Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Archives for October 2012

The Best Diner You Never Heard of: George’s

By 6 Comments

On North Dixie, there is a restaurant that you may not have heard about.  In fact, Food Adventures agrees, it has some of the best casual food in the Miami Valley.  This no frills diner is called George’s Family Restaurant.  We say no frills because they concentrate on what is really important, great food and great service.  There are so many exceptional things to eat at George’s that it’s tough to decide where to begin.  From grits to Greek food, this menu is not quite your typical diner.  What is typical here is tasty entrees.

Let’s start with one of their specialties, Broasted Chicken.  This trademark cooking process involves placing marinated and breaded chicken in a pressure cooker.  Broasting uses less oil than conventional deep frying.   The chicken comes out cooked perfectly, with a taste that will leave you smiling.  George’s Family Restaurant also offers something we had never seen before, Broasted Fish !  In fact, they have a fish fry every Friday featuring broasted pollock.  The dinner includes fries and coleslaw for just $8.99.  You can even get broasted potatoes instead of fries.  Sometimes, there is nothing better than a good fish fry for a Friday Food Adventure.

George’s has also built its reputation on their burgers.  Fresh, handmade patties cooked just the way you like them.  We tried an incredible creation called the  Inside Out Mushroom Swiss Burger which has the swiss cheese and mushroom packed inside the burger patty itself.  The result is a juicy, cheesy beautiful burger that made us want to hug the cook.

A family run restaurant with Greek roots, George’s stays close to their heritage.  They offer a few Greek menu items including a Hot Greek Plate which includes Gyro meat, grilled chicken, pork slouvaki, spinach pie, peppers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, pita bread and tzatziki sauce.  On the recommendation of the waitress, we tried the homemade spinach pie.  What we received was a fluffy, flaky, large slice of heaven.  We felt like Apollo after one taste.

Are you a breakfast food fan?  George’s Family Restaurant serves breakfast all day.  The breakfast menu is extensive and served up hot and fast, which are words sometimes used to describe our tastebuds  Lots of diners were eating breakfast during our dinner stint.  One young foodie even held up his pancake for us to compare it to Big Ragu’s head.

The desserts at George’s are seasonal.  That is because they are homemade and vary upon what the kitchen is preparing that day.   The menu has so many good items from golden fried onion rings, to Mac-n-Cheese, and hand dipped shakes.  So many good eats, so little time.

Our trip to George’s is yet another example of  why we seek Food Adventures.  It has all the hallmarks like family owned, relatively undiscovered, and unique, delicious food.  Even the waitresses were amazing.  Many of them had worked there for years, and were very accommodating.  So we ask our fellow foodies, do you want some fantastic diner style food? By George’s, you got it !

George’s Family Restaurant is located at  5216 N. Dixie Drive, you can take  exit 57  Wagner Ford Road off I 75, turn left on Wagner Ford and right on Dixie and the diner will be on the right.

Visit FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook and “like” the page by clicking HERE !

[flagallery gid=7 name=Gallery]

 

KILLER JOE and LIBERAL ARTS at THE NEON!

By Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’ve got two new films opening this weekend. First off is a film with Ohio & Dayton connections. LIBERAL ARTS – directed by and starring Josh Radnor (an Ohio native) – was shot mostly at Kenyon College. In addition to Elizabeth Olsen, the film also stars Dayton’s own Allison Janney. Our second film is a darkly comic crime thriller directed by William Friedkin (director of THE EXORCIST and THE FRENCH CONNECTION) starring Matthew McConaughey – KILLER JOE. (KILLER JOE is rated NC-17 for graphic violence & sexuality…no one under 17 will be admitted.)

In addition to our two new films, we will hold SLEEPWALK WITH ME and SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN for limited screenings. Audiences are loving SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN. People who gave the film a chance (knowing nothing about the subject) are so glad they came! Many folks are coming out of the auditorium wondering if the music is available. It is! Omega Music, just a block from THE NEON, has the soundtrack on hand. If you’re interested in the music, we hope you’ll support another locally owned business (they even have the soundtrack available on vinyl)!

Synopsis for LIBERAL ARTS: “Newly single and uninspired by his job in college admissions, the introverted Jesse Fisher (Josh Radnor) lives with his head buried in a book. His deep nostalgia for his own alma mater in Ohio – the dining halls and dorm rooms, the parties and poetry seminars – makes him wonder if his best days are behind him. So when his favorite professor (Richard Jenkins) invites him back to campus to speak at his retirement dinner, Jesse jumps at the chance. Meeting Zibby (Elizabeth Olsen) – a precocious classical music-loving sophomore – awakens in Jesse long-dormant feelings of possibility and connection.” (IFC Films) Visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vW4zsyuFhew’]

Synopsis for KILLER JOE: “When 22 year-old drug dealer Chris (Hirsch) has his stash of drugs stolen from him by his mother, he has to come up with six-thousand dollars quick, or he’s dead. Desperate, he goes to the trailer-park to see his father, Ansel (Hayden Church), and he lays out the plan. Chris’s mother, who everyone hates, has a life insurance policy that would clear up his debt and make them all rich. The problem is that Chris’ mother is very much alive. Enter Detective “Killer” Joe Cooper, a hired hit man with the manners of a Southern gentleman, who will do the job – for an upfront fee, that Chris and Ansel can’t pay. Just as Joe is about to leave, he spots Dottie (Temple), Chris’ innocent younger sister. Joe makes Chris an offer, he’ll keep Dottie as sexual collateral until the money is collected and his fee can be paid.” (Voltage Pictures) Visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9cnYXwGX4U’]

“Help support DATV and be inspired by short films that aim to make a difference in our lives. DATV presents the MEDIA THAT MATTERS SHORT FILM FESTIVAL on Thursday, November 8th at 7:30pm, at THE NEON in Downtown Dayton. The MEDIA THAT MATTERS SHORT FILM FESTIVAL is the premier national showcase for short films on the most important topics of the day. The films engagediverse audiences and inspires them to take action. The festival features 12 jury selected short films that tackle a broad range of social issues with humor, humanity and honesty in 12 minutes or less.” (provided by DATV) Tickets are $10 each, and we have a few available at our box office and on DATV’s site. For more details about the event and the films, visit the official site.

It’s unusual for me to talk about movies that aren’t playing at THE NEON…but I need to make an exception. SPARKLE, a new documentary made by NEON supporters and local filmmakers Julia Reichert and Steve Bognar, will premiere next week at Dayton Art Institute. “The evening will be quite unusual – a night of dance and cinema. SPARKLE is the story of legendary dancer Sheri ‘Sparkle’ Williams, who at age 50 (!) is still dancing with the world renowned Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. Our film is the story of how Sheri faces a devastating injury, which actually happened on stage. The evening will include the movie premiere, plus the world premiere of a new dance work choreographed specifically for Sheri Williams by Rodney A. Brown, a rising star in the world of contemporary dance choreography. The evening will also include a performance by the entire DCDC ensemble, AND several surprise guests. It promises to be a memorable night. Friday, Nov. 2 at 7 PM at the Dayton Art Institute’s newly renovated Renaissance Auditorium. Tickets are available at Ticket Center Stage, 937-228-3630, or at http://www.dcdc.org/ .” (taken from press notes)  You can also join the conversation on the official facebook page.

Thanks so much for your ongoing support!
All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Oct. 26 – Thu. Nov. 1:

KILLER JOE (NC-17) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday – Thursday: 5:00, 9:30

LIBERAL ARTS (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 7:20

SLEEPWALK WITH ME (NR) 1 Hrs 30 Min
Friday – Thursday: 5:15, 9:30

SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN (PG-13) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear
Nov. 2 – SAMSARA
Nov. 9 – FOR A GOOD TIME, CALL
Nov. 16 (5 Days Only) – THE DETAILS
Nov. 16 (2 weeks only) – A LATE QUARTET
Nov. 21 – THE SESSIONS
Nov. 30 – ANNA KARENINA
Dec. TBD – HITCHCOCK

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 22-28

By Leave a Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

CHESS

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Story: A rock opera set against the backdrop of the Cold War struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, the musical presents an intriguing tale of romantic rivalries, cunning gamesmanship and political tensions playing out in master chess tournaments around the world. Time magazine hailed the work as “one of the best rock scores ever produced.”
The Dates: Oct. 25-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: UC College-Conservatory of Music | BTC page |

FLIPZOIDS

Miami University

The Story: The story of three generations of Filipino immigrants who are searching to understand their identity in a new American world.
The Dates: Oct. 24-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Miami University | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

THE INVESTMENT CLUB

PLOTT Performers

The Story: Big Band music blares as you enter The Investment Club and make your way past armed guards. Continue on to the Bank Vault where the secret word that you “Speak Easy” can lead you to a Bloody Mary. Raise your glass and toast to your retirement; it may be sooner than you think. This is an original interactive dinner show.
The Dates: Oct. 26-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: PLOTT Performers | BTC page |

PROOF

CenterStage Players Inc.

The Story: On the eve of her birthday, Catherine, a troubled woman, has spent years caring for her brilliant but unstable father, a famous mathematician. Now, following his death, she must deal with her own volatile emotions; the arrival of her estranged sister, Claire; and the attentions of Hal, a former student of her father’s who hopes to find valuable work in the 103 notebooks that her father left behind. Over the long weekend that follows, a burgeoning romance and the discovery of a mysterious notebook draw Catherine into the most difficult problem of all: How much of her father’s madness—or genius—will she inherit?
The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players Inc | BTC page |

THE ROYAL GAMBIT

Northern Kentucky University

The Story: King Henry VIII has everything he wants, except a suitable heir. His legacy is all too well known, but what about the women he wooed? In this portrait of the infamous king and the six women in his life, Henry remains the same throughout but the women progress to modern times, showing their knowledge of the lasting effects of Henry’s deeds.
The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC page |

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

BRIGHTON  BEACH MEMOIRS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: It’s 1937, and 15-year-old Eugene Morris Jerome lives in close quarters with his extended family. While the daily dramas of his parents, brother, cousins and aunt swirl around him, Eugene spends his days dreaming of playing for his beloved Yankees … when he’s not thinking about girls or setting the table for dinner. Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical play is a heartfelt love letter to his own Jewish childhood and proof that family harmonies and disharmonies transcend time and place.
The Dates: Oct. 13-Nov. 10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

I DO! I DO!

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: The show begins with Michael and Agnes on their wedding day and traces their life together over a period of 50 years, until the day they leave their house to the next pair of newlyweds. In that time we watch them go through their wedding night jitters, raise a family, negotiate mid-life crises, quarrel, separate, reconcile and grow old together, all lovingly to the strains of a tuneful, charming score which includes the standard “My Cup Runneth Over.”
The Dates: Oct. 18-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts | BTC page |

ROMEO AND JULIET

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: The tale of the Bard’s star crossed lovers, brought to life in a modern world of passion and conflict. In defiance of their families and amidst the animosity of friends, a young couple will risk everything to be together. Receiving a contemporary staging, this production proves its continued relevance in the lives of young and old alike throughout the ages. The Dates: Oct. 12-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: One of the bloodiest plays in the canon, Titus Andronicus is full to the brim with revenge, murder, betrayal and crimes most atrocious. Titus Andronicus evokes startling, gruesome and tragic imagery as the mighty Roman general Titus faces off with his mortal enemy, Tamora, Queen of the Goths. Titus and Tamora, in a spiral of bloody revenge, trade murder for hideous murder, each more brutal than the last.
The Dates: Oct. 20-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

BLUE MAN GROUP

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Story: BLUE MAN GROUP is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music, and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The New York Times heralds the show as “One of the most delightful performance pieces ever staged.” E! Entertainment News exclaims, “Blue Man Group is what every live performance aspires to be.” The Baltimore Sun raves, “Blue Man Group packs a wallop. It’s a big, loud, funny, silly, visually arresting production!”
The Dates: Oct. 16-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC page |

A BRIGHT NEW BOISE

Clifton Players

The Story: In the bleak, corporate breakroom of a craft store in Idaho, someone is summoning The Rapture. Will, who has fled his rural hometown after a scandal at his Evangelical church, comes to the Hobby Lobby, not only for employment, but also to rekindle a relationship with Alex, his brooding teenage son, whom he gave up for adoption several years ago. Alex works there along with Leroy, his adopted brother and protector and Anna, a hapless young woman who reads bland fiction but hopes for dramatic endings. As their manager, foul-mouthed Pauline, tries ceaselessly to find order (and profit) in the chaos of small business, these lost souls of the Hobby Lobby confront an unyielding world through the beige-tinted impossibility of modern faith.
The Dates: Oct. 12-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Clifton Players | BTC page |

HAIRSPRAY

Xavier University

The Story: The 1950s are out and change is in the air!  Based on the movie of the same name, the newly combined Department of Music and Theater is proud to present HAIRSPRAY, winner of 9 Tony Awards including Best Musical. HAIRSPRAY is a family-friendly musical piled bouffant-high with laughter, romance, and deliriously tuneful songs.
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Xavier University | BTC page |

KING O’ THE MOON

Sunset Players

The Story: A hilarious, heartfelt sequel to OVER THE TAVERN. The Pazinski family has left the conservative 1950s for the rebellious 1960s. But prior knowledge of this working-class family is not a prerequisite to appreciating their ongoing trials and triumphs. As Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon, Rudy is rethinking the priesthood, Eddie is preparing for fatherhood and Vietnam, Annie is contemplating divorce and their mother, Ellen, considers a new romance. The Dates: Oct. 12-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Sunset Players | BTC page |

THE LARAMIE PROJECT

CenterStage Players of Ohio

The Story: On October 6th of 1998 Matthew Shepard was beaten and left to die tied to a fence in the outskirts of Laramie, Wyoming. He died six days later. His torture and murder became a watershed historical moment in America that highlighted many of the fault lines in our culture…
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players of Ohio | BTC page |

MRS. MANNERLY

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: This irreverent, yet poignant comedy is inspired by the hilarious memories of a childhood etiquette class, wherein playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a ten-year-old studying manners. Set in 1967, Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her thirty-six years of etiquette classes has ever achieved a perfect score. But, when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first to achieve this feat. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and the real selves that lie inside.
The Dates: Oct. 10-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

THE PASSION OF DRACULA

Beechmont Players Inc

The Story: This new take on the Dracula legend earns rave reviews due to its artful mixture of romance, classic gothic drama and, at times, nearly farcical comedy. It’s 1911 in the English countryside, site of the ominous Whitby Sanatorium. Several villagers have died mysteriously after the arrival of a reclusive foreigner. Coincidence? According to the notable scientist Dr. Van Helsing, Count Dracula is a threat to humanity and must be destroyed! Follow Van Helsing and his compatriots as they battle the powerful vampire to keep him from stealing the soul of the lovely heroine.
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Beechmont Players Inc | BTC page |

SEALED FOR FRESHNESS

Falcon Theatre

The Story: A hilarious comedy set at a 1968 Tupperware party gone awry! Filled with a combination of outrageous humor and serious themes, this play is a wonderful look back at the life of a 1960s housewife and a celebration of how far we’ve come. This show contains adult language and subject matter.
The Dates: Oct. 18-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Falcon Theatre | BTC page |

SEE HOW THEY RUN

Oxford Area Community Theatre

The Story: Set in the idyllic village of Merton-cum-Middlewick in 1940s England, the village inhabitants are preparing themselves for the imminent threat of Nazi invasion. Resident nosy-parker and spinster, Miss Skillon, becomes convinced that her beloved vicar’s actress wife is having an affair and attempts to expose her. Add an escaped German prisoner of war, a handsome actor, the visiting Bishop of Lax, a rotund locum priest and some meddling neighbors and hilarious confusion and mayhem result.
The Dates: Oct. 18-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Oxford Area Community Theatre | BTC page |

SEUSSICAL JR

Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: This fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza features favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including: Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Lazy Mayzie, and all of the Whos of Whoville! Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once On This Island, and Ragtime) have lovingly brought to life these classic, colorful tales, brought together by Jojo, a young boy and “thinker of strange and wonderful thinks!” As each story unfolds, audiences will marvel at how relevant and profound Seuss’s subtle themes are, making this musical appealing to all ages.
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

A DOLL’S HOUSE

SSCC Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 2-4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: SSCC Theatre | BTC page |

HANK WILLIAMS: LOST HIGHWAY

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Dates: Nov. 3-Dec. 23, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

MURDER ON THE NILE

Tri-County Players

The Dates: Nov. 2-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Tri-County Players | BTC page |

OKLAHOMA!

Loveland Stage Company

The Dates: Nov. 2-17, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Loveland Stage Company | BTC page |

SHIRLEY VALENTINE

Middletown Lyric Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 1-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Middletown Lyric Theatre | BTC page |

UNDER A RED MOON

The Carnegie and The Human Race Theatre Company

The Dates: Nov. 2-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Carnegie | BTC page |

WEST MOON STREET

Mariemont Players Inc.

The Dates: Nov. 2-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mariemont Players | BTC page |

 

Jesus Christ Superstar | Halloween | Cloud Atlas | Chasing Mavericks | Silent Hill 3d Revelation Special Showing

By Leave a Comment

Hello Dayton! Last week’s blog featured lots of scary movies just in time for Halloween. This week focuses on more special events as well as upcoming releases that should be sure to make a splash!

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR MONDAY OCTOBER 29TH & THURSDAY NOVEMBER 1ST @ 7:30PM

Experience Andrew Lloyd Webber’s newly staged rock opera sensation Jesus Christ Superstar in a whole new way, on the big screen. The theatrical production originally opened in the West End in 1972 and has been reimagined to capture today’s audiences with the classic musical numbers that you are sure to remember and love. The evening will begin with an exclusive historical retrospective on this iconic title including interviews with cast members from the past and present. This version features actor/singer Ben Forster as Jesus, Tim Minchin as Judas Iscariot, and Melanie Chisholm (aka Mel C from the Spice Girls) as Mary Magdalene.

Don’t miss this special event playing two nights only!

 

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x61EQP-4IUY’]

HALLOWEEN TUESDAY OCTOBER 30TH @ 7:30PM

Celebrate the day before Halloween with one of Halloween’s best loved scary movies! The original movie from 1972 featuring Jamie Lee Curtis will be on the big screen for just one night at one time and it’s more terrifying than ever. A psychotic murderer institutionalized since childhood for the murder of his sister, escapes and stalks a bookish teenage girl and her friends while his doctor chases him through the streets.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zrp-k-OnrM’]

 

 

 

 

CLOUD ATLAS- OPENING FRIDAY OCTOBER 26TH

An exploration of how the actions of individual lives impact one another in the past, present and future, as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero, and an act of kindness ripples across centuries to inspire a revolution. Beginning as far back as an 1849 diary of an ocean voyage and going as far into the future during a post-apocalyptic, this movie, based off a novel, has a stellar cast featuring Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, and Susan Serandon.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQFAPeaJOf8′]

CHASING MAVERICKS- OPENING FRIDAY OCTOBER 26TH

The inspirational true story of real life surfing phenomenon Jay Moriarty begins when 15 year old Jay discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home. He enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson to train him to survive it. As Jay and Frosty embark on their quest to accomplish the impossible, they form a unique friendship that transforms both their lives, and their quest to tame Mavericks becomes as much about their bond as it is about surfing.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YYc3jRoua8′]

SPECIAL SHOWING- SILENT HILL: REVELATION 3D THURSDAY OCTOBER 25TH @ 10PM

Heather Mason and her father have been on the run, always one step ahead of dangerous forces that she doesn’t fully understand, Now on the eve of her 18th birthday, plagued by horrific nightmares and the disappearance of her father, Heather discovers she’s not who she thinks she is. The revelation leads her deeper into a demonic world that threatens to trap her forever. This movie releases on Friday, October 26th but has a special early show Thursday at 10pm.

Click for showtimes…

ENTER TO WIN TWO MOVIE PASSES!

Complete the form and leave a Facebook comment telling us you want to WIN MOVIE PASSES from RAVE CINEMAS DAYTON SOUTH, we will randomly draw a winner and notify same. Contest closes 10/25/12. Passes awarded will be valid for 30 days from close date at Rave Cinemas Dayton South only and must be used by then or will be forfeited. Valid for any showing, except special events. Please bring ID to verify your name and just ask for a manager when attending informing them you won the Dayton Most Metro contest.

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to this week’s winner:

Brian Anzek

Jazz Spotlight: Phil DeGreg + Upcoming Local Jazz Oct. 24 – Nov. 6

By Leave a Comment

Happy October 24th; Well You Needn’t – First recorded for Blue Note (549) on October 24, 1947, it is one of Thelonious Monk’s most recorded and most popular tunes, and a very good example of Monk’s penchant for chromatic harmonic motion.

Who is Phil DeGreg?

Phil DeGreg began playing the piano in his childhood and now performs as a jazz pianist internationally. His earliest jazz influences were Bud Powell and Bill Evans, but he is accomplished and comfortable in a wide range of jazz styles, ranging from mainstream to bebop to Brazilian jazz. His versatility has led to professional performances with dozens of internationally recognized jazz artists, as well as leading and recording with his own groups. Phil DeGreg has released nine recordings as a leader and has been recorded as a sideman on many other jazz projects.

A native of Cincinnati, Phil completed a degree in psychology from Yale University before becoming a professional musician. After three years working and studying music in Kansas City, he finished a masters degree atUniversity of North Texas, and subsequently toured the world for a year with Woody Herman’s Thundering Herd. Later he was the recipient of two National Endowment for the Arts grants. He was named one of the 10 finalists in Jazziz Magazine’s 1995 “Keyboardists on Fire” competition, and was a 1996 finalist in the Great American Jazz Piano Competition. Phil has performed in clubs and concerts throughout the United States, and in the United Kingdom,France, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Brazil.

Phil considers music to be a gift and is dedicated to sharing his love of jazz through teaching. Phil was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to lecture about jazz in Brazil, which he did for three months in the spring of 2008. He is currently Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, where he teaches jazz theory, arranging, piano, and ensembles. He has taught for the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops (since 1982), the UK Jazzwise Jazz Camps (since 1996) and has served on the faculty of the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, the Miami Valley Summer Jazz Workshops, and the Jim Widner Jazz Camps.

You can catch Phil at Dee Felice in Covington, KY every Sunday at 4:00pm as well as many other places in our area; check the Jazz Advocate calendar.

Jazz Calendar

Here are some (not all) of the upcoming jazz events for the next couple of weeks:

Tonight Wednesday, October 24 – Tonight, for you dancers, the Lizz & Rex Quartet is at The Dayton Event Connection and Dave Greer’s Classic Jazz Stompers performs at Neil’s Heritage House both in Dayton.
Thursday October 25 – Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra is at The Blue Wisp Jazz Club in Cincinnati and Backstage w/TCarpe Diem & Speak Williams is at The Lincoln Theatre in Columbus.
Friday October 26 – Shawn Stanley Trio performs at Carvers Steaks & Chops in Centerville while Terry Murphy and Company Band is playing The De’lish Café in Dayton.
Saturday October 27 – Chez Norain in Covington, KY has Halloween! with Ricky Nye Inc. and Nighttown in Cleveland Heights presents the Greg Abate Quintet Featuring Phil Woods.
Sunday October 28 – Dayton’s longest jazz jam continues at Jazz Central in Dayton and the Phil DeGreg Trio is at Dee Felice in Covington, KY.
Monday October 29 – the John Taylor Trio is at the Brio Tuscan Grille in Beavercreek and the Clintonville Woman’s Club is hosting Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra.
Tuesday October 30 – Park Street Tavern continues their Jazz Jam and the Tony Monaco Trio performs at The Rumba Café both in Columbus.
Wednesday October 31 – the Tuxedo Junction Big Band is at The The Dayton Event Connection and the James Elliott Project Featuring Roger Baccus is performing at Zanzibar Brews in Columbus.
Thursday November 1 – The Dayton Art Institute Vectren Jazz & Beyond series concludes with on of their most popular offerings when Puzzle of Light returns. Stay tuned for when their next season begins in March of 2013.
Friday November 2 – Jazz Alive presents The Cohesion Jazz Ensemble at The Fairfield Community Arts Center in Fairfield, OH and the Thompson House presents the Eddie Brookshire Quintet in Newport, Ky.
Saturday November 3– Schwartz’s Point in Over-The-Rhine presents The NEW Ed Moss Trio in Cincinnati and The Jazz Kitchen offers Corey Christiansen in Indianapolis, IN.
Sunday November 4 – PAT KELLY’s PsychoAcoustic Orchestra will play at The Blue Wisp Jazz Club in Cincinnati and John Hampton Wagner returns to Jazz Central for their regular Jazz Jam in Dayton.
Monday November 5 – the Derek DiCenzo Trio is at Local Roots in Powell, OH and the Ed Moss & The Society Jazz Orchestra plays Schwartz’s Point in Over-The-Rhine in Cincinnati.

More info and jazz listings can be found at JazzAdvocate.com

Vandalia Vixens Ignite Spitfire Lounge

By 2 Comments

A Clockwork Soul

Saturday October 13 three female powerhouse voices played the Spitfire stage. Some growled, some sang, some yelled but all carried and delivered one hell of a vocal wallop. Windowing Hollow productions once again books another kick ass show, this time showcasing the ladies. The evening also celebrated one brand new special lady in the form of W.H. promoter John’s new granddaughter Jalyn Michelle born at 1pm at 7lbs 1 ounce.

Up first A ClockWork Soul featuring blonde Amazonian bombshell Mystie Rose sporting steel coated vocal chords that growl, screech, yell and sooth the most gentle or jaded of ears. Dressed in black, sporting handcuffs, chains, biker attire and who knows what else, Rose has a ‘slightly’ commanding, dominating presence earning her femme fatale status. She looks like she belongs on any stage she chooses to stand on. A modern day Janis Joplin with attitude and a little Otep too, with a voice carrying the husky sexiness of Nina Blackwood that will growl you into submission and claw its way gently into your heart. She’s not the kind of girl who has to act tough, she legitimately looks like she could step into a cage and maim someone then sing a song about it.
Until The End carries a living on the mean streets, fight for survival desolation. Rose growls into the mic shaking with violent rage, eyes wide with killer instinct and a lioness’s fury. Tonight she lays claim to queen of the jungle. The soft synth waved intro of Out There is treated with her softer voice picking up fever as she goes. She sings with the voice of experience, carrying, delivering the emotions and living the stories within the songs. Count The Ways is all about that special someone we meet and think the search is over then find out she’s a complete psycho bitch. They do a very unexpected tribute to Don Henley with The Boys of Summer. I doubt any Henley song will ever be played that heavy or loud again. In conclusion, Out on the road today, I saw a ClockWork Soul sticker on a Cadillac, a little voice inside my head said ‘Don’t look back you can never look back.’

Gathering Mercury

Named after a song by Men at Work’s Colin Hay, Dayton’s Gathering Mercury play with a rock, metal, punk attitude all of which are reflected in singer/guitarist Ashley Stacey’s hot hairdo. The young runaway sports a remarkable resemble to Kelly Osbourne and Jane Wiedlin playing with the same rebellious heart and youth. Her vocals carry the attitude and cat like scratch of Joan Jett. While her influences range from Avril Lavigne to Pat Benatar to Pink, she’s been performing since age 9 which now would make her 18th year sound like a veteran age. Her style doesn’t carry the in your face soulful wailing of Janis Joplin but instead packages it in a more subtle but attractive manor.  She sings the songs with a mix of innocent breathy delivery, edgy feminine punk aggression and inherent cuteness with the seeds of success firmly planted. They play originals I Give, Not Too Late and Nothing To Me with a catchy indie rock flavor while the laid back bluesy Where The Others Go flirts with ballad territory every few minutes but sticks with its loud sound. They also showed respect to the music culture of the early 70’s playing some Rock n Roll Hoochie Koo perhaps louder than Johnny Winter or Rick Derringer ever intended. Bassist Quique Bucio even dressed up for the occasion.  They also decide to Paint It Black with The Rolling Stones and the wild frantic playing, soloing of guitarist Max Mobarry flipping his red mane around like his head was on fire.

Killed by Art

Today’s a good day to be Killed By Art. Though they play with a certain murderous skill their sound is nothing but life affirming to the ears. Singer Kimberly Weiss’s soulful gritty voice takes a page from 4 Non Blondes Linda Perry. They break out the best grit and grime of the good grunge. Roots plays with a down n dirty guitar dragging the water straight from the Louisiana bayou.  She pulls Joplin’s spirit from the other side incorporating it into her own tribute to the lost voices of history. CD opener Stolen starts out smooth as silk loaded with bass emotion slowly building up a few catchy up and downward spiral hills tag teaming with heavy guitar crescendos.   New tunes Down and Dark Hero were tried out and met with loud reaction.

The bands sound resembles a mosh pit mixture of Alice In Chains, Down, Fight and BLS. Weiss’s voice has an Eurythmic charm with lots of Heart and maybe a hint of GA GA. Their CD Habeas Corpus can be downloaded at www.facebook.com/KilledByArt.

Over The Rhine at Victoria Theatre

By 5 Comments

Fresh off a boatload accolades for their recent Joe Henry-produced CD, The Long Surrender,OVER THE RHINE kicks off Victoria Theatre Association’s 2012-2013 Projects Unlimited Variety Series by bringing their latest studio album to the historic Victoria Theatre stage for one night only, Friday, October 26 at 7:30 p.m. Musical guest Joel Henderson will be the opening act. Tickets are available by visiting or calling Ticket Center Stage at 937/228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

OVER THE RHINE, a popular southern Ohio-based husband-and-wife team of multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Linford Detweiler and vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Karin Bergquist, is known as Cincinnati’s own indie alternative/folk/Americana duo and has produced over 20 recordings. They have shared the stage with the likes of Bob Dylan, John Prine, Adrian Belew, Squeeze, Ani DiFranco, My Morning Jacket and Hem, as well as toured as “adjunct” members of the Cowboy Junkies.

Tickets for the OVER THE RHINE are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll free (888) 228-3630 and online atwww.ticketcenterstage.com.

For more information about Victoria Theatre Association’s 2012-2013 season, visit www.victoriatheatre.com

About The Long Surrender

The record, released last year on OtR’s own Great Speckled Dog label (named for the couple’s Great Dane, Elroy), marks 20 years since their 1991 debut. It’s the bountiful result of a collaboration between the couple and producer Joe Henry, whose songs they’ve long admired.

“Joe has been quietly making records (well not that quietly, he has won at least two Grammys) that don’t sound like other records bring made,” says Detweiler.

“They are a little bit dark and cinematic and funky and unpredictable. It seems like he loves to help performers who have already covered a lot of miles — Mavis Staples, Elvis Costello, Solomon Burke, Loudon Wainwright III, Ramblin’ Jack Elliot, Mose Allison, Allen Toussaint — rediscover the soul of what they do in a new light.” The Long Surrender was recorded at Henry’s Garfield House studio in South Pasadena, Calif.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98fO4r-GzM0′]

Dayton Most Metro Ticket Giveaway

We have a pair of tickets to give away to see Over the Rhine this Friday 10/26 at the Victoria Theatre – just fill out the form below and then leave us a comment saying that YOU want to win tickets and we’ll draw a winner tomorrow 10/24 before noon.  Good luck!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congrats to our winners:

Scott Ryan

James Brytus

Foy’s Hulks Up For Halloween

By Leave a Comment

Lou Ferrigno as the Incredible Hulk

Saturday October 20th Foy’s Halloween Store in partnership with the Fairborn Chamber of Commerce brought in fitness celebrity and actor Lou Ferrigno. Known for his body building prowess and memorable TV appearances as the angrier side of David Banner, he was the winner of the IFBB Mr. America Title and two consecutive IFBB Mr. Universe Titles. He also appeared in the body building documentary Pumping Iron. From 2000-2007 he played himself on the CBS Sitcom King of Queens and in the 2009 feature comedy I Love You, Man. Ferrigno hung out with fans, signed autographs, posed for pics and walked around Friday evening socializing with the locals. This is the first national celebrity appearance booked by Foy’s and Fairborn. Store owner Mike Foy met Ferrigno in Columbus at an Arnold Classic a few years back and inquired about a future appearance. It took a little time but the deal was done.

Foy’s store is the only year round Halloween supply stores in case you feel the need to scare someone and it’s a different season. There are six different Fairborn stores showcasing Foy’s items. There’s a special age appropriate Halloween store for kids where little ghouls and zombie princesses can roam around without getting too scared. Of course for the older Hellraiser or Hot Vampiress there’s a tailor made adult store for costumes on the bigger side and other attire more on the devilish/devious side of Halloween fashion.

The original Foy’s in Fairborn (photo by Juliet Fromholt)

This year marks their 83rd anniversary and they’re celebrating with a first ever Halloween Festival. Friday October 26th from 4-11pm and Saturday October 27th 10am-11pm. Friday’s costume judging for the 48th Annual Spooktacular Parade will begin at 6pm at the YMCA with prizes awarded for 8 age groups plus pets based on originality, cuteness and whatever scary, creepy stuff one can put yourself into. Parade will start at 7:30 traveling to the maiming stage area on Main Street. There will also be all day Amusement Rides, so if you spin, twirl around, go upside down enough times you’ll walk like the undead anyway. Saturday the 3rd annual scary cardio craze Zombie Walk will commence dragging feet from the Great American Legion at 8:30pm. Hosted by The Fairborn Community Center, Pre-party starts at 7pm with make-up, raffle, photo ops and optional blood bath (cleanliness is next to Godliness). There is a $5 entry fee. Other festivities include a Zombie Thriller dance performed with grave skill at 9 followed by a Gene Simmons Impersonator.

Also on Friday The Fairborn Community Library wants you to be in a one of a kind ‘lively’ music video for their YouTube channel. Professional videographer Scott Cornell will be filming the zombie part of a Halloween tribute to the Thriller video at 8pm.  Zombies created at 6:30, get there early. There are multiple parts for dancers who would usually devour books with their eyes and…..braaains. This is an all ages event so no blood or gore even during after-hours operation. Zombie make-up will be provided if needed. Also if you know or can learn The Thriller, grizzly ghouls from every tomb will be needed Saturday at 2pm for the Thrill The World dance around the main stage. Go to www.thrilltheworld.com.
Next year Foy’s plans to bring in Butch Patrick aka Eddie Munster and might have a few upcoming Halloween surprises straight from Haddonfield.  So you have no excuses to be bored next weekend. Come and join the fun, friendly, fiendish atmosphere and all day entertainment and scare up a good time.

Entries Sought for Eighth Annual “Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays” Contest

By Leave a Comment

The Dayton Holiday Festival is looking for the area’s most creative confectionary decorators to compete in the eighth annual Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays contest on Friday, Nov. 23. Located inside the Old Court House at Third and Main streets in downtown Dayton, entries will be judged and displayed for public viewing that day only, during the Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights from 4-9 p.m.

Visitors to the Dayton Holiday Festival check out a winning gingerbread house during last year’s competition.

Stir up your icing and your imagination! All ages and skill levels are invited to participate in this free contest by entering a gingerbread house in the youth (12 and younger), teen (13-17), adult (18 and older) or professional category. Entry forms and a complete list of contest rules are available for download at www.daytonholidayfestival.org.  Forms may be submitted to the Downtown Dayton Partnership at 10 W. Second St., Suite 611, Dayton, OH 45402 or by e-mail to [email protected]. Entry forms are due by Wednesday, Nov. 14.   

Get rolling and win dough! Traditional houses, replicas of buildings, a purchased kit or even cardboard entries are permitted (as long as all exposed surfaces are covered with edible materials). First place in each category will receive a prize package featuring a variety of items. Awards also will be given to second and third place winners in each category. In addition, one amateur and one professional house will be selected as the “Best Houses on the Block” and each will win a $500 cash prize.

The 2010 winner for “Best House on the Block.” The creator of the gingerbread house that wins this category will receive a $500 cash prize.

“The entries get more creative each year,” said Sandy Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “The imagination and skill that goes into creating each of these gingerbread houses makes for a really special exhibit ― it’s always a fun part of our holiday season kickoff.”

Contest entries are to be delivered to the Old Court House between 10 a.m. and noon on Friday, Nov. 23. They will be judged from 2-4 p.m., and the winners will be notified by telephone. All contest winners will have the opportunity to be recognized on the Main Stage in Courthouse Square before the Grande Illumination tree lighting ceremony at 7:45 p.m.

The Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays contest is supported by media sponsors Community News Group Dayton and Mix 107.7 FM, along with community sponsor the Downtown Priority Board. The contest is part of the month-long Dayton Holiday Festival, presented by OneMain Financial and sponsored by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, City of Dayton, Montgomery County and the Virginia W. Kettering Dayton Holiday Festival Fund. For more information on the contest and other activities that are part of the Dayton Holiday Festival, which this year is marking 40 years of kicking off the holiday season in the Dayton region, call 937-224-1518 or visit www.daytonholidayfestival.org.

Take Us Home: A Dayton Film from Israel

By Leave a Comment

If I told you there is a touching documentary that tells the story of the exodus of a family of Ethiopian Jews to Israel  – would you think it’s a Dayton film? Well – it is! TAKE US HOME is the most recent documentary by Aileen LeBlanc, known for telling the Joe Desch story through Dayton Codebreakers. Aileen worked with a Dayton-based team that included Mike King, Jim Klein, Michael and Sandy Bashaw, John Mays, Julia Reichert and Steven Bognar, and many others.  Major support for this project came from The Levin Family Foundation and numerous local partnerswho helped bring the story to life.

TAKE US HOME follows Fekadu who has been waiting for ten years in Ethiopia to go to Israel to reunite with his siblings and be welcomed into a more full experience with his Jewish faith. We see the rest of his family get the go-ahead for the trip, but Fekadu, his wife and their six children must stay behind. They learn their emigration is in jeopardy because of their adopted son, Worku. They must leave him behind or be forced to stay in Ethiopia under religious persecution. The audience watches the challenging decisions between faith, family and freedom. We watch how the events unfold in Ethiopia and Israel. Even returning ‘home’ to their Israel is not easy as the Ethiopian Jews are outcasts; they are overwhelmed by life in the high-tech, Hebrew-speaking country and their Jewish-ness is doubted among their new countrymen.

The Dayton premiere of this award-winning documentary will take place on Thursday, November 15 at the Dayton Art Institute. It’s presented as part of the Cultural Arts and Book Festival in partnership with FilmDayton, The Dayton Art Institute, 91.3 FM WYSO, and the Jewish Community Relations Council. A 7 PM reception precedes the 7:30PM screening of the film. Immediately following, there will be a Q&A with the filmmakers. As a special treat Worku and Fekadu will be in attendance to answer your questions about their story! Tickets are only $5 in advance and $7 at the door and may be purchased through The Dayton Art Institute Web page. [yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wCfzmj9CSY&feature=plcp’]

Welcoming the movies to Dayton – and your house!

By Leave a Comment

Production companies reach out to the local nonprofit FilmDayton for help in securing the best locations for commercials, films and television program. Now FilmDayton is reaching out to the Miami Valley for help in learning about more film-friendly homes, businesses and locations.

Are you excited by all the buzz about the growing film industry in Ohio? Do you want to support it without FilmDayton launched the Reel Treasures of the Miami Valley contest for you!

You don’t have to be a glamorous movie star or an award-winning filmmaker to get in on the growing film industry in Ohio. The old cliché that “Everything in life is location, location, location” is true for those in the business of film making. Setting the scene is an early step in projects from television series to a critically-acclaimed indie film to a major summer blockbuster.  FilmDayton wants that step to be taken in the Miami Valley, and you can help make it happen.

“Our region has so many possibilities – cozy houses to large mansions, unique restaurants and shops, great classic cars and antique farm equipment, interesting warehouse districts and cutting-edge medical centers, and urban, suburban and rural treasures. This diversity of locations can help our region attract film productions and put money in the pockets of some property owners,” says Megan Cooper, Director of FilmDayton.

FilmDayton, a regional non-profit organization seeking to foster the local film making community, has announced a competition to find the varied locations in the greater Dayton area.  The competition is open through November 17.  If you are the owner of a home, business, property or facility and like the possibility of seeing your location in a movie, this is the contest for you.

FilmDayton serves the entire Miami Valley; submissions from Montgomery, Darke, Miami, Shelby, Clark, Champaign, Greene, Warren, Preble and Butler Counties are encouraged. It’s vital that the locations database be able to accurately reflect the diverse landscape across our region to be competitive and give all people across the Miami Valley a shot to be considered.

How important is the right location? Multiple reality shows seeking businesses, restaurants, exotic pools, interesting homes, and haunted locations are interested in filming in the Miami Valley – but they need to find the right spot. Feature filmmakers are currently in conversation with FilmDayton and looking for the perfect location.

We’re Doing Fine, by acclaimed New York-based filmmaker Djuna Wahlrab, will film in the Dayton area in Spring of 2013 and the team has begun the search for the right locations. A furnished side-by-side double and a hospital setting are high on their list of location needs.

Helping build up the region’s locations database is a vital step for our growing film community. Cooper says, “When FilmDayton gets the call that a production is looking for a farm house near a stream, an office in a high-rise, or a thriving local business – having a photo to get to the director immediately will make us more competitive with our colleagues across the state.”

Often requested locations include furnished houses of all sizes, medical centers and schools. But Cooper says that being prepared for anything requires a complete database of photos from all people willing to welcome a film production to their property.

When True Nature, the drama and supernatural thriller written and directed by Patrick Steele, filmed in Dayton familiar locations like a beautiful historic mansion, a downtown office building and a local restaurant were featured.

There’s benefit in it for the property owner, too. Typically, productions pay for use of the house, property, land or object. But beyond the financial benefit – you may get to see your place on the big screen.

Reel Treasures of the Miami Valley – How to Submit

The process is simple, but please note that ONLY the owner (and the person who grants permission) of the property, item or location has the authority to submit to the contest.

First, take a clear, low-resolution photo from a solid angle.  Include your name, physical address of location and contact information with the photos. Here are some photo taking tips!

To encourage some friendly competition, FilmDayton will invite industry insiders to review the submissions and select top submission from the following categories. Top photos may be featured on the FilmDayton web site. Categories include:

  • Industrial/Warehouse
  • Arts (galleries, theaters, auditoriums, etc)
  • Open Spaces (parks, gardens, farms, water, etc)
  • Residential (homes of all sorts – include a second shot of special features)
  • Businesses (offices, storefronts, restaurants/bars, etc)
  • Medical/Hospital
  • Era Location Shots – Examples include office from the 70s with authentic furniture and shag carpet, a fully-furnished kitchen from the 50s, etc
  • Special Props – antique cars/farm equipment, unique kitchen items, etc…

Thanks to partner Dodd Camera, two overall winners will get our top prize of a digital camera. In addition to their many Dayton stores, Dodd Camera is now open in Cincinnati near the Kenwood Mall with a gigantic selection of cameras, lenses and accessories plus a rental department including a rental studio.

More information can be found at www.FilmDayton.com. The contest ends on November 17, so grab your camera today and show the rest of the country that locations all across the Miami Valley are worth immortalizing on film.

Submit your photo to:

FilmDaytonLocations@gmail.com

Include your name, physical address of location, and contact information.

Oskar Blues Ten Fidy: CAN you dig it?

By 8 Comments

 

Oskar Blues Ten Fidy

So, to my fellow Ohioans, remember when Yuengling came rolling into town? It was chaos. People went absolutely bonkers for that beer. There were villagers with pitchforks, fires in the streets, and I can recall at least three riots just in the tiny cul de sac I live in… which is weird because I don’t even think my neighbors drink beer. I think a few people died. We are used to seeing Yuengling at every bar and gas station around here now, but at first it was nuts. Whatever, the point is that Ohioans love new beer. This week, a little brewery by the name of Oskar Blues came rolling in like they owned the place (and they totally do). Unlike with Yuengling, which caters to a wider audience (nothing wrong with that, I might add!), this time it was time for the beer geeks to take to the streets and rejoice. “Can it be true?” we shouted while lighting our torches. “Is Oskar Blues finally on our shelves?”. Yes, yes indeed they are. And holy crap I’m excited.Oskar Blues Ten Fidy

If you aren’t familiar (or if you haven’t been to pretty much any other state), Oskar Blues made all those delicious craft beers in cans before it was cool to put craft beers in cans. I’m talking ten years ago! Among their canned beauties is the massive imperial stout Ten Fidy, which is probably the most famous and delicious imperial stouts found inside of aluminum. It’s right up there with greats like Plead the Fifth, Expedition Stout, BORIS, and Blackout Stout… Except it comes in a flippin’ can! You crack it open like Natty Light, except it pours like motor oil and tastes good.

Ten Fidy is named so because the alcohol content is 10.50% ABV. Just FYI, “ten fidy” is how the cool kids say “ten point five”. Keep that in mind next time you go shoe shopping. It’s 98 IBUs (International Bittering Units), which helps balance the huge malt flavor. I don’t know how they make it, but I assume that it’s made with a stupid amount of malt and unicorn blood for added tasty magic. Admittedly, it’s a tad pricey at $13-$15 for a 4-pack, but trust me when I tell you that it’s a small price to pay considering how delicious it is. Did I mention it’s delicious? It’s delicious.

A few months ago, I grabbed some of this beer from some website and filmed a review of it. I’m sipping this beer as I type this, and let me tell you it probably holds up to whatever the hell I said in this video (I can’t be bothered to actually re-watch it). So check it out. Or don’t. I don’t care, just go grab some Ten Fidy and thank me later.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwkfWSf7WJk’]

Also make sure you keep your eyes peeled for all the other fantastic Oskar Blues cans like Dale’s Pale Ale, G’knight, Old Chub, and pretty much anything else that has the words “Oskar” and “Blues” on the label.

A Sinister Approach to Found Footage Genre

By Leave a Comment

From the producer of Paranormal Activity and writer/director of The Exorcism of Emily Rose, Sinister is being marketing as a horror film which it is but is much more than your run of the mill haunted house story. Its part horror, suspense, psychological thriller, supernatural ghost story, true crime drama and even part snuff film.  It gives plot nods to The Amityville Horror and in smaller extent The Strangers. Ethan Hawke plays Ellison Oswalt a true crime writer moving his family into a murder house so he can write a book about it and re-ignite his career.  The local sheriff’s none to pleased or happy with their presence given the former residents demise and Oswalts reputation and best seller Kentucky Blood.

It’s a different/unique take on the ‘found footage’ genre, having the main character find old home movies stashed up in the attic. The audience watches the strategically placed Super 8’s with him throughout the movie sharing his feeling and emotions. Some start innocently with family get-together’s but end up gruesome. The films grainy footage, high realism and creepy melancholy ambiance give off feelings of hidden discomfort watching them through windows or witnessing a creepy crawl in their homes. A few reels in we see Mr. Boogie. Hawke’s character slowly tries to put the pieces together as things happen around the house from bumps in the night to ghostly projector running. We watch as he slowly starts to mentally unravel while his wife deals with his bizarre behavior and the situation’s influence on the kids. Despite some drawings on the wall the scares for the most part are creative and original.   Past and present events play with his conscious showing an inner struggle questioning his own motivations and the building driving/obsessive desire to know more about what happened and why. Has he written true crime for his own personal gain and legacy or an honest desire to bring justice to the victim’s?

The supernatural element picks up mid-way and the music makes the movie just as scary and perverse as the plot.  We hear subtle background voices whisper in Oswalt’s ear as he creeps around the dark house and genuinely uncomfortable music and effects in the projection scenes, planting a subconscious toying suggestion, though the box was meant to be found, you’re really not supposed to be seeing this. With help from one of the local PD he slowly gathers information on the entity, its purpose uncovering a pattern. The entities appearances are creatively strategic as one might expect to see it waiting in the corner when a character enters a room or a door is closed. Sinister’s ending is dark, twisted, ballsy and disturbing even making movie sleuths ahead of Hawks character think, are they really going there?  Then again how many true crime stories have happy endings?
Much of the tension is built on slow burn suspense and anticipation of what might or is about to happen. There’s of course a few jump scares but many you don’t see coming. The movie will genuinely disturb some people. Several scenes are Saw level violent which isn’t completely expected heightening the impact.  A lot of Sinister is what your mind might conjure up while reading a true crime novel of the movie, put on screen.  One of its great elements is the combination of supernatural/gore and real life horror. To a certain point the movie happens in a real life setting. Hawke’s character doesn’t succumb to the stereotypical actions a character/victim usually does instead comes off real, like a normal guy who happens to write about unexplained, gruesome events and is watching/experiencing them himself.

Christopher’s To Host Autumn Wine Dinner

By Leave a Comment


Christopher’s Restaurant in Kettering began serving beer and wine about a year ago and now on Saturday, November 3rd they will be hosting an autumn wine dinner  at 4:30 pm. It will feature an exquisite, five-course, small plate menu with samplings of 5 different wines from their newly updated wine list.  Reservations are required and limited.

You can call  299-0089 or stop by Christopher’s at 2318 Dorothy Lane to purchase your tickets. Reservations will be available until October 31st unless they sell out, which at $30 per person will be quickly, I predict!

The Menu is as follows:

Squash soup with lump crab and toasted almond fraiche  with Rodney Strong Chardonnay

Fig and goat cheese toastettes with Darcy Kent Pinot Noir

Beet salad with hazelnuts horseradish vinaigrette and melted brie with Hand Craft Petite Sirah

Roast Duck with Apple Cider Gravy & Sweet Potato Gnocci with Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon

Dark Chocolate Sacher Torte with Lock & Ket Meritage

Vegetarian options are available

Madness, Murder And Magnificient Music with Dayton Opera’s Lucia Di Lammermoor + TICKET CONTEST

By 5 Comments

On Friday, October 26 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, October 28 at 3 p.m. in the Mead Theatre of the Schuster Center, Dayton Opera will present Gaetano Donizetti’s chilling tragedy Lucia di Lammermoor performed in Italian with English surtitles. The opera kicks off the passionate 2012-2013 Occupy Opera Season.

In this opera based on a novel by Sir Walter Scott, madness – or at the very least confusion – is running rampant. For starters, although all the characters are Scottish, their first names are Italian and — like TV’s “Mad Men” — men rule the day and women are pawns as marriages are arranged to create powerful family alliances. Obviously there’s no eHarmony, not even Match.com!

Here’s the drill: Enrico Ashton of Lammermoor has plans for his sister, Lucia, to marry Arturo Bucklaw. But she only has eyes for Edgardo, a hunter who rescued her from a mad bull, even though a ghostly maiden has warned her that loving Edgardo will only end in tragedy. To trick her into marrying Arturo, Lucia’s brother hands her a forged letter from Edgardo maintaining that he loves another woman. Near suicidal, Lucia nonetheless consents to marrying Arturo. At the wedding ceremony Edgardo suddenly bursts in, sees Lucia’s signature on the marriage contract, tears his ring from her finger, curses her, and runs out. In a word, he’s mad!

So, what’s a girl to do? You guessed it. Now completely bonkers, Lucia stabs and kills her husband on their wedding bed and returns to the wedding party blood-spattered and not realizing what she’s done (talk about killing a party). Then in one of the most famous and hair-raising mad scenes in the history of theatre, Lucia, in a dream-like state, recalls her first meeting with Edgardo as if he’s the one that she’s married. Having reached her limit she collapses to the floor dead and, to make things worse, when Edgardo learns she’s dead, he kills himself. Talk about messy breakups!

All kidding aside, the suspense, tension, and sheer terror in this opera is palpable, but above all the music is absolutely magnificent!

“It takes truly talented singing artists to recreate the masterful music of Donizetti’s demanding score, and that’s what we have in our Dayton Opera cast,” explained Dayton Opera Artistic Director Thomas Bankston. “We are excited to have company debuts in three of the leading roles of this production, soprano Angela Mortellaro as Lucia, tenor Joshua Kohl as Edgardo, and baritone Lee Poulos as Enrico. Returning to Dayton Opera in the role of Raimondo is bass Matthew Burns.”

Dayton Opera favorites Kathleen Clawson, stage director, and Joseph Mechavich, conductor, who collaborated on last season’s La Bohème, return to lend their talented direction.

There are several opportunities to learn all the “scoop” about Lucia di Lammermoor!  Back by popular demand, Art & Arias returns to Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North on Sunday Oct. 21 at 2:00 pm. This lively hour-long look at opera and art features musical performances and insight into how the visual arts relate to this production. Art & Arias is free and open to the public.

Also, the free and informative Opera Overture presentations, with the humorous opera aficionado and University of Dayton professor Dr. Sam Dorf, will be held on Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012 at 5 p.m. at Books & Co. at The Greene and Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3211 Lakeview Ave., Dayton.

In its third year, the Mid-Day Arts Café series continues, highlighting the professional arts organizations in the Dayton area. On Tuesday, Oct. 23, Bankston, Clawson and Mechavich will provide interesting insights into the upcoming production and the rest of the Dayton Opera season. Tickets are $12 and include a box lunch provided by Citilites Restaurant & Bar.  Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m. and the presentation starts promptly at noon.

Enjoy pre-performance entertainment and food-by-the-bite and beverages on sale in the Wintergarden beginning one-hour prior to the performance. For ticket holders, a 20-minute “Opera Preview” with Dr. Dorf is also offered one hour prior to both performances.

Tickets range from $36 to $92 and are available at Ticket Center Stage (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonopera.org. Friday Nite $15 Tweet Seats, which allows muted mobile devices during the performance and is sponsored by DP&L, are also available. Senior, teacher and student discounts are available at box office. Attendees are invited to attend the cast party following Friday’s performance at the Dayton Racquet Club.

Leadership Sponsors for Lucia di Lammermoor are Miriam Rosenthal Memorial Trust Fund, Caryl D. Philips and Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc. Entrepreneurship Circle Sponsors are Vectren and Dayton Marriott. Orchestral Music Sponsor is The Jesse Philips Opera Fund of The Dayton Foundation.

Dayton Most Metro Ticket Contest

We have TWO PAIRS OF TICKETS to give away for the Friday Oct. 26 show – simply fill out the form below and then leave a comment saying that YOU want to win tickets to see Dayton Opera’s Lucia Di Lammermoor.  We’ll announce winners on Friday 10/19 after 4pm.

PLUS – next week we’ll give away a pair of Tweet Seats (Friday Oct. 26 show) each day (Monday through Friday) on our Twitter page – after you’ve filled out the form, tweet the link to this article with the hashtag #TWEETSEATS.  We will direct-message winners.  GOOD LUCK!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to our winners:

Kirstie Young
Valerie Loveall

Coming up in Dayton Theatre: Oct. 19-28

By Leave a Comment

I don’t know about you, but I have had such a great couple weeks. I’ve seen some of the best pieces of community theatre I can remember having seen in a while, and it’s only looking up from here. The next couple weeks bring yet more opportunity for thrills, chills and spills!

Closing This Weekend!

And Miss Reardon Drinks A Little

The Dayton Theatre Guild

The Skinny: Three sisters are each misshapen in a different way by a childhood without order or stability.  Anna is a science teacher convinced she’s contracted a life-threatening illness; Catherine, who has her own life issues, is the sister who cares for her, and Ceil, also in the business of education, has manipulated life often at the expense of the other two. From this twisted mix the playwright has created an unexpected, delightful and ultimately touching comedy.

Dates: Closing this weekend, on Sunday 10/21.

Reviews: Dayton Most Metro/On Stage Dayton

Tickets: Please purchase tickets online at the Dayton Theatre Guild website, here.

Alex Carmichal (l) and Jared Mola in Dracula (Contributed photo)

Dracula

The Dayton Playhouse

The Skinny: Professor Van Helsing and his brave comrades must hunt down and destroy the evil Count Dracula. However, the Count is exceedingly resourceful, employing superhuman strength and psychic powers to confound his antagonists.

Dates: Closing this weekend, on Sunday 10/21

Reviews: Dayton Most Metro/On Stage Dayton

Tickets: Please visit the Dayton Playhouse website, here.

 

Opening This Weekend

Under A Red Moon

The Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Witness a chilling psychological thriller inspired by the true events of Britain’s notorious 1949 “Acid Bath Murderer.” Confessed serial killer John George Haigh awaits trial in prison as Dr. Ruth Covington arrives to determine his mental state for the court. While he welcomes their one-on-one encounter, Haigh won’t give up his secrets too easily, knowing full well that it’s the hangman’s noose if he is found sane. This World Premiere co-production with the Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center is a tightly-wound cat-and-mouse game to define the meaning of good and evil.

Dates: Opening 10/18 and running through 10/27

Tickets: Please visit the Human Race website, here.

The Schoolmarm’s In Danger

Tipp City Players

The Skinny: Big things are happening in the little town of Fritter Gulch. Much-loved schoolmarm Molly Dewdrop is about to open her brand new school and marry her true love Biff Baxter. Before that can happen the school and Molly must make the grade with the stern school inspector Tilla DeHon. Lurking in the shadows is the dastardly Blacky LaRoach and his equally evil brother Lefty. Their vile plan … cruel vengeance! Gotta love “meller-dramer!”

The Dates: One Weekend Only! 10/19 – 10/21 at the Tipp City Roller Mill

Tickets: To reserve tickets, please call 937-667-SHOW (7469)

The Winter’s Tale

University of Dayton Theatre Department

The Skinny: This Shakespeare play begins with the darkest tragedy and ends in lighthearted romance, where blinding jealousy gives way to forgiveness in a magical conclusion. It’s also notable that this play includes a line of stage direction, instantly recognizable to all students of theatre or Shakespeare; “Exit, pursued by a Bear.”

Dates: Two weekends, opening 10/19 and closing 10/27

Tickets: For ticketing information, please visit the University of Dayton, Theatre Department website, here.

Opening Next Weekend!

Coming Back To Jersey

West Milton Players

The Skinny: Dayton theatre audiences may remember this script as a FutureFest finalist in 2008, when it was voted “Audience Favorite.” A comedy set in New Jersey in 1965.It is a story of Howard Karchmer, a middle-aged tailor who indulges in daydreams to escape his humdrum existence. Norma, his suspicious wife, believes he is fantasizing about Dorothy, a sexy widow friend. Norma schemes to have Dorothy flirt with Howard to test his fidelity, but Norma’s plan backfires when Howard connives with Dorothy to turn the trick around.

Dates: Weekends, October 26th – November 4th.

Tickets: For all production and ticketing information, please visit the Facebook Event page; here.

A Few Good Men

Xenia Area Community Theatre (X*ACT)

The Skinny: Fans of Aaron Sorkin’s TV and movie work will be delighted to take in his well-known military courtroom drama. Famously brought to the screen by, among others, Tom Cruise and Jack “You Can’t Handle The Truth” Nicholson, this is a gripping tale of whether or not something can be wrong, if your job is to do as you’re told.

Dates: Weekends, October 26th through November 4th

Tickets: Please visit the X*ACT website, here.

Funny Girl

Wright State University, Theatre Department

The Skinny: Funny Girl is the semi-biographical musical based on the life and career of Broadway and film star, the comedienne Fanny Brice and her stormy relationship with entrepreneur and gambler Nicky Arnstein. Audiences may be familiar with the movie starring Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif. It is from this musical that we get such musical theatre classics as “People” and “Don’t Rain On My Parade”.

Dates: 2 weekends, October 25th through November 4th at the Festival Playhouse.

Tickets: For tickets, please call 937-775-2500

 

Sugar Bean Sisters

Beavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny: A Southern gothic comedy of romance, murder and alien abduction, Sugar Bean Sisters takes us back to the sticky, humid environs of Sugar Bean, Florida, where audiences last visited in its companion piece, The Sugar Witch, at Dayton Theatre Guild. Sugar Bean Sisters is a lighter, more comedic piece, dripping with the same spanish moss and thrum of supernaturalism.

Dates: 2 weekends, October 26th through November 4th.

Full Disclosure: I’m in this, and in my (naturally, entirely unbiased!) opinion, it’s gonna beawesome.

Tickets: Please visit the Beavercreek Community Theatre website, .