor adventure goals.

Cultural Exhibits

In addition to all things outdoors, Adventure Summit patrons can enjoylive music and craft beer tastings.

This will be a special year for mountain biking enthusiasts. In addition to attending an inspiring presentation from Gary Fisher, the 2012 Adventure Summit will showcase the region’s mountain biking community through inspiring presentations, engaging discussions and appearances by industry leaders. The Great Lakes Mountain Biking roundtable takes place Saturday, February 11. Participants will be able to mingle at the continental breakfast and submit their questions to Gary Fisher, International Mountain Biking Association President and Executive Director Mike Van Abel, national bike manufacturers, regional bike shop owners, state mountain bike club leadership, and IMBA’s new Great Lakes regional director. The focus of the mountain bike-specific tracts will be advocacy.

The Adventure Summit has something for everyone, from the “armchair adventurer” to the hard-core enthusiast. Visit www.theadventuresummit.com  for a complete schedule, competition registration, sponsorship details and more information. For further information, call Outdoor Recreation Special Events and Development Coordinator Tom Helbig at (937) 567-4478.


Mike-Sell’s: A Case For Success

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Countdown to the 2012 updayton Summit! updayton is committed to lighting the entrepreneurial fire of young talent. Over the next three months leading up to the 2012 Summit, updayton will present stories of emerging entrepreneurs and family legacies in business, and why they call Dayton the best place to do business.

Daniel W. Mikesell started a successful business selling dried beef and sausage but when he decided to expand and answered an ad to purchase a potato-cutting machine, he had no idea it would turn into a multi-million dollar enterprise that would span 100 years and counting. Today, Mike-Sell’s, a locally based, privately owned company, has maintained a strong local presence and national distribution in the snack industry. Despite the efforts of large snack companies to dominate the market through buyouts and price slashing, Mike-Sell’s has remained true to its commitment of producing the highest-quality products, allowing it to continue to be a competitive player in the industry.

In the true spirit of a Dayton original, Mikesell maintained his company’s headquarters in Dayton, Ohio as it grew. His legacy has continued with great grandson, Luke Mapp, grandson of Mikesell’s daughter, Mary Mikesell, and her husband Les Mapp, who ran the company until his death in 2005.

The family’s potato chip legacy is now in the hands of a team of industry professionals including President and CEO, David R. Ray and Mapp, who serves as the company’s Director of Marketing.

In a recent interview with Luke Mapp he shares his take on why the family business has survived the recession, the company’s plans for the future, and what today’s entrepreneurs should do to be successful—particularly those wishing to enter the snack industry.

Mapp has been part of the family business for more than a decade. He knows the entire operation from top to bottom. He is also acutely aware of the tremendous competition Mike-Sell’s is up against as one of the few regional potato chip companies that is independent from larger snack suppliers.

“The locals are very loyal to Mike-Sell’s and have been a big part of our success…”

“For many years, every little city across America had it’s own independently owned potato chip companies. Today, we remain with fewer than probably 50 others.” Mapp continued, “Giants like Frito Lay and Wal-Mart have affected how we do business. Frito Lay can offer lower prices that push margins to almost nothing, and Wal-Mart has changed how grocery chains buy product with its centralized buying method. The local retail manager used to have control over what his or her store carried, but now all of those decisions are made at the corporate level. Our relationships have changed tremendously and we’ve had to change our approach.”

The disconnect between local grocery stores and the supplier has made it difficult for Mike-Sell’s to expand at their desired level. On the flip side, it has moved Mike-Sell’s to alter the way it does business and distribute its products. Currently, the company sells two-dozen different chip and snack products. It has distribution centers in Dayton and Columbus, Ohio and Indianapolis, Indiana. The Dayton location is the company’s only manufacturing plant. Along with some cost-cutting measures, this is how Mike-Sell’s has survived through the current and past recessions.

“We have had to cut expenses like everyone else. Fortunately, we have a family-like atmosphere here. Everyone here is very supportive of decisions that have to be made.” As Mapp led a guided behind-the-scenes tour, he stopped along the way to chat with staff and to sample freshly made chips that had rolled off the line into the collection area to be seasoned and packaged.

At the end of the tour, Mapp talked about the company’s plans for the future. Over the years, the company has maintained its foothold in the industry by introducing new products like Honey Barbecue, its highest selling flavor and Groovy Chips, its highest selling non-flavored chip. They also added Kettle Chips to their line and are always considering new products to test with their loyal fans.

“The locals are very loyal to Mike-Sell’s and have been a big part of our success. Going forward the company will look to expand its distribution base nationally and increase its marketing efforts,” Mapp said, speaking optimistically about the future despite the sluggish economy. For example, Mike-Sell’s has begun implementing a new web-based strategy with a Super Bowl promotion offering 15% off online orders.

Luke Mapp

As the conversation came to an end, Mapp offered advice for entrepreneurs entering the snack foods market. “Do your homework. Know your audience. And think niche. Penetrating the snack market on a large scale will be nearly impossible. Instead, build a strong local following and let the retailers come to you. Be prepared to work hard. It takes dedication and perseverance to run any business. It’s not for the faint of heart.”

In a follow-up correspondence, this is what Mapp had to say about Dayton:  “Like, Mike-sell’s, Dayton has a rich history that has made it a successful and nurturing environment for businesses to grow. Dayton is full of reliable and talented people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty and work hard—that’s important to any business. In addition, the Dayton area chamber of commerce and various other business friendly organizations work very hard to attract and retain local businesses and talented people to live, work and stay in Dayton, OH.”

Interesting facts about Mike-Sell’s:

A potato by another name is still a potato, sorta. It takes a lot of potatoes to make those tasty chips—but not just any potato. Mike-Sell’s uses chipping potatoes. These organically grown potatoes are purchased from Florida to Michigan. (Yes, Michigan! Not Idaho, which specializes in baking potatoes.) Most potato chip manufacturers use chipping potatoes because of their round shape and density, which withstands the cutting process.

Waste not; want not. “Recycle, reuse and repurpose” has been the standard at Mike-Sell’s for decades. They do everything from giving potato peels to pig farmers for feed to selling the potato starch to paper mills for paper coating. Mike-Sell’s uses every opportunity to be an environmentally friendly company.

Hands off. The potato’s journey from the truck to the bag is, for the most part, a hands-off venture. Modern technology and machinery allow potatoes to be cleaned, peeled, cut, fried, seasoned, bagged and boxed with little human intervention. This method decreases food contamination and safety issues with workers.

The Big Give Back. Mike-Sell’s has given millions of dollars to support women’s causes, education, and community arts. Mike-Sell’s giving program is overseen by Mikesell’s granddaughter,  Martha Mapp.  Some of those organizations include Clothes That Work, a clothing resource for job seekers, and the Linda Vista Project, a transitional housing program for homeless women and their children.

Sinclair Students Are ‘Theatre Practitioners of the Future’

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A scene from Sinclair's production of "Women of Lockerbie."

One of the greatest strengths of the Theatre program at Sinclair Community College is its focus on the individual student, according to Steven Skiles, chair of Sinclair’s Theatre and Dance Department.

“We want to get to know our students,” Skiles says. “We want to get to know what their goals are. Do you want to go on to a four-year institution? Do you want to go straight to New York? Is it your dream to be an American actor living in London?”

“We try to engage students in those conversations,” he continues, “so that when they’re going through the program here, they also have a larger goal in mind that keeps them moving forward.”

Students in Sinclair’s Theatre program have a choice between three major tracks: performance, technical theatre, and a double major incorporating both. Even students who choose a single emphasis are required to take some courses in the other discipline, however.

“We like to give our students the opportunity to learn about as many different aspects of the theatre as they can,” Skiles says, “so that when they go out into the workforce, they have many different capacities in which they can fill positions.”

Hands-on experience is another major component of the Theatre program, according to Skiles.

“We’re a very practically-oriented program,” he says. “We want our students doing things; we want them involved in productions. On the stage, behind the stage, designing for the stage; we want them to be a very large part of our production season.”

Before graduating, students in both programs must complete a capstone: a portfolio showcasing their work in the case of technical students, and an auditions class for performance majors, which covers such topics as putting together a resume, cultivating and maintaining contacts in the theatre industry, and the various skills needed to put together a good audition.

But the most important responsibility of the program, according to Skiles, is in shaping and educating the theatre professionals of tomorrow.

“We’re not a program that says ‘This is what you have to do’ or ‘This is the approach you have to have as an actor,’” Skiles says. “I don’t want ten million actors out there approaching a role the same way I would. These are the theatre practitioners of the future, man, and we want to create proactive, engaging students who will move the theatre forward in ways that we can’t even imagine.”

The Theatre Department won raves for its production of “Women of Lockerbie” last spring and “The Crucible” this past fall. Upcoming productions include “Almost, Maine,” a romantic comedy by Tony Award-winning actor and playwright John Cariani, and “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged),” currently the longest-running comedy on the London stage. Performances of “Almost, Maine” begin at Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theatre on February 24.

Experiencing the Art of Exhibiting at Sinclair

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One of Terri Perkins' pieces, displayed in Building 13.

Art majors at Sinclair Community College have many opportunities to display their work before taking part in a public exhibition, according to Terri Perkins, 47, a Sinclair graduate and current art student from Fairborn.

“When you’re taking studio classes, you always have critiques,” says Perkins. “At the end of each term, everybody displays their work, and we all go around and evaluate it.”

Art majors also take a Pre-graduation Exhibition course before receiving their degree. At the end of the course, each student selects several pieces that follow a unifying theme, and their work, along with that of other graduates, eventually winds up as part of an exhibition.

“It was a great experience, because I really learned what it takes to put on an exhibit,” says Perkins. “How you display makes a big impression when people come to see your work, and the instructor, Pat McClelland, really helped everyone to learn that process.”

Brandy Driver, a Fine Art major from Greenville, also has experience setting up exhibits. Driver, 26, and three other students helped set up a display showcasing Sinclair’s Art Club in the Hypotenuse Gallery on the third floor of Building 13.

“We were highlighting the work that I and other members have done,” Driver says. “It was easy to do. I love organizing, so it was right up my alley.”

Students have the opportunity to try and profit from their work, as well.

“After the exhibition, you can choose to try and sell your work or keep it for your own,” says Perkins. “If you decide to sell, the school often times will buy it and put it on display.”

Artwork created by students is displayed on walls and in glass cases throughout the campus, often accompanied by a card or plaque identifying the artist. Perkins currently has several sculpted and ceramic pieces on display in Building 13, while Driver recently had ink drawings displayed in the hallway leading to Building 10.

One of Brandy Driver's pieces.

“The class critiques help when you have to take it out there in public,” Perkins says. “It gets you out of that fear factor when it comes to people seeing your work.”

Driver also enjoys having her work put on display.

“It’s always interesting to hear others analyze the ‘meaning’ of my work,” she says. “I love hearing what people think, both good and bad. That’s how you grow as an artist.”

Dayton Opera’s Romeo and Juliet Makes for Perfect Valentine Outing

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It’s the perfect pairing: Shakespeare’s universal love story and February, the month of Cupid.

Dayton Opera is preparing to open Charles Gounod’s supreme opera Romeo and Juliet to be performed during the month of love on Friday, February 24 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, February 26 at 3 p.m. in the Schuster Center.  “Romeo and Juliet” has been adapted into countless films, plays and dance but no medium better expresses the love, longing and ultimate tragedy of this fated pair than Charles Gounod’s stunning opera,” said Thomas Bankston, Dayton Opera’s General and Artistic Opera. “This opera hasn’t been performed in more than 15 years and we are excited to assemble such a talented and beautiful group of singers.”

Acclaimed soprano Joanna Mongiardo, recognized for her effortless coloratura, makes her Dayton Opera debut singing the title role of Juliet. Her recent performance as Rosalina in Giordano’s rarely performed work Il Re with Teatro Gratticielo at the Lincoln Center was chosen in David Shengold’s selections for Das Opernwelt’s “Best of Year” 2011 issue.

Joanna Mongiardo

Joanna Mongiardo

Singing the role of Romeo is tenor Ryan MacPherson, also making his Dayton Opera debut. He is one of the most in-demand young tenors of this generation, well-known for his captivating stage presence and expertise with modern and contemporary music. He performed along with Mongiardo in a recent production of The Rakes’ Progress with Toledo Opera.

Baritone William McGraw, most recently performing in last season’s Fidelio, returns as Count Capulet, and baritone Chad Sloan as Mercutio and bass Nathan Stark as Friar Lawrence make their Dayton Opera debuts. Members of the Gem City Ballet choreographed by Barbara Pontecorvo, and the Dayton Opera Chorus, under the direction of Jeffrey Powell, will also be featured.

Albert Sherman, stage director for New York City Opera, returns to direct his fifth production for Dayton Opera, the most recent being 2009’s The Merry Widow. At the podium will be Patrick Reynolds, Assistant Conductor for the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, who conducted La Traviata in 2009.

Ryan MacPherson

Ryan MacPherson

“$15 Friday Nite Tweet Seats” returns thanks to the sponsorship of Dayton Power and Light. This initiative for young professionals, a first in U.S. opera, received regional and national press coverage and is being adopted by other arts organizations. The Tweet Seats are located in the balcony so the light from smart phones are not distracting to others.

“Yes we are tweeting and facebooking but not so much during – apparently it’s all too riviting. J At the pause between Act I and Act II, the lights of many devices came out like fireflies in the dark. It was great!” posted by Charity F., a Tweet Seat ticket holder at last October’s performance of Dayton Opera’s La Boheme.

Tickets are on sale now at Ticket Center Stage by calling 228-3630 or visiting www.daytonopera.org. Dayton Opera has teamed up with Veleta Wines on a special promotion. While supplies last, purchase two regular priced tickets to Romeo and Juliet and receive a complimentary bottle of Veleta Tempranillo wine at the performance. Use the code “Veleta” when ordering tickets.

Moon Shines Near Hometown to Promote Spring Album

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They get your toes tapping, your fingers snapping and soon they’ve got you hooked on a brave, fun sound heard pulsating throughout the tri-state area. Cincinnati-based band Walk the Moon has impressed indie-rock aficionados with songs like “Anna Sun” and “Lisa Baby” since their first full-length 2010 album “i want! i want!” Now they’re quenching fans’ thirsts for more Moon. In three weeks, they plan to drop a landing near their hometown to promote a new album, set to release sometime in spring.

Walk the Moon

The four-piece band features Eli Maiman’s groovy guitar sounds, Nicholas Petricca’s sweet and heady vocals, Kevin Ray’s seizing bass lines, while Sean Waugaman’s drums punctuate the poppy sound beat by beat. Pounding on keyboards and keytars, the Ohioans have got it down. Walk the Moon has received recognition in mags such as SPIN, Esquire and Nylon, and they’ve filled venues with bands such as Local Natives, GROUPLOVE and Kaiser Chiefs.

Walk the Moon paid a humble but electric visit to The Madison Theater in Covington, Ky., this past Thanksgiving with bands Young Heirlooms and Shadowraptr. At the show — themed “Homecoming Dance” — “Anna Sun Punch” was offered to ticket holders, and colorful cheeks were seen smudged with war paint in reference to the tribal markings in their “Anna Sun” music video.

The trendy, energetic video was filmed in 2010 at The Mockbee, a historic building and stomping ground for Cincinnati natives to see local artists perform in Over the Rhine. The first half of the video is a single shot that follows Petricca as he weaves between dancers throughout the building, until he encounters a free-spirited gang in warrior face paint charging through a field.

In an interview with Carson Daly on his late night talk show “Last Call” last spring, Petricca indicated that the song was “about college, about maintaining that little bit of being a kid.” Well, Walk the Moon followers certainly embrace that philosophy as they’re full of adrenaline, pumping fists, jumping around and proudly calling out lyrics at shows.

The Madison Theater’s doors will open in just a few weeks to welcome eager fans to preview selected songs from Walk the Moon’s currently untitled album.

But if you can’t make the show and need more, don’t worry about the wait — spring is right around the corner. Until then, pick up Walk the Moon’s “Anna Sun EP,” available Feb. 7, on the band’s official website at http://www.walkthemoonband.com or purchase through iTunes.

Walk the Moon and Young the Giant make their stop at The Madison Theater in Covington on Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. It’s an all-ages show, and tickets are $15, available online or when doors open at 7 p.m.

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Food Adventures make Pizzas at Johnny’s Slice of New York

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Manhattan Splitsville: Any 3 Toppings on each half

A day in the life of a FOOD ADVENTURER may include using culinary skills from time to time.  When Johnny’s Slice of NY Pizzeria in Centerville approached us about being “Guest Pizza Makers” for a day, we jumped at the chance.  We have enjoyed Johnny’s food, from their pizza to their calzones, so we couldn’t wait to toss a few pies for fun.

Owners Johnny and Michelle Rivera asked us to develop our own special pizza that would be added to their menu.  We came up with the “MANHATTAN SPLITSVILLE” pizza, which is any 3 toppings on each half of the pie.  The event took place on Sunday, January 22nd. Friends, family and Johnny’s regular customers joined us for the festivities.  That day only, the 18inch versions of the Manhattan Splitsville sold for the special price of $15.

We showed up an hour before the event, ready for training.  We were greeted by the staff who had made us special t-shirts adorned with our names  and the Johnny’s Slice of NY logo.  We changed into our uniforms and the phones began to ring with orders an hour before they opened!  Johnny took the orders and opened early, so we had to train on the fly!

Food Adventures helped both in the kitchen and bringing orders to the crowded tables.  He also welcomed customers and explained the special of the day.  We were at the front of the house, mingling with new and old customers.

Also, the Big Ragu was putting cheese and toppings on the pizzas and loading them into the oven.  He even brushed the crusts with garlic butter, then sliced the pizza pies into those huge NY slices.  It was a blast and we are very thankful for the people who came to visit and support the event.  We got to serve up slices of love, Food Adventure Style.

Fresh Homemade Calzone – the Best !

Those who have not had a chance to visit Johnny’s Slice of NY Pizzeria, need to try this family-owned place.  Johnny, who grew up in the boroughs of New York City, learned to develop his own pizza sauce, with a terrific flavor.  Their dough is made fresh daily.  They have many  specials including two New York sized slices and a soft drink for 6 bucks which is popular with the high school students.   Not in the mood for pizza? Let us suggest the calzone or stromboli, which are the best we have ever tasted.  Another favorite is the stuffed pizza creation called the Brooklyn Brawler.  This huge pizza is sold by the slice or whole.  There is even a “Brooklyn Brawler Challenge” where if two people can eat the 18-inch, eight-pound pizza stuffed with pepperoni, sausage, ham, bacon, mozzarella, and provolone in 30 minutes, they get it for free!  Winning contestants also get a T-shirt and picture on the “Wall of Fame.”   If the pie doesn’t get finished, the photo goes on the “Wall of Shame.”

Johnny’s also offers subs, salads, breadsticks and pasta dishes as well. Visit them at 57 W. Franklin Street in Centerville for authentic New York Style Pizza and more.  Below are lots more photos from our “Guest Pizza Makers Event.”  Maybe you will see yourself in the photo album.  Please feel free to leave your comments below about the event or your experience with Johnny’s Slice of NY Pizzeria.

Visit FOOD ADVENTURES  on FACEBOOK by clicking here.  “Like” us to become an official fan !!

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Dayton Musicians Celebrate Community, Each Other This Weekend at Canal Street Tavern

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Particpants in the 2nd Annual Dayton Does Dayton Music Festival (Photo by Amanda Barbosa, courtesy of MidWest Promo)

The name Dayton Does Dayton may make your thoughts go all sorts of places, but it actually is the most accurate description of what’s happening this weekend at Canal Street Tavern.  This is the second year for the two music festival that kicks off Friday (February 3rd) and continues on Saturday night.  The concept came from Rich Reuter of Nine False Suns: an event that celebrates Dayton Music by having local bands perform both their own work and unique renditions of other Dayton musicians’ songs, past or present.  Local promoter Louie Wood Jr decided to run with the idea, and last year’s debut Dayton Does Dayton festival was performed in front of a packed house at Canal Street Tavern.

20 bands are poised to take the stage this weekend for the festival’s second outing.  You’ll hear the expected Guided by Voices covers alongside tunes by the Breeders and Brianiac, but then you’ll hear some groups reach back further and cross genres to cover the Ohio Players, Slave and Lakeside. The Fair Shakes will be joined onstage by Real Lulu’s Kattie Dougherty for a rendition of “Chief,” while Me & Mountains will perform songs by the Motel Beds and Roley Yuma.  Additionally, all of the bands performing will play some of their own material to give you a taste of what you can hear right now in Dayton.

The music starts each night at 8:30pm sharp so get to Canal Street early for a good spot and the full bill.  The cost each night is $5.

Lineup:

FRIDAY
Wild Forrest Blackberrri
A Shade of Red
Gathering Mercury
Dan Raridan and the Calientes
Akillis Green
Me & Mountains
Niki Dakota, Rick Good, Ben Cooper, and Israel Parker
The Fair Shakes
The Dirty Socialites
Wade Baker

SATURDAY:
Wheels
Charge Scenic
Good English
Al Holbrook Band
Nine False Suns
Red Hot Rebellion
Dark Backward
Ed Pittman and Jay Madewell
My Latex Brain

Exploring Where the Sins Lie – Spring Awakening

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Encore Theater Company impressively produces a compelling, passionate production of composer Duncan Sheik and lyricist-librettist Steven Sater’s 2007 Tony Award-winning pop/rock musical “Spring Awakening,” a riveting coming-of-age account based on Frank Wedekind’s controversial, banned 1891 play of the same name.

Presented at Courtyard Crossing with a refreshing intimacy rivaling its off-Broadway debut, “Spring Awakening” uniquely transpires in 19th century Germany with a contemporary spin, primarily in its wonderfully melodic score. The thought-provoking tale, firmly led by Ray Zupp and Lisa Glover as doomed lovers Melchior Gabor and Wendla Bergman, skillfully addresses the joy and repercussions of teen angst and budding sexuality among such bold elements as abortion, incest and masturbation. As Melchior and Wendla’s heated desires and yearning for connection dramatically swell under the repressive weight of hypocritical authority, Zupp and Glover provide emotionally honest portrayals rooted in innocence and burgeoning hope. Zupp, defiant and headstrong, effortlessly exudes Melchoir’s magnetism and influence among his close-knit buddies and female admirers. He also brings a sincere earnestness to his solos (the moving “Left Behind” is a definite heartbreaker) and masters Melchoir’s self-assured persona as a man-child who truly has so much to learn. The radiant, vocally enticing Glover delivers a breakthrough performance that endearingly reveals Wendla’s delicacy, sheltered existence and inquisitiveness. Sharply indicating the confusion and pain of a guileless young girl who “ruined all the true plans,” Glover notably supplies a seductively mood-setting rendition of “Mama Who Bore Me” and a beautifully lyric-driven “Whispering” effectively capturing Sater’s pensive poetry. Zupp and Glover’s unshakable chemistry, a significant factor of the show’s success under the crisp, emotive direction of JJ Parkey, particularly soars in “The Word of Your Body,” a warmly expressive blend of intertwining hands and romantic gazes choreographed by Nikki Wetter.

Lisa Glover & Ray Zupp (photo credit: Tracy Abston/Blush Boudoir)

Wedekind’s dark, impactful world – sparsely designed by Zupp, Parkey and Shane Anderson, attractively costumed by Molly Walz with period-provincial and modern flourishes, and evocatively lit by Nicholas Crumbley – equally thrives among an assortment of appealing featured players. Drew Bowen is a jittery source of agitation and agony as Moritz, an underachiever tragically damaged by his father’s scorn and his own tortured insecurity. As Ilse, Elizabeth Wellman renders a gently wistful “Blue Wind” and ushers in the gorgeous “Song of Purple Summer” finale. She is also terrifically joined by Emily Sexton (Martha) for the dynamically pulsating “Dark I Know Well.” Despite a few instances of vocal overpowering due to off-kilter sound problems, Taylor Benjamin (Thea), Bradley Farmer (Anna), Josh Hughes (Hanschen), Zach King (Georg), Sean Metcalf (Ernst) and T.C. Schreier (Otto) compatibly join Bowen, Wellman and Sexton to form an authentic, committed ensemble, particularly driving the sensuality within “Touch Me.” Chris Shea and Natalie Houliston absolutely shine in multiple adult roles that rank among their finest work. Shea particularly embodies Herr Sonnenstich and Herr Stiefel with intimidating gusto but is also great in the smallest of moments such as his sinister appearance as Ilse’s father. The comedic Houliston is a hoot as Fraulein Knuppeldick yet thrillingly evolves late in Act 2 to portray Frau Bergman and Frau Gabor with formidable intensity. Gavi Beloff, Nick Boyer, Trevor Coran and Nicole Dine are effectively planted within the audience as featured singers. Musical director John Faas guides a sufficient orchestra.
Thanks to a winning cast and a clear artistic vision, “Spring Awakening” provides the perfect opportunity to discover why Encore remains a daring, risk-tasking musical theater force in our community.

“Spring Awakening” continues Feb. 3 and 4 at 8 p.m. in Courtyard Crossing, located on Second Street across from the Schuster Center near Boston Stoker. Act One: 55 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. The production contains adult themes and nudity. Tickets are $18. For tickets or more information, visit www.encoretheatercompany.com

Not Your Grandparents’ Norman Rockwell

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The Problem We All Live With

The Problem We All Live With

You only have a few days to get to The Dayton Art Institute or you’re going to miss something surprisingly evocative and just plain cool.

Until recently, my idea of Norman Rockwell was a memory of images painted on dishes displayed in my granny and grandpa’s dining room cabinet. Those images were cutsey, small-town Americana and very, very quaint.

My Norman Rockwell has changed an awful lot.

When I first visited the exhibit “American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell,” I was surprised to learn this iconic American artist was a progressive thinker. To be honest, I had no idea he created a body of work addressing such issues as desegregation, civil rights and poverty. I admit I was stunned when standing in front of The Problem We All Live With, a recreation of the walk 6-year-old Ruby Bridges took as a first-grade student and the first African American to attend a previously all-white school in New Orleans. This was not only because of the powerful imagery but because I had not expected to see this ― feel this ― in a Norman Rockwell exhibit. I had trouble breaking myself away from Murder in Mississippi, Rockwell’s depiction of the murders of three young civil rights workers in Philadelphia, Miss., during the civil rights era.  I was late for a meeting (OK, really late) but I really didn’t care. These paintings!

I had the same intense feeling ― you know, when you think a wooly worm is crawling along your spine ― when hearing that same Ruby Bridges Rockwell painted years ago tell a packed auditorium at The Art Institute about her experience and emotions that November day as she and her mother, riding in a car with federal marshals, made their way to her new school.  (Tangent: Check out Bridges’ book, Through My Eyes, if you get a chance.)

Ruby Bridges speaks to a packed house at The Dayton Art Institute and shares images from the day she made history by being the first African American to attend a previously all-white school. "Even back then, I knew that 'separate but equal' was not true," she said.

Ruby Bridges shares images from the day she made history as the first African American to attend a previously all-white school. "Even back then, I knew 'separate but equal' was not true," she said.

And there were more surprises. Bridges’ parents were not activists. They simply wanted a better life for their daughter, which is why they answered when the NAACP knocked on their door. Bridges used her imagination to decipher what was happening during those days when she unknowingly was making history. Since she had been one of only six African American children to pass a test engineered for them to fail, Bridges thought she was so smart she was going to college. Since her neighbors walked alongside the car that drove her to her first grade class, she thought she was in a Mardi Gras parade. Bridges said the worst thing about first grade was being lonely, as nearly all the white families had withdrawn their children from the school. She revealed the horror of walking by white protestors holding an infant’s coffin containing a black doll, constant threats that she would be poisoned, the schoolboy who told Bridges his mother insisted he not play with her and the weight she felt lifted off her shoulders upon hearing that comment because, finally, she knew what was going on. She knew it was about color, the color of her skin.

Continue…

Dayton Theatre Guild Auditions for “Going to St. Ive’s”

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Dayton Theatre GuildThe Dayton Theatre Guild will hold open auditions for Going to St. Ives by Lee Blessing (A Walk in the Woods, Independence) on Monday and Tuesday, February 13 and 14, at 7:00 p.m.  It is directed by Greg Smith and produced by Barbara Jorgensen.  Production dates for Going to St. Ives are March 16 – April 1, 2012.

A renowned English ophthalmologist is visited by the mother of a tyrannical, murderous dictator because she desperately needs surgery on her eyes.  The doctor requests a favor.  The mother has a request of her own that, if granted, will have devastating effects for both women.

Roles are available for two female actors – one white with an English Accent and one African-American with a lilting African accent.  Actors will be asked to read from the script.  Head shots & résumés are not required but are encouraged.

Actors who audition should be comfortable playing anywhere from 32-50 years of age.

The roles:

Cora – white, English, a renowned eye surgeon who currently resides in St. Ives.

Mae – black, the mother of an African dictator, who goes to England for eye surgery.

For more information, you may contact the director at 937.416.9685 or by email at [email protected].  You may also check the Guild website at www.daytontheatreguild.org.

(press release from the Dayton Theatre Guild)

Who Are You Looking For? (Eye Contact Matters)

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source: www.nataliedee.com

For me, going out to dinner is my favorite way to socialize with people that I know, and is a great way to meet new people.  My husband and I used to run into the same person quite frequently while going out to dine.  Like most people, we have our favorite spots and would see some of the same people over and over.

One gentleman – we’ll call him, John, would greet us with a friendly smile, saying hello and shaking hands.  Yet, John always seemed to need more.  He was constantly looking around during the conversation to see who was there that might be even more interesting to talk to.

“Hello, I’m right here!” is what I wanted to say.  John did this with everyone he met.  If I felt that way, I’m quite sure they felt the same.

Someone like John wouldn’t last long in the world of business networking.  People today are looking to form relationships with the people they meet while networking.  John would be known as a WIIFM – What’s in it for me!  Business men and women like to network with people who listen to what they say; not with someone who constantly gazes (The Gazer) around the room while they are speaking.  Now, everybody is a WIIFM at times, but – come on!!!   

More than 60% eye contact and you might look like this to the person you're talking to...

Your eye contact:

  1. Tells the other person you are listening.
  2. Actually makes you a better listener.
  3. Focuses attention on the individual and makes him or her feel important while you look confident and in control.

Rules to follow in any circumstance:

  • Make eyeball to eyeball contact 40 to 60 percent of the time during your conversation.
  • Less than 40 percent makes a person seem shy or lacking self-confidence.  Or, in John’s case, looking for someone better to talk to!!
  • More than 60 percent eye contact will make someone feel uncomfortable, as if they’re being judged and examined.
  • Eye contact is a sign of Trust.

Now – when John comes over to talk to me, I just ask him “Who are you looking for?”

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

Dayton Playhouse Offers Children and Teen Audition Workshops

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The Dayton Playhouse YouTheatre is offering audition workshops for children and teens on Saturday, February 18.  The workshops are aimed at helping children and teens prepare for theatre auditions, including auditions for The Sound of Music, which will open at the Playhouse in May.

Jennifer Lockwood, director of the recent Dayton Playhouse production of Scrooge, will be leading the workshops.   According to Lockwood, “This is a great opportunity for children of all ages to find out what to expect at an audition and to be prepared to ward off the nervousness and do their best.”

Participants in both workshops will have the chance to learn and perform simple dance movements, be coached through cold-readings from a script, and choose an audition song that is both age and voice appropriate. Teens will also get suggestions for finding monologues for school drama productions and future auditions.

The workshops will be divided by age groups and will each last approximately 90 minutes.  They will both take place on Saturday, February 18, at the Dayton Playhouse,1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave,Dayton,Ohio45414.

Children’s Audition Workshop: Ages 5-12 at 10:00 AM

Teen Audition Workshop: Ages 13-19 at 1:00 PM

Parents are welcome to stay and will receive an orientation package concerning The Sound of Music including rehearsal information, volunteer opportunities, etc.  Members of the Dayton Playhouse board will also be available to answer parent questions and offer tours of the facility.

Registration fee is $10 per participant.  Reservations can be made at www.daytonplayhouse.org, or 937.424.8477.