Archives for September 2013

REVIEW: SITH, Horlet, King Stench, Zuel Bang Heads on Friday the 13th

September 22, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

Horlet (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Friday the 13th has been associated with many bad things for a long time. Historically, theories suggest the combination of two superstitions claiming 13 as an unlucky number and Friday as an unlucky day are partially responsible for its original bad reputation. In numerology 12 stands for divine organized arrangements and completion (12 months, 12 hours of the clock). 13 is thought of as irregular, offsetting the pattern. There’s also a superstition possibly derived from the Last Supper that having 13 guests at the table meant the death of one, and Friday was the day of the crucifixion. Historical references are almost non-existent before the 1907 novel Friday, the Thirteenth where a shady broker takes advantage of the superstition creating a panic on Wall Street. There’s also a fear of Friday the 13th called friggatriskaidekaphobia, if you can pronounce it.

The most popular version of Friday the 13thaka ‘Jason Day’ began at the dawn of the early 80’s slasher era, introducing the world to one of the longest running film franchises in history, the creepy effect of two whispered one syllable sounds and the craziest mother since Norma Bates. According to some die hard horror fans, Friday the 13^thshould be a national holiday worldwide and with a proven track record that nothing goes better with horror than heavy metal, a metal show on Friday the 13th is a machete to the head no-brainer.

SITH, Horlet, King Stench and Zuel fit the blood soaked bill delivering loud, killer performances providing the music for any screaming chase scene.

Shadows in the Hourglass take the stage at Blind Bobs opening with the eerie ambient trance of bass and drums. Zack Ryan plays bass like a lead guitar with effects pedals making it the center of attention and conversation, his fingers spelling out the intelligent intricacies of the strings. Cliff Burton would be proud. The Lovecraft-inspired Behind the Veil of Sleep is a high neck, frantic sounding interpretation of an MMA fighters walk to the cage. Illusions of Serenity pour schizophrenic sweat down the face of a deep dark jagged cliff starring into the dark mirror of water below. Ryan turns his bass into a dark voiced reverberation of a tortured soul’s inner turmoil as drummer Travis Abling hits the skins providing the musical canvas for the two man tapestry of sound. They finish with namesake SITH, as Ryan plays the dark lord on bass.

Death metal lovers of Egypt, Horlet play next, promoting their new CD The Keys of Life and Death. Starting with the musical pile-driver Wings of Ariel, we walk through the hallowed Halls of Amenti. We’re Taken to a place where Iron Maiden and Amon Amarth coexist on the same stage at the same time. Next is the potential ‘CD single’ and hit Annabelle’s Curse, which might conjure up visions of evil but has nothing to do with raggedy dolls. We get a warning From the Clouds then they finish with their own special heretic anthem Children of the Light. The band played as loud as Allen D. McCowan’s neon green bass strings.

Zuel (photo by Mike Ritchie)

The stench has arrived, worse than any bottom of the lake drowned body or stalking masked corpse. King Stench has come with their working class black/death metal legions. Hell Gates open with the hellacious blast beats of the hammering Eric Barnes with Slayer solos bringing the crowd up front and necks rapidly mobile. They deliver the electro shocks, shrieking notes of False Prophets and the down in the dirt on the knees riffs of Fight. They unleash the army of hungry, fanged mongrels on Hell Hounds. Visions of Death bring the violence of the battlefield to the stage. They finish with a Behemoth sized cover of Ov Fire in the Void.

Intelligent, instrumental thrash and pound masters Zuel headline starting with the neck power-bombing Facemelter giving out fast secondary beatings with the grunting, thudding concrete wallop of the S—thammer. Rapture’s heavy mechanic, destructive, industrial sound captures the human panic of a world without mobile technology, texting and computers for a few days. There’s a nice guttural mixture of Godflesh, Meshuggah and Morbid Angel without evil/violent vocal intentions. Though, lyrically silent Zuel showcased a healthy experimentation with the elements of the periodic metal table, finishing with the five minute chug juggernaut Johnny.

California Coffee Company Comes to Dayton

September 22, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Inc. founded in 1966 in Berkeley, California will host two Dayton area opening this week, in locations that were formerly Caribou Coffee locations. With a menu full of coffee, espresso, organic teas and brewing equipment, Peet’s has over 200 stores in the United States. Complimenting the beverages, Peet’s features an array of Artisan baked goods that will include blueberry, cranberry and bran muffins, chocolate and orange scones, assorted danishes, cookies and pumpkin, banana and zucchini chocolate chip breads. You’ll also find assorted brownies and flavored pound cakes.

You can meet Peet’s this Monday, 9/23 at 6am for the Grand Opening at 5839 Far Hills Avenue. If you’re one of the first 25 customers of the day, you’ll win a free month of coffee and a limited edition Peet’s tumbler.

The following day, Tuesday, 9/24 at 6:30am the Peet’s at The Greene will open.

10?’s with Chef Mariah Gahagan of Lily’s Bistro

September 21, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Lily’s Bistro, located at 329 E. Fifth Street in Dayton’s Oregon District, has expanded hours to include Saturday lunch and Sunday brunch from 11am-3pm.

General Manager Emily Mendenhall says the restaurant decided to add these hours to offer more weekend choices in the Oregon District. “Our lunch menu is simple and elegant, offering healthier items, and our Sunday menu balances traditional brunch food with creative, higher end cuisine. I think folks who dine in the Oregon District are looking for these options.”

Executive Chef Mariah Gahagan says brunch is a chance for her Sous Chef, Eric Dunn, to be creative. “Eric completely understands that we’re all about seasonal food utilizing fresh ingredients in a manner that is serious while being accessible. We collaborated on brunch, but I gave him room to do his thing, and I’m very proud of what our brunch menu offers.” She adds that the District on Sunday is very different than that of Saturday night. “It has a different feel on Sunday morning. I think our menu encompasses that laid back, neighborhood vibe.”

Highlights include New Orleans style beignets; baked eggs and smoked trout over sautéd spinach with dill cream sauce; and croissant French toast stuffed with sweet cream cheese, topped with fresh fruit and local maple syrup. Prices range from $5-14.

And finally with brunch being taken care of by Sous Chef Eric, Chef Mariah Gahagan couldn’t come up with an excuse to put off an any longer our Chef’s 10 Question interview we’ve been after her for months to do!

Chef Mariah with her favorite lunch option: the Vietnamese rice noodle salad!

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

It’s hard to pick one,because my approach to cooking is all about using seasonal ingredients when they’re at their peak. But coming into fall, I’m really into butternut squash, apples, pumpkins—all the things that typify fall.

What ingredient do you dread?
Green peppers! They impart their flavor onto everything, and to me, they taste like metal.

What’s your favorite dish to make?

Right now, it’s soups, braises, just slow-cooking everything.

What’s your favorite pig out food?

Mac and cheese—preferably enjoyed in bed with my French Bulldog Lulu.

What restaurant, other than your own do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?
Meadowlark, because Wiley is amazing, all the staff is really friendly, and everything is so legit. They use great products when they’re at their best and they don’t make things too fussy—it’s what we strive to do at Lily’s too.

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Don’t rush things. I know everyone is always in a hurry, but allow yourself the time to focus on making the meal right. And use real garlic! That stuff in the jar is abysmal.

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

Alice Waters because she’s an amazing chef whose style I admire.
Lou Reed because he’d be really interesting.
Tina Fey because I’d like somebody funny there.
David Sedaris because he’s neurotic and I appreciate that in a person. And he’s also funny.

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

Julia Child because so changed and expanded American cooking for the better. And Mary Kay Smith and Kim Korkan from the Winds and Wiley from Meadowlark (and now Wheat Penny!) because I’ve learned so much from working with them.

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

I just bought a great house in St. Anne’s, so I mostly just want to garden, work in my yard, and hang out with my husband and dog. And once in awhile I try to go out and eat.

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

That’s hard. Every day there’s something, and it’s always interesting. I think that’s one reason I’m drawn to this profession.

REVIEW: Slutfest 2013 at Screamin Willies

September 20, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

Five Finger Donkey Punch (photo courtesy of Metal Splinter Promotions)

Saturday August 24th marked the third annual local showcase of unsigned talent. Bands from around the state trekked to Columbus to play the coveted Slutfest stage. Though the morality of a musician can be called into question at any time, the local event is promiscuous only in title. Supporting Local Unsigned Talent is the brainchild of Oldschool Promotions’ Aaron Snyder. A current member of Five Finger Donkey Punch and former member of Severed, Snyder organized the all-evening, 12 band, nine and a half hour music fest bringing several genres together under one roof: hard rock, rap/hip-hop and various forms of metal. There was also a charity raffle, won by Oliver Chainsaw Gemmel, for an electric acoustic signed by the bands, a SLUT sign and other memorabilia held for O’Shecky’s staff member David Sheets to help cover medical bills for a kidney transplant.

Tonight was the last show in the venue’s history as Screamin Willies, ending its long 38 years of bringing the best local/regional acts and national artists in rock, metal, country and blues. The building will continue under a new name and management continuing to bring Columbus the best entertainment, including stand-up comedy, rap and hip-hop.

Main sponsors Lost or Forgotten Photography brought their unique art and images to help the show, including stylistic group shots for all performing talent. Bands from Columbus, Dayton, Cleveland, Canton, North Lewisburg and Newark earned their spot after being voted onto the show by fans out of over 200 Ohio bands that entered. This year’s hot SLUTS included Five Finger Donkey Punch, Second Sight, The Factor Project, Destracore, Padded Room, FHSP, Killing Khaos, Infidel, The New Black Jesus, Impending Lies, Cross Solder and Error 504.

To make sure everyone got their money’s worth, as soon as doors opened FFDP started playing a set of cool acoustic covers of the catchiest, recognizable rock tunes and radio friendly hits of today.

Second Sight (photo courtesy of Metal Splinter Promotions)

Columbus’ Second Sight started the early evening noise at 5:45pm, dinner time for normal folk, early breakfast call for the all-night partying rockstar. Starting with some serial crunchy guitar riffs, guitarist/vocalist Ben Robinson delivers a sincere Scott Stapp sound without the annoying ‘wharling’ but with a little gnarly snarl. Come Whatever May opens Slutfest. Heaven can’t save them and hell won’t take them but with the gift of the second sight they already knew that. Second Sight play with the ingredients of grunge, employing the darkness of Alice in Chains with angry/aggravated breakdowns and that gritty sound and hunger that takes bands from the basement to the arena.

Newark’s The Factor Project handled the sophomore set with their own self-made brand of rock-poetry fusion blending elements of punk, rock, blues and countless other inspirations. They start Buried Alive in their sound going from the garage rock noise of what Nirvana might’ve sounded like in the beginning to the sunshine punk vibe of a tattooed surfer riding the waves in and coming out a half-eaten brain-dead zombie. The mid-tempo blues burner Ten Thousand Voices messes with the brain. The Factor Project captures the angst of Cobain, the melancholy moodiness of Tool and the sun drenched water spray of a beach hazard.

Destracore represents for the Dayton scene, bringing their screeching thrash and heavy groove up north to the capitol. The fury of The Beast is unleashed in the Hatebreed yell of belter Mr. Potter. Next the thick stringed, heavy bass groove, melodic Armageddon tale of the Final Act, followed by their loud, fast Reprise. What humbly started in a New Carlisle kitchen has come to the Columbus stage tonight.

From Canton comes the Padded Room, a band with enough hard, heavy groove and energy for an all-night one person mosh pit, slam dancing into the lining of a private cell. Padd Room is made up of five dedicated musicians who found a formula that works for their brand of stage rage, like the Chili Peppers on ‘roids with Fred Durst at the helm. Performing cuts from the Time Tells disc, they play with the soft sentiment of being wrapped in barb wire on the tracks with the train speeding at your face on Cry, Cry, Cry. Steve Chaney creates a unique mixture of growled words and soft spoken sighing with searing inner turmoil. F’n Sick starts with a POD riff and an impressive vocal range between Serj Talkin and Mushroomhead. Then comes the hard crunching meaty guitar/vocal hook of Natural Disasters. The rap, hip hop groovy mosh-friendly Room 3 is a well-organized cathartic blend of rapid revolving influences hitting you hard like a stage-flung body into the pit. They’re new school enough to keep the hip kids coming back and play old school showing respect to their forefathers. Their sound is best described as an unclassifiable guitar chug keg party which may be the best label a band can have.

Killing Khaos (photo by Mike Ritchie)

The tag team rapid fire rapping lyricists F.H.S.P. took over the space, hitting club goers with danceable beats and a different kind of hardcore style showcasing the diversity that Slutfest is known for. They delivered a high energy, sweaty, tattooed performance rivaling the surrounding metal adrenaline around them. Winners of multiple local talent showcases, they open up with H.Y.F.R. Kaine and Regal start the insane amount of rhymes they’re able to spit out before inhaling. They can flow as fast as any ferocious blast beat. The dark cape crusader comes out Eminen style on I’m the Batman. They slow down the vocal speed and make most words audible and get modified, ending with some fast guitar on Power up. They gave respect to the US armed forces welcoming guest mic master J-Rush returning from a tour in Korea adding some extra energy to the ultra-sped up words.

North Lewisburg’s, Killing Khaos bring out the War Inside Your Head. High pitched, high octane yelling connecting like a chilled ice pick to the head, Joe Everhart has some Schuldiner inspired death screeching vocals. Drummer Ben Holtsberry has listened to a few Skipknot records a few times. They get out all the nasty anger and stress the healthy way in the Fight Song. With music played this loud and heavy some emotions are best left unspoken, channeled through the music and released on stage. A fan was quoted as saying “one small step for a band and one huge step for heavy metal.”

Battle for ROTR alumni Infidel took stage next bringing some of the tunes that got them there including Hanging By a Thread and the dyslexia murder anthem Redrum. They got the first pit of the night but since it was an all ages show, everyone had to play nice. Larry Coake’s pit fighter yell threw him into the crowd, rubbing elbows and banging heads (not literary) with the gang. Playing everywhere they can, their star’s on the rise.

The New Black Jesus (photo by Mike Ritchie)

The New Black Jesus, the sound of urban noise, brought the hard living spirit of the street to the stage. Lazaar Williams brought the sleazy, mean and dirty riffs bringing the spirit of Jimmy with him playing tunes from 2012’s Ghetto Democracy. Think Suicidal Tendencies with Burton C Bell/Chad Gray on vocals. Over My Dead Body opened its military march pace with guitar battle siren riffs about living the life of access and paying the price. The hungry undead creatures of the night come out for a shotgun blast Dance of the Dead. They bring out the goddamn electric on God Damn Its frenzy filled riffs that make you want to run the other way. The Gangster Soups poured into the dirty bowl, seasoned with meaty guitar gristle and tasty rusty chord crackers. They’ve put in five years playing (H.A.M) Hard as A Mother…and the meat just gets tougher, harder and tastier.

Straight from Cleveland Impending Lies bring a hard rock, melodic sound balancing a sound reminiscent of Disturbed adding background hints and winks of atmospheric industrial Fear Factory noise. James Skrtich’s vocals are a stained mixture of Dramain and Lewis. Earlier this year When the Lights Burn Out was released, and with a new lineup they’ve hit the road ready to go wherever the gig takes them. Starting with the lead mic sung/background vocals yelled Scream to Whisper. They make beautiful noise out of the Chaos they bring. Their sound shares musical influence and echoes with Linkin Park and Godsmack. Bringing the only songs truly song, showing that pain, anger, grief, sorrow can be translated through soft spoken lungs as much as guttural growls and screams. The melodic hooks of In Time take you to an almost spiritual place of salvation. It’s no accident their sound is unforgettable. They also gave a big 80’s shout out to Journey performing Separate Ways; the loudest and heaviest it’s probably been performed in Columbus.

Cross Solider (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Lancaster Battle for ROTR alumni Cross Soldier played next with top gun looking Chadd Lunn ready to Light Up the Sky with some old school Megadeth meets Metallica vocals and guitar work. Lunn carries the youth and aggression of Mustaine and Hetfield with a hard rock energetic bluesy formula. Playing their own metallic symphony, they bring out new tune Devil’s Eyes then What I believe from their first EP. They played Shameless and the new accompanying video can be seen on Facebook/Reverbnation.

Battle for ROTR winners and ROTR openers Error 504 came on stage around 2am ready to kick ass and show why they earned the coveted Jager spot at Crew Stadium, playing mid-tempo thumper Give it Away, the deep growler Little Red and Devil’s Angel. Unfortunately this wasn’t an all-nighter and the word/long arm of the law came down with last call, making the band’s set unexpectedly short. Though everyone who’s seen them play knows what the 504 can deliver when the spotlights on, the show had to end at the scheduled time but Snyder announced that next year’s Slutfest would be 2 days of performing bands. Check the Slutfest 2014 message board for more info and updates.

Five Finger Donkey Punch and Second Sight photos courtesy of Metal Splinter Promotions.

Carroll HS Tennis Tourney Honors Memory of Woman Missing Since1985

September 20, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Jennifer Schmidt, 1984 Carroll Alumni who went missing in 1985

JENNIFER LEE SCHMIDT MEMORIAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT

This Saturday, September 21st from 9am-3pm, the Carroll High School Girls Tennis Team will be hosting a tournament in memory of 1984 Carroll graduate Jennifer Schmidt.

Jennifer disappeared and was feared abducted in August of 1985, while a student at Purdue University. Sadly, she was never found. Her memory lives on through this Saturday’s event which features many of Dayton’s best high school girls tennis players.

Local High School Tennis Teams featured in the tournament:

Carroll High School, Tippecanoe, Brookville, Beavercreek, Kenton Ridge, Catholic Central HS, Valley View and Wayne High School.

The event will be held at Thomas Cloud Park in Huber Heights.

Jennifer’s parents, Donald and Johnni Schmidt, will be there to support the tournament in her honor.

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GRILLING FOR A GOOD CAUSE

There will be a makeshift grill and concession stand that will benefit Carroll HS girl’s tennis, featuring burgers, hot dogs, etc. Breakfast, lunch and dessert will be served.

Also, Dayton Most Metro’s own food guys, Superfry & The Big Ragu will be donating their time as “Guest Grillmasters” and helping raise money for local girls’ tennis teams in Jennifer’s memory. They will cook to order for players and fans alike

Please come out and grab a bite to eat and support Dayton area female athletes this Saturday at Thomas Cloud Park !

**SPECIAL NOTE: There is a chance of rain this Saturday, so in the event of a rain out, the tournament will be held Sunday at the same times 9AM-3PM at Thomas Cloud Park.

‘Hairspray’ Review – Dayton Playhouse – The Beat Goes On

September 20, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. 2 Comments

The cast of the Dayton Playhouse’s production of ‘Hairspray’ (photo by Art Fabian)

After Wright State University staged “Hairspray” in the fall of 2011, I didn’t think any theater troupe in town would touch the show for at least five years. The sheer electricity of that indelible production, which I saw three times, whisked me immediately back to July 26, 2002 when I saw a preview of “Hairspray” on Broadway before the critics heralded it as the hit it was bound to be. Even so, the Dayton Playhouse refreshingly and assuredly steps up to the plate to present a wholeheartedly entertaining version that certainly ranks among the best musicals the organization has produced.
Crisply directed by Tina McPhearson and set in1962 Baltimore, “Hairspray,” winner of eight 2003 Tony Awards including Best Musical, centers on spunky, plus-sized teenager Tracy Turnblad (an innately appealing Tamar Fishbein). Tracy’s humble world changes forever when she joins the merry dance troupe of the local “Corny Collins” TV show. Her lively personality and funky moves helps her catch the attention of the show’s heartthrob Link Larkin (the handsome, sensitive Ben Douglas), but situations escalate when she vows to racially integrate the program.
Fishbein charms throughout as Tracy evolves into a courageous visionary for equality, a key element deftly explored in Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan’s terrific libretto adapted from the 1988 John Waters film of the same name. There are occasional glimpses of exhaustion in her portrayal which diminishes her vocal capacity, but she’s an admirable singer nonetheless, particularly filling the dreamy “I Can Hear the Bells” and the reprise of “Good Morning Baltimore” with great tenderness. Fishbein is also wonderfully supported by Brian Sharp, warmly feminine, affably understanding and very funny as Tracy’s insecure mom Edna, and Jim Lockwood, who delivers one of his finest performances as Tracy’s kooky dad Wilbur. Sharp and Lockwood’s close-knit partnership culminates in a truly effervescent, meaningfully touching version of “Timeless to Me,” composers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman’s nod to unwavering love.
An assortment of excellent featured turns are given by reliable triple threat Desmond Thomas as Seaweed J. Stubbs, knockout vocalist Crystal Williams as Motormouth Maybelle, the absolutely dynamic Kelli Locker as Velma Von Tussle (on par with Linda Hart who originated the role), the spirited Dean Swann as Corny Collins, the amiable Amanda Carter as Amber Von Tussle, the magnetic Amber Butler as Little Inez, the versatile Marabeth Klejna and Rod Wood in multiple roles, and an utterly hilarious Tori Kocher in a breakthrough performance as Tracy’s zany best friend Penny Pingleton.
The cohesive, sunny ensemble, energetically executing Annette Looper’s choreography flavorfully capturing the period, consists of Naman Clark, Malcolm DeSean Casey, Erica Savage, Sydney Thomas, Alyssia Blake, Andrew Reese Tomlinson, Alissa Peppo, Paige Combs, Daveed Abrams, Andrew Wood, Allison Eder, James Branham, Melanie Barrett and Zack Conway.
McPhearson’s impressive technical team includes scenic designer Chris Newman (colorfully recalling David Rockwell’s original work), costume/wig designers Steve Burton and Tim Grewe, and lighting designer Anita Bachmann. Musical director Judy Mansky leads a firm orchestra particularly accented by the skillfulness of drummer Thomas Varner.
Attempting a character-specific, ensemble-driven show like “Hairspray” is a huge undertaking for a community theater, but the Playhouse effortlessly rises to the occasion. Long before the cast says goodbye with the infectious “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” one of only a few songs in contemporary musical theater to live in the pop culture mainstream, you’ll be glad “Hairspray” returned with unbridled glee.

“Hairspray” continues through Sept. 22 at the Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Act One: 75 minutes; Act Two: 55 minutes. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. For tickets or more information, call (937) 424-8477 or visit www.daytonplayhouse.com

City Proclaims Today Food Truck Day!

September 20, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Over the past couple years, at least one segment of the food industry seems to be burgeoning not despite the recession, but because of it: food trucks. Given the tight credit market over the past few years, it takes more up-front capital to start new businesses. This makes the food truck market easier to enter than the traditional bricks and mortar restaurant business. The Dayton region has over 30 trucks in operation, with many more are on the way.

Synergy Incubators, a start up non-profit that collaborates to remove obstacles to success and to educate our next generation about nutrition, sustainability and community, has been working with local food trucks. Tonight at 200 S. Jefferson Street, during Urban Nights, they will host their 5th food truck rally, partnering with the Foodbank to host Food Truck Bingo! Attendees will have the chance to fill their bingo card by visiting the food trucks, as well as the Decoy – art boutique – studio sponsored children’s activities area & the Synergy Makers Market featuring 15 local Artisans as well!

The following Food Trucks will be serving up Street Food from 5-9pm tonight:

Bella Sorella Brick Oven Pizza
Cest Cheese
Cheeky Meat Pies
East Coast Eats
Fressa
Go Cupcake
Harvest Mobile Cuisine
Missourui Avenue BBQ
The Monchon
Ringo’s North Star Mobile Eatery

‘Becky’s New Car’ Review – Human Race Theatre Company – Navigating a Midlife Crisis

September 19, 2013 By Russell Florence, Jr. Leave a Comment

Margaret Knapp, David Sitler and Michael Richey, photo courtesy of Scott J. Kimmins

“When a woman says she wants a new car, she wants a new life.” Becky Foster, a middle class wife and mother grappling with middle-age self-worth, intriguingly heeds this opinion in Steven Dietz’s aptly titled 2008 comedy “Becky’s New Car,” the Human Race Theatre Company’s engaging if lightweight season opener fluidly directed by Marya Spring Cordes.

At the outset, Becky, delightfully portrayed by a very personable and relatable Margaret Knapp, warns the audience they might have issues with her likability. In other words, the woman brushing up on her housecleaning before heading to her office manager job at a car dealership will evolve in ways that could startle or be off-putting. And it is Becky’s honest, direct, conversational allure that keeps her on the audience’s side, especially when she decides to take a leap of faith that shakes her family’s foundation with hurtful repercussions. I’m not sure how many women would follow Becky’s example of disregarding their marriage when charmed by a rich widower, but Dietz’s clever decision to demolish the fourth wall allows the audience to at least sympathize with her humorous yet bothersome predicament. By allowing the audience to comment on the action and occasionally join Becky on stage, an unspoken bond is established that breeds understanding. Dietz could have planted more substantive fireworks in the mildly tedious Act 1, but there’s no denying the engrossing tension that occurs in the darker Act 2 when Becky’s deception is revealed forcing her to face the music.
Knapp, navigating a convincing sea of frustrated, perplexed emotions, receives stellar support from an authentic supporting cast. As Becky’s easygoing, hardworking husband Joe, David Sitler excellently crafts a journey firmly built on trust that is eventually replaced with heartache and pain with a pinch of vengeance. Wright State University alum Gregory Mallios is sharp and amiable as Becky and Joe’s son Chris, a grad student still determining his path no matter how smart he thinks he is. Michael Richey is hilariously aloof as wealthy Walter Flood, an older gentleman smitten with Becky but not completely over the loss of his wife. Thanks to Richey’s sweet, innocent demeanor it is entirely believable that Becky would turn her world upside down for Walter, who is so far removed from the middle class that he’s humorously astounded by the concept of pizza delivery. Human Race resident artist Patricia Linhart makes a welcomed, commanding return to the Loft Theatre stage as the jaded, privileged Ginger, Walter’s acerbic friend who longs to be useful while wishing she were the center of his attention. Jason Podplesky, adept at physical comedy, is a bundle of energy as Becky’s co-worker Steve Singletary. Leslie Goddard is lovely as Walter’s spoiled daughter Kensington who finds the man of her dreams in one of the play’s crafty twists.
In addition, Tamara L. Honesty’s wonderfully colorful, expansive and inspired set, expertly lit by John Rensel, astutely signifies the varying directions within Becky’s conflicted existence. Linhart and Goddard are particularly costumed in striking black cocktail dresses in Act 2 courtesy of Christie Peitzmeier.
Later this season, the Human Race will stage two fascinating plays that are more indicative of their pedigree: Harvey Fierstein’s “Torch Song Trilogy” and Jon Robin Baitz’s “Other Desert Cities.” Until then, you’re encouraged to ride shotgun with Becky Foster. Hold on tight.

“Becky’s New Car” continues through Sept. 29 at the Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., Dayton. Performances are Wednesdays-Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m. and Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Act One: 53 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $36-$40. There are also a limited number of $25 tickets available for each performance. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit online at www.humanracetheatre.org or www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Chop Suey Carryout: The Oldest Chinese Restaurant in Dayton

September 19, 2013 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Something is to be said for a restaurant that has been serving dishes for over 40 years. Chop Suey Carryout at 1465 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering has quietly done just that. In fact, this eatery is the first place we ever tasted Chinese food. They don’t have a website or even a Facebook page, but they have been cranking out Asian classics and we have been having Food Adventures here since Gerald Ford was President. How has this place stayed in business for so long? The answer is consistently good food and good prices. Their recipes remain identical since the 70’s, and the result is generations of loyal followers.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Chop Suey Carryout was opened in 1973 by a family who had moved to the U.S. from Taiwan. The same family owns the restaurant today, and have kept the location on E. Dorothy Lane for the entire run.

— As the name suggests, it is a great place for carryout. If you must dine-in be prepared for the retro dining room. We voted it “Best Dining Room for filming a scene from Kojak.”

— The prices are reasonable and all dishes come in size Regular or Large. Do yourself a favor, get the regular, it is a good sized portion and will save you some cash.

— All the meals are served in those “little Chinese to-go boxes,” even if you dine-in. It makes for a fun Food Adventure, just grab some chop sticks and go to town.

— Chop Suey Carryout is closed on Sundays, so make sure you hit them up Monday through Saturday til about 9pm.

Shrimp Chop Suey – The Best Chop Suey in Dayton

— Drink selection is very limited. They have a couple of soda brands and maybe a tea.

Now, get ready to wok and roll as FOOD ADVENTURES gives you our…

****MUST EATS !!!****

— CHOP SUEY: Of course ! How can you write an article about this place and not mention their specialty namesake? Answer: YOU CANT ! Unless your a food critic who doesn’t know what they are doing. Our favorite is the Shrimp Chop Suey, but you can get vegetable, pork, chicken or beef varieties. This creamy mixture of cabbage and vegetables is the best chop suey in Dayton. It is served over steamed rice and is very filling.

— CHOW MEIN: This dish is identical to Chop Suey, except it is served over hard Chinese noodles. Again you have vegetable or various meat options. However, we have been eating this dish since we played t-ball and we say go for the Shrimp Chow Mein option (or Chicken if you need a substitute)! The clear sauce on this dish has an amazing flavor and is how we remember it as kids. It is the best chow mein in Dayton and never disappoints.

Fantastic Hot n Sour Soup – be careful, it is always Scalding Hot !

— HOT & SOUR SOUP: Addicting, flavorful ..and SCALDING HOT ! Beware: this is served hot enough to burn your mouth for 20 minutes. The 20 minute wait is worth it, as this hot and sour soup rivals the big name restaurants in town.

— SWEET & SOUR SHRIMP: An old classic served up right by an old restaurant. We don’t know why it is so good, but Big Ragu says it is the best Sweet & Sour dish in the Miami Valley. Maybe it is the lightly crispy, deep fried batter on the shrimp. Or maybe it is the classic, deep red, sweet and sour sauce unlike any other. Secret: we think it is the combination when the two mix. Again, if you are a land lubber and hate seafood.. try the sweet & sour chicken option.

— SESAME CHICKEN: A good flavored sauce covering deep fried, white meat chicken. The sesame sprinkles are the finishing touch. Pour over white rice for sheer heaven.

Sesame Shrimp & all entrees are served in Chinese “to-go” boxes. Easy Chopstick eatin’

Honorable Mention: Egg Foo Young – Chop Suey Carryout is one of the few places in town that serves this dish and does it justice. The same can be said for their Moo Goo Gai Pan. Again, we have been ordering and eating this stuff before anyone twirled a rubix cube, so trust us. Also, the Kung Pao Chicken is great in a pinch. Most recently we tried a dish we have only seen at Chop Suey Carryout called Wor Shue Gai. It is a deep fried chicken dish, with a curious yellow sauce. It needs some spiciness, so we say stick with the ‘Must Eat’ classics !

Some things like disco music and Laverne & Shirley didn’t survive the 70’s. Chop Suey Carryout survived and is still stir frying and high flying today. Wok, don’t run, to this Kettering icon, and try some of our favorites. Discover why after four decades, Daytonians still stand in line for this takeout Food Adventure.

What is your opinion of Chop Suey Carryout? Comment below and tell us your thoughts or menu recommendations.

Want more to take home? Then check out FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook and “like” us by clicking —>HERE.

Browse through photos of numerous specialties we have sampled over the years. Sorry, no smellivision included…

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Coming up in Dayton Theatre, 9/20 – 9/29

September 19, 2013 By Sarah Caplan Leave a Comment

Hello again! Welcome back and hello! We’ve got three good shows closing this weekend, a couple still running and one getting ready to open. Let’s get right on stage.

Closing This Weekend!

Hairspray!

Dayton Playhouse
The Skinny: This high-spirited musical musical takes place in 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland. Teenager, Tracy Turnblad, dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance program. When Tracy wins a role on the show, she becomes a celebrity overnight. She then launches a campaign to integrate the show. The show deals with injustices of parts of American society in the 1960’s.
Dates: Hairspray runs this weekend, closing Sunday, 9/22.
Tickets: Please visit the Dayton Playhouse website at www.daytonplayhouse.com

Hair

Beavercreek Community Theatre

The Skinny: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical!This show introduced America to the “Rock musical”, with songs that became standards, such as “The Age Of Aquarius” and “Easy To Be Hard.” Hair focuses on a “tribe” of hippies, touching on several different individual stories, woven throughout with the tragedy of the Vietnam conflict.
Dates: Hairs also closes this weekend, Sunday 9/22.
Tickets: Please visit www.bctheatre.org

First Baptist of Ivy Gap

The Skinny: During WWII, six women gather at the church to roll bandages and plan the church’s 75th anniversary. Overseeing things is Edith, the pastor’s wise-cracking wife who dispenses Red Cross smocks and witty repartee to Luby, whose son is fighting in the Pacific; Mae Ellen, the church’s rebellious organist who wants to quit but hasn’t the courage; Olene, who dreams of a career in Hollywood; Sammy, a shy newcomer with a secret; and Vera, an influential Baptist with a secret of her own. When Luby learns her son has been wounded, she confounds the others by blaming the vulnerable Sammy. Twenty-five years later, our “First Baptist Six” reunite!

Dates: Closing Sunday, 9/22

Tickets: To make ticket reservations, please call the Brookville Flower Shop at 937-833-3531

Opening This Weekend!

Harvey

The Wright State Theatre Company
The Skinny: Elwood P. Dowd is an endlessly pleasant & delightfully eccentric bachelor living in a small town that isn’t quite aware that its newest citizen is a 6’3″ white rabbit named “Harvey,” that only certain people can see.
Dates: Harvey opens Thursday, 9/19 and runs through 9/29
Tickets: Please visit the WSU Theatre Department box office website: http://www.wright.edu/theatre-dance-and-motion-pictures/performances/ticket-information

Currently In Production

Becky’s New Car

The Human Race Theatre Company

The Skinny: Becky Foster is stuck in neutral—middle aged, in middle management and a middling marriage—until an honest misunderstanding with a wealthy widower offers her the chance at an exciting double life…and she takes it. Now she’s frantically juggling to keep her two worlds apart before everything threatens to come crashing down on her. It’s enough to drive Becky off a cliff, and she’s taking the audience along for the ride!

Dates: Running through the 29th.
Tickets: Please visit the Human Race Theatre Company website at www.humanracetheatre.org

A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement

La Comedia Dinner Theatre

The Skinny: The fourth installment in the popular Church Basement Ladies series takes place in 1960, and reformation is underway. The Church Basement Ladies are once again required to face chance head-on, but they will stand strong in their faith and their friendships.

Dates: Closing 10/27.

Tickets: Please visit the La Comedia website at www.lacomedia.com

AUSTENLAND Opens at THE NEON + New Event News!

September 18, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

I’m back from Toronto, and I had a wonderful time. The film culture in Toronto – especially with the addition of the TIFF Bell Lightbox and their year-round programming – is phenomenal. In all, I saw 32 films at this year’s festival (out of 300+ options), and I met some great people. Now it’s back to focusing on Dayton’s film culture! There are some fun announcements below.

This Friday, we will open a new romantic comedy based on the popular novel – AUSTENLAND. On our other screen, we will hold BLUE JASMINE and BLACKFISH for one more week…in addition to an encore screening of The Big Lens Film Festival. For remaining showtimes for this week, visit our official site at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for AUSTENLAND: “Jane Hayes is obsessed with all things Jane Austen. But when she decides to spend her life savings on a trip to a resort catering to Austen-crazed women, Jane’s fantasies of meeting the perfect gentleman suddenly become more complicated than she ever could have imagined.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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Due to the previous SOLD-OUT screenings, WSU’s Annual Big Lens Film Festival is returning to THE NEON for one more night. “The 21st Annual Big Lens Film Festival will play Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:30 at the THE NEON…Every year, Big Lens screens a selection of the very best short films to come from the Wright State University Motion Picture program, and this year is no different! Ranging from documentary to narrative, these six films cover a wide variety of subjects and emotions. Tickets, just $7 each, are now available at THE NEON. Some films may contain adult content.” (taken from Big Lens press release)

And speaking of film festivals, THE DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL is heading into its 8th year. The dates are set for October 11-13, and the line-up is fantastic. The committee has been working on this year’s festival since April, and we’re currently in the process of securing guest artists (and getting the website 100% ready). The official site should be ready by the end of the week, but you can visit our Facebook Page to get a glimpse of what’s happening. At the very least, be sure to check out the trailer for REACHING FOR THE MOON – it’s certainly NEON-hit material.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27YqB_UZ9u8′]

Thanks for your continued support!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Sept. 20 – Thurs, Sept. 26:

BLUE JASMINE (PG-13) 1 Hr 38 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:10, 7:20
Monday: 3:10, 7:40
Tuesday: 3:10
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:10, 7:40

BLACKFISH (PG-13) 1 Hr 23 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:10, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:30

AUSTENLAND (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

THE BIG LENS FILM FESTIVAL (NR)
Tuesday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Sept. 27 – SALINGER
TBD – THE HUNT
Oct. 4 – ENOUGH SAID
Oct. 11 – THE PATIENCE STONE
Oct. 18 – INEQUALITY FOR ALL
Oct. 25 – WADJDA
Nov. 22- KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Nov. 22 –DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
TBD – CUTIE AND THE BOXER

Spend Saturday at Taste of Troy

September 18, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Troy Main Street, Inc. presents the 2013 Taste of Troy on Saturday, September 21, 2013 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The event is held annually in downtown Troy to showcase local restaurants in the picturesque town square.

Visitors can sample the culinary delights of fourteen hometown restaurants, listen to live music, shop at the Downtown Farmers Market, participate in beer and wine tastings, and visit dozens of downtown shops.

Expect to taste a wide range of food from a variety of independent restaurants including Cajun, Italian, Mexican, classic American fare, locally grown and raised, and more. New participants in this year’s Taste of Troy are the recently-opened Pinkies Up Tea House, Country Bulk Barn, Mojo’s Bar & Grill, Olive Oasis, and the Cakery.

“Tastes” for sale include a diverse array of menu items featuring up to three different offerings from each participating restaurant.

To satisfy a hunger for entertainment, several musical performances are scheduled for Prouty Plaza throughout the day. Slated to perform are Rum River Blend, Stephen Orban, Larry Lyons, and Megan Osman.

“Troy is unmatched in the quality and quantity of independent restaurants for a city of its size”, notes Troy Main Street Director Karin Manovich. “The Taste of Troy provides an opportunity for people to sample signature dishes from a wide variety of restaurants while enjoying live music.”

Two downtown establishments, La Piazza and The Caroline, will offer wine and beer tastings on their respective outdoor patios. The Downtown Troy Farmers Market will extend its hours until 2:00PM.

njoy wonderful tastings from the following participants:

A Fat Boyz Pizzaria
Al’s Pizza
The Cakery
The Caroline
Dunaway’s Beef & Ale
La Fiesta
La Piazza
LeDoux’s
Mojos Bar & Grille
Pinkie’s Up Tea House
The Olive Oasis
Winans Chocolates & Coffee

Pioneer Electric Cooperative is a member of the Touchstone Energy® alliance of electric cooperatives nationwide and is this year’s title sponsor. Admission to the Taste of Troy is free and open to the public thanks to their generosity. Gordon Orthodontics will be returning as a sponsor and participant in the event.

Entry into the event is FREE. Tickets for tastings are purchased at the event for $1 each. Menu items cost from 1 to 5 tickets.
For additional information, contact Troy Main Street at 937-339-5455.

Local Display Graphics Company Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary with Nonprofit Giveaway

September 18, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

A social media contest for Dayton Area non-profits has the public commenting for votes on Insignia Display Graphics Facebook page. The contest began September 1, with all area nonprofits eligible to win a banner stand from the company, a $500 value.

“We are always trying to give back to the community somehow. Our staff chooses two charities per year to support annually, but this particular contest is just something a little extra to help celebrate our 10 year anniversary and to say thank you,” said owner Elizabeth Riley.

To enter a nonprofit organization, comment on the Insignia Display Graphics Facebook page with the name of the organization of your choice. One entry per person per day. The organization with the most votes/comments wins. Likes do not count as a vote. The contest runs through September 30. A winner will be announced October 1.

Insignia recently expanded, doubling the square footage of space at their 300 Gargrave Rd location in West Carrollton, and hiring two additional staff members.

Midwest Premiere of ‘Bayou Maharajah’ at Neon Profiles New Orleans Piano Giant

September 17, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Director Lily Keber’s acclaimed new documentary film Bayou Maharajah: The Tragic Genius of James Booker, will be shown on Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Neon (130 E. Fifth St., Dayton). Keber will be on hand to introduce the film and lead a discussion about the movie following the screening. Admission is $10. Advance tickets are available at the Neon.

James Booker, “The Piano Prince of New Orleans” who died 30 years ago this fall, was a mercurial figure in New Orleans, a prodigy who was leaving his mark on legendary R&B records while still in his teens. A spectacularly gifted pianist and vocalist whose style melded blues, jazz, soul, gospel and classical influences with New Orleans rhythms, his sound defied categorization.

Booker taught players like Harry Connick, Jr., and Dr. John, who described Booker as “the best black, gay, one-eyed junkie piano genius New Orleans has ever produced.” As a sideman during his career, Booker played with the likes of Fats Domino, King Curtis, T-Bone Walker, Ringo Starr, Maria and Geoff Muldaur, Labelle, Joe Tex (including on his big hit “I Gotcha”), The Coasters, and the Doobie Brothers. His outrageous solo career was characterized by virtuoso performance, his bigger-than-life personality, and onstage performances in his underwear, dishing out drug-fueled conspiracy theories.

The movie includes archival footage of Booker in performance plus reflections by fellow musicians, observers and collaborators from the Crescent City and beyond which include Harry Connick Jr., Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Irma Thomas, Charles Neville, Hugh Laurie, Douglas Brinkley and many others. The film was introduced at the 2013 South By Southwest festival, where its final screening sold out, and has subsequently sold out screenings at the Film Society at Lincoln Center, Outfest and the Melbourne International Film Festival.

“This winning doc features a can’t miss subject and plenty of performance footage,” said The Hollywood Reporter, calling it a “must see for aficionados of New Orleans music [that is] also accessible to viewers who don’t know a Professor Longhair from a Dr. John.”

For more information on the film, visit bayoumaharajah.com, and for more information on the Neon screening, visit neonmovies.com or call (937) 222-SHOW (7469).

ENCORE Young Professionals Support Dayton Performing Arts Alliance With Season Opener

September 17, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The 2013/2014 Season is finally kicking off! Join ENCORE young professionals for an exclusive evening on the town to celebrate Dayton’s rich cultural arts heritage on Saturday, September 21st.

♫ 5:30 pm – Pre-show “mix ‘n mingle” at the Dublin Pub in the Oregon District

♫ 7:30 pm – Migrate over to the Schuster Center

♫ 8:00 pm – The Dayton Ballet, Dayton Opera, and Dayton Philharmonic come together to present the 2013–2014 Season Opening Spectacular, featuring the music of three very different composers in three distinctly different formats.

✒ SINGLE TICKET COST: JUST $30/ticket

✒ SEASON TICKETS COST: $120/all 6 ENCORE performances. This discount is up to 77% off regular single ticket prices. You can’t get prices like this in ANY city in America!!! LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE!! Only 15 more season ticket packages available.

✒ Call Ticket Center Stage (888) 228-3630 TODAY to reserve your tickets.

ENCORE Season Lineup:

♫ Saturday, September 21 – Season Opening Spectacular ($36 single ticket)
♫ Friday, December 13 – The Nutcracker Ballet ($70 single ticket)
♫ Saturday, January 18 – The Music of the Rolling Stones ($53 single ticket)
♫ Friday, February 21 – Hansel and Gretel Opera ($87 single ticket)
♫ Saturday, April 5 – Oh What a Night: Billboard Hits of the 60s ($61 single ticket)
♫ Friday, May 16 – Beethoven’s Great Ninth ($47 single ticket)

ENCORE! is a special program created to engage young professionals in a lasting relationship with the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance by bringing together like-minded individuals through performances, unique social events, special “perks” and networking opportunities. ENCORE! is cultivating the next generation of DPAA patrons and leaders to ensure that Dayton’s rich performing arts legacy will be enjoyed by many generations to come.

✒ Note: ENCORE! tickets can be exchanged for any production within the DPAA season as a $20 credit towards regular single ticket prices in your choice of available seating tier. Only one ticket per performance may be redeemed *´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•`

¤ Hosted by DPAA Advisory Board Members: Maha Kashani & Richard Kaiser

Leo Bistro Makes McClure Official

September 16, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Leo Bistro, the restaurant at The Dayton Art Institute, will go on hiatus for the week leading up to The DAI’s biggest event – the 42^nd Annual Oktoberfest on September 27 – 29. Leo will take a vacation and be closed for business, September 23 – October 1, while the museum grounds and surrounding streets are being fenced; set up with temporary electrical power; and blocked by stages, tents and crowds of fun seekers.

“When Leo Bistro reopens on October 2, it will be fully powered by Elite Catering, and there will be a new, innovative menu that demonstrates what happens when food meets art” said Jane A. Black, Associate Director of The DAI. “You will find daily specials, a children’s menu, a ‘Quick Takes’ menu, and a new wine/bar/appetizer list. There will also be a calendar of exciting new special events taking place at the Bistro.”

The museum remains committed to providing a place where guests may enjoy refreshments whenever the museum is open. A full menu of soups, sandwiches, salads and entrees will be available from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and an array of lighter items and beverages will be available until the museum closes at 8 p.m. Leo will introduce a marvelous new weekend brunch menu, served 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Renee McClure, owner of Elite Catering

“It’s rather difficult to reach the museum during the fourth week in September, so it is a good time for Leo to take a break from day-to-day operations,” said Renee McClure, Elite Catering’s Chef/Owner, “We will be planning new items for our full-service weekday lunch menu, as well as enticing appetizers and drinks for the afternoon and early evenings. And we have some new-to-the-area food concepts for the weekend that are not to be missed!”

Renee McClure is a Dayton native, growing up in Beavercreek and graduating from Wright State University, with a BS in Business Management. She started Elite Catering in 2000 when her own search for a dynamic caterer left her empty handed. Over the past 13 years, she has spent much of her time not only learning new and creative ways to prepare and serve remarkable food, but also how to showcase it through artistic plate and buffet displays. Today, she shares her joy of great food and design through Elite Catering and now Leo Bistro.

Learn more about the menu and Leo special events when visiting Oktoberfest! The Elite team will offer tastings and give out deals at two new Oktoberfest-related preview events, the Young Professionals happy hour event, 5 – 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, and the Business Lunch, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday, September 27. They will also be previewing items in the Bistro at the Oktoberfest Preview Party on Friday, September 27, 7 – 9 p.m.

For more information about Leo Bistro, Oktoberfest and The Dayton Art Institute, please visit www.daytonartinstitute.org or call the museum at 937-223-4ART (4278). Be sure to also connect with The Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and exclusive offers. Look for the hashtag #OktoberfestDayton for the latest Oktoberfest updates.

ABOUT THE DAYTON ART INSTITUTE

As one of the Miami Valley’s premier fine art museums, The Dayton Art Institute offers a full range of programming in addition to exhibiting its collection. Galleries hours are Tuesday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon – 5 p.m. With support from the Chase Endowment Fund, suggested admission to the museum’s permanent collection is $8 adults, $5 seniors, active military and groups. Admission is free for museum members, students (18+ w/ID) and youth (17 and under). Some special exhibitions, programs and events may carry an additional charge and include admission to the museum’s permanent collection as part of that price. Free parking is available at the museum and the facility is fully accessible to physically challenged visitors. The DAI’s Museum Store and Leo Bistro are now open during regular museum hours. For more information, please call 937-223-4ART (4278) or visit www.daytonartinstitute.org. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The DAI also receives support from the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District.