• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to secondary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Event Calendar
    • Submit An Event
  • About Us
    • Our Contributors
    • Subscribe
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Where to Pick up Dayton937
  • Arts & Entertainment
    • Art Exhibits
    • Comedy
    • On Screen Dayton
    • On Screen Dayton Reviews
    • Road Trippin’
      • Cincinnati
      • Columbus
      • Indianapolis
    • Spectator Sports
    • Street-Level Art
    • Visual Arts
  • Dayton Dining
    • Happy Hours Around Town
    • Local Restaurants Open On Monday
    • Patio Dining in the Miami Valley
    • 937’s Boozy Brunch Guide
    • Dog Friendly Patio’s in the Miami Valley
    • Restaurants with Private Dining Rooms
    • Dayton Food Trucks
    • Quest
    • Ten Questions
  • Dayton Music
    • Music Calendar
  • Active Living
    • Canoeing/Kayaking
    • Cycling
    • Hiking/Backpacking
    • Runners

Dayton937

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

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Arts & Entertainment

Two One-Act Plays in One Night Through Sunday

February 21, 2025 By Dayton937

Double the laughs, double the fun! Experience a night of side-splitting entertainment with two hilarious one-act plays back-to-back.

Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche: Come join the Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein at their 1956 Annual Quiche Breakfast, where they pay tribute to the most perfect food in the world, the egg. Secrets will be revealed and laughs will be had, as the women face the unknown… and the possibility of a world without eggs.

The Butler Did It: Next, enjoy a classic whodunit comedy, where nothing is as it seems! This cast of colorful characters, plenty of misunderstandings, and, of course, a butler, create a witty and entertaining mystery that is sure to make you laugh out loud.

Don’t miss this double feature of comedy! It will be an evening full of laughter.

Share this:

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

Dayton At Work and Play: Ed Dixon

February 17, 2025 By Bill Franz

I remember showing some of my work at the gallery’s original location near the Arcade. Now it is in a great space near RiverScape.

Ed’s gallery is best known for its annual “We’re Doing it ALL Wrong” exhibition that runs from August 1 to September 28 this year. Artists from across the country submit work that highlights important social issues. I asked Ed where he got the idea for this annual show.

“I started my gallery 7 years ago” he told me. “From the first I wanted to do an exhibition with art work that was thoughtful and thought provoking – maybe even art that spurred people to take action. I didn’t want it to be political. I wanted it focused on issues. During that annual exhibition we sometimes have nonprofit nights, where people can learn more about the local groups that are addressing the issues referenced by the artists in the show.”

There is an interesting mix of art currently in the gallery, with prices ranging from $100 to $8,500. In the first photo above, Ed is standing in front of a beautiful painting by Beavercreek resident Alisa H Workman. She describes her work as lightly abstract floral art.

A group of colorful abstracts currently in the gallery was painted in Cuba by the late Julio Antonio Pino Varens. He had a friend in Dayton who arranged to have the work sent here.

 

 

Also traveling a fair distance are the two pieces currently in the corner by California artist Juko. “She grew up in Dayton” Ed told me. “We went to school together. We lost touch when she moved away and only recently reconnected. In California she got a PhD and has had a great career in forest conservation. And she paints amazing abstract works that I’m happy to bring to Dayton.”
“One of the things I like most about having a gallery is choosing what work to show. This spring we’ll be showing work by Dayton’s Susanne Scherette King. I’ll enjoy being surrounded by her work for a month.”


Next time you’re downtown you should stop by Edward A Dixon Gallery and see what art Ed is currently surrounding himself with.


222 North St Clair
Dayton, OH 45402

Hours:
Thurs, Sat & Sun 12pm – 5pm
Friday 3pm – 8pm

Can’t visit during normal hours?  Make an appointment!
Click here to make an appointment or
You can also call 937-985-2115 or email [email protected].

Filed Under: The Featured Articles, Visual Arts Tagged With: Edward A. Dixon, Edward A. Dixon Gallery

McCoy on Movies: Captain America: Brave New World

February 15, 2025 By Tabari McCoy

Mackie solid despite underwhelming adventure awaiting Captain America: Brave New World

The final theatrical poster for CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD.  © 2025 Walt Disney Studios. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, Tim Blake Nelson, Giancarlo Esposito, Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly, Shira Haas and Xosha Roquemore

DIRECTOR: Julias Onah
 
THE BACK STORY: Steve Rogers may have walked off into the sunset … But that doesn’t mean America won’t continue to face threats, domestic, international and – as any dedicated Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) watcher can tell you – across galaxies and multiple universes. That’s why Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) is on the case, taking up his mentor’s mantle, complete with a new Falcon – a.k.a. Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez) in training by his side. In addition to a new title, Sam also has a new boss in the form of Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross (Harrison Ford, taking over the role left vacant by the late William Hurt), a.k.a. the newly elected President of the United States of America. 
 
The discovery of adamantium on a celestial island (yes, X-Men fans and the five of you that liked the Eternals movie, adamantium has made its way into the main MCU) is set to once again change the world. That’s why a seemingly changed Ross is looking to shed his hotheaded reputation and lead a peace treaty involving all the world’s major nations.
 
Problem is, Ross hasn’t been exactly honest about a few things, leaving Sidewinder (Giancarlo Esposito) on the hunt to steal the precious metal for an unknown buyer. But as things unfold and land his role model, the original Captain America Isiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly) behind bars,  Sam ends up trying to prevent an international incident … Even if Samuel Stearns (Tim Blake Nelson) has plans that might otherwise sending Ross into a rage where he – and the entire world – will end up seeing red as a result. 

THE REVIEW: Given the current political/social state of America, it should come as zero surprise that if you are the type that has demonized the letters “DEI,” CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD is not the film for you. Likewise, if you are suffering from superhero fatigue and/or cannot see past the skin color of the film’s titular character, you should stay home as well.

 

However, if you enjoy most of Marvel Studios’ releases and are able to watch a story that focuses more on traditional superhero values (peace, a man with designs on revenge and/or justifiably using his intelligence/force for the right reasons but in nefarious ways), BRAVE NEW WORLD hits the mark more than it misses. 

 

Much moreso than in the lackluster Falcon & the Winter Soldier Marvel limited series, Mackie carves out his own niche as Cap in BRAVE NEW WORLD, paying homage to Chris Evans work in the role while putting his own stamp on the character. Wilson’s status as a black man is a minimal part of the story, which instead focuses on a man trying to honor his predecessor and serve the country that, in 2025, all of its citizens may or may appreciate his service. With Mackie’s Sam Wilson rumored to lead the next iteration of The Avengers, his performance shows he has the stamina to step into the role Evans helped define … Even if he still needs a bigger defining experience to firmly establish him as such.

 

In fact, if there is one thing that could be seen as more of a letdown, it’s the fact that BRAVE NEW WORLD simply follows the beats required of a standard Marvel adventure: There’s a hero facing some sort of internal crisis, a villain with motivations you can somewhat understand and some really good fight sequences with jokes throw in occasionally for good measure.

What BRAVE NEW WORLD needs, however, is a truly remarkable villain and definitive moments that make it feel like less of a prelude to other adventures. Nelson’s version of the man known to many comic book fans as The Leader doesn’t feel like he’s truly capable of such a name and you’ll either enjoy Ross’ gamma antics or find them too familiar to drive you. (The latter crowd is the type that almost takes more enjoyment in not enjoying something ala Comic Book Guy from The Simpsons.)

All things considered, in trying to show Sam Wilson can be just as good as other heroes, BRAVE NEW WORLD is fine … But it fails to do the one thing it needed to do, which is the exact opposite of the aforementioned sentence: Give him a adventure that make his heroics stand out in definitive fashion as compared to the rest of his peers. 

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

 

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Brave New World, Captain America

Jersey Boys at La Comedia

February 13, 2025 By Dayton937

With phenomenal music and great storytelling, Jersey Boys explores the fascinating evolution of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history. Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards and Olivier Awards, Jersey Boys takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to discover the secret of a 40-year friendship as the foursome work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom.

Featuring electrifying performances of chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You,” you won’t want to miss the La Comedia premiere of Jersey Boys.

Rated R: Language and mature content)

Matinees: Thursday, Friday & Sunday: Arrival time, 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. Buffet opens around 11:15, show begins around 12:30 p.m.

Evenings: Thursday – Sunday: Arrival time, 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. Buffet opens around 6:15 p.m., show begins around 7:30 p.m.

Share this:

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

John Waters special screening kicks off Yellow Springs Mini-Fest

February 12, 2025 By Dayton937

The Yellow Springs Film Festival is excited to announce its annual Mini-Fest this spring, with a new addition this year: an expansion to Dayton! The event kicks off at The Brightside in downtown Dayton, featuring a special screening of the cult classic Cecil B. Demented to celebrate its 25th anniversary, along with a Q&A session with its legendary director, John Waters.

The Yellow Springs Film Festival, which began in 2023, is a newly established film festival that has received widespread acclaim from attendees, media, and both local and film communities. For the first time, the festival is extending its reach beyond Yellow Springs, with organizers hosting an event in Dayton, thanks to generous support from The Berry Family Foundation.

“We’re thrilled to host one of our all time favorite directors screening one of his finest — and to expand into Dayton for our first event outside of Yellow Springs will hopefully engage more film fans in the Miami Valley,” Yellow Springs Film Festival Co-Founder, Eric Mahoney, shared with us. “The Brightside is such a fantastic room and we love partnering with them in bringing exciting events to town.”

Waters, who began his filmmaking career in the mid-60s, is renowned for his low-budget, provocative films that garnered a devoted fanbase, including Hairspray, Cry-Baby, and Pink Flamingos, among others. This event offers a rare chance to explore the creative genius of one of cinema’s most fascinating directors! 

Cecil B. Demented offers a thrilling cinematic experience. The story revolves around an independent film director and his rebellious team of teenage filmmakers who abduct a top Hollywood actress, forcing her to star in their underground project.

Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters. Grab yours now and be part of this extraordinary celebration!


How to Go?

Thursday, April 17th

Doors 6pm / Show 7pm

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

$35 general admission seated

$100 VIP – Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters.

Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ysff-presents-cecil-b-demented-screening-with-john-waters-tickets-1247234555129?aff=oddtdtcreator

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, Community, DMM's Best Bets, Downtown Dayton, On Screen Dayton, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Dayton Ohio, downtown, john waters, On Screen Dayton, screening, showtimes, The Brightside, Things to Do, yellow springs film festival

A Rising Star in a Stellar Show!

February 9, 2025 By Joshua Stucky

A Distinct Society, by Kareem Fahmy begins in the tranquil hush of a library that straddles the U.S. – Canada border, where life is about to change. Much the same could be said for Cooper Schairbaum, the youngest in the cast who is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the show. Schairbaum plays Declan Sheehan in the play directed by Brant Russell at the Human Race Theatre Company.

I was thrilled to get to chat with the rising star about his love of acting and any future productions.

937: Hi Cooper. I understand you are a local high schooler…right?

CS:  Yes. I am junior at Oakwood High School.

937: And….I heard you have some acting experience under your belt? What shows may have the readers perhaps seen you previously perform?

CS: I have played Billy in On Golden Pond, Sky in Mamma Mia, Jack in Into the Woods, and Windward and Cop in the Muse Machine’s The Little Mermaid and 9 to 5.

937: WOW! You have been bitten by the theater bug!! Where did this all start for you?

CS: My first show was The Addams Family in fourth grade, and I guess it all started from my mom who did theater in college and still loves it, so she really motivated me to participate in theater.

937: Well it is one of the few things you can do from cradle to grave. So, thank mom for getting you into something that can last a lifetime! What can you tell us about the show?

CS: It is inspired by true events. It focuses on all the things that can, in some cases, divide us…or unite us. It has a lot to do with connection…and how life can change.

937: And, people are really enjoying it. So, in doing this and other shows, does it make you want to continue with acting in your future?

CS: It really made me believe that theater in the future is a viable option for me but throughout this whole process I have realized that this is so demanding and I don’t think this is for me after high school.

937: Amen brother, it is hard work…but, keep that door open! Do you have advice for others looking to do community theater?

CS: Do it. You will always meet new friends that care about you. They will be friends to you for the rest of your life.

937: Congratulations Cooper. Bravo!

You can catch A Distinct Society at the Human Race 2/11-2/17. Shows Tuesday – Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:00pm.

More info at https://humanracetheatre.org/

 

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, Community, On Stage Dayton, The Featured Articles

Theater Lab Valentine’s Day

February 9, 2025 By Dayton937

Get ready for Valentine’s Day(ton) – Hosted by Dana Sintell!
Love is in the air… or maybe that’s just the smell of Dana’s hairspray. Either way, TheatreLab Dayton is bringing you a Valentine’s celebration like no other!
Join us Tuesday, February 11th at 7PM for Valentine’s Day(ton), an evening of love, laughs, and a little lighthearted couple’s competition—hosted by the one and only Dana Sintell (Josh Stucky) of the legendary Rubi Girls!
What’s in store?
Live performances to make your heart sing (or at least chuckle).
Four rounds of couple’s games—will you prove to be soulmates or just really good at faking it?
Romantic refreshments (because love is sweet, but so is dessert).
Fabulous Rubi Girl & TheatreLab swag—because you deserve a little treat!
Tickets are sold in pairs ($50 per couple, $80 for two couples), and we’re not picky about what “couple” means. Married? Dating? Just friends? “Roommates”? We don’t judge—we just play games.
So grab your sweetheart, bestie, or that person who still has your Netflix login, and get ready for a night of love, laughter, and a little bit of friendly competition!
Get your tickets now (link in comments) —because nothing says romance like winning bragging rights.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

McCoy on Movies: LOVE HURTS

February 6, 2025 By Tabari McCoy

Ke Huy Quan gets his kicks in action comedy LOVE HURTS

“I’m just here so I can punch your face!” Real estate agent (and former hitman) Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) dodges an attack by King (Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch) in a scene from director Jonathan Eusebio’s action romantic comedy LOVE HURTS. Credit: Allen Fraser/Universal Pictures © Universal Studios. 

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Marshawn Lynch, Lio Tipton, Mustafa Shakir,  André Eriksen, Rhys Darby, Cam Gigadnet with Drew Scott

DIRECTOR: Jonathan Eusebio
 
THE BACK STORY: Marvin Gable (Academy Award winner Ke Huy Quan) is living his best life. He’s got a successful real estate practice, he’s got a nice home in the Milwaukee suburbs and everyone likes him, even his assistant Ashley (Lio Tipton) despite her obvious depression. Unfortunately, Marvin also has a past – a past that involved spending many years working under his brother Alvin (Daniel Wu), a.k.a. Knuckles, a criminal for whom he served as his top hitman. Marvin does have to contend with rival realtor Jeff Zaks (Drew Scott), who’s black belt approach to real estate is one he takes quite literal.
 
As it turns out, Marvin had one last job to complete before trying to leave the past behind: Murdering Rose (Academy Award Winner Ariana DeBose), who, alongside Renny (Cam Gigadnet) and Kippy (Rhys Darby), robbed Knuckles of $4 million. But since Marvin is in love with Rose, he just couldn’t do it. That’s a problem because once Rose resurfaces, so does Marvin’s past … And that means Knuckles, Renny, Renny’s would-be clean-up crew Otis (André Eriksen) and King (Super Bowl champion Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch) – not to mention the mysterious, knife-wielding Raven (Mustafa Shakir) are all on the hunt for he and Rose. 
 
So what happens when a seemingly mild-mannered real estate agent is forced back into his old fatal ways? A lot – which is why Marvin is about to learn what they mean when they say LOVE HURTS.

 

THE REVIEW: 

 

After watching LOVE HURTS, a fellow critic and friend said two things, one of which I agreed with and another I did not. First, LOVE HURTS is definitely a film that, if this were 20 some odd years ago, Jackie Chan would have most definitely been feature in the lead role. That is not a knock to Ke Huy Quan, who is both believable in during the fight sequences and its mild-mannered moments due to the extensive fight training he underwent prior to filming. The point that I disagreed with is that Huy Quan deserves better, almost making it seem like the film was somewhat beneath him given its live-action cartoon nature.

Instead, I would argue that LOVE HURTS showcases a nice range of Huy Quan’s abilities, proving he can play an identifiable everyman with the ability to excel in an action film in addition to comedy or drama. While the film likely won’t find it’s true appreciation until hitting the streaming/home video market for a variety of reasons, LOVE HURTS isn’t a film that proves Huy Quan deserves better; it’s a film that once again proves he is worthy of more opportunities in larger roles. He is the film’s center in both its comedic and action-centered moments, a considerable achievement considering he is featured alongside one of HGTV’s Property Brothers as well as the national treasure that is Lynch.

Is LOVE HURTS a cinematic classic? Not at all. Is it a fun watch that you will likely enjoy more than you expect? Yes it is … And in a world where the serious nature of chaos around us is seemingly worse every day, that may be the film’s greatest gift.

 

 

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

 

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton

Murder and Cheesecake: A Golden Galentines Murder Mystery!

February 3, 2025 By Dayton937

The suspect list is long and Sophia’s patience is short! Cincinnati’s longest running murder mystery show is back with an all new show filled with comedy and intrigue. Miami is nice, but Dorothy, Blanche, Sophia and Rose are back to solve yet another murder mystery here in Cincinnati. Gather clues and laugh along as your favorite girls try to figure out whodunnit in this fun interactive show. If you like puzzles, murder, and sassy octogenarians this show is for you! Test your knowledge and put on your detective hat because prizes will be given for Golden Girls Trivia and to whomever solves the mystery. Great for a girls brunch, a galentines celebration, a unique date or just fun with fellow Golden Girls loving friends, join us for a hilarious afternoon of Murder and Cheesecake.
Ticket does not include food, but a full menu will be available to you to purchase as well as a delicious beers on tap. Feel free to arrive before the show and put in your order or do so between acts right from your phone.
https://gotab.io/loc/bockfamil…
Doors open at 1:30pm. Show starts at 2pm

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

McCoy on Movies: You’re Cordially Invited

January 30, 2025 By Tabari McCoy

“Did you touch my drum set?” Jim Caldwell (Will Ferrell, left) talks with Margot (Reese Witherspoon) in a scene from writer/director Nicholas Stoller’s YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED. © 2023 Amazon Content Services. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Geraldine Viswanathan, Meredith Hagner, Jimmy Tatro, Leanne Morgan, Stony Blyden, Celia Weston, Jack McBrayer and Rory Scovel

DIRECTOR: Nicholas Stoller
 
THE BACK STORY: Jim Caldwell (Will Ferrell) is a widower who loves his only child, his daughter Jenni (Geraldine Viswanathan). So when she returns home to tell him that she’s engaged to her boyfriend Oliver (Stony Blyden) instead of that she’s moving back home, he is taken aback to say the least. Once the initial shock is gone, he decides to celebrate the occasion by booking their wedding at the same island resort he and his late wife got married.
 
Margot (Reese Witherspoon) is a successful reality TV producer living in LA who misses her baby sister (Meredith Hagner) dearly since she is kind of her best friend, daughter and husband all in one. But when she arrives on the scene with Dixon (Jimmy Tatro) in tow, she is ecstatic to learn they are also engaged and – surprise – pregnant – to boot. Wanting to ensure nothing but the best for her little sister, she books the same place they used to spend so much time as children having fun with their late grandmother.
 
But as hotel manager Leslie (Jack McBrayer) is soon to learn, his mother forgot to inform him that both Jim had already booked the same wedding date that Margot has. (Let’s just say she was indisposed – permanently.) And since the island can only accommodate one wedding per weekend, the two headstrong would-be wedding planners are going to do whatever it takes to ensure the special day for the bride to be.
 
Even if it results in near disaster. 

 

THE REVIEW: YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED is a movie you can tell the cast had a lot of fun making. The characters are likable enough, the run time isn’t excessive and it’s got a few decent guffaws in the mix to keep you watching till the end. 

 

And that’s about all you really need to know about the latest film from Nicholas Stoller, which is streaming now on Amazon Prime. Because if you already have the service, it’s a nice way to kill about an hour and 40 minutes of a Friday night in or a Saturday afternoon. But given the generally silly nature of the affair, it’s not going to be the movie that makes anyone sign up for added benefits from Jeff Bezos’ studio arm.

 

Witherspoon is at her best when she plays the woman coming to grips with her situation and realizing things about herself after interacting with others. Ferrell is at his best when he’s allowed to go fully goofy while being genuine yet stupid in the process. That’s why sometimes when the jokes feel a little forced and the situations too outrageous, the likable nature of the actors is called upon again – and again – to keep things going. There are times when the film feels like it would be better served going into more a focused tone with other moments feeling like it would be better going for the full joke instead of feeling restrained. Celia Weston adds a nice amount of balance to the mix with Leanne Morgan subtly stealing each scene she’s in, but the film feels like a diet version of some of Ferrell’s better work while trying to delve into some positive messages about family dynamics, but few people will remember that with the silliness preceding it. 

 

In short, YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED is fine for a short stay, but more than one viewing will be enough to convince most it has overstayed its welcome.

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Cordially Invited, reese witherspoon, Will Ferrell

Timely ‘Avenue Q’ lights up Dayton Playhouse!

January 24, 2025 By Joshua Stucky

The best part of any job is getting to meet new people! I was so excited to get to learn about the director of Avenue Q at DPH, Ray Gambrel.

937: Thank you for taking time to tell us about a musical we all know, love and BOY is it timely! But first….let’s hear about you! I know we would all love to know a little bit about your theater life!

RG: Thank you for this opportunity! Actually, in Jr. High I saw our High School production of, Annie Get Your Gun. I loved it! I rushed to the library and got the original Broadway cast recording on vinyl and listened to it over and over. I was hooked! I went to Sinclair Community College and studied Theater-Performance. I quickly realized that acting may not be the best fit for me, so I took a Directing class taught by Marsha Hanna. She became my idol. I had the wonderful opportunity to help stage manage a production at Sinclair, and I really got to see her work. She really became my inspiration and I think about her every time that I direct. I then got involved with, at the time, Playhouse South (now Springboro Community Theatre), both, as an actor, and as a director.

937: I love Annie get Your Gun…hokey as it is. And actually Marsha inspired MANY of us! How did you make the DPH connection?

RG:I got involved with Dayton Playhouse years ago through FutureFest (as a director). FutureFest is such a wonderful theater experience, and have been lucky enough to direct several shows for the event. My first production for Dayton Playhouse outside of the Fest was last year’s play, The One Act Play That Goes Wrong. It was a great experience.
937: FutureFest is a treasure! So, why Avenue Q?
RG: First of all, I grew up, like many others, watching Sesame Street and The Muppet Show (as well as the movies). I’ve also always been fascinated by puppets. How they seem to just come to life. I used to direct little puppet shows for my friends and family. God love them for putting up with some of that. Avenue Q just had that great puppet aspect, with wonderfully catchy songs. And the story is hilarious, with a bit of heart. The “adult material” aspect also caught my eye.
937: It is such a ‘hoot!’ So, with this production, what can the audience expect?
RG: First, you will see a wonderful set, designed by Sean Mayo that looks like a rundown version of Sesame Street. That gives you a hint of what you could be in for. There are many puppets among a cast of 3 humans, so you’ve got a bit of fun stuff going on with that. Our Music Director, Lori Topping, is amazing and has truly added so much to this production. The band that she has brought together sounds phenomenal Just the best. And then you throw in the adult humor (that may shock you and make you blush for laughing at it). I wouldn’t recommend to those that are easily offended. This is for an adult audience.
937: A little insight Ray, most of my readers are not easily offended! HA HA!! And with that said, what a timely musical! Do you feel people are in need of more of this kind of comedy?
RG: Yes. We definitely need this kind of show to laugh at, and also to make us think. Especially in a time where there are many people that are upset and scared with everything going on in this country, and the world. It’s not the best of times, but this show can help you take a moment and relax. You’ll laugh a lot, maybe even shed a tear or two. Underneath all of the adult, sometimes crude humor, this is a show with heart.
937: And, what are you hoping the audience walks away with after the show?
RG: I hope that audiences walk out of the theater feeling not only happy, and that they had a great time, but that they also have more hope. That maybe there is a chance that with all of our differences, we can still come together as a community and support each other. I know that’s what I hope for. I I think that it’s there in this show.
937: Love that! And so, so hopeful that we can find common ground in this world. Any last thoughts for us Ray?
RG:  The entire cast and crew have worked so hard on this production. Many cast members spent hours helping to build and paint the set. Many of the actors came up with some wonderful ideas that really added to the show. One cast member, Emily Christine, even stepped up and choreographed many of the numbers (which is awesome by the way). The cast, like many shows, really pulled together and became a family. They truly care about this show, and each other. And I do believe that you will see all of this come through in their performances.
937: Thank you so much, again. I know, I know folks, cue jingle…. ‘Can You Tell Me How to Get, How to Get to Avenue Q?’ Details Below. Break a leg DPH….wait do puppets have legs?
Avenue Q (R)
Fri Jan 24, 2025 – Sun Feb 9, 2025
Tickets and info at https://daytonplayhouse.thundertix.com/events/224850
Friday and Saturday Shows at 8pm, Sundays 2pm.

Filed Under: Active Living, Arts & Entertainment, Community, Dayton Music, On Stage Dayton, The Featured Articles

“Ghost: The Musical”

January 23, 2025 By Dayton937

Based on the hit Academy Award-winning 1990 film starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg, “Ghost: The Musical” tells the love story of Sam and Molly. After his untimely death and being trapped between two worlds, Sam vows to keep Molly from danger through the help of storefront psychic Oda Mae Brown. Dave Stewart and Glen Ballard’s original score includes the classic hit “Unchained Melody” famously heard in the film.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

Dayton Story Slam

January 21, 2025 By Dayton937

This open mic event hosts some of Dayton’s best tellers. Storytellers are encouraged to prepare a 5-minute story relating to the theme and place their names in the hat.

Tellers are drawn at random, bring a story, and bring a friend.

The best story of the night wins $50, 4 free tickets to a future slam and a guaranteed spot in June’s Grand Slam.

Our theme for Jan  is “BUSTED.”

The bar will be open and there is a two drink minimum, tickets are $5.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door ( if available). You are welcome to bring snacks with you, but no outside beverages

 

Advance ticket sales end at 3pm day of event and tickets are $10 at the door, if available.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

Six Showings of Die Mommie Die!

January 17, 2025 By Dayton937

Die Mommie Die! is a comic melodrama evoking the 1960s “Grande Dame Guignol” films that featured aging stars such as Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, and Lana Turner. Ex-pop singer Angela Andrews is trapped in a hateful marriage with film producer Sol Sussman. Desperate to find happiness with her younger lover, an out-of-work TV actor named Tony Parker, Angela murders her husband with the aid of a poisoned suppository. In a plot that reflects Greek tragedy as well as Hollywood kitsch, Angela’s Elektra-like daughter Edith convinces Angela’s emotionally disturbed son Lance that they must avenge their father’s death by killing their mother.

Beavercreek Community Theatre
3868 Dayton-Xenia Road
Beavercreek, OH 45432

Showtimes:

Feb 17, 18, 24 & 25 8pm
Feb19 & 26 3pm

Purchase your tickets here

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

Dayton Battle of the Bands kicks off at The Brightside!

January 15, 2025 By Dayton937

The 5th annual Dayton Battle of the Bands kicks off on January 16, 2025 at The Brightside Music & Event Venue. This exciting music series, presented by the venue along with Venus Child Productions and Sound Valley, highlights up-and-coming original bands across a variety of genres.

The series runs for 6 weeks, every Thursday from January 16, 2025 through February 27th (skipping Feb 20th for sold out Kim Deal concert). The winner of each week moves onto the Finale, held in the Brightside’s Ballroom on Sat, March 8th.

The playoffs result from a 50/50 mix of audience and judges’ votes. Every attendee receives a ballot upon entry and utilizes ranked-choice voting to select their top three favorite bands. Each week, music industry insiders and special guests serve as judges, with their votes carrying greater influence.

“Despite the ‘battle’ name, this series has been such a fun way to discover so much of the creative talent brewing in Dayton,” organizer Libby Ballengee shared with us. “Maybe you’ll find your new favorite band!”

The participating bands get professional photos to add to their press kit and the chance to audition for bookers from around the city including Levitt Pavilion, Blind Bob’s, Oregon Express, and more! This year, Dayton Battle of the Bands is partnering with Concert Archives to offer bands consolidated feedback from judges.

Photo by Jordan Lynn Freshour

For the Finalists who perform in the Finale, they all receive a video of one of their songs performed live, which is provided by Sound Valley. This is such an awesome asset for the band’s press kit. They also receive cash prize, free pizza for rehearsals from Dayton Pizza Factory, among other perks.

For the grand prize winner – they get all above plus an EP recording session with Dayton Sound Studios, a spot on Levitt Pavilion Dayton’s summer schedule, free t-shirts from Little Monster Printing, and $1000.

Past winners include: The Katawicks, Bohemian Funk, crabswithoutlegs, and Freakquency.

More details about Dayton Battle of the Bands can be found at their website: daytonbattleofthebands.com

HOW TO GO:

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St. Dayton, OH)

  • Jan 16 – Week 1 – Alternative / Rock
  • Jan 23 – Week 2 – Singer-Songwriters
  • Jan 30 – Week 3 – Hip Hop / Rap / R&B
  • Feb 6 – Week 4 – Hard Rock / Metal / Punk
  • Feb 13 – Week 5 – Americana / Bluegrass / Folk
  • Feb 27 – Week 6 – Funk / Jam / Reggae / Ska
  • March 8 – Finale featuring the winners from each week

7pm doors open / Music 7:30pm – 10pm

All ages

$10 advance, $15 at the door

Tickets & information available at
https://www.daytonbattleofthebands.com
Or https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, Community, Dayton Music, DMM's Best Bets, Downtown Dayton, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton Music, Dayton Ohio, Downtown Dayton, Events, Things to Do, Things to do in Dayton

Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived- SIX Takes the Stage

January 13, 2025 By Dayton937

From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!

SIX won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.

The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critic’s Pick) and The Washington Post hails SIX as “Exactly the kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!”

The SIX: LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT Broadway album debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard cast album charts and surpassed 6 million streams in its first month.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Page 6
  • Page 7
  • Page 8
  • Page 9
  • Page 10
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Page 185
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Submit An Event to Dayton937

- Featured Events -

7 events found.
  • Previous week
  • Next week
Notice
No events scheduled for June 8, 2026.
Notice
No events scheduled for June 9, 2026.
Trivia Night at Alematic

Trivia Night at Alematic

7:00 pm
Alematic Artisan Ales
Art Start Pre-School Storytime

Art Start Pre-School Storytime

11:30 am
Rosewood Arts Centre
Open Coworking

Open Coworking

12:00 pm
The Hub at Dayton Arcade
Launch Pad

Launch Pad

12:00 pm
The Hub at Dayton Arcade
Fun Trivia! Prizes!

Fun Trivia! Prizes!

7:00 pm
Bock Family Brewing
Notice
No events scheduled for June 12, 2026.
Dayton Air Show

Dayton Air Show

8:00 am
Dayton International Airport
Notice
No events scheduled for June 14, 2026.

Week of Events

Mon 8
Tue 9
Wed 10
Thu 11
Fri 12
Sat 13
Sun 14
June 10, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring
Trivia Night at Alematic
June 10 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Trivia Night at Alematic

Grab some friends and join us every Wednesday night at the brewery for a pint of your favorite ALEMATIC brew...

June 11, 2026 11:30 am - 12:15 pm Recurring
Art Start Pre-School Storytime
June 11 @ 11:30 am - 12:15 pm Recurring

Art Start Pre-School Storytime

Art Start Pre-School Storytime 2nd Thursday of the month 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM Rosewood Arts Center 2655 Olson Dr....

Free
June 11, 2026 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Recurring
Open Coworking
June 11 @ 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Recurring

Open Coworking

Join us in The Hub for open co-working from 12pm to 5pm. Ever wonder how The Hub could work for...

June 11, 2026 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring
Launch Pad
June 11 @ 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Recurring

Launch Pad

Meet the people you need to move your business forward This monthly LaunchPad event series brings you opportunities to expand...

Free
June 11, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring
Fun Trivia! Prizes!
June 11 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Recurring

Fun Trivia! Prizes!

Please join us every Thursday from 7-9 for trivia at Bock Family Brewing!  Prizes available for 1st and 2nd place...

Free
June 13, 2026 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Dayton Air Show
June 13 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Dayton Air Show

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are expected to headline both days. • Possible flyover: Show organizers said they may apply...

View Calendar

Join the Dayton937 Newsletter!

Trust us with your email address and we'll send you our most important updates!
Email:  
For Email Marketing you can trust
Back to Top

Copyright © 2026 Dayton Most Metro · Terms & Conditions · Log in