Dayton937

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

Archives for November 2024

Table 33 Opens for Brunch/Lunch Nov 22nd

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Charlie Carroll, owner of Table 33 describes the business as  “”More than food, we’re passionate about people and life. But people and life need food.”

Table will open it’s doors for brunch/lunch on Fri , Nov 22nd at 9am in the space that was formerly Est! Est! Est! in the Dayton Arcade.  Located just inside the entrance on Fourth Street is a small bodega where you can pick up snacks or a bottle of wine from their selection of about 100 choices.

Carroll says he’s incredibly proud about bringing on Chef Keith Taylor to create their menu’s.  Keith’s background in the Dayton food scene is vast, having learned his craft at L’Auberge, under legendary chef Dieter Krug until Krug retired, then he served as executive chef at Pacchia in the Oregon District, and at Country Club of the North in Beavercreek. In 2007 he opened his own restaurant Savona Restaurant and Wine Bar in Centerville until shutting it down in 2014 after a car ran into the building.  He then joined his friend Rocco Catanzarite to open Tavolo Modern Italian in Sydney which shut down in Jan of 2024 when their lease expired.  Most recently Taylor served as the Executive Chef at the Nutter Center.

Brunch Menu

Starters, Small Plates, & Sides

  • Butternut Squash Curry Bisque

    Butternut squash coconut milk bisque with red curry and toasted pepitas.

  • Whipped Ricotta with Grilled Balsamic Pears

    Whipped ricotta paired with grilled balsamic pears, candied pecans, and local honey. Served with locally-sourced sourdough.

  • Nueske’s Thick-Cut Smoked Bacon

    Crispy, thick-cut Nueske’s bacon, slow-smoked and caramelized.

  • Herb-Roasted Breakfast Potatoes

    Golden, crispy potatoes tossed with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of sea salt.

  • Hand-Cut French Fries

    Crisp, golden French fries, hand-cut and lightly salted. Served with house-made aioli or ketchup.

Eggs & Entrees

  • Root Vegetable & Gruyère Omelette

    A fluffy omelette with roasted root vegetables and local Gruyère. Served with baby greens in a light cider vinaigrette.

  • Breakfast Sandwich

    A soft brioche bun layered with a farm-fresh egg, Keener sausage, melted cheddar, and house-made tomato jam. Served with breakfast potatoes.

  • Chef’s Quiche of the Week

    Ask your server for this week’s quiche, made with seasonal ingredients handpicked by our Chef. Served with baby greens in a light cider vinaigrette.

  • Farm-to-Table Smash Burger

    Keener Farm’s grass-fed beef patties smashed and topped with Vermont white cheddar, butter lettuce, pickles, and black garlic sauce on a toasted “Everything” bun. Served with hand-cut french fries. Option to add Nueske’s Bacon.

  • Buttermilk Chicken Biscuit

    Crispy fried chicken thigh, pimento cheese spread, house-made pickles, and a drizzle of spicy honey on a buttery house-made biscuit. Served with breakfast potatoes.

  • Angus Steak & Eggs

    Seared Angus strip aged to our specifications and paired with local farm-fresh eggs cooked to your preference. Served with breakfast potatoes and a light chive hollandaise.

From the Griddle

  • White Chocolate Orange French Toast

    House-made brioche soaked in white chocolate custard, finished with orange zest, candied pecans, and locally-sourced maple syrup.

  • House Pancakes

    Fluffy pancakes served with saffron whipped cream, Grand Marnier macerated berries, and locally-sourced maple syrup.

  • Buttermilk Waffles with Roasted Pears

    Golden buttermilk waffles with roasted orchard pears, whipped mascarpone, local honey, and powdered sugar.

Bowls & Salads

  • Açaí Power Bowl

    A blend of pure açaí berries and frozen bananas, topped with fresh banana slices, seasonal berries, crunchy granola, shredded coconut, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and a drizzle of almond butter.

  • Heirloom Grain Bowl

    Locally-sourced heirloom grains with roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, baby kale, and a poached egg, drizzled with red beet vinaigrette and topped with toasted quinoa.

  • Black Kale Caesar Salad

    Tender black kale in rich Caesar dressing with Pecorino Romano, grilled lemon, and chickpea croutons.
 Add Chicken | Add Salmon

  • House Crunch Salad

    A vibrant blend of power greens, toasted quinoa, feta crumbles, and sweet chili vinaigrette. Topped with your choice of protein.
 Add Chicken | Add Salmon

Table 33

45 W 4th Street,
Dayton, OH 45402

(937) 999-3070

Wednesday – Monday: 9am – 3pm

Closed Tuesdays

Dinner hours will be added in December.

Mystery Night features “Clue” Movie Party

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Join Dayton Dinner Theater for a night shrouded in mystery, featuring themed food, drinks, music, trivia, and an interactive screening of the classic film Clue! This exciting event, held at The Brightside, includes creative pizza from Dayton Pizza Factory, a delightful salad, an appetizer, and dessert crafted by Baker Benji. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Award-winning and nationally known actor Andrew Mitakides will be leading an interactive murder mystery skit. Musician Matt will be performing live mystery songs and playing name that tune.

And of course, costumes are encouraged. Choose your favorite character to wear!

Doors open at 5:45 pm, with food and live music from 6 to 7 pm. The movie begins at 7 pm, followed by a brief intermission for dessert and trivia at 8 pm, concluding the film around 9:15 PM.

HOW TO GO?

Nov 24, 2024 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH

Tickets $28 – available here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/clue-mystery-movie-party

Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise we have open seating. For table reservations or other questions, please email   [email protected]

Burger Night at Giovanni’s

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THIS Tuesday is Burger Night!!!!
Tuesday November 19th 4-8 is Burger Night
Featuring guest favorites like
Bruschetta Burger
Meatball Patty Melt
*Award Winning* Gorgonzola Stuffed Burger
We will be serving all burgers with either fries or homemade onion rings. Burger night is a guest favorite.
Burger Night is always a hit and we often sell out. If you would like to preorder your burger, just send us a message on Facebook.

IHOP’s New Menu is Inspired by Xbox’s Indiana Jones Game

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Ready for an epic breakfast adventure? As Xbox gears up for the highly anticipated release of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on December 9, we’re teaming up with IHOP to serve up a breakfast spread fit for a legendary adventurer.

Starting November 18, IHOP guests can dive into a special Indiana Jones and the Great Circle-inspired menu featuring the debut of Fully Loaded French Toast and signature beverages including ‘Explorer’s Caramel Apple Butter Hot Chocolate’ and ‘Long-Lost Cookie Butter Milkshake’.

IHOP Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Food Image

But the adventure doesn’t stop there—become an International Bank of Pancakes member and upload your IHOP receipt to earn PanCoins that you can redeem for exclusive Xbox-themed prizes in the IHOP Stack Market.

The Stack Market will have weekly drops throughout the program, including full game downloads, exclusive merch, gaming accessories, one month of Game Pass Ultimate (new members only), and much more. Make sure to tune in as IHOP and Xbox host a livestream on November 18 at 12:30pm PT on the Xbox Twitch and Xbox YouTube channels to unveil some of the exclusive rewards available only to IHOP loyalty members.

IHOP Xbox Console

As the official breakfast partner of Xbox, exclusive merchandise was created for the IHOP Stack Market; most notably, a set of limited-edition collectible glasses nodding back to ’80s nostalgia. The glasses feature original artwork by Matt Taylor from Xbox and spotlight iconic Xbox titles like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Halo Infinite, Sea of Thieves and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, alongside a limited-edition IHOP gift card series sporting similar designs from those same titles.

IHOP Xbox Glasses

Over the coming months, IHOP will host Xbox-themed sweepstakes in the Stack Market, including custom IHOP-themed Xbox Series X and more, offering even more ways to celebrate the partnership. Head to IHOP, enjoy some legendary eats, and score exclusive prizes.

Mad River Tavern To Close

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Opened in Feb of 2024, this was posted today on their facebook page:

 

“DearCustomers,

This is one of the hardest messages we’ve ever had to write. After much reflection, many discussions, and a lot of praying, we’ve made the difficult decision to close the restaurant. We want you to know that this choice was not made lightly- it’s largely the result of circumstances beyond what we could control as the health of one of our family members has taken a turn for the worse.
Sadly, we can’t give the restaurant the attention it needs anymore and still be able to address our personal challenges. We have made the decision to choose family over business. We understand this is sudden and the timing is not the best with holidays coming up. If we could have, we would have stayed open.
Our loyal employees and wonderful customers have been the backbone of this place, the heart and soul that made it more than just a restaurant. We have enjoyed serving you and your families and creating memories that we will never forget. Getting to know many of you on a personal level was the best part about this whole adventure. Seeing some of you come in and make new memories and share old ones will be what we miss the most.
As we approach our final days, we are asking for your support once more. We will be open Wednesday through Saturday 11AM-9PM. Our last day open will be Saturday, November 23. So come in all week, get some of your favorite meals and enjoy a beer or two with Dustin. Let’s send our servers and bartenders off with a bang!!! They have done such a wonderful job providing all of you with great service these last 10 months.
Stay tuned for any specials we will be running for the week.
With love and appreciation,
Dustin & Tiffany”
Comments from their customers:
Ryan Ray – Very sad to read this. You guys had a great thing going on, but we support you choosing to focus entirely on family! Much love to you guys and wherever life takes you from here.
April Nicole Barrows

This is so sad we just came for breakfast this morning! Your food is fantastic 😭
Kim Prater

So sorry to hear this. We have really enjoyed your restaurant since you opened. We wish you and your family the best! ❤️
Beth Hitt

So sorry to hear this but no one can fault you for your admirable decision on this issue. Best wishes and many prayers.🙏🙏🙏
Deborah Ann Siratt Nuss

So sorry to hear this. Your outdoor dining was one of the nicest, if not the nicest, in the area. Choosing family over business is never a wrong decision. They are our heart and our history. Good luck in your future🍸

TheatreLab’s ‘Not Another Thanksgiving Play’ is just that!!

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TheatreLab is coming off of their community acclaimed ‘Lizzie,’ and switching gears with ‘Not Another Thanksgiving Play’….a sort of rom-com with  honest, heartfelt themes. I was so fortunate to get to sit down with Philip Drennen, who has returned from NYC to direct the show at the TheatreLab Dayton Space. 

937: Welcome home and congrats on the success of ‘Big Gay Jamboree’ in NYC! SO exciting!

PD: Thank you! It’s been fun.

937:  I’m intrigued by NATP!! So, what is the gist of this show?

PD: Not Another Thanksgiving Play follows a group of 20-30 somethings who share a bond through Dungeons and Dragons. And no you don’t have to know anything about D&D to enjoy the show, I sure didn’t before I came on board to direct! The real story is each character coming to terms with their own happiness within their partner and themselves. Most of our characters are part of the LGBTQIA+ community and we see 2 of them go home to their family’s Thanksgiving after years of hiding their identities from their parents.

937: Ummmm, I think I lived that plot-line myself! Tell us why you decided to return home to direct his particular performance?

PD: While this may sound heavy, NATP is mostly a comedy of errors as we watch Daniel and Gemma take home beards (fake girlfriends) home to the parents; one set strict and conservative, the other warm and maybe a little TOO open. The play has a very “rom-com” feel to it and plays as a queer, millennial “Friends” or “Seinfeld”.

937: I know TheatreLab is known for its local casts!! What can you tell us about them this go’round?

PD: The playwright, Marley Masterson, is a local Dayton artist and a big reason we wanted to do this show. TLD prides itself on hiring and giving voice to local talent and all of our actors have been seen on our stages as well as starring in all of the Dayton theaters.

937: I know TheatreLab Dayton has been handling this season with a sense of mystery…can you hint at what’s to come? We know the theme is ‘Taking Back Their Story.’  Any more you can share??

PD: TLD has always been a bit unorthodox and this season is no exception as we slowly roll out our season one show at a time. We’re all about creating art for our community with the members of our community and we’ll do that however we need to!

937: I see what you did there….no hints! UmmmHmmm. What is the audience takeaway for this show in particular? 

PD: A big takeaway from NATP is that family is important and can look different for everyone. For some it’s mom and dad, for others it’s the chosen family we find at work, in school, or through a gaming club. And true happiness comes when we are true to ourselves. It might sound cheesy, but that’s what the holidays are all about!

937: Not cheesy at all….important to remember that! I have to ask you….how is it feeling to be home after your NYC premiere? 

PD: I’m really excited that I get to work on an original piece as my first project back in Dayton. Marley and I have worked together on this show as well as many past TLD productions and I wanted to make sure her voice gets heard. It’s a great way to get back into the Dayton Theater Scene!!

937: Well, congratulations to you, Philip. I know people are also tuning into your Dayton Drama Queens video-podcast. Much success with that as well. You can catch the latest TheatreLab Dayton performance on the dates times below. 

November 21st – 7:30pm.

November 22nd – 8:00pm

November 23rd – 8:00pm

November 24th – 2:00pm

The performances take place at:

TheatreLab Dayton. 116 North Jefferson St. 45402.

Visit theatrelabdayton.org

 

 

Belly Dancing with Josh

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Have you ever been curious about belly dancing but were afraid to try it? Now is your chance to find out how healthy your body can be as you move along with Josh. Join us in an inclusive environment that welcomes all, from first timer to expert. This class is beginner friendly, designed for all genders and is free.

Blues Fest with Eric Jerardi and Noah Wotherspoon.

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We are excited about hosting Blues-centric evening with our friends Eric Jerardi and Noah Wotherspoon. These two locals are legendary! This is a must-see show for blues and live music fans alike.
Join us on Thursday, November 21st at 7:30pm at The Brightside (905 E 3rd St, Dayton).
Doors open 7pm / Show starts at 7:30pm
General admission seated tickets are $25 advance / $30 at the door
Tables with tickets included:
2 top VIP Table – $80 (includes 2 tickets close to stage)
2 top Bistro – $70 (includes 2 tickets)
4 top Tables – $140 (includes 4 tickets under cc holder’s name)
10 top Table – $300 (includes 10 tickets under cc holder’s name)
All ages welcome!
Drinks available to purchase. Outside food allowed (no outside drinks)
Venue: The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St. Dayton, OH. More info: www.thebrightsidedayton.com
Tickets are available at link: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/118760/orders/new

Taco Bell’s 30 Day $10 Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass is Back

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Taco Bell's mobile app next to Nacho Fries.

Taco Bell’s $10 Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass is back for a limited time through Monday, December 2, 2024.The pass is only available to Taco Bell Rewards members through the Taco Bell mobile app. From the purchase date, the Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass is good for 30 consecutive days of free regular Nacho Fries (one per day), except on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas.

Taco Bell regular Nacho Fries feature an order of seasoned fries with warm nacho cheese for dipping. They regularly cost a suggested price of $2.39. As long as you redeem the pass five times (or four times if Nacho Fries cost more than $2.50 near you), you’ll save some money. If you somehow manage to use it for 30 days, you’re looking at over $70 worth of food for $10.

Taco Bell offered the same deal around this time last year. It’s basically a 30-day subscription for fries.

Square One Salon and Spa Celebrates 25 Years

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Square One Salon and Spa, a cornerstone of beauty and wellness in Ohio communities, announces its 25th anniversary on November 15, 2024. Founded in 1999 in downtown Dayton, Square One has grown to serve six locations across Ohio while remaining firmly committed to local ownership and operation, exceptional client care, staff development, and community engagement.

Joshua Stucky, Brent Johnson and Doug Henderson

From its inception, Square One has been guided by its Four Corner Focus, a philosophy that remains at the heart of the company’s operations today. This focus encompasses:

  1. Clients: Providing undivided attention and total satisfaction, welcoming clients as permanent members of the Square One family.
  2. Community: Drawing strength from the community and actively contributing to its wellness and growth.
  3. Heart: Supporting those facing extraordinary challenges through dedicated charitable efforts.
  4. Team: Fostering a work environment that goes beyond business, emphasizing enjoyment and shared experiences.

“We’re honored to be celebrating 25 years of serving and celebrating our clients, every single day,” said Brent Johnson, co-founder of Square One Salon and Spa. “This milestone reflects the trust our community has placed in us, the ongoing dedication of our incredible team, and the enduring relevance of our Four Corner Focus.”

From its beginning, Square One has expanded its services to meet the evolving needs of clients, now offering a comprehensive range of beauty and wellness services, including hair styling, expert hair color, all types of hair texture services, rejuvenating massages, advanced skincare treatments, and professional nail services. The salon also proudly carries products from renowned brands such as Aveda and Smashbox Cosmetics, emphasizing its commitment to quality and self-care.

Doug Henderson, co-founder, emphasized the salon’s holistic approach: “Over the past 25 years, we’ve evolved from a hair salon to a complete beauty and wellness destination. Our focus has always been on enhancing not just our clients’ appearances, but their overall well-being and confidence, all while staying true to our original mission and values.”

Key Highlights of Square One’s 25-Year Journey:

  • Expansion from one Dayton location to six salons across Dayton, Columbus, New Albany, and Centerville
  • Continuous local ownership and operation, maintaining a strong connection to the communities we serve
  • Development of a comprehensive education program and career path for beauty and wellness professionals
  • Ongoing commitment to using and promoting sustainable, high-quality products
  • Industry-leading benefits package for team members, including health and dental insurance, matching 401(k), and additional perks rarely found in the beauty industry
  • Numerous community initiatives and charitable partnerships.

To mark this significant milestone, Square One is launching several initiatives:

  1. Two Days of Celebration: A special 25% discount on select products on November 15 and 16, 2024
  2. 25th Anniversary Team Appreciation Event: An exclusive team celebration on November 16, 2024, to honor staff and their contributions to our combined success

Josh Stucky, co-founder, reflected on the salon’s impact: “As we look back on 25 years of growth and change, one thing has remained constant – our commitment to our local communities, as embodied in our Four Corner Focus. We’re not just a business in these communities; we’re neighbors, friends, and active community members dedicated to bringing out the best in the people and the communities we are so privileged to serve.”

The public is invited to join in the celebration by sharing their Square One memories on social media using the hashtag #SquareOne25 and by visiting any Square One location during the anniversary month to say hello.

 

 

Oregon District Eatery Roost Returns To Its Roots

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Owner and Chef, Dana Down has listened to the people. While the change to the Culina concept from Roost has been well received, she says their loyal customers have spoken. They have heard that Roost is missed! So much so that the decision has been made to return to the Roost Italian offering classic Roost entrees and sneaking in some of Culina’s most popular small plates! You have known and loyally supported for 13 years! This weekend, we will be featuring a Surf & Turf entree and Champagne Special to celebrate our 13th Anniversary of Roost!

Dana Downs

Downs says that “change will allow a return of many of the menu favorites that you have loved. Additionally, soon we will have free valet parking again!

They have also heard the comments of the needs for some casual options – so we are in early discussions about offering a casual environment in what has been known as the “Dough Room”.
We understand the desire to make the Oregon District walkable and safe during the warm weather months. However, the complete closing of Fifth Street and lack of access to close parking and use of a valet took a significant toll on our traffic and business. We are hopeful that these changes will help us return to the Roost everyone has known and loved for 13 years. We are also hopeful that there can be some adjustments to that in the future.”
These changes will take place over the next few weeks but our hours immediately going forward will be
Wed & Thurs 5-9:30
Fri & Sat from 5-10
Sun from 5-9, but then adding brunch starting in December!

ALMOST, MAINE at Dayton Playhouse

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On a cold, clear winter night with the northern lights illuminating the sky, the residents of Almost find themselves navigating the complexities of love in unexpected and often humorous ways. The play captures moments of romance, heartbreak, and the magical realism that adds a touch of whimsy to the storytelling.”Almost, Maine” is a play written by John Cariani that takes place in the fictional town of Almost, which is located in a remote, northern part of the United States. The setting is quirky, as Almost is not quite a town due to its lack of organization, and it’s almost in Canada. The play consists of a series of nine interconnected vignettes, each portraying a different aspect of love.

Dayton Playhouse

Located in: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark
1301 E Siebenthaler Ave, Dayton, OH 45414
Showtimes:
Nov 15, 16, 22 & 23 8pm
Nov 17 & 24 2pm

Tix $18-20

Burger King Unveiled 3 New Whoppers

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In February, BK® launched its first-ever Million Dollar Whopper Contest, allowing consumers across the U.S. to submit the ingredients of their dream Whopper sandwich for a chance to win $1 million prize and see their creation sold in restaurants nationwide for a limited time.  Now, after reviewing more than one million creative and mouthwatering submissions, Burger King and its team of flame-grilled experts have selected the three finalists:

Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper (Created by Fabian of California) – The Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper features ¼ lb.*** flame -grilled beef patty, topped with pickle ranch, lettuce, fried pickles, bacon, and Swiss cheese – all on a toasted sesame seed bun.

  • Maple Bourbon BBQ Whopper (Created by Calvin of California) – The Maple Bourbon BBQ Whopper features ¼ lb.*** flame-grilled beef patty, topped with maple bourbon BBQ sauce, crispy onions & jalapeños, maple bacon seasoning, bacon, and American cheese – all on a toasted sesame seed bun.
  • Mexican Street Corn Whopper (Created by Kelsie of Nebraska) – The Mexican Street Corn Whopper features ¼ lb.*** flame-grilled beef patty, topped with street corn spread, lettuce, tomato, Southwest seasoned tortilla crisps, and Mexican spicy queso – all on a toasted sesame seed bun.

You’ll be able to try these 3 Whoppers, plus the new Pickle Fries at participating Burger King restaurants nationwide while supplies last starting November 14th.

Additional details regarding the availability of the three Million Dollar Whopper sandwiches and how Guests can help crown the $1 million winner will be available in mid-November.

WYSO Launches Music-Only Streaming Channel

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WYSO Public Radio, a nonprofit, community-owned public radio station serving Southwest Ohio with news, music and storytelling, has launched a music-only streaming channel called Novaphonic.

The channel can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by streaming online at novaphonic.fm or by broadcast on any HD radio.

With this dual-channel model, WYSO’s existing music programming—such as “Midday Music,” “Around the Fringe” and “Tables of Content”—will be simulcast on WYSO and Novaphonic, meaning there will be no interruption to the current WYSO schedule.

However, when WYSO begins a news show such as “Morning Edition” or “All Things Considered,” Novaphonic will continue to air locally hosted music shows. The result will be a 24/7 schedule of music curated by the WYSO music team and reflective of music and musicians from our region and beyond, and from numerous genres.

Juliet Fromholt

“Our goal is to support a community of musicians and music fans and for that community to feel welcoming and inclusive. Diversity is an essential part of our daily mix of music,” said Juliet Fromholt WYSO’s Music Director (left). “When we say ‘Roots,’ we’re talking about bluegrass and folk, country and Americana. Rock sounds obvious on the surface but gets richer when we think about everything from punk to indie rock and everyone from Big Mama Thorton to David Bowie to St. Vincent and the Linda Lindas. Rhythm is hip-hop, yes, but it’s also jazz, R&B, soul and of course some Dayton Ohio Funk! Pop music on Novaphonic takes those catchy hooks and melodies from mainstream music and puts them in the hands of artists on the fringes of it. So think Bjork, Sylvan Esso, Bartees Strange and Mitski. And world music brings us sounds and songwriting from artists whose musical traditions and influences find their home in many places, but especially the global South.”

More information, including the full program schedule for Novaphonic and a link to listen online, can be found at novaphonic.fm.

McCoy on Movies: Red One

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Red One an entertaining albeit mismatched,
well-meaning Christmas action movie

 
“So … You know I could beat Cody Rhodes, right? All I need is one WWE contract …” Krampus (Kristopher Hivju) sizes up Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson) in a scene from director Jake Kasdan’s RED ONE. Credit: Frank Masi/Prime © 2022 Amazon Content Services LLC.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

 

 

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Chris Evans, Dwayne Johnson, Lucy Liu, Kristopher Hivju, Kiernan Shipka, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Wesley Kimmel and Bonnie Hunt with J.K. Simmons

 

DIRECTOR: Jake Kasdan
 
THE BACK STORY: Santa Claus needs a lot of help to make Christmas happen every year. From the trolls and elves needed to sort and organize toys to those who help keep his reindeer healthy, Nick (J.K. Simmons) has plenty of assistance. That includes Mrs. Claus (Bonnie Hunt) and Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), the head of his security detail working under Zoe Harlow (Lucy Liu), the director of an organization that keeps track of all the creatures of the mythical world. 
 
Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans), however, is only concerned with one person and one person only: himself. That’s among the reasons he will take on any nefarious job thrown his way, the man known only as “The Wolf” on the dark web specializing in finding people that can’t be found. Unfortunately for his ex Olivia (Mary Elizabeth Ellis), that doesn’t extend to finding time to spend with his son Dylan (Wesley Kimmel).
All their worlds are about to collide, however, once Jack helps an unknown client track down a secret location in the North Pole that just so happens to be jolly ol’ – and very in shape – St. Nick’s home. Who has kidnapped Santa Claus and why is a mystery Cal and The Director realize they can’t solve, so they decide to bring in some outside help in the form of Jack – and he’s going to help them whether he as a Level Four “Naughty Lister” likes it or not.

 

THE REVIEW: RED ONE is entertaining, thanks to the strong performances of the cast, its action sequences which don’t feel overtly hokey or forced and relatable story. However, given that the aforementioned action sequences and language are far too intense for anyone under 10, the message of the film is geared more towards adults and it’s length at just over 2 hours in length, it’s also a movie without a defined audience. While the film explores one of the lost staples of Christmas – seeing the goodness in others – it also cuts off the carrot off its snowmen’s respective faces by not quite fitting into one particular audience. 

 

For all his recent WWE and athletic prowess, RED ONE reminds us that behind Johnson’s physicality also lies a man capable of conveying emotion with a simple gaze, vocal tone or smile. Johnson plays well against Evans’ character’s very anti-Captain America-like behavior, which never feels forced or included for the story’s sake. It’s the classic “I don’t like you, I don’t like you either” polar opposites formula, but it works as both Evans and Johnson execute it well. 

 

The biggest standpoint performances, however, belong to the film’s lesser-known cast members.  

Kiernan Shipka’s portrayal of Gryla, the evil Christmas witch, is never out of place, helping to make her a formidable foe once she is introduced into the story, even her own personal backstory never truly comes into focus. It is Game of Thrones alum Kristopher Hivju, however, who steals the show as Nick’s half brother Krampus, so much so that if he were to get his own spin-off film, it might do better than RED ONE is likely to do on its own.

Overall, RED ONE is an entertaining affair, but its constant flip-flopping between wanting to be an action movie and a family affair makes for a balanced experience that ends up feeling unbalanced for the very audiences it seeks to attract. It’s sort of like Cars meets The Fast and the Furious, which while entertaining on their own aren’t exactly the easiest mashup to make work together. It’s got just enough to keep you watching, but not enough to truly hook you into adding it to your Christmas classics list.

To quote the Bible verse where the quote is found, “no one can serve two masters.” In the case of RED ONE, trying to make a Christmas action movie feels like trying to serve to audiences at once, possibly to its own detriment even though, in the end, it works better than it should.

If nothing else, one thing is for sure: You’ll never look at Rock ‘Em, Sock ‘Em Robots the same way ever again.

OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):