Cincinnati

Cincinnati Native Nominated for an Independent Music Award

April 18, 2020 By Mitch Miley

The supremely talented up-and-coming singer-songwriter Olivia Frances will look to add another award to her already impressive collection of accolades. Musical from a young age, Frances started playing piano at age six and composed her first song on guitar at age 12. Her dedication from such young age has paid off by having written over 300 songs. Frances credits Fleetwood Mac, Bon Iver and Kacey Musgraves as her musical inspirations.

This month, Music Resource Group announced the Nominees for The 18th Annual Independent Music Awards (IMAs). Nominations in 100+ Music, Video and Design categories were awarded to an eclectic roster of established and emerging talent from around the globe.

Frances is nominated in the Story Song Category for “The Bee & the Rose” a sweeping, environmentally-driven song off Orchid (2019), her latest bouquet of songs and stories. The Worcester Telegram & Gazette describes the album as “irrepressibly sweet — and eminently likable.” Written with the talented Nashville-based songwriter Michael Astrachan and produced by the distinguished Pat Lassiter, “The Bee & the Rose” reminds listeners of the natural beauty of the world and uses it on stage as a catalyst to discuss the current bee crisis.

Frances is no stranger to the Independent Music Awards. In 2018, she won the VOX Pop Love Song Category and the awards ceremony took place at Lincoln Center. Frances is a multi-award-winning artist, placing 1st in the Singer-Songwriter Category at the 2018 New England Songwriting Competition and winning Best Pop Song of the Year at the 2017 Ohio Music Awards.

Musical legends Lucinda Williams, Steven Van Zandt, Ellis Paul and Jonatha Brooke are nominated alongside Frances. The winning projects will be selected by influential judging panels including: Tom Waits & Kathleen Brennan, Robert Smith, Ziggy Marley, KT Tunstall, and many more indie creatives, top recording artists and industry influencers.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The 18th annual Independent Music Awards ceremony originally scheduled for June in New York City will proceed as an online showcase for this year’s top-ranked artists and music projects. Now in its 18th year, The Independent Music Awards honors artistry and daring rather than streams and social reach, and celebrates everything that makes indie music authentic and unique.

Reggae-influenced rock back at Bogart’s

May 14, 2019 By LIbby Ballengee

Popular reggae act Iration is performing at Bogart’s in Cincinnati. Photo Credit: Dane Hodgson

Spring and summer is the ideal season for certain types of music – reggae music being one of them! This week you’re in luck because reggae-influenced alternative rock band Iration is close by on their “Live From Paradise!” tour. They are performing with special guests Pepper, Fortunate Youth and Katastro. By tapping some unparalleled aloha spirit, these acts are combining forces to spread nothing but good vibes, creating a truly serene and exclusive environment at each of their 43 tour stops, including Cincinnati on Wednesday, May 15 at Bogart’s.

“We’re very proud to present to you Live From Paradise! – a night of music intended to transport you to your happy place,” shares lead vocalist/guitarist Micah Pueschel. “Four amazing bands, all unique, all bringing the fire. Come out and join us this spring and summer; let’s experience paradise together.”

Hawaiian-bred, California-based Iration features Micah Pueschel [lead vocals/guitar], Adam Taylor [bass], Joe Dickens [drums], Cayson Peterson [keyboards], Micah Brown [guitar/vocals] plus touring member Drake Peterson [trumpet]). They are touring behind their latest self-titled album, released May 2018 via their own Three Prong Records. The 17-track album, the band’s sixth full-length, features guest appearances from Slightly Stoopid, J Boog and Tyrone’s Jacket and the singles “Hit List,” “Fly With Me,” “Danger,” “Borderlines” and latest single“Press Play.” To check out their music, click here.

How to Go?

Iration along with special guests at Bogart’s (2621 Vine St, Cincinnati)

Doors 6pm. Show starts at 6:30pm.

Tickets: $27.50 plus fees

All ages are welcome. General Admission standing room only.

Chelsea Clinton Signs Latest Book at Cincinnati Zoo

April 22, 2019 By Lisa Grigsby

Chelsea Clinton will be signing copies of her new book—Don’t Let Them Disappear—at the Zoo on April 25th from 5-7pm!

In her new book, Chelsea introduces young readers to a selection of endangered animals, sharing what makes them special, and also what threatens them. Taking readers through the course of a day, Don’t Let Them Disappear talks about rhinos, tigers, whales, pandas and more, and provides helpful tips on what we all can do to help prevent these animals from disappearing from our world entirely.

To guarantee your spot in line, purchase a book here. You will pick it up at the zoo (select in-store pick up when you buy).

Don’t Let Them Disappear will only be signed at this event if purchased through the Cincinnati Zoo online. Proof of purchase will be required. No previously purchased books will be signed, regardless of title and where they were purchased.

BOOKS AND RESERVATIONS

Books are $17.99
Buy your book from the Zoo’s online shop and bring your receipt to the Zoo on April 25 between 5pm-7pm.
Zoo admission is FREE after 5pm on April 25 for our Tunes n Blooms concert and Earth Day celebration.
You will pick your book up at the Zoo.
Up to 4 people can stand in line with one book.
No memorabilia or parent’s books will be signed, only the books purchased on the Zoo web store (or on site if available)
No posed photos

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
3400 Vine St.
Cincinnati, Ohio 45220

Opens daily at 10am (closed on Dec 25th).
Early Entry for Zoo Members and Adventure Ticket holders is daily at 9am!

The current parking fee is $10.00 and can be paid at any ticketing window or in the parking lot. Both cash and credit cards are accepted to pay for parking.

Gladys Knight To Perform at Cincy’s Taft Theatre

April 1, 2019 By Dayton Most Metro

The great ones endure, and Gladys Knight has long been one of the greatest. Very few singers over the last fifty years have matched her unassailable artistry. This seven-time Grammy winner has enjoyed #1 hits in Pop, Gospel, R&B and Adult Contemporary, and has triumphed in film, television and live performance.

THE EMPRESS OF SOUL MAKES
HER WAY TO CINCINNATI FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT AT THE TAFT THEATRE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2019

In her first effort since 2013’s “Another Journey” – Knight’s 8th solo effort – this summer marked the release of “Where My Heart Belongs”, a new inspiration gospel album. Knight is a two-time Grammy winner in the gospel category, and “Where My Heart Belongs” dropped on September 9th from Deseret Book, and recently won an NAACP Image Award for “Outstanding Gospel Album.”

“Another Journey” enjoyed success from the hit “I Who Have Nothing” as well as the up-tempo track “Settle,” produced by Randy Jackson, with whom she previously collaborated with on her Grammy-winning album, “At Last.” Knight also enjoyed the success of her song “You and I Ain’t Nothin’ No More” which appeared over the end credits of the critically-acclaimed Lee Daniels film THE BUTLER.

Last month, Knight returned to the small screen in the Lifetime original movie “Seasons of Love”. In the story about two lovers as they journey through life, love and family, Knight stars alongside Oscar-nominee Taraji P. Henson and fellow Grammy winner Cliff “Method Man” Smith. In the New Year she will guest on Lee Daniels and FOX TV’s new series “Empire” opposite Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson.

Also on the small screen, Knight recently shared her musical expertise on the second season of Centric’s original series “Apollo Live.” Joining judges Doug E. Fresh and Michael Bivins, the legendary songstress gave guidance to contestants as they took the stage with the hope to jumpstart their career in the entertainment industry.

No stranger to performing and light choreography over the course of her career, Knight raised the stakes when she put on her dancing shoes in the spring of 2012. She joined the cast of ABC’s hit reality competition “Dancing with the Stars” for season 14, partnering with Tristan MacManus.

Knight, known as the “Empress of Soul,” a longtime Las Vegas resident, returned to the Strip in the late-2000s to the famed Tropicana Hotel for a special engagement that ran in the newly named Gladys Knight Theater, making her the first African-American performer to have a venue named after her in Las Vegas. This followed a successful four-year show run at The Flamingo, which the Las Vegas Review-Journal praised as “the number-one show on the Strip.” A tireless humanitarian, Knight is an iconic supporter of the Boys & Girls Club of America, to which she donated a Randy Jackson-produced song, “The Dream.” As the celebrated singer of the timeless song “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Knight was a natural fit as national spokesperson and host of Amtrak’s National Train Day, the celebration of which took place Washington, DC’s famed Union Station.

A tireless performer who still wows audiences around the country and the world, Knight also finds the time to make forays into film and television. Her version of “I Hope You Dance” played during the end credits of Tyler Perry’s THE FAMILY THAT PREYS TOGETHER, and she appeared in his film I CAN DO BAD ALL BY MYSELF (which featured her song “The Need to Be”). She also starred in the holiday-themed HOLIDAZE, her first animated project to which she also contributed a track, UNBEATABLE HAROLD, and the Harrison Ford film HOLLYWOOD HOMICIDE. On the small screen, Knight did a cameo on the Emmy-winning NBC hit comedy “30 Rock”, and also appeared in NBC’s “Las Vegas,” former CBS hit “JAG,” and former FOX talent competitions “American Juniors” and “Duets.” She also starred as Jamie Foxx’s mother on “The Jamie Foxx Show.” Knight has appeared as a guest judge on FOX’s smash hit “American Idol,” and has performed in the show’s always star-studded finale. In season two of “Idol,” Knight famously dubbed eventual winner Ruben Studdard the ‘Velvet Teddy Bear” while she sat in the guest judge’s chair.

Georgia-born, Knight began performing gospel music at age four in the Mount Mariah Baptist Church and sang as a guest soloist with the Morris Brown College Choir. Three years later, she won the grand prize on television’s “Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour,” and the following year, her mother Elizabeth Knight created the group consisting of Gladys, her brother Bubba, her sister Brenda and her cousins William and Elenor Guest.

They called themselves The Pips in honor of their cousin/manager, James Pip Woods. In 1959, Brenda and Elenor left the group, replaced by cousin Edward Patten and friend Langston George. The group was renamed Gladys Knight & The Pips, and following George’s departure in 1962, the classic line-up was in place.

The group debuted their first album in 1960, when Knight was just sixteen. With Knight singing lead and The Pips providing lush harmonies and graceful choreography, the group went on to achieve icon status, having recorded some of the most memorable songs of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Top 20 hits, like “Every Beat of My Heart,” “Letter Full of Tears,” “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” and “If I Were Your Woman,” set the stage for an amazing run in the mid-1970s, with Top 10 gold-certified singles like “Neither One of Us (Wants to be the First to Say Goodbye),” “I’ve Got to Use My Imagination,” “Best Thing to Ever Happen to Me” and the #1 smash “Midnight Train to Georgia” established Gladys Knight and The Pips as the premiere pop/R&B vocal ensemble in the world. The party kept rolling with hits like “On and On” from the Academy Award nominated soundtrack of Curtis Mayfield’s “Claudine,” the 1974 comedy about love in the inner city. Knight enjoyed another #1 hit in 1985 when she teamed with Stevie Wonder, Elton John and Dionne Warwick on “That’s What Friends are For.” She and Stevie Wonder sang together again for the successful Frank Sinatra Duets II album, joining his voice for the song “For Once in My Life” in 1994.

All told, Knight has recorded more than 38 albums over the years, including four solo albums during the past decade: “Good Woman” (1991); “Just for You” (1994); the inspirational “Many Different Roads” (1999); and “At Last” (2001). “At Last” showed the world that she still has what it takes to record a hit album, employing the talents of contemporary producers like Randy Jackson, Gary Brown and James D.C. Williams III, Jon John, Jamey Jaz, Keith Thomas, Tom Dowd and Tiger Roberts.

Her involvement in other creative undertakings, business ventures and humanitarian activities has been extensive, and has brought her honors from industry and community alike. In 1986, she produced and starred in the Cable Ace Award-winning “Sisters in the Name of Love,” an HBO special co-starring Dionne Warwick and Patti LaBelle. That same year, she showcased her acting ability when she co-starred with Flip Wilson in the CBS comedy “Charlie & Co.” Other acting roles followed on such TV shows as “Benson,” “The Jefferson’s” and “New York Undercover,” and in such television films as “Pipe Dreams,” “An Enemy Among Us” and “Desperado.” She recorded the title theme for the James Bond movie “License to Kill” (1989). In 1999, she completed a starring run on Broadway in the smash musical hit “Smokey Joe’s Café.”

In 1995, Knight earned her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the next year, Gladys Knight & The Pips were inducted into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame. Knight published an autobiography, “Between Each Line of Pain and Glory” (a line taken from her million selling recording “Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me”), in 1997, and the next year, she and The Pips were presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame. In 2004, Knight received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” at the annual BET Awards ceremony.

A humanitarian and philanthropist, Knight has devoted to various worthy causes, including the American Diabetes Association – for which she is a national spokesperson, the American Cancer Society, the Minority AIDS Project, amFAR and Crisis Intervention, and The Boys and Girls Club. She has been honored by numerous organizations as well, including the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), B’Nai Brith, and is a recent recipient of BET’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today, Knight and husband William, along with various other members of the family, oversee her busy career from the Las Vegas headquarters of Shakeji, Inc., her personal entertainment corporation. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, performer, restaurateur, and businesswoman with a spiritual outlook on her life. Her faith in God has been the driving force behind all of Knight’s endeavors, guiding her through her many successes.

Reserved tickets: $75.00, $59.50, $49.50 & $39.50 (plus applicable fees), go on sale Friday, April 5^th at 11AM at www.tafttheatre.org, the Taft Theatre Box Office, and www.ticketmaster.com. Charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000.

Bellwether Music Festival busts out the best alternative rock!

August 6, 2018 By LIbby Ballengee

There is certainly no shortage of summer music festivals in the greater Miami Valley region, however many of them lean towards jam, folk, bluegrass, and country fans. For the many alternative and indie rock fans, there are far fewer festival options, especially ones with camping.

That’s the gap that Bellwether Music Festival is hoping to fill. Referred to as a “mini-Bonnaroo”- this two-day, two-stage alternative music festival features an impressive lineup of both national and local acts, along with one of the most unique festival grounds anywhere: The Renaissance Park in Waynesville! Last year, my friend mentioned how great it would be to have a music festival there, and low and behold, someone did it!

Not only did organizers nab a prime location, they are pulling in some major acts, including: MGMT, The Flaming Lips, Local Natives, Echo & The Bunnymen, Dr. Dog, The Psychedelic Furs, Whitney, AJ & The Woods, Allah-Las, Japanese Breakfast, Bob Schneider, Erika Wennerstrom (of Heartless Bastards), This Pine Box, Alex Lahey, Dawg Yawp, Speaking Suns, The Cordial Sins, Cherry Lee & The Hot Rod Hounds and Carriers. Full schedule is posted here. Plus there are After Parties in the campground, as well as morning yoga. For the best experience, download the Bellwether app on the App Store or Google Play for map, schedule and info.

These festival organizers are tuned into what festival audiences want, so they put the stages are across from one another and set times don’t overlap. YES! Nothing more frustrating than going to music festival, and you can’t see everyone on the lineup because they are playing at the same time. Organizers say you’ll have time to grab a beer or run to the restroom and catch every band. Plus they have people and performers coming from 45 states and 8 countries. What a great event to meet all kinds of people! Plus, this festival is already committed to year two and will offer special early-bird ticket prices to those who attend this year. They thought of everything!

How To Go?

When: August 10-11, 2018. Campers can load-in starting at noon on Thursday, August 9 and must load-out by 11am on Sunday, August 12. Click here to learn more about camping at Bellwether. Not into camping? That’s cool. Click here to book your hotel room through Hotels for Hope and get the best rate.

Where: The Renaissance Festival grounds in Waynesville. The entrance to the camping grounds and festival is off OH-73. If you are traveling west, you’ll cross OH-52 and then it will be on your right. If you are traveling east, you’ll cross Harveysburg Road and then it will be on your left. They have a big ol’ field with plenty of parking. Buy your parking pass now for only $5. It’s $10 – cash only – at the gate. (see festival map below)

NOTE: Bellwether is a rain or shine event. We monitor the weather and have various protocols based on the severity of the weather. We ask you pay attention to announcements and follow instructions, so we can keep everyone safe and sound.

Who: The Bellwether Festival is a family friendly event. Kids 10 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. The number of free admissions is at the discretion of gate management. IMPORTANT! Kids that enter for free DO NOT have access to the VIP tent. Only VIP wristbands will be admitted.

Tickets: LOTS of ticket options! You can get passes for all weekend, or Friday or Saturday only. There are VIP options plus camping options. Bonus -Complimentary tickets to the Ohio Renaissance Festival when you purchase either Friday or Saturday tickets. Get the full run down of ticket options here: https://www.xorbia.com/e/bellwetherfest/2018

Cincy Road Trip: Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume

May 23, 2017 By Dayton Most Metro

Iconic costumes from “a galaxy far, far away” are presented in the Smithsonian traveling exhibition Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume. The exhibition will open at Cincinnati Museum Center on May 25, 2017.

Presenting more than 60 of the finest hand-crafted costumes featured in all seven films in the Star Wars saga, the exhibition uncovers the challenges, the intricate processes and the remarkable artistry of George Lucas, the concept artists and costume designers. The costumes reflect an eclectic mix of cultural, historical and mythical sources that add rich texture to the story.

Through nine presentational “chapters” – Introduction: Dressing a Galaxy; Jedi versus Sith: Form, Function and Design; Concept and Design for Royalty and Beyond; Symbolism and Military Power; Outlaws and Outsiders; All Corners of the Galaxy: The Galactic Senate; After the Throne: Padmé’s Journey; Darth Vader: Iconic Villain; and Droid™ Design – visitors will explore the creative process from Lucas’s vision through concept drawings by artists such as Ralph McQuarrie and Iain McCaig, to the final costume designs of John Mollo and Trisha Biggar, among others.

George Lucas imagined and created a fantastical world filled with dynamic characters who told the timeless story of the hero’s journey. The costumes shaped the identities of these now famous characters, from the menacing black mask of Darth Vader and the gilded suit of C-3PO, to the lavish royal gowns of Queen Amidala.

Featured costumes include:

Monk-like robes of Jedi masters Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker
Intimidating suit and complex breathing apparatus of Darth Vader
Military-influenced uniforms of the Imperial Stormtrooper, Senate Guard and TIE Fighter Pilot
Yak hair and mohair costume of Chewbacca
Intergalactic outfits of Senators Bail Organa, Mon Mothma and Mas Amedda
Fierce armor of mercenary bounty hunters Jango Fett, Boba Fett and Zam Wesell
Elaborately detailed gowns of Queen Amidala, Queen Jamillia and their handmaidens

Short videos in Star Wars and the Power of Costume provide a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and include interviews with artists, designers and actors. The visitor experience will be enhanced by digital interactives featuring sketches, photographs and notes that capture the creative team’s inspiration and vision.

Pulled from the collection of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Star Wars and the Power of Costume is a partnership of the museum, the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) and Lucasfilm.

Exhibition opens May 25 and closes October 1, 2017

Adult: $24
Child (ages 3-12): $16
Senior (ages 60+): $21
Member Adult: $17
Member Child (ages 3-17): $12

Interested in booking a group tour? Check out Group Deals

Costumes will be welcome, but masks, lightsabers and similar items are not permitted.

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 29-Nov. 4

November 1, 2012 By Rob Bucher 1 Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

A DOLL’S HOUSE

SSCC Theatre

The Story: This epochal drama of marriage and the individual portrays a controlling husband Torvald Helmer and his wife Nora, a submissive young woman who, when their idealized homelife collapses, comes to the realization that she must finally close the door on her husband, children, and life in “a doll’s house” in order to find and live as her true self.
The Dates: Nov. 2-4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: SSCC Theatre | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

HANK WILLIAMS: LOST HIGHWAY

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: Go beyond the legend to the roots of Hank Williams’ music. The journey starts in the backwoods of Alabama and winds up at center stage of the Grand Ole Opry. Featuring more than 20 of the singer’s most popular songs, including “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “Hey, Good Lookin’” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” LOST HIGHWAY is an honest and mesmerizing portrait of the drifting cowboy who became one of the most influential country artists of all time.
The Dates: Nov. 3-Dec. 23, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

MURDER ON THE NILE

Tri-County Players

The Story: Handsome Simon Mostyn marries Kay Ridgeway, a very wealthy woman, after breaking his engagement to Jacqueline de Severac, with whom he was in love and who was also Kay’s best friend. The couple are on their honeymoon on a paddle steamer on the Nile. During the course of the voyage, murder and mayhem ensue. By the time the steamer reaches its destination, Canon Pennefather, Kay’s guardian, has laid bare an audacious conspiracy and has ascertained that the criminals shall not go free.
The Dates: Nov. 2-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Tri-County Players | BTC page |

OKLAHOMA!

Loveland Stage Company

The Story: The classic musical is the story of Laurey and the two rivals for her affections: Curly, a cowboy, and Jud, the hired farmhand. The play takes place in 1906 in an Indian territory of the American West during the time when Oklahoma was established as a state. It tackles class issues between the farmers and the cowmen in the still-developing, rugged landscape of a state in its infancy as characters struggle to find hope, love and the fulfillment of “the American Dream.” It is also a romantic tale of love. Curly and Laurey both have feelings for each other but have difficulty expressing it because of their stubbornness.
The Dates: Nov. 2-17, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Loveland Stage Company | BTC page |

SHIRLEY VALENTINE

Middletown Lyric Theatre

The Story: The heroine in this actor’s tour-de-force is an ordinary middle class English housewife. As she prepares chips and egg for dinner, she ruminates on her life and tells the wall about her husband, her children, her past, and an invitation from a girlfriend to join her on holiday in Greece to search for romance and adventure.
The Dates: Nov. 1-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Middletown Lyric Theatre | BTC page |

UNDER A RED MOON

The Carnegie and The Human Race Theatre Company

The Story: Witness a chilling psychological thriller inspired by the true events of Britain’s notorious 1949 “Acid Bath Murderer.” Confessed serial killer John George Haigh awaits trial in prison as Dr. Ruth Covington arrives to determine his mental state for the court. While he welcomes their one-on-one encounter, Haigh won’t give up his secrets too easily, knowing full well that it’s the hangman’s noose if he is found sane.
The Dates: Nov. 2-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Carnegie | BTC page |

WEST MOON STREET

Mariemont Players Inc.

The Story: A mysterious palm reader predicts that young Lord Arthur will commit a murder. Hilarious mishaps ensue as Arthur, engaged to be married, believes it is his duty to get this killing business over with before he marries. A comedy exploring the social customs of Victorian England, adapted from an Oscar Wilde short story.
The Dates: Nov. 2-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mariemont Players | BTC page |

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: It’s 1937, and 15-year-old Eugene Morris Jerome lives in close quarters with his extended family. While the daily dramas of his parents, brother, cousins and aunt swirl around him, Eugene spends his days dreaming of playing for his beloved Yankees … when he’s not thinking about girls or setting the table for dinner. Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical play is a heartfelt love letter to his own Jewish childhood and proof that family harmonies and disharmonies transcend time and place.
The Dates: Oct. 13-Nov. 10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

I DO! I DO!

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: The show begins with Michael and Agnes on their wedding day and traces their life together over a period of 50 years, until the day they leave their house to the next pair of newlyweds. In that time we watch them go through their wedding night jitters, raise a family, negotiate mid-life crises, quarrel, separate, reconcile and grow old together, all lovingly to the strains of a tuneful, charming score which includes the standard “My Cup Runneth Over.”
The Dates: Oct. 18-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts | BTC page |

ROMEO AND JULIET

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: The tale of the Bard’s star crossed lovers, brought to life in a modern world of passion and conflict. In defiance of their families and amidst the animosity of friends, a young couple will risk everything to be together. Receiving a contemporary staging, this production proves its continued relevance in the lives of young and old alike throughout the ages. The Dates: Oct. 12-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: One of the bloodiest plays in the canon, Titus Andronicus is full to the brim with revenge, murder, betrayal and crimes most atrocious. Titus Andronicus evokes startling, gruesome and tragic imagery as the mighty Roman general Titus faces off with his mortal enemy, Tamora, Queen of the Goths. Titus and Tamora, in a spiral of bloody revenge, trade murder for hideous murder, each more brutal than the last.
The Dates: Oct. 20-Nov. 11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

THE INVESTMENT CLUB

PLOTT Performers

The Story: Big Band music blares as you enter The Investment Club and make your way past armed guards. Continue on to the Bank Vault where the secret word that you “Speak Easy” can lead you to a Bloody Mary. Raise your glass and toast to your retirement; it may be sooner than you think. This is an original interactive dinner show.
The Dates: Oct. 26-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: PLOTT Performers | BTC page |

PROOF

CenterStage Players Inc.

The Story: On the eve of her birthday, Catherine, a troubled woman, has spent years caring for her brilliant but unstable father, a famous mathematician. Now, following his death, she must deal with her own volatile emotions; the arrival of her estranged sister, Claire; and the attentions of Hal, a former student of her father’s who hopes to find valuable work in the 103 notebooks that her father left behind. Over the long weekend that follows, a burgeoning romance and the discovery of a mysterious notebook draw Catherine into the most difficult problem of all: How much of her father’s madness—or genius—will she inherit?
The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players Inc | BTC page |

THE ROYAL GAMBIT

Northern Kentucky University

The Story: King Henry VIII has everything he wants, except a suitable heir. His legacy is all too well known, but what about the women he wooed? In this portrait of the infamous king and the six women in his life, Henry remains the same throughout but the women progress to modern times, showing their knowledge of the lasting effects of Henry’s deeds.
The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

COMPANY

Cincinnati Music Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 9-17, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Music Theatre| BTC page |

FOOTLOOSE

Spotlight Community Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 9-11, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Spotlight Community Theatre | BTC page |

GRIMM AND FISCHER

Cincinnati Fringe Festival

The Dates: Nov. 9-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Fringe Festival | BTC page |

LOBBY HERO

Fairfield Footlighters

The Dates: Nov. 9-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Fairfield Footlighters | BTC page |

LOVE, YOU GOTTA LOVE IT!

Rising Phoenix Theatre Company & Clifton Players

The Dates: Nov. 7, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Rising Phoenix Theatre Company | BTC page |

MY LEFT BREAST

Miami University Hamilton Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 8-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Miami University Hamilton Theatre | BTC page |

OUR TOWN

Footlighters Inc.

The Dates: Nov. 8-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Footlighters Inc. | BTC page |

SAVAGE IN LIMBO

UNTETHERED THEATRE

The Dates: Nov. 9-25, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Untethered Theatre | BTC page |

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 22-28

October 24, 2012 By Rob Bucher Leave a Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

CHESS

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Story: A rock opera set against the backdrop of the Cold War struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, the musical presents an intriguing tale of romantic rivalries, cunning gamesmanship and political tensions playing out in master chess tournaments around the world. Time magazine hailed the work as “one of the best rock scores ever produced.”
The Dates: Oct. 25-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: UC College-Conservatory of Music | BTC page |

FLIPZOIDS

Miami University

The Story: The story of three generations of Filipino immigrants who are searching to understand their identity in a new American world.
The Dates: Oct. 24-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Miami University | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

THE INVESTMENT CLUB

PLOTT Performers

PROOF

CenterStage Players Inc.

THE ROYAL GAMBIT

Northern Kentucky University

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

I DO! I DO!

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

ROMEO AND JULIET

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

BLUE MAN GROUP

Broadway in Cincinnati

The Story: BLUE MAN GROUP is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music, and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The New York Times heralds the show as “One of the most delightful performance pieces ever staged.” E! Entertainment News exclaims, “Blue Man Group is what every live performance aspires to be.” The Baltimore Sun raves, “Blue Man Group packs a wallop. It’s a big, loud, funny, silly, visually arresting production!”
The Dates: Oct. 16-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Broadway in Cincinnati | BTC page |

A BRIGHT NEW BOISE

Clifton Players

The Story: In the bleak, corporate breakroom of a craft store in Idaho, someone is summoning The Rapture. Will, who has fled his rural hometown after a scandal at his Evangelical church, comes to the Hobby Lobby, not only for employment, but also to rekindle a relationship with Alex, his brooding teenage son, whom he gave up for adoption several years ago. Alex works there along with Leroy, his adopted brother and protector and Anna, a hapless young woman who reads bland fiction but hopes for dramatic endings. As their manager, foul-mouthed Pauline, tries ceaselessly to find order (and profit) in the chaos of small business, these lost souls of the Hobby Lobby confront an unyielding world through the beige-tinted impossibility of modern faith.
The Dates: Oct. 12-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Clifton Players | BTC page |

HAIRSPRAY

Xavier University

The Story: The 1950s are out and change is in the air! Based on the movie of the same name, the newly combined Department of Music and Theater is proud to present HAIRSPRAY, winner of 9 Tony Awards including Best Musical. HAIRSPRAY is a family-friendly musical piled bouffant-high with laughter, romance, and deliriously tuneful songs.
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Xavier University | BTC page |

KING O’ THE MOON

Sunset Players

The Story: A hilarious, heartfelt sequel to OVER THE TAVERN. The Pazinski family has left the conservative 1950s for the rebellious 1960s. But prior knowledge of this working-class family is not a prerequisite to appreciating their ongoing trials and triumphs. As Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon, Rudy is rethinking the priesthood, Eddie is preparing for fatherhood and Vietnam, Annie is contemplating divorce and their mother, Ellen, considers a new romance. The Dates: Oct. 12-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Sunset Players | BTC page |

THE LARAMIE PROJECT

CenterStage Players of Ohio

The Story: On October 6th of 1998 Matthew Shepard was beaten and left to die tied to a fence in the outskirts of Laramie, Wyoming. He died six days later. His torture and murder became a watershed historical moment in America that highlighted many of the fault lines in our culture…
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players of Ohio | BTC page |

MRS. MANNERLY

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: This irreverent, yet poignant comedy is inspired by the hilarious memories of a childhood etiquette class, wherein playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a ten-year-old studying manners. Set in 1967, Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her thirty-six years of etiquette classes has ever achieved a perfect score. But, when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first to achieve this feat. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and the real selves that lie inside.
The Dates: Oct. 10-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

THE PASSION OF DRACULA

Beechmont Players Inc

The Story: This new take on the Dracula legend earns rave reviews due to its artful mixture of romance, classic gothic drama and, at times, nearly farcical comedy. It’s 1911 in the English countryside, site of the ominous Whitby Sanatorium. Several villagers have died mysteriously after the arrival of a reclusive foreigner. Coincidence? According to the notable scientist Dr. Van Helsing, Count Dracula is a threat to humanity and must be destroyed! Follow Van Helsing and his compatriots as they battle the powerful vampire to keep him from stealing the soul of the lovely heroine.
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Beechmont Players Inc | BTC page |

SEALED FOR FRESHNESS

Falcon Theatre

The Story: A hilarious comedy set at a 1968 Tupperware party gone awry! Filled with a combination of outrageous humor and serious themes, this play is a wonderful look back at the life of a 1960s housewife and a celebration of how far we’ve come. This show contains adult language and subject matter.
The Dates: Oct. 18-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Falcon Theatre | BTC page |

SEE HOW THEY RUN

Oxford Area Community Theatre

The Story: Set in the idyllic village of Merton-cum-Middlewick in 1940s England, the village inhabitants are preparing themselves for the imminent threat of Nazi invasion. Resident nosy-parker and spinster, Miss Skillon, becomes convinced that her beloved vicar’s actress wife is having an affair and attempts to expose her. Add an escaped German prisoner of war, a handsome actor, the visiting Bishop of Lax, a rotund locum priest and some meddling neighbors and hilarious confusion and mayhem result.
The Dates: Oct. 18-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Oxford Area Community Theatre | BTC page |

SEUSSICAL JR

Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Story: This fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza features favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including: Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Lazy Mayzie, and all of the Whos of Whoville! Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once On This Island, and Ragtime) have lovingly brought to life these classic, colorful tales, brought together by Jojo, a young boy and “thinker of strange and wonderful thinks!” As each story unfolds, audiences will marvel at how relevant and profound Seuss’s subtle themes are, making this musical appealing to all ages.
The Dates: Oct. 19-27, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

A DOLL’S HOUSE

SSCC Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 2-4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: SSCC Theatre | BTC page |

HANK WILLIAMS: LOST HIGHWAY

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Dates: Nov. 3-Dec. 23, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

MURDER ON THE NILE

Tri-County Players

The Dates: Nov. 2-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Tri-County Players | BTC page |

OKLAHOMA!

Loveland Stage Company

The Dates: Nov. 2-17, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Loveland Stage Company | BTC page |

SHIRLEY VALENTINE

Middletown Lyric Theatre

The Dates: Nov. 1-10, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Middletown Lyric Theatre | BTC page |

UNDER A RED MOON

The Carnegie and The Human Race Theatre Company

The Dates: Nov. 2-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Carnegie | BTC page |

WEST MOON STREET

Mariemont Players Inc.

The Dates: Nov. 2-18, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mariemont Players | BTC page |

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 15-21

October 18, 2012 By Rob Bucher Leave a Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

BYE BYE BIRDIE

Children’s Theatre of Mason

The Story: It’s the late 1950s and teenagers from across the United States are going crazy for the handsome rock star, Conrad Birdie. But Conrad has received his draft notice and is about to be inducted into the army!! His manager, Albert Peterson, has staked his financial future on Conrad’s success. Albert’s secretary, Rosie, becomes fed-up with Albert’s lack of a marriage proposal and with his hilarious mother! Thus, as a final publicity stunt, Albert arranges for Conrad to kiss one lucky fan on the Ed Sullivan Show before he leaves for the army. Kim MacAfee, from Sweet Apple, Ohio, is the lucky girl. But conflict arises when her boyfriend, Hugo Peabody, gets jealous and Kim’s dad wants to be on the Ed Sullivan show.
The Dates: Oct. 19-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Children’s Theatre of Mason | BTC page |

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

Mad Anthony Theatre Company

The Story: Love of family is the mantra that runs throughout this endearingly warm-hearted comedy. At the heart of the plot is a tight-knit Italian-American family. Nick is a marketing executive who dutifully visits his four grandparents every Sunday for dinners which are governed by “the three F’s”—family, faith, and food. One Sunday he has an exciting, though devastating announcement: He’s being promoted to a new position in Seattle. As Nick is their only relative left in the area, the prospect of losing him calls for some heavy Golden-Ager artillery.
The Dates: Oct. 17-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mad Anthony Theatre Company | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

BLUE MAN GROUP

Broadway in Cincinnati

BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

HAIRSPRAY

Xavier University

I DO! I DO!

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

THE LARAMIE PROJECT

CenterStage Players of Ohio

THE PASSION OF DRACULA

Beechmont Players Inc

SEALED FOR FRESHNESS

Falcon Theatre

SEE HOW THEY RUN

Oxford Area Community Theatre

SEUSSICAL JR

Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

A BRIGHT NEW BOISE

Clifton Players

KING O’ THE MOON

Sunset Players

MRS. MANNERLY

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: This irreverent, yet poignant comedy is inspired by the hilarious memories of a childhood etiquette class, wherein playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a ten-year-old studying manners. Set in 1967, Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her thirty-six years of etiquette classes has ever achieved a perfect score. But, when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first to achieve this feat. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and the real selves that lie inside.
The Dates: Oct. 10-28, 2012 Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

ROMEO AND JULIET

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

SNOOPY THE MUSICAL

The Drama Workshop

The Story: This lighthearted, musical romp through the Peanuts canon features Charlie Brown, Sally, Lucy, Linus, Peppermint Patty, Woodstock, and, of course, Snoopy! A charming, warm-hearted musical, Snoopy! The Musical is full of humor and life lessons. The musical features scenes taken from memorable sequences right out of the beloved comic strip, ranging from The Great Pumpkin to the psychiatrist’s office. Perfect for the entire family!
The Dates: Oct. 5-21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: The Drama Workshop | BTC page |

THROUGH THE NIGHT

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: This tour-de-force solo performance embodies the stories of six African-American men, ranging in age from 10 to 60, whose lives are intertwined in beautiful and unexpected ways during one life-changing evening. Dayton native Daniel Beaty’s signature style displays a dazzling blend of humor, poetry, music and drama that earned him Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle award nominations. Transcending race and gender, THROUGH THE NIGHT is a hard-hitting and inspirational story filled with possibility and promise.
The Dates: Sept. 22-Oct. 21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

CHESS

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Dates: Oct. 25-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: UC College-Conservatory of Music | BTC page |

FLIPZOIDS

Miami University

The Dates: Oct. 24-28, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Miami University | BTC page |

THE INVESTMENT CLUB

PLOTT Performers

The Dates: Oct. 26-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: PLOTT Performers | BTC page |

PROOF

CenterStage Players Inc.

The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 3, 2012
Tickets and More Information: CenterStage Players Inc | BTC page |

THE ROYAL GAMBIT

Northern Kentucky University

The Dates: Oct. 25-Nov. 4, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC page |

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Oct. 8-14

October 11, 2012 By Rob Bucher Leave a Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre

The Story: Based on a true account of the lives of a Jewish family hiding from the German occupying forces in war-torn Amsterdam. To escape the horrors of Nazi persecution, Otto Frank hides with his wife and two daughters in attic rooms above an Amsterdam warehouse for two years. Also hiding with the Franks are four other people – the Van Daans, their son Peter, and a dentist, Mr Dussel. In her diary Anne recorded an account of the trials and tribulations of the people around her, all trying to live a normal life in cramped attic accommodation, whilst under the constant threat of discovery by the Gestapo.
The Dates: Oct. 11-14, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre | BTC page |

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

UC College-Conservatory of Music

The Story: A comedy-horror-rock musical about a hapless florist who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. With a score in the style of 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and Motown, the show “satirizes many things: science fiction, ‘B’ movies, musical comedy itself, and even the Faust legend.”
The Dates: Oct. 11-13, 2012
Tickets and More Information: UC College-Conservatory of Music | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

A BRIGHT NEW BOISE

Clifton Players

BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

KING O’ THE MOON

Sunset Players

MRS. MANNERLY

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: This irreverent, yet poignant comedy is inspired by the hilarious memories of a childhood etiquette class, wherein playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a ten-year-old studying manners. Set in 1967, Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her thirty-six years of etiquette classes has ever achieved a perfect score. But, when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first to achieve this feat. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and the real selves that lie inside.
The Dates: Oct. 10-28, 2012 Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

ROMEO AND JULIET

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

SNOOPY THE MUSICAL

The Drama Workshop

THROUGH THE NIGHT

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

DEATH DEFYING ACTS

Stagecrafters Inc.

The Story: This long-running Off Broadway hit features the work of three gifted playwrights. David Mamet’s AN INTERVIEW is an oblique, mystifying interrogation. A sleazy lawyer is forced to answer difficult questions and to admit the truth about his life and career. In HOTLINE by Elaine May, a neurotic woman with enough urban angst to fill a neighborhood calls a suicide crisis hotline late one night. The counselor who gets the call is overwhelmed – it is his first night on the job. In Woody Allen’s CENTRAL PARK WEST”, a well-to-do psychiatrist has just discovered that her best friend is having an affair with her husband. She has invited the friend over for a confrontation after getting thoroughly soused. Meanwhile, the husband is about to run off with a college student.
The Dates: Oct. 6-14, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Stagecrafters Inc. | BTC page |