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Archives for October 2012

SummitUp – The Bowman Connection

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David Bowman head shot

David Bowman

Facebook had just 100 million members around August of 2008. That is just a little less than the population of Mexico at the time, which would have put it at fourteenth in the world. The number of Facebook users has recently eclipsed  1 billion people, putting it at third in the world in terms of world population, just behind India. That is a massive amount of eyeballs looking to connect to something: entertainment, information, conversation, the list is endless. Since that explosion, everyone from major companies to small businesses have been trying to harness the power of this ever expanding opportunity to connect. It has become a source of innovative campaigns and beautiful disasters. It is a new frontier, and everyone is still looking for how to make it work for them.

David Bowman was one of those people. He had just come back to Dayton from seeing a presentation from Chris Brogan, and was discussing the experience with Sara McCatherine over lunch. The idea was to bring the top speakers from all over, at the edges of the fledgling explosion of social media, and bring them here. Thus the seeds of SummitUp were born. Through plenty of work and hustle, the first SummitUp in Dayton (2009) was brought to life. Every year it has been growing as social media grows, and this year is no different. David took some of his precious time in the final weeks before the Tuesday, October 16th event to answer a few questions about social media for us.

DMM: Your first degree was in political science. What attracted you to marketing from there? Did you see it as a natural extension, or did your interests change?

David Bowman: In college I was drawn to political science, as it was something that was inherently interesting to me.  I did well in Political Science classes, so decided to major in it, as I really had no idea what I wanted to do professionally.  I had considered becoming an attorney for a while, but ultimately the law did not appeal to me.  Instead I went to work in the business world, where I migrated into sales.  From there I came to discover the field of marketing and have never looked back.  Eventually I got my MBA with a concentration in Marketing, where I began to get a deeper understanding of the field.  In the end, Marketing and Political Science are both based in understanding needs and influencing human behavior.  The principles I learned in Political Science are directly applicable to my job, and probably give me a bit of a different perspective on things.

SummitUp Logo

Another year, another batch of wisdom.

How have you liked your teaching experience so far at the School of Advertising Art (SAA) ? What are some of the things the students are teaching you?

Teaching at SAA has been amazing.  It is one thing to believe you understand something.  It is something else entirely to have to understand something well enough to explain it to others in a way that is clear and compelling.  I am so fortunate to have been given the opportunity to teach Marketing at SAA.  It is making me a better practitioner of my craft and the energy, creativity, and curiosity of my students is inspiring.

DMM: What is the biggest challenge to creating an event like this, where you will have a significant cross section of new users and seasoned veterans looking for something to take away?

DB: SummitUp is challenging in that we want the event to be appealing to early adopters of technology who demand complexity and bleeding edge information while at the same time delivering content that is accessible to newcomers too.  Compounding things is that fact that the event is a collaborative volunteer effort with a focus on keeping prices low so that we can attract and educate the largest number of people possible.  The goal of the event is not to maximize profits, but rather to maximize the potential of those who attend.  We do our best to attract exceptionally talented speakers and presenters to the event, often at a fraction of their typical speaking fee or for free.  We then pass these savings on to attendees in the form of very affordable ticket prices.  Ultimately, the event has an incredible team of volunteers who work very hard to make sure that those who invest the time and money to attend get value from coming to the event.

DMM: What do you think is the biggest hurdle people have to understanding the value and potential of social media?

DB: People get lost in the incredible amount noise and dizzying pace of change.  Author Clay Shirky describes media as the “connective tissue” that holds us all together, which is a great way to think of it.  Social media is simply about people communicating with one another, and all media is now social.  If people keep things in the perspective of finding ways to use communication to build real and lasting relationships, social media is fairly simple to understand.

DMM: What brands are the best story tellers in the social media realms?

DB: Starbucks, Zappos, Amazon, and Southwest Airlines are some great examples of national brands that are using social media successfully and in very different ways.  Locally, brands like Dorothy Lane Market, Olive, and Dayton Children’s are all great examples.

DMM: What do you see brands or people doing on social media that frustrates you?

DB: Not listening, participating, or considering the opportunity to use social media as more than just a push marketing tool.

DMM: How do you see social media platforms evolving over the next five years?

DB: More mobility, more video, more speed, more content, more noise, more people, more, more, more.  Hopefully, what brands choose is to more carefully integrate social media with marketing strategy.  A recent Duke University Study cites that over 16% of organizations describe their social media efforts as “not at all integrated” with their overall business strategy.  This is something that must and will change, as brands begin to understand the real value that strategic integration can deliver.

DMM: Will social media become more integrated into the media department, or is this a new entity?

DB: They will become one in the same.  Traditional media is still alive and well, but it is becoming ever more social.  As best practices are established and technology matures, social media will become the tradition.  Anytime you have disruptive technology changes it takes a while for people to make sense of it all.  Eventually people begin to figure it out and then shift their focus to execution.  This is currently happening right before our eyes.  It is an exciting time to be a marketing professional.

Books full of storiesDMM: Social media professionals are still wrestling with how to prove the value to CEO’s, CIO’s, and other C-suite people. Are there certain numbers that offer more proof of value than others? It is ROI, or something else out there?

DB: It is ROI but that has to be framed in the context of customer equity.  Social media has the ability to strengthen relationships.  The ROI is less about the platforms and technologies and more about the actions and responses created through them.  Ideally, marketing professionals are moving toward an integrated approach to marketing.  This is more akin to systems thinking as opposed to trying to compartmentalize things.  The revolution in technology requires a paradigm shift.  It is no longer only about impressions or mass attention.  Now it is about connections, loyalty, and long term brand equity that can only come from focused, ongoing communication.

DMM: Are there any social media platforms out there that you can see emerging as a major player over the next few years?

DB: Certainly Pinterest has already shaken thing up in the last year.  Google+ will continue to evolve and grow, particularly as Google continues to integrate it with organic search.  There are countless other projects and platforms emerging to solve niche problems and connect niche audiences.  I will not pretend to have a crystal ball, but I can tell you that we will likely be talking about a whole new mix of tools by this time next year.

David has once again helped to organize an amazing event, bringing talents like Todd Henry, Rohit Bhargava, and Tim Schigel as keynote speakers, and a diverse group of other professionals to run a wide range of breakout sessions. SummitUp tickets are available by phone only, so call and make sure that you have yours. This is going to be a great opportunity to learn about the basics, meet and connect with new people, or refresh and recharge your batteries with new insights. We look forward to connecting with you this Tuesday!

 

Stone Enjoy By 11/09/12 IPA – The Countdown to Irrelevancy

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Stone Enjoy By 11.09.12 IPA
This beer has gotta be enjoyed fresh! I know because the bottle told me so. So fresh, in fact, that this very review is going to be irrelevant in a matter of weeks. Not only does the freshness factor come into play, but the fact that this beer has a very limited distribution (this batch only made it to Ohio and Colorado in small numbers) makes this review nearly pointless. However, as the ever-vigilant beer drinker that I am, I figure why the heck not? I mean come on, this beer was only bottled six days ago! You can’t get much fresher than that unless you feel like swimming around in fermenters… which really doesn’t sound like that bad of an idea now that I mention it…

Anyhow, this beer is 9.4% alcohol by volume and was designed to be consumed FRESH. Like, ridiculously fresh (did I mention it was only bottled six days ago?). They threw a bunch of hops in late into the boil (a technique called “hop bursting”) which contributes more hop flavor and aroma rather than bitterness. Check out more information about this beer here. To you Daytonians, this beer has pretty much sold out at most stores already (and thus more irrelevancy), but if you see it on the shelf at your favorite bottle shop then by all means pick it up. Let’s get to reviewin’.

APPEARANCE

This is what those in the advertising business call “Sex Appeal”. This beer just looks good. Crystal clear, yellow-orange-amber in color, resting under a slightly off-white head… Yeah, this is the kind of beer that makes mouths water. I love the look of a good IPA, and this beer has got that look. If this beer was a female, I would try my best to “holla”. If this beer was a painting in an art gallery, I would stare at it intensely and occasionally nod my head so everyone around me knew how much I knew about art or whatever. If this beer was a Big Mac, it would be the one in the picture and not the one you get when you order it. If this beer was a… Ok, you get my point.

SMELL

There are definitely some New Zealand hops in the nose. Notes of grapes, flowers, mango, citrus, earthiness, and a smidge of everyone’s favorite “cat pee” fill my nostrils. There is a deep, dank smell that reminds me of a quaint but “lived-in” basement which adds a bit of charm without being unpleasant. There’s even a bit of hop spice aroma to even things out. There is a good amount of sweet malt, but there’s no mistaking that this beer is all about the hops.Stone Enjoy By 11.09.12

TASTE

Follows the nose very closely. Once again, the first thing I notice is the deep, dank, resiny hop character. There is a bit more pine on the tongue than on the nose, which at first I feared would be the dominating character. As I sip, however, more of the citrus and tropical fruit comes out. The New Zealand hops make another appearance and bring some earthy grape notes with them. As far as bitterness goes, this beer is on the medium side. Sure, it’s bitter, but it’s not a tongue splitter (I rhymed!). There is almost no alcohol flavor whatsoever. This beer has a ridiculous amount of hop character, and there is a slight muddling of flavors which is a tad disappointing. Overall, this beer is pretty tasty but nothing I’ll be craving.

MOUTHFEEL

The mouthfeel really is one of the highlights of this beer. The carbonation and body are both medium, and considering the ABV this beer is not a struggle to drink. The beer coats the mouth with hop resin – the kind that kind of makes you smack your tongue for no explicable reason.

OVERALL

You may have noticed that a word I didn’t use in this review was “bright”. Many IPAs have a bright, refreshing crispness that fellas like me go nuts over. This beer, however, has a somewhat muddled flavor that makes me feel like it’s more of an English IPA than an American IPA, which is crazy talk considering all the American hop flavors. That’s not to say this beer is bad, because it’s not at all! It’s really an excellently balanced IPA, and it drinks more like 6% than 9.4% ABV. That being said, I’m drinking this beer as fresh as possible and it still has a layer of “meh”. Is it worth buying? Yes, absolutely! Is it the IPA to end all IPAs? Not this time. Don’t feel too bad if you missed out on this one (or if you drank it on 11.10.12 or something).

Cheers!

SCORE: ★★★ 3/5

Experience A Food Adventure with The Big Ragu & Crew: **CONTEST**

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Have you ever wanted to join The Big Ragu and the Crew on one of their Food Adventures?  Well, here is your chance !

You’ve seen all the mouth watering pictures, you’ve heard all the buzz.  Now be a part of the first ever DAYTON MOST METRO FOOD ADVENTURE.

This is an EXCLUSIVE opportunity, limited to 20 people picked at random who fill out the form below.

Come eat dinner with these larger than life personalities and mingle with other area foodies like yourself! Who knows, you may meet the love of your life, and if you do, we will sing at the wedding.

 

WHERE: Brixx Ice Company’s Private Party Room, 500 East 1st Street,  Dayton, OH 45402

WHEN: Saturday, November 3rd, 2012  at 7pm

All attendants of the event will have their name entered into a drawing that evening, and one lucky person will win  $25 gift certificate to Brixx Ice Company that they can use that evening or in the future.

Win a $25 Gift certificate to Brixx Ice Company !

GOOD LUCK in becoming one of the first 20 to signup this “Foodie Fest”, which promises to be memorable.

The Big Ragu will autograph all of the attendants napkins, garlic bread and underwear at no extra charge… as for food and drinks, you are on your own check!!

Please comment below on why we should choose YOU to attend our private Food Adventure !!

Want to schmooze us some more?  “Like” us on Facebook by clicking HERE !

 

[flagallery gid=5 name=Gallery]

[form 46 “Contest Entry – Brixx Food Adventure”]

Under a Red Moon – A Chilling Production by Human Race Theatre

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The Human Race Theatre Company adds a special production to its 2012-2013 Season with Michael Slade’s new play Under a Red Moon. 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. Under a Red Moon runs for a limited two-week engagement at The Loft Theatre, October 18 through 27, before transferring to The Carnegie’s Covington, Kentucky venue for an additional nine performances, November 2 through 18.

Michael Slade (Photo: Susan Burnstine)

Playwright Michael Slade was intrigued by the story of the Acid Bath Murderer’s horrific deeds years ago when he was having lunch with a wealthy theatre producer who confided in him that she and a friend nearly became Haigh’s victims when they met him while on a European tour in the 1940s. They met him while staying in a London hotel and it was only through luck that a last minute change of plans kept them from a taking a daytrip with him. Slade continues, “Several weeks later, every newspaper had a picture of Haigh and the caption: ‘Acid Bath Murderer Confesses!’ They learned that he routinely befriended his well-off victims and lured them to the country where he killed them and disposed of the bodies in vats of acid.” Haigh’s “confession” and his insanity plea intrigued Slade. “Can any serial killer be considered truly sane? And how does one prove oneself insane?” he wondered. And in that exploration, Slade had found his play.

[dropshadowbox align=”left” effect=”lifted-both” width=”200px” height=”” background_color=”#ffffff” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]Under a Red Moon
Oct 18 – 27, 2012
Tue: 7pm
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat: 8pm
Sun: 2pm & 7pm
At The Loft Theatre
Purchase Tickets
[/dropshadowbox]Under a Red Moon’s three-member cast includes returning regional actor Daniel C. Britt (Human Race and Wright State University’s 2010 August: Osage County) as Ralph Gow, and newcomers Bradford Cover (A Thousand Clowns on Broadway) as John George Haigh and Dee Pelletier (Broadway’s August: Osage County) as Dr. Ruth Covington. The production is directed by Margarett Perry (Human Race’s God of Carnage and The Retreat from Moscow) with set design by Scott J. Kimmins, costume design by Ayn Wood, lighting design by John Rensel and sound design by Nathan D. Dean. Aaron Vega is the stage manager.

“We’re very excited to be able to work with The Carnegie Center on Under a Red Moon,” says Human Race Producing Artistic Director Kevin Moore. “We share a similar mission and I’ve long admired their willingness to do daring work. We’ve been looking for a show on which we could collaborate for years, and when Michael presented us with this script, all the pieces just fell into place.” The co-production opportunity allows both companies to present this brand new work to their audiences while sharing expenses and combining resources.

Submitted by The Human Race Theatre Company

Dayton Most Metro Ticket Contest

We have TWO PAIRS OF TICKETS to give away to see Under a Red Moon at the Metropolitan Art Center’s Loft Theatre – simply fill out the form below and leave a comment telling us that YOU want to win tickets (be sure to check the Post To Facebook box so you can share with your FB friends).  We’ll announce winners on Monday 10/15 after 10am – GOOD LUCK!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to our winners!

Karla Jervis
and
Kathy Chambers

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 8-14

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…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre

The Story: Based on a true account of the lives of a Jewish family hiding from the German occupying forces in war-torn Amsterdam. To escape the horrors of Nazi persecution, Otto Frank hides with his wife and two daughters in attic rooms above an Amsterdam warehouse for two years. Also hiding with the Franks are four other people – the Van Daans, their son Peter, and a dentist, Mr Dussel. In her diary Anne recorded an account of the trials and tribulations of the people around her, all trying to live a normal life in cramped attic accommodation, whilst under the constant threat of discovery by the Gestapo.
The Dates: Oct. 11-14, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre | BTC page |

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Story: A comedy-horror-rock musical about a hapless florist who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. With a score in the style of 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and Motown, the show “satirizes many things: science fiction, ‘B’ movies, musical comedy itself, and even the Faust legend.”
The Dates: Oct. 11-13, 2012
Tickets and More Information: UC College-Conservatory of Music | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

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 |

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 |

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 |

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 |

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 |

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

SNOOPY THE MUSICAL

The Drama Workshop

The Story: This lighthearted, musical romp through the Peanuts canon features Charlie Brown, Sally, Lucy, Linus, Peppermint Patty, Woodstock, and, of course, Snoopy! A charming, warm-hearted musical, Snoopy! The Musical is full of humor and life lessons. The musical features scenes taken from memorable sequences right out of the beloved comic strip, ranging from The Great Pumpkin to the psychiatrist’s office. Perfect for the entire family!
The Dates: Oct. 5-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Drama Workshop | BTC page |

THROUGH THE NIGHT

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: This tour-de-force solo performance embodies the stories of six African-American men, ranging in age from 10 to 60, whose lives are intertwined in beautiful and unexpected ways during one life-changing evening. Dayton native Daniel Beaty’s signature style displays a dazzling blend of humor, poetry, music and drama that earned him Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle award nominations. Transcending race and gender, THROUGH THE NIGHT is a hard-hitting and inspirational story filled with possibility and promise.
The Dates: Sept. 22-Oct. 21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

DEATH DEFYING ACTS

Stagecrafters Inc.

The Story: This long-running Off Broadway hit features the work of three gifted playwrights. David Mamet’s AN INTERVIEW is an oblique, mystifying interrogation. A sleazy lawyer is forced to answer difficult questions and to admit the truth about his life and career. In HOTLINE by Elaine May, a neurotic woman with enough urban angst to fill a neighborhood calls a suicide crisis hotline late one night. The counselor who gets the call is overwhelmed – it is his first night on the job. In Woody Allen’s CENTRAL PARK WEST”, a well-to-do psychiatrist has just discovered that her best friend is having an affair with her husband. She has invited the friend over for a confrontation after getting thoroughly soused. Meanwhile, the husband is about to run off with a college student.
The Dates: Oct. 6-14, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Stagecrafters Inc. | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

BLUE MAN GROUP

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Dates: Oct. 16-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC page |

BYE BYE BIRDIE

Children’s Theatre of Mason

The Dates: Oct. 19-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Mason | BTC page |

CONFESSIONS

Cincinnati Playwrights Initiative

The Dates: Oct. 16, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playwrights Initiative | BTC page |

HAIRSPRAY

Xavier University

The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Xavier University | BTC page |

I DO! I DO!

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Dates: Oct. 18-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts | BTC page |

THE LARAMIE PROJECT

CenterStage Players of Ohio

The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players of Ohio | BTC page |

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

Mad Anthony Theatre Company

The Dates: Oct. 17-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mad Anthony Theatre Company | BTC page |

THE PASSION OF DRACULA

Beechmont Players Inc

The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Beechmont Players Inc | BTC page |

SEALED FOR FRESHNESS

Falcon Theatre

The Dates: Oct. 18-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Falcon Theatre | BTC page |

SEE HOW THEY RUN

Oxford Area Community Theatre

The Dates: Oct. 18-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Oxford Area Community Theatre | BTC page |

SEUSSICAL JR

Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC page |

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Dates: Oct. 20-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

trueLEARNING

trueTHEATRE

The Dates: Oct. 15, 2012
Tickets and More Information: trueTHEATRE | BTC page |

Led Zeppelin + Merchants of Bollywood + Atlas Shrugged Part 2 + Argo + TICKET CONTEST

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Hello Dayton! This week mainly focuses on new openings for the week. Lots of new movies as well of special events this week, be sure to check it out!

LED ZEPPELIN: CELEBRATION DAY- WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17TH @ 7PM & 10PM

On December 10, 2007, Led Zeppelin took the stage at London’s O2 Arena to headline a tribute concert for dear friend and Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun. What followed was a two-hour-plus tour de force of the band’s signature blues-infused rock ’n’ roll that instantly became part of the legend of Led Zeppelin. Founding members John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant were joined by Jason Bonham, the son of their late drummer John Bonham, to perform 16 songs from their celebrated catalog including landmark tracks “Whole Lotta Love,” “Rock And Roll,” “Kashmir,” and “Stairway To Heaven.”

Although 20 million people applied for tickets, the band’s first headline show in 27 years was seen only by the 18,000 ticket holders who were fortunate enough to have secured seats through the worldwide lottery.

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

MERCHANTS OF BOLLYWOOD THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18TH @ 9PM

Bollywood a special event comes to the big screen captured live on stage in Digital HD and Surround Sound at the Tivoli Theatre in Barcelona. This smash hit theatre production been seen by over two million people during the sell out International Tours in London, Berlin, Hamburg, Vienna, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich and Geneva.

A theatrical musical spectacular, now captured live on HD Digital, The Merchants of Bollywood charts the enchanting history of the world’s largest and most prolific film Industry, and a dynasty of stars that have lit its way over generations. A fictional story, yet based on real life, the Merchant Family.

Featuring a cast of 40 performers direct from the Film City Mumbai, the home of Bollywood Cinema, The Merchants of Bollywood will entertain with all of the extravagance, escapism, and romance that is Bollywood. Bangles and beads, swirling colours in costumes and sets and high energy music, will excite the senses.

The Merchants of Bollywood has captured the essence of India, its rich and diverse culture, and its people in the world of technicolour brilliance acclaimed by patrons and reviewers alike.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqYH2yTMhYs’]

 

ATLAS SHRUGGED II- OPENING OCTOBER 12TH

With the global economy on the brink of collapse, Dagny Taggart discovers what might be the answer to a mounting energy crisis and races against the clock to prevent the motor of the World from being stopped for good.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rKBubmlrjQ’]

ARGO- OPENING OCTOBER 12TH

As the Iranian revolution reaches a boiling point, a CIA ‘exfiltration’ specialist concocts a risky plan to free six Americans who have found shelter at the home of the Canadian ambassador.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w918Eh3fij0′]

 

For showtimes click here

ENTER TO WIN TWO MOVIE PASSES!

Fill out the form below and leave a FB comment telling us that YOU want to win a pair of passes to Rave Cinemas Dayton South. We will randomly draw a winner and notify same. Contest closes 10/11/12. 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 our winner: Cheryl Miller

McGuffys Hosts Project Independent

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Project Independent the worlds ‘only’ independent metal showcase brought it’s traveling talent search to McGuffy’s, it’s only Ohio stop besides Cleveland, Saturday September 29th critiquing 6 bands each vying for a shot at the next level of competition and the coveted spot of Project Independent Featured Artist. Since its inception in 2006, founder/CEO Jeff Totten, a former member of Indecent Xposure and Raising Cain has traveled the world looking for the newest and hungriest home grown talent ready to show they’ll do whatever it takes to succeed. 2012 has taken P.I. across the country making forty-six stops choosing winners each night through a strategic point system based on musicianship, showmanship and workmanship and the competitions fierce for one of the richest prizes in the Indy scene.

To get on the list all Showcase Artists must register, make a deposit and presell tickets to earn spots. Totten says it’s the first step in seeing how much they’re willing to work for it. In return all performing artists receive promotional materials, special offers and are eligible to receive promotional air-play by Project Independent Radio. The day of the show bands are given a thorough 90 minute workshop explaining P.I., its history and a breakdown of the critiquing system. Included is a straight forward no BS discussion about industry issues on the business side including trademarks, copyright and distribution, and the roles of agents, promoters and venues. Totten warns you must be emotionally, mentally and psychically ready for this business and all the rigorous pitfalls and temptations that come with it. Many bands think they’re ready but they don’t have a solid understanding of the business dynamics. If fact he often tells musicians if you’re not serious and can’t handle it, quit, because down the road of success ‘THIS’ is what awaits you.  Totten wants bands already operating with a professional mind set and mission statement with their !@#! together that he can mold/prepare for professional opportunities that will draw people and numbers. He looks at how much they’ve already done on their own. He’s not looking for the weekend bar band.  He wants the next national/global touring act that wants to become household names. After each night’s Showcase he discusses his critiques with each band. So at the minimum all bands have written/verbal advice from a touring industry professional on where they are in terms of song writing, structure, performance, appearance and what they should do next.

The business is a lifestyle and he wants an artist that will represent the genre well.

In-cohesiveness is not an option. The industry is always changing, transitioning, adapting to new trends and of course… always looking for the next big thing. Speaking of, the best artists from each event will advance to The Final Selection Process and a shot at the Holy Grail of Indy Metal. The winner will be chosen in December determined by their Showcase Critique Score, An Industry Panel of record moguls, producers, touring musicians and fan voting….(no pressure). Voting polls open 12/01-12/30. In case of a tie, the artist with the most fan votes wins and will be announced as The Project Independent Featured Artist of 2012 on January 1st.

Prosper

The winner will receive a 60-day promotional tour with headline performances at each Showcase venue and a $5000 cash allowance. In addition they’ll get an industry showcase at The Whisky A-Go-Go in Hollywood, a crowned jewel in itself. One full length retail ready CD with 8-panel, Full Color On-Disc Printing, Barcode, Spine Label and Shrink Wrap. Distribution on Amazon, I-Tunes, You-Tube, Snowcap, etc. including a digital store with downloads, ringtones, CD’s and t-shirts. But wait, there’s more. Merchlive.com will offer the Featured Artist choice of $1000 dollars in Costume Merchandise. They also receive top quality equipment and upgrades from sponsors including but not limited to Peavey, Schecter Guitar Research, and PAiSTe.

So if you don’t think selling a bunch of tickets and performing/playing your ass off for 30 minutes is worth that then you’re definitely in the wrong business. Totten and crew told a few stories of band fights on stage and a particular sobering one about a band whose singer disappeared and the band had to cancel, two weeks later he was found shell-shocked saying he couldn’t handle the pressure. See, all Showcase Bands are not only performing for the crowd, fans and Project Independent, at each show there’s a four camera free webcast streaming live the whole night. So on any given night, 50-80,000 plus around the world are watching.

At some point Totten wants to produce bio segments about the bands, filling the between set down time and eventually have a 24/7 web based music network. You know, what MTV used to be back in the day. If nothing else at the end of the night all bands know where they’re at and what they need to do to move forward. The most important thing Mr. Totten wants made clear is WE ARE NOT A BATTLE OF THE BANDS!!!!!

An impressive list of Dayton/Columbus locals and Kentucky, West Virginia and Maryland’s finest filled out the bill. The Showcase began with state capitol’s Prosper opening with an incredibly unique light, catchy groove metal sound. If such a term as heavy bubble-gum music doesn’t exist, it does now. Singer Xavier McAllister’s words were surprisingly clear and distinguishable in his harmonies and it bears noting he did actually ‘sing’. Though dressed in flannel and thick beard, he hardly resembled the clean cut, suit and tie pretty boy look he was vocally borrowing. Guitarist Sam Ralph resembles Shadows Fall’s Brian Fair with a slight haircut and played the Cemetery Gates inspired Empty with a little bit of Dimebag in him.  Bassist Adam (Tree) Watson used all of his 6’8 to make an impression. I’d say he stood in the background but anyone standing front stage center back to Burkhardt Rd would say he was the background. They played a set filled with youthful energy opening with Horizon, a tune that you’d swear you were watching a heavy version of The Wonders. Symphony of Sinners was next followed by Angel which may be the new power ballad of this generation and the dirty/slightly grimy guitar sound of Disillusion. Their sound is a consumption/corruption of bubble-gum, 80’s, early 90’s metal influences revamped with a modern day delivery.

Johari Window

Louisville Kentucky’s Johari Window stormed the stage ready to assault, rage and decapitate. They definitely brought out the Carcass tonight for all to see and hear in all its smelly, stinky, grindcore glory. Singer Connor Hill even borrows some pipe work from Jeff Walker, including clean melody and a few other choice demon lunged deliveries. It’s Deception At Its Best. Some slow, dirty chug hits hard granite breaking sound with sledgehammer strength. Connor stalked the front row die hards ‘showing love’ screaming in their faces and trading fist bumps. Hey, it’s how some metal singers show affection.  Betrayer slowly slithers up to you with its unexpected slinky ‘charmer’ beginning then attacks like a drill-gun to the head. Just to make everyone do a double take they break out a keyboard which Hill plays on The Begging Dead, quite possibly ‘the’ heaviest song in mankind’s history to bear piano notes. A Johari Window was a psychological tool invented in 1955 used to help people better understand their mental instability. Not a bad idea for a band name considering the five-some could cost any headbanging/thrashing listener a brain cell or two.

Deep from the mountains and rough, jagged terrain of West Virginia come Elohim. It’s time to get freakin hateful yells Gibby Haynes look-a-like Tyler Lowe as the rough, gruff mountain boys throw out a sound as loud, strong and potent as the special ‘shine’ made in them parts. They play with a rapid fire acupuncture delivery that sounds like Bigfoot trampling over some very large rock formations. Their music is like a pick hammer to the temple inducing granite clusters and minerals to fall from unscaled heights. Lowe’s beastly growls sound like what might be heard coming out of a dank darkened cave late at night. Lyrically their very in tune to the Demigods, in Monolithic terms of course. I mean really, how many polycephalic (more than one head) beasts and monsters are in the average metal bands songs? They very well could be the ‘gods’ of mountain metal.

Alright gear-heads, time to rev up the engines with Springfields biker metal’s answer to Overkill meets Chrome Division, Chronic Aggression. Singer Joe Stafford spits out a raspy Udo Dirkschneider/Bobby ‘Blitz’ Ellsworth style and seems to have perfected the art of slow motion headbanging. There’s plenty of Motorhead menace and attitude to go around. They play us on a blazing burning ride on the highway to hell and you don’t have to be cursed to feel like your skulls on fire. Opening with If Only they played ReverbNation tracks 6ft to the Rythm, Your Demise and What You Gonna Do. Guitarist Issac Shotts played half the set sporting sunglasses so the futures gonna be bright.

The 10th Hour

2011’s Project Independent winner The 10th Hour took the stage showing why they earned the coveted title Featured Artist. Having a unique almost un-namable sound, they play with the ferocity that helped earn them the nod of Totten and approval of some of Hollywood’s elite judges. They get to play almost every night spreading the holy metal gospel. The 10th Hour comes when the bell gongs, Bryan Hillis growls Zim Smith/Ryan Eiker thrash out a smashing guitar sound playing off each other trading riffs, solos and some comedic comeradery. They perform like they really feel the music going through them. A minute into the 10th Hour they’re Silencing Trepidation and the loud angry beast within trying to tear through. We get Apathy’s Embrace and maybe the only 51 seconds of the hour that’s not loud. They summon the Nexus of Your Fears and it sounds pretty scary. New tune and You-Tube video The Incarceral shows a slower, softer but still dark sound and the inner hell of addiction. Travesty sounds like you’re in an underground street fight smashing against stone walls. Their sound is a mix of fast paced, pounding guitars, solos, vocal screaming/yelling and harmonious singing. A very different mix of musical mind-bending for the poor soul standing ready with a label stamp. Their CD Tides of Despair is as intentionally diverse and changing as their stage show. Once you’ve got an idea of who or what they sound like, the next song starts and your back to zero. Maybe some frenzied frustration’s a good thing but none the less they’ve procured the 10th Hour sound to perfection. Several tracks deal with the struggle/battle/war with inner emotion and torment. Each tune is of a different variety and delivery but carries a certain lyrical gloom with a sliver or two of hope cut through the warped planks. Tides of Despair lets the music do all the talking.

We finish with Dayton’s Coffin Birth Conspiracy a spooky scary movie blend of sound and keyboards intermixed with the shrewd rebellious evil of youth. Beginning with Haddonfields Curse, its October after all. We all love Halloween’s most lovable, namesake, silent killing machine right? Though the throat of the band Ian Overkill, looks just old enough to remember the re-makes.  They spread Dark Pandemonium everywhere Through the Depths enriching the atmosphere with icy shivers and murky ambiance. They should be writing soundtracks for Italian horror movies. Taking elements of 80’s, black and symphonic metal they’ve mingled and mutated into a catchy sound for any stage or movie screen.  Next we hear Wilhelms Scream, the song not the sound effect. Wikipedia has all the details. CFC is a six person horror film showcase in itself, no costumes needed.

Hallow’s Eve Tea at Patterson Homestead

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Throughout history, many have remembered the souls that have departed this earth on All Hallow’s Day with many traditions forming around this day, and All Hallow’s Eve the night before. Come enjoy a warm cup of tea and tour through the Patterson Homestead while learning about the rituals the Patterson family would have observed during the Victorian Era.
This historic house museum provides a glimpse into the multi-generational lives of Dayton’s influential Patterson family, who lived on the site from 1804 to 1904. The Federal style house, which was constructed in three major components between 1810 and 1850, was originally the home of Revolutionary War veteran Colonel Robert Patterson and his wife, Elizabeth Lindsay Patterson.

[dropshadowbox align=”right” effect=”lifted-both” width=”300px” height=”” background_color=”#ffffff” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]Hallow’s Eve Tea at Patterson Homestead
1815 Brown Street, Dayton, OH
October 27 & 28, 2012
2:00pm-4:00pm
$18 for Dayton History members
$20 for Non-members
Call 937-222-9724 for Reservations
Website
[/dropshadowbox]Frank J. Patterson’s son, Jefferson, donated the house and its 8.5 acres to the City of Dayton in 1953 for use as a meeting center and family memorial. At the time of donation, the house was presented fully furnished with 18th and 19th century antiques along with several original family pieces. Over the years, the artifact collection has grown to include more family-related artifacts that are housed in six period rooms.

Folk Musicians Susan Werner and David Wilcox Kickoff Club Kuss Series

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Susan Werner and David Wilcox

Friday, October 12th marks the first show in this year’s Club Kuss Series featuring singer-songwriter-guitar-playing duo Susan Werner and David Wilcox.  The concert will take place on Friday, October 12, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. at the Clark State Performing Arts Center, Kuss Auditorium in downtown Springfield.

Called the ‘empress of the unexpected’ by NPR, singer-songwriter, pianist, harmonica- and guitar-playing artist Susan Werner turns a corner in her multifaceted musical career with her vibrant new album, Kicking the Beehive. It’s an 11-song collection of provocative, poignant, lyrical originals that are infused with the rustic roots of American folk, blues and country music. Like many songwriters with a literary bent, Werner worries that much of pop music is a mile wide and an inch deep. “But seems to me, the best songs are more like an inch wide and a mile deep,” she says. Produced by Rodney Crowell, recorded in Nashville and featuring such all-star guests as Vince Gill, Keb’ Mo’ and Paul Franklin, Kicking the Beehive is a personal project where Werner intuitively explores the full impact of looking beyond the superficial and delving into soulful honesty. There are few performers out there today that have the voice, musicianship and songwriting abilities that Susan Werner has.

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Susan Werner & David Wilcox
Purchase Tickets
$30 for adults, $24 for seniors and $15 for students
Icludes a pre-show lobby party beginning at 6pm.
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Considered a ‘songwriter’s songwriter’, David Wilcox’s songs have been covered by artists such as k.d. Lang and many others. In addition to his writing prowess, his skills as a performer and storyteller are unmatched. He holds audiences rapt with nothing more than a single guitar, thoroughly written songs, a fearless ability to mine the depths of human emotions of joy, sorrow and everything in between, all tempered by a quick and wry wit. Reflecting on well over 20 years of record-making and touring extensively around the US and the world, Wilcox says, “Music still stretches out before me like the headlights of a car into the night. It’s way beyond where I am, but it shows where I’m going. I used to think that my goal was to catch up, but now I’m grateful that the music is always going to be way out in front to inspire me.”

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Jazz Spotlight: Ronald Hartwell + Upcoming Local Jazz Oct. 10 – Oct. 24

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Happy October 10th; American jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk was born on this day in 1917. Check out Wikipeda for more information.

Who is Ronald Hartwell?

     Ronald Hartwell has been performing, teaching and enjoying music for over thirty-five years. He regularly entertains audiences in formal and informal settings. Currently he performs in Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati areas of Ohio. I’ve seem him lead all size groups from his Different Hats Big Band at RiverScape to jazz jams for young players at the BRD House in Englewood. He is the hardest working musician and educator that I have the pleasure of knowing. He never ceases to amaze me in his ability to play virtually every instrument he picks up as well as being a credible vocalist. He combines a deep love of traditional music from across Europe and the Americas with a flair for innovation, improvisation and composition. He is equally at home performing musical theater and jazz laced rendition of popular songs as he is in the concert hall. Performances regularly include the best of Broadway, Jazz Classics, and gems from the rich heritage of North / Central / South America and Europe.

     Ronald Hartwell has studied historical art music of North America and Europe at the University of Arizona, jazz, theater and composition at Berklee College. His mentors have included Peter Walker (Julliard) for Piano Proficiency Richard Herman (Indiana) Flute, Joseph Viola (Conservatories de Paris – Marcel Mule) Saxophone and Ernest Dalwood (Cambridge – BBC and ESO) Clarinet. In addition to instrumental studies he has studied voice with Carole Forte and acting with Rylan (L.B.) Brenner.

     Upcoming on Saturday, October 20 he is producing, as part of Jazz Central’s resurgence of jazz in Dayton, a tribute to one of the greatest King of Swing legends in history when he plays Benny Goodman and Mark Smarelli plays Lionel Hampton from 8:00 pm to midnight, which will cover the small group music renditions from Goodman’s trios, quartets, quintets and sextets.

Jazz Calendar

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


Tonight Wednesday, October 10 – Randy Fankell’s Jazz Militia is at the Wright State’s Student Union Hearth Lounge inFairborn and Saxophonist Composer Educator Jeff Coffin & the Mu’tet is at Greaves Concert Hall, Northern KentuckyUniversity.
Thursday October 11 – the Street of Dreams (organ & vibes jazz trio) is at Spinoza’s in Beavercreek and Jeff Coffin Mu’tet is at Nighttown in Cleveland Heights.
Friday October 12 – Shawn Stanley Trio performs at Carvers Steaks & Chops in Centerville while fo/mo/deep is playing at Dick’s Den  in Columbus.
Saturday October 13 – Jazz Central is bringing the Blues back to their club for a one evening performance of Big Joe Blue & the Foundations in Dayton and Joe Dunlap, Jim Masters & Chris Berg are at the Worthington Inn in Worthington.
Sunday October 14 – Phil DeGreg Trio  performs at Dee Felice in Covington, Ky. and Dayton’s longest jazz jam continues at Jazz Central in Dayton.
Monday October 15 – 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 16 – the Blue Wisp Jazz Club presents Jazz from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati and the Park St. Tavern Jazz Jam continues in Columbus.
Wednesday October 17 – Dave Greer’s Classic Jazz Stompers performs at Neil’s Heritage House in Dayton and the James Elliott Project Featuring Roger Baccus is performing at Zanzibar Brews in Columbus.
Thursday October 18 – the Generations Big Band returns for their monthly gig at Jazz Central in Dayton and Ricky Nye plays Betty’s Bar in Cincinnati.
Friday October 19 – Captain Carl (from Florida) and his Jazz Pirates invade Jazz Central and the Thompson House presents a Tribute to Louis Armstrong in Newport, Ky.
Saturday October 20 – Jazz Central will present a tribute to Benny Goodman featuring Ron Hartwell and Mark Smarelli inDayton and The Tommy Wade Orchestra will play at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus.
Sunday October 21 – WDPS 89.5-FM will present their second Listener Appreciation Concert at the David H. PonitzCareer Center offering jazz & swing dance music by a select group of entertainers headlining with the Generations Big Band and the after party jam session will be at Jazz Central in Dayton.
Monday October 22 – Blue Wisp Jazz Club offers a Jazz Jam  hosted by Sandy Suskind in Cincinnati and Tia Roseboro & Vernon Hairston are at the Old Bag Of Nails in Columbus.
Tuesday October 23 – the Tony Monaco Trio is at the Rumba Café in Columbus and the UD University Jazz Band & Jazz Lab Band performs at University of Dayton Boll Theatre.

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

SLEEPWALK WITH ME at THE NEON + Big Benefit News!

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Hello Everyone,

Huge changes are just around the corner for THE NEON. Before I get to the source of my anxiety, let’s talk movies. If you still want to see THE MASTER, Thursday will be your last chance to see it with us. On Friday, we will open a film that has had the most requests this year – SLEEPWALK WITH ME. ARBITRAGE had a solid opening weekend…so it will stick around.

Synopsis for SLEEPWALK WITH ME: From the producers of THIS AMERICAN LIFE, this is the film that Ira Glass has been talking about! “When an aspiring stand-up fails to express his true feelings about his girlfriend and his stalled career, his anxiety comes out in increasingly funny and dangerous sleepwalking incidents.” (IFC Films)

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This weekend is the last chance to see movies via 35mm film at THE NEON. On Sunday evening, we will close our doors for 4 days as we make the transition to digital projection (the new industry standard). Our “Things To Do” list is jam-packed. Over the past 11 years, we’ve opened our doors for business every single day…while we’re closed, we’re going to take advantage of the opportunity and do some major cleaning, lay some new carpet and add some fresh paint to floors and walls.

And speaking of this weekend, Sunday marks the day for our big Digital Conversion Benefit featuring AMELIE. (If you missed Sunday’s nice article from Dayton Daily News, you can check it out here.) The festivities will start at 4:00 with delicious appetizers provided by Meadowlark, Roost and Coco’s Bistro. Around 5:00, everyone will head to the large auditorium for our “Dayton Meets Hollywood” auction (more details below) We’ll plan to begin our 35mm presentation of AMELIE by 5:30. Tickets are still available! 100% of the proceeds will go toward helping us make the switch to digital. They can be purchased at our box office or by visiting this link.

To check out all the items in our auction, we’ve listed each item (along with a picture below).  Here’s the skinny:

If you’re unable to attend the benefit but would like to place a bid on one of the auction items, you can send me an email with your name, phone number, and your highest bid. I will need this e-mail by Saturday at noon. send to: [email protected] (If you’d like to see one of the items in person, you can schedule an appointment with me for this Saturday.)

We hope to see you this weekend.

Thanks so much for your ongoing support!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Oct. 12 – Sun. Oct. 14:
(We will be closed Mon, Oct 15 – Thu, Oct 18)

ARBITRAGE (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:30, 8:30

SLEEPWALK WITH ME (NR) 1 Hrs 30 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 1:00, 8:30

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear
Oct. 19 SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
Nov. ? SAMSARA
TBD LIBERAL ARTS
TBD THE SESSIONS
TBD KILLER JOE
TBD NEIL YOUNG JOURNEYS
TBD ANNA KARENINA
TBD HYDE PARK ON HUDSON

AUCTION ITEMS:

Screenplay from the Pilot episode of THE WEST WING – Signed by Martin Sheen & Allison Janney.  Includes signed Martin Sheen Photograph.  Starting Bid: $75

Screenplay for THE WEST WING, Season 1, Finale – Signed by Martin Sheen + Signed Photograph.  Starting Bid: $50

THE WEST WING Lot of Call Sheets and Script Changes with Signed Martin Sheen Photograph. Starting Bid: $50.

 

THE BIG LEBOWSKI Storyboard Print.  Hand-signed by The Coen Brothers’ storyboard artist and Oakwood resident J. Todd Anderson.  Includes $25 gift certificate from Patterson Chase – perfect to use toward framing your storyboard.  Starting Bid: $50.

3 DVDs from local filmmakers Julia Reichert, Steve Bognar & Jim Klein.  Emmy-Winning A LION IN THE HOUSE, Oscar-Nominated THE LAST TRUCK and recently inducted into The National Film Registry – GROWING UP FEMAL.  It’s incredible that all these award-winning films were born right here in the Miami Valley.  These films will be personalized by the filmmakers for your collection.  Starting Bid: $75.

THE RUBI GIRLS documentary on DVD & Poster (which will be kissed and signed by The Rubi Girls before THE NEON’s benefit).  This award-winning documentary has played at numerous film festivals around the world…but has not yet been released on DVD.  Starting Bid: $50.

 

2 Original Chairs from THE NEON.  These chairs, with their original upholstery, are 27 years old.  Though they have slight imperfections, they still are quite cozy and would make a perfect addition to you screening room.  (As a note of caution, these chairs require being bolted to the ground.)  Starting Bid: $50.

Naming Rights to our Small Auditorium.  Our small auditorium seats 74 people.  The name you chose (perhaps your name, your company name or the name of your favorite director) will be placed on a plaque above the door to the auditorium.  (The name is subject to approval from THE NEON’s Board…vulgarity or insensitive language will not be permitted.)  Starting Bid: $100.

Volunteers for Dayton!: Opportunities Oct. 9-16

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Your weekly round-up of ways to get involved in Dayton’s urban revival!

Downtowners and others helping with the Litehouse Community Garden this weekend. A few learned about it through our group and helped make lighter work of a big project!

Train and fund your neighborhood!

  • Nonprofit training: Though not always necessary, some of our urban neighborhood associations and revitalization groups areincorporated as tax-exempt 501(c)3 nonprofits. On Oct. 19, the WSU Nonprofit Leadership Alliance will present a daylong workshop on more effectively managing your nonprofit, with a keynote by the director of the Ohio Association of Nonprofit Associations, and presentations by our local United Way and FilmDayton. Sign up to help your group run as smoothly as possible!

  • $$$ for your ‘hood: If you do have your 501(c)3 status, you can apply for the next round of discretionary grants from the Dayton Foundation, but you have to attend their November 7th orientation to do so. Register by November 1.
  • Speaking of neighborhood 501(c)3s, since not all neighborhoods have them and they can be a lot of work to set up and maintain, I’m curious if establishing a city-wide fund/fiscal agent would be helpful – it’s something I might like to organize as part of a larger effort. Share your feedback in our group.
  • Public Space $ Awards: Do you know a Dayton public space deserving of a considerable cash award? Nominate them for the Rudy Bruner Award.
  • Take your social media promotions to the next level: A few years back, DMM Publisher Bill Pote and I led a training at City Hall on using social media for community groups and projects. We’ve come a long way from the few Facebook pages that existed back then, but there’s plenty of room for improvement. Neighborhood marketing gurus and others can register now for the SummitUp “Social Media Confab” at Sinclair Community College on October 16. Brian Petro and I will report back for Dayton Most Metro.
  • Need ideas for bringing your community together? I was recently reminded of two of my favorite lists out there, a poster I used to have on my wall, “How to Build Community” has been circulating around Facebook. Another similarly helpful list has been compiled by the Harvard Kennedy School, “150 Things You Can Do to Build Social Capital.” Give ’em a read and share with your neighbors!

Other opportunities

  • The all-volunteer Yellow Cab community art space needs more volunteers to join them! Specifically, they need people to serve refreshments at the Day-Con hackers’ conference after-party on Oct. 13, and staff to help drivers park in their lot during Hauntfest on the 27th. E-mail Jeff Opt for more info.
  • The Day of the Dead celebration that we mentioned last week is now seeking donations of supplies for papier-mache parade puppets, and I’m thrilled that they’ve already received some from our group members! Bring extra newspaper, flour, jugs of Elmer’s glue and fabric pieces in bright blue, orange, purple and yellow. Goods can be dropped off at Missing Peace Art Space, on Dutoit behind Stivers. Contact Cityfolk’s Jean Howat Berry for more info.
  • updayton’s Streetvivial team will be doing some initial preparations for our pocket park at Xenia & McClure this weekend. We’ll prep/prime the mural wall & plant trees Saturday, Oct. 13 at 10am (and probably get lunch together at the market after) and then come back Sunday at 1 to apply chalkboard paint. E-mail me to sign up.
  • Show your art on downtown streets! The new deadline for the last round of Activated Spaces artists installations is this Friday. As an artist, you’re undoubtedly putting a lot of time into your work – get it seen out on the streets and help bring some color downtown in the process!

http://www.visualartillery.net

 

Fifth Annual Jewish Cultural Arts and Book Festival

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The Fifth Annual Jewish Cultural Arts and Book Festival will open at the Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture and Education (CJCE) on Thursday, October 11 at 7 p.m. The festival (running from October 11 through December 4) will bring to Dayton a colorful array of cultural events for all ages, including bestselling authors, a local film premiere and musical entertainment the whole family can enjoy. Festival events will be held at the Boonshoft CJCE, except for the Dayton premiere of local filmmaker Aileen LeBlanc’s documentary Take Us Home, which will be held at the Dayton Art Institute on Thursday, November 15 at 7 p.m.

David F. Chapman

Opening night (Thursday, October 11, 7 p.m.) at the Boonshoft CJCE will feature a solo performance of Raoul Wallenberg: Letters From Young Men by New York based director, writer and performer David F. Chapman. Honoring his 100th birthday, the performance tells the story of Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish humanitarian who chose to act and saved thousands of Jews from extradition to Nazi death camps. The performance humanizes the Holocaust hero by combining theatre, historical events, selections from a recently published archive of Wallenberg’s letters, and Chapman’s own childhood diaries.

The nationally-known a cappella group The Maccabeats will kick off his year’s 2013 United Jewish Campaign at the Boonshoft CJCE on Sunday, November 4, 2:30 p.m. Known for their family-friendly musical stylings, The Maccabeats inject Jewish culture into current pop-music favorites, creating comedy and history lessons every generation can enjoy and learn from. During the event, community members will have the opportunity to make their 2013 pledge to the United Jewish Campaign, which provides funds to Jewish agencies and social services in Dayton, Israel, and around the world.

The Maccabeats

The line-up, spanning from October through December, also includes four author events that cover genres such as history, post-apocalyptic political and historical fiction, lighthearted romantic satire, and deep personal loss and recovery.

The Jewish Cultural Arts and Book Festival is presented annually by the Dayton Jewish Community Center (DJCC). “On behalf of the Dayton Jewish Community Center, we are excited to bring an array of thought provoking events to the community. Our festival allows participants to immerse themselves in rich, cultural activites that everyone can enjoy.” says Cheryl Carne, director of the DJCC.
The chairperson of this year’s festival, Dr. Martin Jacobs, says, “Each year we try to feature a diverse collection of interesting authors and performers. We want not just the Jewish community but anyone and everyone in the area to feel welcome and engaged by the activities. Our goal is something for everyone!”
Tickets for events are available at the door or in advance online at www.jewishdayton.org. For more information, please call the DJCC at 937-853-0372.

[dropshadowbox align=”right” effect=”lifted-both” width=”300px” height=”” background_color=”#ffffff” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]Fifth Annual Jewish Cultural Arts and Book Festival
Opens Thursday Oct. 11, 2012
Click for Details
Click to Purchase Tickets
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2012 Cultural Arts and Book Festival Lineup

 

Thursday, October 11 Raoul Wallenberg: Letters From Young Men

7 p.m. Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture & Education

Co-sponsored by the National Conference for Community and Justice

Event Details

 

Tuesday, October 16 Sweet & Meet with Author Rich Cohen

7 p.m. Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture & Education

Event Details

 

Sunday, November 4 The Maccabeats

2:30 p.m. Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture & Education

 

Wednesday, November 7 Perfect is Overrated with author Karen Bergreen

7 p.m. Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture & Education

 

Thursday, November 15 Take Us Home

7 p.m. Dayton Art Institute

A collaborative sponsorship: The Dayton Art Institute; FilmDayton; WYSO; the DJCC’s Cultural Arts Department and the Jewish Community Relations Council

 

Thursday, November 29 The Aftermath of 9/11 with author Jennifer Gardner Trulson

7 p.m. Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture & Education

Sponsored by the Brandeis-Joffe Scholarship Fund of the Dayton Jewish Federation Foundation in memory of Eugene and Pearl Joffe

 

Thursday, December 6 The Truth About Fiction: An Interactive Panel Discussion with authors Martha Moody and Eileen Pollack

7 p.m. Boonshoft Center for Jewish Culture & Education

SummitUp, A #Socialmedia Confab

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In the 1920’s, radio broadcasters were looking for more. They knew they had a great way to deliver information into the homes of everyone in the country, but how to get sponsors to buy into it? Radio up to that point had been informational; mainly news and politics delivered in factual and dry terms; nothing really compelling to listen to. Advertisers were not seeing much of a return from the money they were investing, and were leery about investing more. Broadcasters needed to create something that would attract a different audience; an audience that was around the house all day, and was going to make the decisions on what household goods to buy. They decided that fresh content should be mainly about families, and how they lived their lives. They wanted this content to appeal to the housewife, as if they were looking into another person’s house without leaving their own. This new content attracted sponsors in the early 1930’s like Proctor and Gamble, who used these shows to help promote their soaps like Oxydol. Thus was born the “soap opera”, turning what once was used to just a platform for delivering information into a money maker. The Golden Age of Radio boomed, and the soap opera, and eventually the sit com and variety show, boomed with it.

Now, being eighty years removed from radio soaps, marketers are all facing the same questions in a new realm that once simply provided information, or a way to connect, and a few small advertisements. How do we get more Facebook “Likes”? What do we need to do to get more Twitter followers? What makes something that is visually compelling on Pinterest, so we can pin it and tweet about it? And how do we get all of these people we are interacting with to go somewhere to buy our product? On top of that, how do we measure all of this so when people in the C-suite start asking questions, we have good answers for them? We are all asking these questions, some of us longer than others. As we all wander, searching for the same answers, we have a few intrepid people that have found some of the edges of this new realm, and brought back new and exciting information to share. The marketing community of Dayton has helped to organize some of these people at Sinclair Community College on October 16th, 2012, for SummitUp, a full day marketing communications, public relations, and digital information conference.

This event is a major undertaking, involving the efforts of not only many of the top talents in the area, but a small army of volunteers. David Bowman, Chief Marketing Strategist for The Ohlmann Group and one of the organizers of SummitUp, states they want it appeal “to early adopters of technology who demand complexity and bleeding edge information while at the same time delivering content that is accessible to newcomers too.” The speaking talent this year is top notch, with major keynote speakers, local brilliant talent, and opportunities to meet all of the top marketing and communication talent in the area. On top of that, the volunteers help to make the event as affordable as possible to the widest number of people, so more people can experience it. “Ultimately, the event has an incredible team of volunteers who work very hard to make sure that those who invest the time and money to attend get value from coming to the event.”, affirms Bowman.

The day begins at 7 AM at breakfast. It is going to be a full day, and you are going to need all the energy you can get. The first keynote speaker of the day will be Todd Henry, creator of the website and podcast The Accidental Creative, as well as the writer of the highly praised book The Accidental Creative, How to be Brilliant on a Moment’s Notice. He is an expert on how to build an environment that encourages the generation of creative ideas. His podcast interviews some of the top creative minds across a wide variety of industries, and offers insights about everything from generating ideas quickly to getting over the dreaded creator’s block.

After his speech, every attendee will be able to attend multiple breakout sessions. There are twelve sessions total, given by some of the best business and social media thinkers in southwest Ohio and Indiana. Each of the sessions is offered twice in back-to-back time frames, so everyone will have a chance to see six of the speakers. Eight of the sessions will happen before lunch, and the final four sessions will happen after lunch. These breakout sessions are designed to give every attendee the greatest chance to bring the right information back to help the social media and communication strategies of your company.

Lunch will be served around noon, and then it will be time for the second keynote of the day. Rohit Bhargava is the a founding member of one of the largest social strategy groups at Oglivy as well as a professor of Global Marketing at Georgetown University. He is a proponent of bringing the human touch back into the marketing world, touting the importance of being likeable as a major factor in success. He is the author of several highly rated and incredibly popular books, Likeonomics (his most recent book) and Personality Not Included. His books are not just something to read; Likeonomics also offers a website full of useful exercises and ideas to help make you and your brand more likeable, and attractive, to future clients.

[dropshadowbox align=”right” effect=”lifted-both” width=”320px” height=”” background_color=”#ffffff” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” ]SummitUp
Sinclair Community College, Building 12
October 16th, 7:00am – 4:30pm
Full Day Ticket Member Pricing: $119.00
Full Day Ticket Non – Member Pricing: $159.00
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The final keynote of the day is at the end of the last group of four sessions. If you are familiar with the name of the person who is presenting, you have certainly seen his work on multiple websites. His name is Tim Schigel, and he is the chairman and founder of ShareThis, which has their widgets for social media sharing scattered across the Internet. Tim has done innovative work for some of the biggest firms in the country, from Apple to Procter and Gamble. The impetus behind ShareThis was to start measuring how people share the interesting things that they find outside of search engines, and that involves tracking how people use social sites to share. What is getting shared? How is it getting shared? And what is the future of measuring and sharing data?

The transition to social media presents a new set of challenges, much like the first pioneers into radio media faced. Whether you are in traditional media or cultivating pin boards, if you are new to the game or still think fondly of your AOL marketing efforts, SummitUp is a great way to develop your skills in this new realm. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and a bevy of other new platforms are out there for people to use, integrate, and broadcast from. This is a fine opportunity to take advantage of all this brilliance in a local environment, at a great price. Connect with the best talent in Dayton and beyond, and take your marketing efforts to the next level. We all hope to see you on October 16th!

Theatre Reviews: The Hobbit – Zoot Theatre Company AND The Taming of the Shrew – Sinclair Community College

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The Hobbit

THE HOBBIT

Zoot Theatre Company, Dayton’s enchanting puppet/mask troupe, supplies a wonderfully inventive and imaginative production of “The Hobbit,” adapted by Patricia Gray from J.R.R. Tolkein’s novel and whimsically co-directed by D. Tristan Cupp and J. Gary Thompson at the Dayton Art Institute.

This humorous, inspiring road trip through Middle-earth, propelled by fine original music by Thompson and brief moments of eye-catching stagecraft recalling Julie Taymor (“The Lion King”), concerns an unlikely heroic homebody and a merry, opinionated band of 13 dwarves determined to defeat the evil dragon Smaug and retrieve great treasure. The fanciful material’s adventurous magnetism is bolstered by Cupp and Thompson’s decision to dress and conceal the cast in black, allowing the audience to view the story simply through the eyes of various puppets, superbly designed with meticulously distinctive character by Cupp.

Led by an effortlessly winning and sympathetic Darren Brown as the humble Bilbo Baggins, the uniformly strong ensemble features solid supporting work by an authoritatively comedic Jeff Sams as Gandalf, the delightfully gruff Natalie Houliston as Thorin and the terrifically animated Andrew Ian Adams as the simultaneously sly and frustrated Gollum. Eric Arntz, Lisa Bernheim, Michael Favors, Juliet Howard-Welch, Austin Smith, CJ Suchyta, Nicole Thompkins and Ria Villaver complete the cast. Andy Balmert’s evocative lighting, Cupp’s efficient set, Shirley P. Wasser’s skillful costumes and Jon Lamm’s firm sound execution are additional pluses.

“The Hobbit” continues through Oct. 14 in the NCR Renaissance Auditorium of the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 40 minutes. Tickets are $12-$18. For tickets or more information, visit ZootTheatreCompany.org.

 

Haley Penchoff and Isaac Hollister in The Taming of the Shrew (Photo by Patti Celek)

THE TAMING OF THE SHREW

Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” the comedic battle of the sexes between hot-tempered Katherina and cunningly indomitable Petruchio heightened with brutishness, feistiness, impudence and mistaken identity, receives an uneven treatment at Sinclair Community College.

Director Nelson Sheeley’s breezy pace and effective Elizabethan touches (attractively aided by scenic designer Terry Stump, costumer Kathleen Hotmer and music director John Parcell) cannot hide the interpretative inconsistencies within his cast, amiable performers lacking a cohesive grasp of the language, nuances and rhythm in the colorful script. Some actors connect with vibrant adeptness and refreshing wit (Charles Larkowsi in particular is the finest Baptista I have seen) while others hurriedly recite lines without meaning or depth. Instead of fine-tuning key performances, Sheely seems to have been more concerned with thrusting the show into an all-out farce. However, his attempts are more forced than inspired, especially when it comes to flatulence, urination and a bejeweled codpiece.

Still, compatible and commendable leading players Hayley Penchoff and Isaac Hollister establish a convincingly combative rapport that keeps the action engaging and entertaining. The cast also includes Aeriel Aniballi, Samantha Creech, William G.L. Courson, John Dunn, Jordan Duvall, Jordan Huber, Destre Inlow, Rick McClintic, Zach Mills, Lucas Plum, John Ray, Rebecca Sebree, Tray Shelton, Josh Smith and Alayna Spence.

“The Taming of the Shrew” concludes tonight at 8 p.m. at Sinclair Community College, Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Act One-Three: 65 minutes; Act Four-Five: 55 minutes. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit Sinclair.edu.

 

 

 

ARBITRAGE Now Playing at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

Special thanks to everyone who came out and supported THE DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL. With enthusiastic crowds, 3 visiting directors, and 4 sold-out shows, this turned out to be the most successful festival in THE NEON’s history. I’m pleased to announce that the votes for our audience awards were very tight…which means that audiences were really liking several selections. Our “Audience Award – Best Feature” went to LOVE FREE OR DIE, and our “Audience Award – Best Short” went to SABBATICAL. Many congrats to those filmmakers!

We’ve moved forward this weekend at THE NEON.  ROBOT AND FRANK just left, and today we opened the new thriller starring Richard Gere and Susan Sarandon – ARBITRAGE.  If you still need to see THE MASTER, you have one more week.

Synopsis for ARBITRAGE: “When we first meet New York hedge-fund magnate Robert Miller on the eve of his 60th birthday, he appears the very portrait of success in American business and family life. But behind the gilded walls of his mansion, Miller is in over his head, desperately trying to complete the sale of his trading empire to a major bank before the depths of his fraud are revealed. Struggling to conceal his duplicity from loyal wife Ellen and brilliant daughter and heir-apparent Brooke, Miller’s also balancing an affair with French art-dealer Julie Cote. Just as he’s about to unload his troubled empire, an unexpected bloody error forces him to juggle family, business, and crime with the aid of Jimmy Grant, a face from Miller’s past.” (Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the official site for ARBITRAGE.

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We’re less than 2 weeks away from our big benefit…and I’ve got some new details for you (if you didn’t read the e-mail I sent out a few weeks ago, you can check it out here). Tickets can now be purchased at our box office and on-line via paypal. WDTN recently did a story about our conversion and benefit…if you didn’t catch it, you can see the video by visiting their site. I also stopped by LIVING DAYTON last week…to see that piece, visit their site. The items for our auction are rolling in. J Todd Anderson of Oakwood – well-known for being the storyboard artist to The Coen Brothers – has donated a hand-signed print of a storyboard from THE BIG LEBOWSKI. Martin Sheen has donated 2, autographed screenplays from THE WEST WING (we even sent the pilot to Allison Janney and had her sign it, too). Local filmmakers Julia Reichert, Steve Bognar and Jim Klein have added an exciting package of award-winning films – A LION IN THE HOUSE, THE LAST TRUCK and GROWING UP FEMALE. I’m supplying a copy of THE RUBI GIRLS documentary (which has yet to be released on DVD) as well as an autographed poster of the Girls. And lastly, THE NEON will auction off naming rights to the small auditorium. Stay tuned to next week’s newsletter for your chance to submit a bid if you’re unable to attend the benefit. Click the AMELIE picture below to visit the benefit website – where you can purchase tickets or make a donation to our campaign.

SLEEPWALK WITH ME – a film that many people have been asking about (due to Ira Glass urging his listeners) – is set to open October 12!

All the best.
I hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Oct. 5 – Thu. Oct. 11:

ARBITRAGE (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Tuesday: 2:50, 5:10
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

THE MASTER (R) 2 Hrs 17 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear
Oct. 12 SLEEPWALK WITH ME
Oct. 19 SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
Nov. ? SAMSARA
TBD LIBERAL ARTS
TBD THE SESSIONS
TBD KILLER JOE
TBD NEIL YOUNG JOURNEYS
TBD ANNA KARENINA
TBD HYDE PARK ON HUDSON