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onStageDayton…DMM’s online hub for all things theater!

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onStageDayton...with Shane & Dave

onStageDayton...with Shane & Dave

Introducing the latest addition to the DaytonMostMetro.com line-up of contributers: “onStageDayton…with Shane & Dave”

onStageDayton will serve as your online hub for all things theater in Dayton & the Miami Valley.  Check back often to find out about:

  • productions opening & closing soon
  • how to get tix for great theater in Dayton
  • upcoming auditions for local theater organizations
  • interesting stories about local theater organizations, premieres, outreach projects, workshops/classes & the all of the terrific people involved in local theater-making it happen.

If you work with a local theater organization, please add us to your Press Release list, so we can get all the info into our blog here at DMM!  In addition, please be sure to add your events to the DMM Calendar!

Send all of your updates to us via email:  [email protected]

(this week’s ridiculously cheesy sign-off:)

While we are waiting for the Overture to begin and the cast to take the stage…why not head on over to the DaytonMostMetro Forum and start up a conversation in the Theater thread…

S.A.

Shane Anderson & David Brush work with locally based Encore Theater Company. ETC recently moved into the new arts collective space in the Oregon District, along with Zoot Theatre Co. & Rhythm in Shoes. Anderson, Brush & ETC are currently preparing for their upcoming Summer season of new musicals in downtown Dayton: Johnathan Larson’s RENT, [title of show] & Next Thing You Know (a developmental production of a new musical by NYC-based writing team of Salzman & Cunningham)

420 Comedy Show!

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highway420Dude, this Tuesday, April 20th it’s Wiley’s Comedy Club’s annual “420 Show”. Either you know, or you don’t. Let’s just say, YES, the kitchen will be open!

Just got this update from Wiley’s:

To be blunt, I’m not sure if I approve of this joint venture. Not to be a buzzkill, but ten comedians (plus the inevitable party crashers) will be taking the stage in celebration of cannabis. The whole thing could go up in smoke though and I’ll be left holding the bag. Apparently, Jesse Cashew, Danny Miller, John Rathbone, Spark Mann, Rob Haney, Tony Wendland, Raymond Jackson, Mark Fradl, Joe Shelby and Droopy Drew Donisi will get this thing rolling at 8:00 pm Tuesday, so be ready for them to bowl you over. Ticket’s are only $5, which was a nickle in my day, and, as always, the kitchen will be open in case you get the munchies and the bar will be fully stocked to take care of your cotton mouth. We will have our own Mary Jane there…she’s one of our waitresses…to take care of you until the whole thing is cashed. So for some chronic comedy, be at Wiley’s at 8:00 pm and be ready to choke…from laughter.

So call 937-224- JOKE (5653) to reserve your seats now!

Juliet Fromholt nominated for Associated Press awards

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JulietOne of DaytonMostMetro.com’s own has been recognized for her stellar work in broadcasting.

WYSO radio personality Juliet Fromholt has been nominated by Ohio Associated Press as a finalist in three award categories, to be announced on June 6. She has recieved nominations in the Best Use of Sound, Best Documentary or Series and Best Feature Reporting categories.

“We are proud that WYSO reporters have been recognized for their work,” said WYSO General Manager Neenah Ellis. “We will build on this success and strive to fulfill our mission of service to the Miami Valley.”

UD Celebration of the Arts: Part 2

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horvath2Want an insider look at a college art department? As a closing event to the University of Dayton’s annual Stander Symposium, the Department of Visual Arts will host an evening of open studios from 5-7 p.m. this Wednesday, April 14, at the Rike Center. Student work will be on display throughout the building; the evening will also feature the reception and awards ceremony for the Horvath Exhibition. The exhibition, an annual juried exhibit that started in 1975, features University of Dayton student work in a variety of media, such as drawings, paintings, photography, design, ceramics and sculpture. The exhibition is on display until April 21st in the Rike Center Gallery. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday; closed Saturday and Sunday.

HorvathIn addition, the Horvath juror, Curtis Mann, will give a talk at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 15, in the Rike Center Gallery. Mann, a Miami Valley native and graduate of the University of Dayton, was recently selected to showcase his work in the Whitney Museum of American Arts prestigious biennial exhibition.

The Rike Center for Fine Arts is located on the south side of B lot on the University of Dayton campus; for a campus map, visit http://map.udayton.edu. A parking permit is required and can be obtained at the main visitor center on the University circle.

For more information about these events, visit http://stander.udayton.edu or contact Todd Hall, Rike Center gallery coordinator, at 937-229-3261 or [email protected].

HBO Def Poetry Jam Performer, Musicians, More Kick Off Third Season of Creative Arts Showcase “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show”

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l_054b03648a454f5b8843f52dedd99eecOral Funk Poetry Productions is launching its third season of “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” in style. The performance will be held from 9 to 11 p.m. Friday, April 16, at the Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 W. Second St. Tickets cost $15 and are available at www.ticketcenterstage.com or by calling 937-228-3830.

This vibrant monthly showcase features local and national poets, musicians, actors, vocalists, dancers and visual artists. The April 16 show, “Poetic Illusion,” will be headlined by Dana Gilmore, who has shared the stage of HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, a spoken word series hosted by Russell Simmons, with the likes of Mos Def, Kanye West and Smokey Robinson. True to her Missouri “Show-Me-State” roots, Gilmore’s writing is intended to inspire and provoke action. She speaks passionately, yet practically, about life’s adversities and alternatives for dealing with them. Today, Gilmore spends her time traveling across the United States performing at universities and other venues while working on songs, stage plays and screenplays.

Joining Gilmore will be El Coats and the Funk Point, which will perform a melting pot of rhythm and blues with a neo-soul twist. Jazz vocalist Shakera Jones will perform and host the event. In addition, a variety of local poets and singers will perform, and comedian I.Q. will make a special appearance ― along with a surprise celebrity guest.

Michael’s Dining and Jazz, 40 N. Main St. in the Kettering Tower lobby, will offer 15 percent off the dinner menu on Thursday, April 15, and Friday, April 16, to Signature ticket holders.

During its first two seasons, “The Signature: A Poetic Medley Show” featured numerous forms of self-expression, including poetry, visual art, drama, dance and such music as jazz, blues, reggae, neo-soul and hip hop ― often to sold-out crowds. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/thesignatureofpp.

Dayton Jewish International Film Festival Returns

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dayjewishfilmfestOpening on Tues, April 13th, the Jewish Film Festival celebrates it’s 10th anniversary by sharing 12 films, live discussion and receptions at five locations over the next two weeks.

Selections range from documentaries like Refusenik– on the campaign to free Soviet Jews to animated shorts like God & Co, starring Comedy Central’s Jonathan Katz.   Many of the films are foreign and will feature subtitles. Tickets are $8.50 for adults, $7.50 for students and full festival passes are available for $65.Tickets may be purchased online or contact Karen at 853-0372 for more information.

JumpstART is new Culture Works Initiative for YPs

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There are associate boards all over this fair region of ours – providing ways for young people to get out, meet people, make connections, and do some good on behalf of nonprofits they care about.  Off the top of my head, I’m thinking there’s the Red Cross Associate Board, Dayton Ballet Associate Board, and The Foodbank Associate Board (among others).  Culture Works has jumped into the mix with an Associate Board for the arts-minded young professional up-and-comers.  And turning leadership to action, the CW Associate Board created Jumpstart – the activity arm for YPs in the area to have fun while exploring the arts scene.  Being a member of the CWAB and an organizer or our arts “jumps,” I’m here to tell you a little more about us (and ask for your feedback).

First things first – know your audience.  A few months ago, we conducted a survey to gauge interest in the arts for our demographic.  We learned that although young people (20s and 30s) acknowledge that Dayton has a great arts community, they felt disconnected to the events either because they were presumed to be too costly or because they didn’t consider the arts to be accessible enough.  We also learned that sometimes our generation just didn’t feel as if they were informed about arts events.   So – we’re working on fixing all that.  Our goals are about providing YPs the information they need, the discounts they like, and the opportunities they want to include regional arts as a viable entertainment option.  The Facebook page is collecting fans now, and we’re starting to pilot some events to encourage participation.

Event-wise, we’re hosting “jumps.” These are opportunities to hang out with other young people in formats that are easily accessible (parking/location/cost) and with the performance bookended by fun events that aren’t tied to stuffy notions of the arts (eat, drink, music, dance).  We’re excited for this.

I hope you might join us or follow us on Facebook if you’re willing to learn about something new.  Currently on the new Facebook page, we’ve started writing reviews of shows we’ve seen.  You can read the official critic reviews in the papers, but this is a first-person account of what it’s like to go out and explore the arts as a 20- or 30-something.  We highlight what we liked (and didn’t like) about the shows, but we also provide tips on parking, dinner, after-show drinks, and other experiences that shed some light on what a night out at the theatre (or philharmonic, or opera or gallery or ballet…) can be like.

Feedback is welcome – we are a very small group with small expectations, but we’re excited about the possibility of sharing Dayton’s culture.  We’re slowly spreading the word about our group (we’ll be a featured resource at the updayton Young Creatives Summit this April!)  If you are in your 20s or 30s and have a cool idea to get more people out to arts events- we’re open to feedback.  Right now we’re working on pizza partys before shows, desserts and drinks after the performances (sometimes featuring the performers!), pub crawls highlighting our local arts venues, and some general fun ways to let people hang out together while appreciating the Dayton arts scene.  What would get YOU out to explore the arts with us?

Jumpstart - Connecting you to the Dayton Arts Scene

Jumpstart - Connecting you to the Dayton Arts Scene

Short Films By, For and About Women

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lunafestLUNAFEST is a traveling film festival celebrating women filmmakers while also raising awareness for women’s issues and supporting nonprofits that benefit women in the US and Canada.  This years festival will be on Sun, March 28th from 3-5:30pm at The Neon, 130 E. Fifth Street, Downtown Dayton.  Ranging in style from Animation to Documentary, in origin from Brazil to Bulgaria,in subject from Beauty to Bicycling, tickets are just a $5 or $10 donation or $3 with a student ID.  As a special edition to the fest, Dayton Native, Alicia Conway will screen her short, RITE, followed by a Q & A with the filmmaker.  Rite portrays the day of a young girl’s coronation and entry to adulthood in a family with some grisly traditions.

For more information on the 10 shorts featured, click here.

Sponsors for this years local LUNAFEST include Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance, American Association of University Women and Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region.

Established in 2000 by LUNA, the makers of the Whole Nutrition Bar for Women, LUNAFEST is completely funded by LUNA and run by a small, dedicated group of LUNA employees. 100 percent of all proceeds are donated to charity – 15 percent to the Breast Cancer Fund and the remaining 85 percent of proceeds go directly back to hosting community organizations.

images-92Over the years, as LUNAFEST has grown from a single annual event to more than 140 festivals each season, LUNA’s commitment to this worthwhile program has grown as well. To date, LUNAFEST has raised over $470,000 for worthwhile women’s organizations, while raising hope and awareness for the stories of women everywhere.

c{space: Dayton’s Community Arts Venue Moves Forward

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photograph courtesy of Andy Snow.

photograph courtesy of Andy Snow.

Emerging from the DaytonCreate initiative inspired by the principles of urbanist Richard Florida, a committee of community stakeholders transformed a vacant 5,000 sq ft , former downtown bank building into a community creative space.  This initial cadre of catalysts  set out to cultivate an environment that would support an already existing, but often unseen street-level arts culture in the city.

Anne Rasmussen, c{space general manager, was one of those catalysts. Rasmussen was a part of a committee that conducted research for the feasibility of a community arts space.  She said her group discovered that Dayton had a high concentration of artisans and “creative types”, but lacked a proper venue to showcase their work. Rasmussen believes c{space can fill that void and become a center for a burgeoning homegrown arts community in Dayton.

ladyfestartist

LadyFest artisan

“Some communities do a much better job of celebrating their emerging art scenes and helping them grow,” she says. “What everyone we talked to said was that they needed a place. A place that had the kind feel the culture we needed. Traditional venues such as The Victoria Theatre, although they do great shows there, is a formal environment.  We’re trying to develop a more interactive venue.”

Rasmussen said the group wanted a central location – one that was easily accessible for the entire Dayton region and its surrounding suburban areas.

“We wanted to showcase downtown’s built assets and this space was empty for quite some time,” she says, referring to the gutted-out, yet architecturally appealing, structure at 20 N. Jefferson Street.

In Sept of 2008, c{space hosted its first event : LadyFest Dayton, an art and music festival of female performers featuring local talent.  The event was very successful, Rasmussen says, but it highlighted the need for dialogue with city officials regarding building use and city code requirements.

“[LadyFest] brought the attention of who we were and what we were trying to do to the City [of Dayton],”  Rasmussen recalls.  “As a committee, we didn’t know all the ropes.  So, that’s what started the whole rigorous process of talking to the City of Dayton about our mission…seeing if they were willing to give us the kind of permitting that we needed to use the space for assembly purposes.”

After weeks of dialoguing with the City’s building permit officials, and the building inspections were conducted, Rasmussen said the committee was able to secure a long-term, temporary assembly use permitting.  The group has just renewed the permit for the next six months and has recently signed their first long-term lease with building owner, Brian West.

c{space @ 20 N. Jefferson St

c{space @ 20 N. Jefferson St

“We were going month-to-month initially,” she said. “For a long time, we were just paying $1 a month. We’ve been given some financial support recently that is allowing us to pay a more realistic rent.

Brian’s been very patient and supportive of our efforts. Without his willingness to work with us, c{space would not exist.”

c{space has hosted a diverse mix of community activities from photography shows, hosted by local photographer Kidtee Hello, to spoken word & poetry performances hosted by the Dayton Poetry Slam. The space has been used regularly as a public meeting place;  The Downtown Plan Public Forum was held there last February, and the updayton candidates forum took place in October.

Armed with an extended assembly permit and the new leasing arrangement, Rasmussen said c[space is ready to enter “phase two” of development.

“We’re wide open to new events,” she said. “However, because c{space is an entirely volunteer driven project, we have to move slowly. Every step of the way is a learning experience, so ‘slow and steady’ is kind of my motto.”

Some upcoming events for c{space include a three-day performance of  Rent in June by local musical troupe  Encore Theater Company, spoken word performances from The Dayton Poetry Slam, an all high school musical and art show tagged “Play for Peace” on Urban Nights, a local two day music festival slated for June, and more.

workshop participants at c{space

workshop participants at c{space

A huge step forward for the organization is the planning of bi-monthly workshops held on Sundays at c{space.  Local artisan Ali Marshall, who is coordinating the workshops, said she hopes to attract people who are looking to learn new talents.

“We’ve had workshops on everything from painting to urban backpacking, from hip hop dancing to fiber art to yoga,” Marshall says. “I believe in a sharing of our inner passions, a collective education that is passed from one to another, in person.”

Marshall says the fees vary, depending on the workshop.  She adds, however, that c{space realizes the “economic crunch” that many local residents face and the fees will reflect that.  Past workshop fees have been as low as $5.

Mary Burnside, c{space event coordinator, schedules and coordinates many of the activities for the fledgling organization, including last December’s Handmade Holiday, an eclectic craft bazaar featuring authentic handmade items.  Although she is optimistic about the future of c{space, she acknowledges that there is more work to be done.  Interior structural improvements to the building are required.  Firewall construction, broken ceiling tile replacement and electrical upgrades are just a few of those facility improvements.

wholespacepainted2

c{space, the community art space

c{space representatives said a website has just been launched and they are looking to improve the sound system for the building.

Despite the challenges, c{space management said enthusiastic residents have stepped forward with a willingness to help the venue reach its potential.  Rasmussen hopes more residents and businesses will embrace c{space and their vision for the community.

“We’re really excited to see what’s going to happen in the next six months,” Rasmussen said. “We want to see if we can create enough activity in here to say, ‘Hey, this place should be permanent.'”

m_f1d37003aafd41498fe81fbe31c5fbac20 N. Jefferson Street

Dayton, Ohio 45402

c{space monthly workshops facebook site can be found here.

For information concerning the workshops, Ali Marshal can be contacted at [email protected].

Event planner Mary Burnside can be reached at [email protected].

Check out the new website at cspacedayton.org

UD Celebrates the Arts with Free Schuster Center Performance

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COA_smallThis article was written by guest columnist Julie Roth. Julie is a singer, songwriter, and graduate student at the University of Dayton.

Originally established to showcase the academic successes at the University of Dayton, the Stander Symposium celebrates the unique talents and abilities of all students. Unsurprisingly, many of these academic successes incorporate the arts in the form of dance, music, visual art, and theatre. Taught both inside and outside the classroom, the arts at UD contribute to a rich and unique culture in the community of Dayton.

On Tuesday, March 16th at 8pm, the Schuster Center, located at 1 West Second Street in downtown Dayton, will be hosting a  “Celebration of the Arts”  performance to open the Stander Symposium events. Designed to succinctly showcase achievements that UD students have made in the arts, this event provides an evening to experience several genres of the arts in one sitting.

While some students use the arts to fulfill their coursework and pursue an arts degree, others participate in the arts more informally. Majors and non-majors alike use the Celebration of the Arts to showcase their love for artistic expression and demonstrate their participation in the artistic opportunities at UD.

Whether you have significantly experienced the arts at the University of Dayton or are new to performances and exhibits, the Celebration of the Arts provides a fast-paced and diverse showcase of student work, including singing, instrumental music, dancing, videos, and drama.

The performance will include the University’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble, a  selection from the modern stage adaptation of the Moliere comedy Scapin, the First Flight saxophone quartet, the University of Dayton Chorale; a new world music choir, a lively percussion ensemble, and the University of Dayton Dance Ensemble. The evening will conclude with a performance by the Dayton Jazz Ensemble and the Ebony Heritage Singers; they will perform two pieces arranged by saxophonist and 2002 UD music graduate Bobby Streng.

EVENT AT-A-GLANCE:

Admission is free, but tickets are required. Contact the UD Box Office at 937-229-2545 or reserve online at http://stander.udayton.edu. Tickets will also be available at the Schuster Center on Tuesday evening.

Performance begins at 8 pm at the Schuster Center; a pre-show in the Wintergarden will feature visual arts displays by students of the Department of Visual Arts, as well as music performances by students of local artist Michael Bashaw.

The University of Dayton’s annual Stander Symposium will continue with a series of events in April, including a visual arts reception and open studios, and keynote speaker Blake Mycoskie of Tom’s Shoes. Visit http://stander.udayton.edu for more information.

Photo by Lauren Tomasella

Dayton Theatre Guild presents ‘Kimberly Akimbo’

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the cast of Kimberly AkimboLooking for something to do this weekend? Then check out Dayton Theatre Guild’s latest production, Kimberly Akimbo. The play, directed by Saul Caplan, runs now through March 14th at the Dayton Theatre Guild’s new location in the Oregon District (430 Wayne Avenue). Showtimes are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 5 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m.

This dark comedy follows the story of Kimberly (played by Ellen Finch), a teenager with a rare condition that causes her body to age four times faster than it should.  Finch is joined by Troy Lindsey and Teresa Connair as Kimberly’s dysfunctional parents, Megan Cooper as her scam artist aunt, and Jeff McCracken as her gawky classmate. Due to strong language, this play is most appropriate for adult audiences only. Tickets are $17 for adults, $10 for students; visit http://daytontheatreguild.org or call 937-278-5993.

Need even more of a reason to escape cabin fever and spend a night in the Oregon District? Then check out the great deal being offered by JumpstART, a new group from Culture Works dedicated to connecting young professionals to great arts events across the region. Their first event will be held on Friday, March 12. The evening starts at Coco’s Bistro, followed by Kimberly Akimbo, and concludes at the Trolley Stop for some post-show fun. As part of the deal, Coco’s (515 Wayne Avenue) is offering $10 off two entrees; make a reservation by calling 228-COCO and mention the JumpstART deal. After the show, join the cast and crew at the Trolley Stop (530 E. Fifth Street); bring your ticket stub and skip the cover charge! For more information about this event, call Culture Works at (937) 222-2787. (Please note: participants are responsible for their own dinner reservations and tickets to the show.)

Photo from http://www.daytontheatreguild.org

The Utterance Project: February’s lineup

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Local slam mistress Miss Purity follows up last month’s sizzling poetry/spoken word show by serving up a hot bowl of word stew on Feb. 26, at North River Coffee House.

This month’s “Utterance Project” features two accomplished poets: Ill Poetic and Huntor Prey.

8834_176063114713_77024969713_3637655_3385602_nDayton native Ill Poetic is a poet and an underground hip hop artist and producer, blending rock, soul and jazz with an introspective lyrical style.  His musical influences are diverse – ranging from rhythm and blues singer Curtis Mayfield to multi-platinum rapper Jay-Z.

“I never really thought of my music as thoughtful,” he says on his myspace page. “I think what I produce or write is usually an extension of me. I usually just try and let my personality bleed into a song, because that’s what instantly separates it from anyone else’s music.”

Along with his own solo releases, Ill Poetic boasts an impressive array of collaborative efforts, producing and/or providing remixes for artists including Slum Village, Lyricist Lounge emcee Wordsworth and a host of others.

Having toured nationally and internationally, with acts like Pharoah Monche, Talib Kweli, Chuck D and GZA, Ill Poetic is poised to be a major player in the music scene in 2010.

Joining Poetic is Toledo native Huntor Prey.  This internationally-known poet infuses his lyrics with a funky spiritualism intended to motivate and stimulate his audiences.

n310700629349_2354“The Utterance Project” is a monthly series of showcases featuring local and regional poets, spoken word artists and musicians. The event is held every fourth Friday from 5 to 8 pm.

Admission  for this all ages event is free.  Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Replace those winter blues with a hot night of rhythm and blues.  And as always, tell ’em Dayton Most Metro sent ya!

Thanks to Lefty, the Gems Play Today.

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The Dayton Gems pt. 2

The Dayton Gems were originally established in 1964 by local business man Edgar “Lefty” McFadden. Discussing the team of that day may sound an awful lot like describing them today, for many similarities exist between that team and the one that now plays for Dayton. The Gems played then where they play now, at Hara Arena, which also opened its doors for the first time in 1964. The original team also played in the International Hockey League.  The IHL similarly folded (though much later), but has been re-established as a new entity carrying on the same name. Though eventually growing to immense size, the IHL was considered a bus league for mostly Midwestern teams who could easily ride a couple hours to each game, which is again true today. The IHL in its current incarnation was once the Colonial Hockey League, a smaller league that adopted the IHL name in 2007.

Blade warms up the crowd before the game.

Blade warms up the crowd before the game.

It’s a wonder all the similarities that exist between the two, but if it has any bearing on the future of the new franchise, it may bode well for the Gems. In the 1968-69 and 1969-70 seasons, they won back to back championships, and again in 1976. They produced several NHL players in that period as well, and frequently filled Hara to capacity for games, with local fans dazzled. The Gems did eventually fall on hard times, as we all know, and folded in 1980, but exactly thirty years later they play for Dayton again.

In their first year they have proved themselves to be competitive in the league. Struggles are expected as the team learns to play together, but they stand only one spot out of playoff contention, with plenty of games left in the season. With John Marks coaching the team, hopefully for years to come, it seems a very likely possibility. Coach Marks left the ECHL as the winningest coach in the League, with 523 wins, and 3 championships to his name since 1993*. Prior to his time there, he coached in the former IHL, with another 240 wins. Most of coach Marks’ professional hockey career was with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he started as a defenseman but eventually changed over to the left wing position, where he scored 129 goals.

During last Saturday’s tribute to Lefty McFadden, Coach Marks spoke in front of a crowd about his own experiences in the NHL and how he coaches his team. He thanked the loyal supporters in Dayton and those who work so tirelessly for the team before discussing how they are fairing so far. He acknowledged they still have some work to do, and discussed in quite a bit of depth how he likes to train his team, giving those present a crash course in basic hockey strategy. Teamwork, he said, was the key to any team’s success. Discussing some of the Gem’s heartbreaking losses this year, which have frequently been only by a difference of one goal, he explained how a team playing together and playing their role can come out victorious. Later on in the evening he recalled that when he was playing in college, a friend of his, who played basketball, discussed the similarities of the games with him. He said the principles of protecting the net were the same; a good defense will make the opposing team shoot from the perimeter. Likewise a good offense can dissect that defense, get in close and make the shot; but only, he stressed, when working together.

The Gems played good defense in last Saturday's 4-2 win against Port Huron

The Gems played good defense in last Saturday's 4-2 win against Port Huron

The night continued on the ice with a pre-game ceremony that honored Lefty McFadden with a banner that will now hang in Hara Arena, as well as distribution of a plaque and flowers to his family members who were in attendance at the game.  After the Star Spangled Banner, the Gems came out fast against Port Huron in the first period.  They struggled for the first five minutes to keep the Icehawks away from their own net, but Dayton then flashed down the rink and scored two goals in less than one minute.  John Ornelas, with an assist from Preston Briggs and Pierce Norton, fired the first shot past the Port Huron goal tender, and only 19 seconds later, Joe Van Culin slipped another one by with the help of Corey Courturier and Matt Auffrey.  Keeping the aggressive pace going, Mike Olynyk scored yet again, with assists from Preston Briggs and Justin McCutcheon.

Following a late first period goal by Port Huron’s Adam Maccarone, the Gems went into the second period up 3-1.  An increase in penalties as well as no score on either side, showed it was heating up between these teams, and it could be felt in the crowd whose cheers, despite their lack of numbers, echoed loudly throughout the entire arena.  It wasn’t until the third period that things really got interesting though, as Port Huron scored again to bring the game within one goal.  A fight broke out between Matt Auffrey of the Gems and Daniel Tetrault of the Icehawks in the middle of the period, and 28 minutes of penalties were wracked up between both teams in the 3rd as well.

Justin McCutcheon sealed the game however with a late goal that brought the final score to 4-2.  Coming from the Johnstown Chiefs in Pennsylvania, McChutcheon has only been with the team for about a month. He has proven himself a valuable player already, scoring 3 times in the 9 games he’s played with the Gems, including 2 in the difficult loss to the Quad City Mallards last Wednesday. Having a quick word with him, I asked how well he was adjusting to Dayton.  He smiled and laughed a bit, saying he was enjoying it so far but hasn’t had a lot of down time since he’s been here, as their schedule has kept the whole team rather busy.

I embarassingly stutter through some questions with Wingman Justin McCutcheon

I embarassingly stutter through some questions with Wingman Justin McCutcheon

This weekend the Gems will take on the Muskegon Lumberjacks Friday at 7:30pm and also also play the Quad City Mallards again on Sunday at 5:00pm.  The Lumberjacks are first in the league right now, having only lost 10 games all season, but the Gems are responsible for 3 of those losses earlier in the year.  Don’t forget $10.00 adult tickets and $7.00 tickets for children 12 and under, makes for a cheaper night of entertainment than going to the movies, and on Friday nights, beers are only $2.00 a piece.

* information taken from hockeydb.com

**All photographs courtesy of Andrea Ivey.

Gem City Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty

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daytonballetGood versus Evil, a beautiful Princess, a fearless Prince, fairies, roses and incredible dancing… What more could you ask for?

Gem City Ballet (GCB), Dayton’s premiere pre-professional ballet company, will bring all this and more to the Victoria Theater on March 6th and 7th in The Sleeping Beauty, a full length classical ballet.

With gorgeous costumes, an imaginative set designed and built by GCB Production Stage Manager David Shough and painted by Master Scenic Designer Chris Harmon, and, of course, brilliant dancing by the talented young members of Gem City Ballet, this promises to be a fantastic weekend of dance. Topping it off are Kristi Capps, principal ballerina of the Cincinnati Ballet, and her real life fiancé Dmitri Trubchanov of Colorado Ballet, performing the leading roles of Princess Aurora and Prince Desiree.

The beloved fairy tale opens with the christening of the baby Aurora. Six fairies offer the gifts of beauty, energy, grace, song, precision and wisdom. Then the evil fairy Carabosse, angry at not being invited to the celebration, offers a curse: on her sixteenth birthday, Aurora will prick her finger on a spindle and die. The Lilac Fairy, the most powerful fairy in the world, offers hope, promising that Aurora will not die, but will sleep until awakened by the kiss of a handsome prince.

Aurora’s sixteenth birthday arrives, and the Princess tests the devotion of four suitors in the virtuosic and famous “Rose Adagio.” Then tragedy strikes as Carabosse tricks Aurora into pricking her finger, and she collapses. The Lilac Fairy is true to her word, though, and Aurora only sleeps, as the castle is engulfed in vines to protect her until her Prince appears.

One hundred years later, Prince Desiree comes to the forest and the Lilac Fairy shows him a vision of the beautiful Aurora. Determined to find her, Desiree battles the evil Carabosse, discovers the hidden castle, ascends the staircase and, with a kiss, brings Aurora back to life.

Aurora’s wedding is attended by many of the fairy tale characters from long ago, Puss ‘n Boots and the White Cat, Princess Florine and the Blue Bird, Red Riding Hood and the Wolf, and Cinderella and her Prince. Capps and Trubchanov end the evening with a stately and loving pas de deux, a special dance for the wedding couple.

There will be two chances for you to see The Sleeping Beauty. On Saturday night, March 6, the evening gala performance at 8 p.m. will be an especially festive night as GCB premieres this fantastic ballet. The Sunday, March 7, afternoon matinee at 2 p.m. will be family-friendly with reduced children’s tickets and a chance to meet the Act Three wedding characters in the lobby of the Victoria following the performance. Bring the entire family; it will be a magical weekend! Tickets are available at Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or ticketcenterstage.com and from Gem City Ballet at (937) 222-6880.

Also, be sure not to miss the Sleeping Beauty Birthday Bash, a family fundraising party, on February 27th at the Dayton Women’s Club.  AND if parents call the studio to order tickets by February 18th, they will pay $30 per child and only $20 per adult (for Birthday Bash).  Call Gem City Ballet for more details.

First Season for Dayton Gems Punctuated by Community Outreach.

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The Gems Face off agains the Bloomington Prairie Thunder (Photo by Andrea Ivey)

The Gems Face off agains the Bloomington Prairie Thunder (Photo by Andrea Ivey)

The Dayton Gems Pt. 1

After the Dayton Bombers decided not to play this season, it looked like the city would be without a professional hockey team for the first time since 1991. The Bombers had varying degrees of success throughout their eighteen seasons, making it to the Kelly Cup Finals several times and to the playoffs thirteen of those eighteen years. Yet they always failed to draw a crowd large enough to fill The Nutter Center. Money woes associated with the inability to fill such a large venue eventually led to the owners turning control of the team back to the ECHL last June with no further plans to either play in Dayton, or relocate elsewhere at this time.

The Gems celebrate after a goal by Preston Briggs (Photo by Andrea Ivey)

The Gems celebrate after a goal by Preston Briggs (Photo by Andrea Ivey)

The winter in Dayton seemed like it was going to be a little colder this year; less jovial, less to do, less to help chase away the doldrums, and just one more reason to stay at home while the thermometer dipped below ten degrees again. That was of course, until a dedicated group of investors decided that they could not bear to see their city once again without a hockey team. They endeavored to bring back the once famous Dayton Gems, and after several months of planning, securing rights, and finding players, coaches, and staff for the team, it was announced they would be returning to their old stomping grounds at Hara Arena.

This first season for The Gems has not necessarily been an easy one. Money issues again appeared to threaten the team’s legitimacy, and they nearly folded after less than two months of play in the IHL. The league took control of the team in early December, and realizing the value of having Dayton in their line-up, quickly found an energetic group to take control of the team.

The community as a whole seems weary to embrace this new hockey team. Tired with high ticket prices and uninspiring crowds, Daytonians increasingly stopped going to Bombers games, and it seems that level of caution has carried over to The Gems. With the lowest average attendance in the league thus far, locals seem almost unaware of the team, and most seem willing to go with a “wait and see” attitude, unconvinced their tenure will last.

The Gems, on the other hand, have had little difficulty supporting their community. In the first four months of their operation, the Gems have spent more time collecting donations for charity groups, offering up their time for others, and making appearances at local events, than just about anyone reading this has done in the last year, myself included. This is not to say that they are more worthy of praise than others in Dayton who spend tireless hours trying to help out in their community. Yet thus far they have shown more support to us than we have to them. I do them no justice by simply listing what they have been apart of, but allow me to highlight their accomplishments thus far:

  • Blade (the mascot) participated in a 5k walk for St. Jude’s research hospital.
  • The team helped serve food at this year’s Feast for Giving at the convention center.
  • Several team members participated in Literacy Night in Fairborn on Dec 17th.
  • Collected donations for Toys for Tots.
  • Collected over 400 teddy bears for sick children at Children’s Medical Center and Ronald McDonald house, and subsequently delivered them personally.

    John Snowden wearing the special Air Foce Camo Jersey from January 29th (Photo by Andrea Ivey)

    John Snowden wearing the special Air Foce Camo Jersey from January 29th (Photo by Andrea Ivey)

  • Collected and donated over 2 tons of food for Foodbank, and delivered it.
  • Collected $5000.00 in donations for the Red Cross Haiti relief fund.
  • Regularly sponsor local school fundraisers.
  • Participate in an educational outreach program by speaking with students and discussing goals, ambitions and being a part of the team.

They also make appearances in the community to help Dayton get to know their team better:

  • They frequent Brixx Ice Co. for lunch to talk with fans.
  • Appear as guest judges at The Fox and the Hound’s “Dayton Icon” contest every Monday at 9pm.
  • Participated in the Bridal Fashion Show at Hara Arena as models.

Most recently, the team honored members of the United States Air Force during Wright-Patterson Night last weekend. The Gems wore commemorative Air Force camouflage jerseys that were auctioned to fans after the game, and donated the proceeds to The Air Force Aid Society.

This is a dedication to Dayton, a want to be a part of this community, and a desire to get all of us to know them better, to know our team, The Dayton Gems.

Still not convinced? Well, join us next week, we’ll talk about hockey in Dayton, the history of the Gems, how they are doing so far this year, Lefty McFadden, and plenty of other reasons to get up and go see a game. ($2.00 beers every Friday is a good reason, including this Friday!)

This Friday the Gems start at 7:30PM and take on the Flint Generals, and Saturday they take on the Port Huron Ice Hawks at 7:30PM, in a tribute game to Lefty McFadden.