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‘Be More Chill’ Review – Sinclair Community College – Mind Games

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Composer Joe Iconis and librettist Joe Tracz’s contemporary musical comedy Be More Chill, a tuneful, silly and witty look at high school hell, receives an enjoyable, fun-loving regional premiere at Sinclair Community College.

Anthony Dell’Aria (Jeremy) and Katelyn Pennington (Christine) in I Love Play Rehearsal in Sinclair Community College’s production of Be More Chill. (Photo by Patti Celek)

Based on the novel by Ned Vizzini and breezily directed by Chris Harmon, Be More Chill primarily concerns uncool New Jersey teenager Jeremy Heere’s pursuit to become popular in order to win the heart of theater geek Christine Canigula. It’s a fairly simple yet relatable premise accented with a sci-fi twist when Jeremy takes a special pill called a SQUIP (Super Quantum Unit Intel Processor), a computer implanted in his brain that acts as a powerful puppet master, getting him to do whatever he’s told. Iconis and Tracz’s hip high school lingo hits the mark but they oddly fall short of creating substantive three-dimensional characters (Christine and Jeremy’s Dad are among the many underwritten roles). However, their savvy ability to frame the show as a relevant cautionary tale about bullying, peer pressure, depression, suicide, and the onslaught of social media, giving credence to lines such as “a shared negative opinion is the fastest social bond,” is a plus.

Anthony Dell’Aria (Jeremy) and Micah Koverman (Michael) in Two-Player Game in Sinclair Community College’s production of Be More Chill. (Photo by Patti Celek)

Anthony Dell’Aria is a wonderfully pleasant leading man, allowing Jeremy to be someone you can easily root for even as he becomes unnervingly overwhelmed and possessed by the SQUIP. Sweet and endearing Katelyn Pennington (Christine) brings lighthearted flightiness to I Love Play Rehearsal and A Guy That I’d Kinda Be Into. Outstanding Micah Koverman (Jeremy’s best friend Michael Mell) steals the show with ostracized finesse and provides a fantastic rendition of Michael in the Bathroom, an emotional, unforgettable soliloquy bound to resonate for anyone who has ever felt rejected, abandoned, isolated, or alone. Handsomely suave Jared Setser is a perfect fit for the SQUIP, oozing seductive and dastardly charisma in The SQUIP Song and The Pitiful Children. Joseph Herzog (Jake Dillinger) showcases his cool dance skills to the fullest in Halloween. DeShawn Christian (Rich Goranski) has a tendency to let his unbridled energy get the best of him, but he’s funny where it counts nonetheless. Rachel Charles (Chloe Valentine) and Brianna Babel (Brooke Lohst) delightfully join forces as a naughty pair of mean girls. Nikki Bentz (Jenna Rolan) comically leads The Smartphone Hour featuring nifty choreography by Rodney Veal. Christopher Goetz’s flamboyance as drama teacher Mr. Reyes would be better served with variety, but he’s very effective at conveying the stagnation within Jeremy’s Dad. Ensemble members include Elisha Chamberlin, Lydia Dye, Caitlyn Hood, Christopher Leavitt, Cormari Pullings, Tanner Titkemeyer, Austin Vega, and Valkyrie Williams.

Micah Koverman in Michael in the Bathroom in Sinclair Community College’s production of Be More Chill. (Photo by Patti Celek)

Harmon’s artistic team includes scenic and property designer Terry Stump, costumer Kathleen Hotmer, lighting designer Marissa Childress, sound designer Sarah Parrott, and projection designer Jeffrey Brown. Music director David McKibben has a firm grip on the challenging score and great vocal arrangements, but lyrics are often muddled or incomprehensible perhaps due to the cast’s inability to hear conductor Bryon Dobbs’ orchestra located backstage.
Be More Chill originally opened at New Jersey’s Two River Theater in 2015 and gained a huge cult following thanks to its cast recording, which has had over 170 million streams. It also became the No. 2 most talked-about show on Tumblr after Hamilton, had a sold-out run off-Broadway this past summer, and is heading to Broadway in February. The sheer fact that Sinclair was able to secure the rights to one of the hottest shows in the country speaks volumes.
Containing humorous shades of 13, Avenue Q, Bat Boy, Dear Evan Hansen, Heathers, Legally Blonde, Little Shop of Horrors, Mean Girls, The Rocky Horror Show, and The Wedding Singer, Be More Chill admirably addresses the importance of friendship and the value of loving and accepting yourself above all else.

 

Be More Chill continues through Oct. 13 in Blair Hall Theatre of Sinclair Community College, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Act One: 65 minutes; Act Two: 65 minutes. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. Tickets for the Thursday performance are $10. All seats are reserved and available online at sinclair.edu/tickets. Thursday, Sunday and the first Saturday performances are ASL interpreted by student interpreters Catherine Johnson, Macy Reitz, Cecelia Shannon, and Destinie Warren. Due to content and language, the show is recommended for patrons 14 and older.

 

Luminaries of Dayton: David A. Sinclair and Mary Belle Eaker

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David A. Sinclair was an early supporter of the YMCA movement. He came to Dayton in 1874 to represent the Hamilton, Ontario YMCA at a conference and was so impressed with the leadership of the Dayton branch that he accepted a position here. He could not understand why Dayton had so many jobless men. After asking local employers for their opinion as to the cause of the problem, the answer would be the lack of skills and training necessary to do the job. David became determined to do something about it. Under his leadership, the YMCA began to offer vocational training classes which eventually grew into Sinclair Community College. Sadly, David Sinclair did not live long enough to see it. Exhausted from efforts to build the first YMCA building at Third and Ludlow Streets, now Dayton City Hall, he died six years before the first college building opened.

David A Sinclair has a sidewalk plaque on Dayton’s Walk of Fame  on Third Street near Broadway Street in the Wright-Dunbar Historic District. He was inducted into the Walk of Fame in 1996.

David A. Sinclair was born in 1850 and died in 1902. He is located in Section 113 Lot 54.

A friend helps out to see the project completed.

The Young Men’s Christian Association was probably Mary Belle Eaker’s greatest interest. It was her recreation.  She left the Eaker homestead as a site for the proposed new building, explaining her gift as follows: “Much of my life has been passed in this home, and I gladly give it for this purpose, believing that it could be consecrated to no better use, and that the people of Dayton will build upon it a suitable Christian home for our young men.”

It was Mr. Sinclair, as a friend and source of information about the Y. M. C. A. that probably decided the matter. Their friendship was most close and sincere, and through him she followed step by step the growing needs of the Association, and its advance in usefulness.

In 1902, Miss Mary Belle Eaker left her home on the northwest corner of Third and Ludlow to the Association. The new building that was constructed there was the second largest YMCA building in the world and opened in April 1908. It contained six stories and was valued at $500,000. 

Mary Belle Eaker died on May 30, 1902 at the age of 80. She is buried Section 65 Lot 35.

‘Dracula’ and ‘Outgoing Tide’ Reviews – Sinclair Community College and Dayton Theatre Guild – Potent Productions

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Sinclair Community College’s impressively dark and disturbing production of Steven Dietz’s breezily faithful adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic 1897 novel “Dracula” opens the organization’s 2016-2017 season on a high note.

Directed with striking fluidity and expert tone by Kimberly Borst, this “Dracula” is by no means a campy, overtly melodramatic horror show intended to make you giggle for two hours or confirm your decision to dress up as one of Stoker’s characters for Halloween. On the contrary, it’s an emotionally uneasy and outright eerie experience dramatically diving (and occasionally flying) straight to the core of examining the compelling consequences of incessant desire, unrelenting power, possessive affection, and cruel mind games within society. Thankfully, these gripping factors, revealing many unsettling truths, are executed with committed fervor from one of the most chameleonic ensembles Sinclair has assembled.

The wonderfully versatile Leo Santucci is an astutely brooding knockout navigating the titular vampire’s creepily cunning quests of love and supremacy with a sinister booming voice that’ll send shivers down your spine. He also ensures Dracula’s villainy is far from one-dimensional by layering his language-driven portrayal with melancholy, wistfulness and sly humor. Fine work extends to the dynamic Maximilian Santucci as the stalwart Van Helsing, a first-rate Jonathan Kelly as authoritative John Seward, a delightfully physical Tristan Rivera as insane Renfield (his transition at the outset is an early highlight), Gabriella Neuerer as sophisticated Mina, Sydney Baker as Mina’s spellbound best friend Lucy, Thomas Puckett as Mina’s amiable fiancé Jonathan Harker, Nick Baver and Andre Tomlinson as asylum attendants, and Chelsey Hall and Erin McGee as Dracula’s evil vixens.

Borst’s exemplary artistic team, attractively and atmospherically recreating 19th century London and Transylvania, includes set designer Chris Harmon, costumer Kathleen Hotmer, lighting designer Dan Brunk, projection designer Gina Neuerer, fight choreographer Gary Minyard, flying director William G. L. Courson, VertigoTM’s flying effects, prop designer Sarah Gomes, wig/makeup designer Brooke Watson, blood and special effects designer Kaoime E. Malloy, and sound designer Isaiah Parnell.

If you’re in the mood for thrills and chills, do not miss this terrific fright fest.

“Dracula” continues through Oct. 29 inside Blair Hall Theatre of Sinclair Community College, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., and Thursday at 7 p.m. The Sunday and Thursday performances are American Sign Language interpreted. Tickets are $18 adults and $15 student and seniors. Thursday tickets specifically cost $10. For tickets or more information, call Sinclair Box Office at (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets

 


THE OUTGOING TIDE
The Dayton Theatre Guild provides a lovely local premiere of Bruce Graham’s thought-provoking 2011 drama “The Outgoing Tide.”

Set in autumn on Chesapeake Bay, evocatively brought to life by scenic designer Fred Blumenthal and sound designer J. Gary Thompson, this poignant and relatable work chronicles the difficult, life-altering choices Gunner and Peg Concannon must face centered on Gunner’s progressive Alzheimer’s. Gunner and Peg have been married for over 50 years, but the time has come for them to take a hard look at what the future must hold. Peg doesn’t mind moving to a senior facility so she can assist Gunner’s need for long-term care, but Gunner vehemently resists. He wants to end his life on his own terms and with dignity. As discussions grow heated and the pain of the past bubbles to the surface, especially as Gunner and Peg’s only son Jack attempts to serve as mediator while coping with his own emotionally fractured household, the play forces us to recognize the value of respecting one’s wishes no matter how distressing or sorrowful.

Under Kathy Mola’s delicate direction, Graham’s trio remarkably connects. Peter Wallace, a standout last season at the Guild in “Slowgirl,” walks the fine line between conveying Gunner’s troubling mental deterioration and amusingly tapping into his opinionated, cantankerous behavior. It’s a tricky game, but Wallace admirably steps up to the plate. As Peg, Barbara Jorgensen delivers another luminous display of outstanding character-specific complexity that will break your heart. Pay heed to her sharp, perceptive work at the top of Act 2, the finest scene in the play addressing Peg’s unwavering commitment to her family, opposite the excellently understated and sensitive Matthew Smith as the conflicted, damaged Jack.
Graham, a film and TV writer who began his playwriting career at the Philadelphia Festival Theatre for New Plays in 1984, notably won Chicago’s Jefferson Award for “The Outgoing Tide.” The Guild winningly charts the play’s emotional course built on the pain of letting go.

 

“The Outgoing Tide” continues through Oct. 23 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for students. For tickets or more information, call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org

 

A Casual Gathering of Friends

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Hundreds of people come through the doors every single day. Seats are always full. There’s security, but no bouncers, and everyone is welcome. Logo


No – it’s not the next big dance club – it’s the House of Bread. Located on the near west side, and nestled in the neighborhood near a park, the river, and other partnering social service agencies, sits the small, welcoming destination. They serve a free, nutritious meal to approximately 230 men, women and children 365 days a year. Eight to 12 volunteers work the front lines everyday, as they help prepare and serve those in need of a meal.


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Ambassador Tony Hall will speak at the 2016 House of Bread Gala

With food insecurity and challenging times for many in our community, House of Bread is a long-time area resource offering a simple, yet vital service – lunch. On Saturday, August 6, you can give back to this organization that has given to so many in our community by attending the House of Bread gala.

While it’s known as “the gala,” the subtitle is a “casual gathering of friends.” Executive Director Melodie Bennett shares, “Just like our mission, we keep our gala simple. We serve dinner buffet style, so our guests continue to enjoy conversation while standing in line for dinner.”


While every year guests learn something knew about the House of Bread and get fabulous deals on generously donated silent auction prizes (trips! packages! tickets! art! more!), this year the House of Bread is pleased to welcome Ambassador Tony Hall as the keynote speaker. Ambassador Hall (bio) has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times, and he is well-respected as a leading authority on programs to serve the poor and hungry, and ways to move people out of homelessness. For an organization that dedicates itself to being open daily and meeting the needs of those who would otherwise go hungry, this is a perfect fit. Knowing what a powerful message he conveys, Bennett says, “I’m very excited that our group of supporters will get to hear Tony Hall speak about his work in preventing hunger!”


HOB2-e1438700520712While the mission is vital for the community, and the event is simple in its approach, there’s certainly great fun to be had. Lisa Stokely volunteers to lead the silent auction committee, and every year works with generous organizations and individuals to put together fabulous packages. Stokely provides some of the highlights of the auction, “Once again, the generosity of our community has reached new heights. We have so many wonderful items that we created sections this year. Bidders can shop through the entertainment section, offering concert tickets, theatre tickets and more. In the sports section there are opportunities to get to all the hottest games in town, including a private suite at Fifth Third Field for 14 guests. In the artwork section we offer original artworks by renowned Dayton artists, including Riverscape artist, Amy Deal, acrylic painter, Ron Rollins, and a sculpture in a series created by famed sculptor, Terry Welker. In our get-away section, one generous donor has given HOB incredible luxury vacation weeks for the high bidders to enjoy the US Virgin Islands, Marriott Grande Vista Resort in Orlando, and a cozy cabin in Branson, Missouri.” There’s truly something for everyone at a great price for a great cause, and I’m told that access to the silent auction itself is well worth the price of admission!


But – if you were looking for a more exclusive, club experience – they’ve got that for you, too! Bennett shares, “We started what we call Club 365, which is a request to our supporters to make a financial gclub 365ift of $365 at our Gala.  It’s the idea of giving $1 a day for us to be open and serving during the next year.” (Note: While Club 365 is a special opportunity, no donations above the price of admission are required at the event.)


All donations from the event – ticket sales, silent auction bids and donations to join Club 365 – support the important mission of House of Bread. Mark your calendar and get your tickets now for this simple event that makes a monumental impact on our community, and will leave a lasting impact on you as well.


HOW TO GO: 

House of Bread Gala… a casual gathering of friends

Saturday, August 6
Sinclair Building 12
6pm-10pm

$75 per person
$600 per table
$2,500 sponsorship level


Appetizers, Music, Silent Auction, Dinner, Cash Bar, Networking  Tony Hall, Keynote Speaker
Supports their mission to serve a hot, nutritious lunchtime meal every day of the year to anyone in need!Tickets available until August 3, 2016. Buy your tickets today!

‘Songs for a New World’ Review – Sinclair Community College – Embracing the Moment

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Jason Robert Brown’s tuneful, reflective and stirring 1995 Off-Broadway song cycle “Songs for a New World” receives a very commendable and engagingly intimate treatment inside Sinclair Community College’s Black Box Theatre.

songs for a new world

(l to r) Andre Tomlinson, Anna Shedon, A.J. Breslin, Natalie Sanders, and Skyler McNeely are featured in Sinclair Community College’s production of Jason Robert Brown’s musical revue “Songs for a New World” (Photo by Patti Celek)

This contemporary musical revue, one of the most popular of its kind, expresses an array of emotions grounded in the expectancy, wonder, vulnerability, and discovery of a single moment. In fact, Brown has stated: “It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice, or take a stand, or turn around and go back.” The songs are not connected, which may puzzle or polarize those in search of a traditional plot or story structure. Even so, they certainly strike a chord and stand alone with a sparkling wit, depth and romantic flair only Brown can provide. The varied numbers run an intriguing gamut from Christopher Columbus’ voyage to America (“On the Deck of a Spanish Sailing Ship, 1492”) and an act of sheer desperation (“Just One Step”) to the mysteries of love and desire (“Stars and the Moon”) and the heartache of war (“The Flagmaker, 1775”). Brown, who won Tony Awards for his marvelous scores of “Parade” and “The Bridges of Madison County,” particularly crafts his splendid, uplifting music with rhythmic and vocal complexities which have become his artistic signature. Even so, director Kimberly Borst’s appealing, lyric-driven five-member ensemble, strikingly communicating with each other and the audience on various platforms, embraces the demanding score assuredly and purposefully on the whole.
Borst, setting the revue amid the backdrop of what appears to be a new, mysterious land of possibilities attractively designed by Chris Harmon, assembles some of Sinclair’s strongest vocalists who aptly sell the story in each song aided by Rodney Veal’s expressive choreography. A.J. Breslin, outstanding last fall in “bare” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” endearingly connects, revealing a wonderfully soulful urgency in the aforementioned “On the Deck…” as well as the passionate pleas fueling “King of the World.” Skyler McNeely, a memorable King Arthur in “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” steps away from his musical comedy persona to display a mature, sincere tenderness in such relationship-centric numbers as “She Cries” and “I’d Give It All For You.” Anna Sheldon, another standout from “Charlie Brown Christmas,” firmly inhabits her character-driven numbers, particularly the aforementioned “Just One Step” and the humorous “Surabaya-Santa.” Vocal powerhouse Natalie Sanders, tailor-made for this show, effectively blends with her fellow actors, but dynamically steps into the spotlight with “I’m Not Afraid of Anything” and provides great warmth in “Christmas Lullaby.” André Tomlinson, seen in “bare,” is the weakest vocalist but his commitment is unmistakable. Music director Daniel Greene leads a fine, well-balanced five-piece orchestra. Brandy L. Simmons’ costumes and Pauline Humber’s sound design are also noteworthy.
Overall, Sinclair ensures “Songs for a New World” still speaks to the universal power of community, togetherness and hope. In the grand scheme of things, all of us matter and have a special song to sing.

 

“Songs for a New World” continues through April 11 in the Black Box Theatre, Building 2, Fourth Floor, of Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Jennifer Smith and David Brandt serve as Swings. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Act One: 40 minutes; Act Two: 45 minutes. Tickets are $15 (general admission seating). For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets.

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ Review – Sinclair Community College – Holiday Joy

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One of the finest seasons at Sinclair Community College continues with an absolutely adorable local premiere of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Eric Schaeffer’s enjoyably by-the-book adaptation of Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson’s funny, meaningful and touching 1965 Emmy Award-winning holiday cartoon of the same name by “Peanuts” creator Charles M. Schulz.

You know the drill. Charlie Brown, bothered and bewildered as ever, can’t seem to get into the holiday spirit because he feels the season has become too commercial. He even turns to his ever-reliable therapist Lucy (a.k.a. the Christmas Queen) for help. But everything changes when Lucy pulls Charlie out of his doldrums by asking him to direct the school play. He unfortunately takes his plum assignment too seriously, but ultimately comes to understand the true meaning of Christmas thanks to the Gospel of Luke and a peculiar tree in need of a little love.

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Woody Hieb as Charlie Brown in Sinclair Community College’s production of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” (Contributed photo by Patti Celek)

Director Gina Kleesattel, with impressive assistance from scenic designer Terry Stump, costumer Kathleen Hotmer and lighting designer Gina Neuerer, terrifically brings the cartoon to life in 30 swift minutes with the same playfulness and vibrancy we’ve grown accustomed for generations. Her totally engaging 11-member cast has carefully studied their animated predecessors to the tee. In fact, try not to smile when these committed actors, choreographed by Rodney Veal, dance in classic “Peanuts” fashion to Vince Guaraldi’s toe-tapping “Linus and Lucy” complete with overgrown bass for Pig Pen. Even so, the cast doesn’t merely take the stage as copycats. Although their dialogue and actions may be familiar, they’re still able to find a path into these relatable if occasionally snarky characters and make them their own whether overtly or with gentle, humorous nuance.

The very endearing Woody Hieb brings great honesty and sensitivity to worrisome Charlie, whose reflective journey remains impactful. Audience favorite A.J. Breslin displays outstanding physicality and comedic timing as colorful, energetic and mischievous Snoopy. Anna Sheldon is fittingly sharp and sassy as bratty Lucy. As the kindhearted Linus, Greyson Calvert specifically injects warmth and tenderness into the aforementioned biblical recitation, the poignant hallmark of the cartoon and this production. Matt Poliachik (Pig Pen), Sade Oyeyemi (Frieda), Austin DeVaughn (Schroeder), Sha-Lamar Davis (Violet), Haven Bradem (Sally), Rebecca Henry (Patty), and Naman Clark (Shermy) distinctively connect to their roles with personable flavor. DeVaughn in particular hilariously glares at Sheldon when Schroeder becomes exasperated with Lucy’s inability to correctly identify Christmas carols.
After nearly 50 years, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” delightfully concluding with wintry atmospherics and sing-a-long, still resonates as a charming look at the power of friendship and goodwill.

 

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” continues through Dec. 20 in Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, of Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Performances are Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday at 2, 4 and 7 p.m. The production is performed in 30 minutes. Tickets are $8. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets. Also, a special “shadowing” ASL performance is slated for the Friday performance (interpreters follow actors onstage while interpreting instead of being located off to the side of the action); In addition, Sinclair’s regular house policy stating “no children under 6” has been lifted for the show’s run.

‘Bare’ Review – Sinclair Community College – The Heart Wants What it Wants

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The confusion, elation and heartbreak of secret love propels Jon Hartmere and Damon Intrabartolo’s powerful, provocative melodrama “Bare: A Pop Opera,” commendably presented in a student-produced production inside the Black Box Theatre of Sinclair Community College.

At St. Cecelia’s co-ed Catholic boarding school, popular Jason (Bobby Mitchum) and timid Peter (A.J. Breslin) choose to keep their passionate relationship private. They can’t seem to overcome strict religious doctrine, administrative wariness, parental passiveness, and the unpredictability of their fellow students basically driven by sex, drugs and ridicule. Still, considering the lengths society has taken to be more LGBT-friendly since “Bare” premiered Off-Broadway 10 years ago, Jason and Peter’s predicament feels dated and slightly forced. Even so, the core theme of true love attempting to endure in the face of adversity and personal reticence still resonates throughout this sung-through affair fluidly helmed by guest director Chris Harmon.

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(center l to r) A.J. Breslin and Bobby Mitchum lead the cast of “Bare: A Pop Opera” (Contributed photo by Scott J. Kimmins)

Mitchum and Breslin, passing the crucial test of being compatible as believably bonded soul mates, are equally terrific in emotionally demanding roles that find both very honest and vulnerable. Mitchum, in fantastic voice, effortlessly balances Jason’s natural charm and ugly shadiness, particularly as situations turn against him beyond his control in the more dramatically fulfilling Act 2. The wonderfully sensitive Breslin, a standout last season in Sinclair’s “A Shayna Maidel,” offers an excellent evolution as Peter openly comes to terms with his sexuality despite specific indifference from his mother Claire (Kira Miller). “Best Kept Secret,” “Ever After,” and the title tune are among the songs that receive heartfelt treatments from this fine duo.

Additionally, Natalie Sanders delivers one of her strongest performances as the loose, immature Ivy, who stars opposite Jason in the school production of “Romeo and Juliet” and falls in love with him unaware of his attachment to Peter. In Act 2, Sanders, who also provides efficient scenic design, delivers a knockout, full-throttle rendition of “All Grown Up” that places her in the running as Dayton’s equivalent to Idina Menzel. Anna Sheldon also shines as the humorous, harsh Nadia, Jason’s sister and Ivy’s nemesis. Stephanie Radford is an appealing fit as the kindly, sassy Sister Chantelle, the school drama director and Peter’s source of encouragement. Greyson Calvert (Matt), Skyler McNeely (Priest), Woody Hieb (Lucas), and Hayley Penchoff (Diane) are admirably firm in featured roles. Amber Butler, Jennifer Smith, Brooke Watson, Andre Tomlinson, David Brandt, Bryana Bentley, and Matt Poliachik complete the cohesive cast.

Harmon’s artistic vision is particularly accented by David McKibben’s apt music direction, choreographer Rodney Veal’s flavorful routines, Heather Johnson’s suitable costumes, and Marissa Childress’ splendidly evocative, introspective lighting.

“Bare” doesn’t break new ground and feels startlingly unresolved, but it’s a thought-provoking showcase signifying the importance of tolerance.

“Bare: A Pop Opera” concludes Sat. Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. in the Black Box Theatre, Building 2, Sinclair Community College, 444 W. Third. St., Dayton. The production is performed in 2 hours and 20 minutes including one 15-minute intermission. Tickets are $15. Patrons are advised the show continues adult language and themes. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets

‘Pride and Prejudice’ Review –Sinclair Community College –Inclusive Austen

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Film and TV actress Keke Palmer made headlines three weeks ago when she became the first African-American Cinderella on Broadway in “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.” But you don’t have to go to New York City to witness that kind of unique, outside the box casting. After all, Sinclair Community College’s wonderfully charming production of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” takes a similarly non-traditional approach that allows the classic tale to refreshingly breathe anew.
Elegantly directed with beautifully fluid transitions by Kimberly Borst, “Pride and Prejudice,” breezily adapted by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan, brings the lovely Ariqa Bowens and handsome Shaun Diggs to the thoroughly engaging forefront as prickly adversaries-turned-lovers Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. As Austen’s enlightening study of class, manners, privilege, and romance transpires, Bowens and Diggs delicately convey the cool repartee required to sell the complexity of their iconic roles. Bowens, graceful and intuitive in her breakthrough performance, particularly shines during Elizabeth and Darcy’s first awkward dance (which Borst astutely heightens by freezing the world around them) as well as Elizabeth’s late evening showdown with Darcy’s haughty, imposing aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh (a perfectly stern and conceited Anna Sheldon). Diggs, the brooding epitome of male detachment, effectively softens Darcy’s aloof heart as he grows to care for and adore the incredibly headstrong Elizabeth.

pride and prejudice

(center left to right) Shaun Diggs as Mr. Darcy, CJ Suchyta as Sir William Lucas and Ariqa Bowens as Elizabeth Bennet in Sinclair Community College’s production of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” (Contributed photo by Patti Celek)

In addition to the aforementioned Stern, Bowens and Diggs are strongly supported by the particularly appealing contributions of the marvelously understated Charles Larkowksi as the kindly Mr. Bennet, the delightful Kate Gieselman as meddling Mrs. Bennet, the sweet and sensitive Cassidy Rowley as Jane Bennet, Jasmine Barrett as the reserved Mary Bennet, Degreona Herrod as the humorously overlooked Kitty Bennet, the spiritedly perky Hayley Penchoff as Lydia Bennet, the amiable Woody Hieb as Mr. Bingley, the dynamically icy Ashlee Ferrell as Caroline Bingley, the magnetic Kevin Manley as Mr. Wickham, CJ Suchyta as Sir William Lucas, Natalie Sanders as Lady Lucas, and the scene-stealing Austin DeVaughn who reinterprets minister Mr. Collins with a comical outspokenness and a deliberately passionate cadence steeped in the traditions of the African-American church. The fine cast also features Aeriel Aniballi (Mrs. Reynolds),Matt Poliachik (Ensign Denny) , David Brandt (Fitzwilliam), James Butler (Servant), Greyson Calvert (Servant), Rebecca Henry (Servant), Jesse MaGill (Captain Carter), Kira Miller (Mrs. Gardiner), Leah Mikesell (Georgiana Darcy), Andre Tomlinson (Servant), Ella Wylie (Anne de Bourgh), and Jessica Zula (Charlotte Lucas).
Austen’s world is exquisitely realized from a design standpoint by Chris Harmon’s stunning estate set (one of his finest creations) featuring nearly 20 portraits, Kathleen Hotmer’s attractive period costumes, Michelle Sampson’s first-rate wig and hair creations, Jennifer Kramer’s properties, and Daniel Brunk’s evocative lighting and sound.
“Pride and Prejudice” purists will have qualms with Sinclair’s showcase which unabashedly takes liberties with the authenticity of early 19th century England. Even so, the inclusive magic of theater proves its rejuvenating worth nonetheless in one of the best and most enjoyable productions I have seen at Sinclair.

 

“Pride and Prejudice” continues through Oct. 4 at Sinclair Community College, Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, 444 W. Third St., Dayton. Performances are Wednesday at 10 a.m., Thursday at 7 p.m., and Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Act One: 80 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. All Thursday tickets (Downtown Dayton Thursday Night) cost an additional $10 each and include pre-show county picnic buffet dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m. For tickets or more information, call (937) 512-2808 or visit www.sinclair.edu/tickets.

Sinclair Theatre Presents Holocaust Play, Exhibits and Panel Discussion

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Dayton Most Metro 1Sinclair Theatre will present a Holocaust play, A Shayna Maidel by Barbara Lebow, February 7-15th in Sinclair’s NEW Black Box Theatre, located on the fourth floor of building 2 of the downtown Dayton campus. In addition, Sinclair Theatre in partnership with Sinclair’s Holocaust Remembrance Committee will host 3 supporting Holocaust exhibits during the production dates; two from the Center for Holocaust and Humanity Education and one developed by Sinclair Faculty Member Amanda Hayden as well as a cast panel discussion.

A Shayna Maidel (Yiddish meaning “a pretty girl”) is the story of two sisters: one, a modern American who remembers very little of her childhood in Poland and the other, who has survived unspeakable losses including a concentration camp. Worlds collide as one sister gradually shares the losses that have scarred her and the other learns her tragic family history.

Kimberly Borst will direct the show and cast includes: Jennifer Smith, Leah Mikesell, Saul Caplan, A.J. Breslin, and Ella Wylie.
Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., one Sunday Feb. 9th at 2 p.m., and a Downtown Dayton Thursday Nights performance at 7 p.m. on Feb. 13th. There will also be a morning matinee geared for high schools or middle schools on Wed., Feb. 12 at 10 a.m.

All seats are general admission at $10 each. ALL Thursday tickets cost an additional $5 each and include pre-show appetizers and cash bar beginning at 6 p.m. in the green room (2334) for Sinclair’s popular Downtown Dayton Thursday Nights. Tickets are on sale now at: www.sinclair.edu/tickets. If you need further assistance leave a message at 937-512-2808. A student box office agent will return your call as soon as possible. The box office is open one hour prior to performances.

Her Story Must be Told: Women’s Voices from the Holocaust uniquely presents the memories, photos, and stories of 15 Jewish women who survived the Holocaust. The women are from a dozen countries, reflecting different survivor experiences. The viewer gains an appreciation of women’s unique ways of survival: fighting in the resistance, living in hiding or with false identity, and enduring concentration camps. Collectively the stories of sisters, daughters, mothers, wives and friends celebrate women’s strength and valor.
Appropriate for grades 5 and up.

The Bystander to Upstander exhibit addresses examples of bystanders who remained silent in the face of Nazi persecution and ultimately genocide, while also exploring the motivation of upstanders, those who chose not to stand by and instead stood up and spoke out against the Nazi regime. The exhibit sheds light on critical yet often overlooked perspectives of the Holocaust, while encouraging viewers to think about their own action or inaction.

Amanda Hayden, Assistant Professor in Religion, Philosophy, Humanities and Sinclair’s Discipline Coordinator of Religion has compiled photos into a digital presentation depicting the concentration campsSistersHugCropped then and now.

The cast and director will have an open forum on Jan. 30 at 12:30 p.m. in Blair Hall, first floor building 2, where they will share their Holocaust research and discuss the effect it has made on their work with
this production. This discussion is free and open to the public.

Photo caption: Jennifer Smith (l) and Leah Mikesell (r) portray sisters in Sinclair Theatre’s A Shayna Maidel being performed Feb. 7th-15th in The Black Box Theatre on the downtown campus. www.sinclair.edu/tickets (photo by Patti Celek)

Brilliant Leaps and Cautious Steps A Review of Dance in Dayton 2013 and What to Watch for in 2014

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Another year has waltzed by, creating a beautiful stir in the Dayton dance community. I have been privileged to bear witness to some incredible moments of sublimeness amidst the cautious backdrop of these uncertain times in regards to patronage and audience building. Now more than ever we as patrons of the arts have to reinforce our commitment to the arts in our community. While financial support is critical to keeping the lights shining, an education and connoisseurship is vital to elevating our community collectively. These moments and individuals made this year a tantalizing appetizer for a brighter future.

In no particular order:

Sheri “Sparkle” WilliamsDCDC

How often do we have a goddess walking amongst us? For over forty-five years Sheri has illuminated and turned up the heat on the stages of Dayton and around the world. When they describe DCDC as a “world class” organization, they are really describing Sheri. What she brings to the world can only be attributed to the divine. Her artistry is on the level of Dame Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep and Aretha Franklin, an ageless category defying artistic genius that we are privileged to witness. She is worthy of our continued attention.

Dayton Ballet-crop of new choreographic voices

Kudos to Dayton Ballet and their commitment to elevating female choreographers in the realm of classical ballet. This season saw the beautiful work of Gina Gardner-Walther, Amy Seiwert and Susanne Payne. They released the aesthetic beauty and artistic abilities of the dancers and challenged them to new heights and we as an audience were grateful to witness.

DCDC Urban Impulse

This is what a satisfying concert looks like; one that combines community outreach and artistic ambition. It was a gamble that payed off brilliantly. I cannot imagine any lover of dance not leaving that show ecstatic.

DCDC Emergence
This company came back in the fall with a concert of original works that was inspired. The luscious, diverse choreographic works that made Boll Theatre feel like Lincoln Center for a brief autumn evening.

Paul Gilliam, Dayton Ballet

A physically gifted performer who brightens the stage with charm, grace and intelligence. I have been very fortunate to briefly witness his choreographic skills. And I believe we are witnessing a diamond in the rough. Breakout star of 2014

Jammie Walker, Dayton Ballet

A welcomed soulful and passionate presence at Dayton Ballet. A dancer who can handle classical and contemporary work with ease. I look forward to seeing more of him in 2014.

Shed by Kiesha Lalama

Ms. Lalama set an energetic work that was wonderfully constructed and rendered by the dancers at DCDC. The company came roaring back to prominence with this piece and this reviewer was incredibly grateful.

Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo

Okay, so this piece was performed by Cincinnati Ballet, but I would be remise in not discussing it. I had no expectations for this evening of dance at the Aronoff, but as we entered the auditorium, we were greeted with a blank stage, except for a white wall partition and a steady stream of feathers lazily drifting into a pile center stage. It took this reviewer/audience on an unexpected journey, one that we all gladly took. Note to artistic directors in Dayton this guy is worth the investment.

Prodigal Son by George Balanchine

Closing the same concert for Cincinnati Ballet was a re-staging of Prodigal Son with coaching by Edward Villlella. They delivered a bravura performance that brought down the house.

Smag Dance Collective

Congratulations on the 10th anniversary of Smag Dance Collective. The tenacious Artistic Director Michael Groomes fights for his vision of dance that is interwoven into the fabric of our community quilt. This is dance by the people and for the people. He is truly an urban visionary walking amongst us and he and the company deserve our support.

The Brown Dance Project

A poignant, funny and beautifully rendered work created by choreographer Rodney Brown and danced by members of DCDC. MODULE is an educational community outreach work that deals with HIV prevention. A brilliant example of the power of art to address social issues. I was particularly impressed by the audience Q & A afterwards and the fact that they came out on a Saturday afternoon to embrace this necessary work.

Dayton Ballet2014

I am looking forward to several things: The choreography of DeShona Pepper Robertson for Dayton Ballet in the fall. The site specific installation piece being presented by Ohio Dance and created by Crystal Michelle Perkins. Amy Seiwert and Susanne Payne creating new choreography for Dayton Ballet. Dance concerts returning to the Blair Hall Theatre stage at Sinclair Community College. The return of DCDC to the Victoria Theatre stage and the revival of the Dayton Arts Project.

I can think of no better resolution than to see more dance. And in the immortal words of London Coe, #dateyourcity.