Theater
Theatrelab Dayton presents ‘The Mystery of Edwin Drood‘: Jan. 22-25 at 46 W. Second St., Dayton. More info: Musical based on unfinished novel by Charles Dickens. Various plot points will be chosen by the audience.
Beavercreek Community Theatre presents ‘Eurydice’: Jan. 23-25 at 3868 Dayton Xenia Road, Beavercreek. More info: A play reimagining the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.
Cydnie Hampton shines in Sarah Ruhl’s 2003 one-act character study rooted in grief and memory in the Underworld. Under the direction of Drew Roby, Hampton embodies the titular role with inquisitiveness and sincerity, particularly in her humorous, introspective scenes opposite the equally excellent Bradley R. Mattingly (Her Father).
Ruhl wrote “Eurydice” after her father passed away and the play and this production is at its best when the action zeroes in on Eurydice and Her Father, a relationship built on remembrance and repair including a playful nod to George Gershwin. Eurydice also notably arrives in the Underworld inside an elevator of pouring rain, a signature moment outstandingly realized by scenic designer Chris Harmon.
Credit: Kirsten Pribula/Kirsten Lynne Studios
Credit: Kirsten Pribula/Kirsten Lynne Studios
Roby’s cast includes Tyler DeHaven (Orpheus), Michael Lacoste (A Nasty Interesting Man/The Lord of the Underworld) and a Greek chorus consisting of Chuck Larkowski (Big Stone), Anna Blair (Little Stone) and Amelia Hunter (Loud Stone). (Russell Florence Jr.)
Dayton Playhouse presents ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’: Through Feb. 1 at 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton.
What’s the buzz? Well, for starters, there’s something about Mary in Dayton Playhouse’s admirably edgy production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s iconic 1970 rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar,” envisioned with a gritty, gender-bending ‘80s grunge vibe by director Shanna Camacho.
Credit: Shanna Camacho
Credit: Shanna Camacho
Playhouse newcomer Sarah Miller’s superbly unassuming portrayal of Mary Magdalene captivates with a reserved grace and an ever-attentive appeal reiterating Mary’s steadfastly supportive role as a mediator among the disciples of Jesus (vocally strong Rusty Paquay), which poses a threat to bombastic Judas (a fittingly assured and remorseful Daniel Rosenbaum formerly of the national tour of “Rent”).
Miller’s fantastic pop/rock vocals thrillingly evoke Linda Ronstadt and Karen Carpenter, which heightens the beautifully contemplative allure of her marvelous rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” within the ‘70s singer-songwriter style in which it was written.
Credit: Shanna Camacho
Credit: Shanna Camacho
Also notable: Eric Lavery (Simon) bringing cheerful adulation to “Simon Zealotes”; an authoritatively cunning and imposing Kammeron Frost (Caiaphas); lighting designer Meagan Kuchan Clark’s striking choreographic light show during the “Overture”; Brenna Woolf’s casual, streetwise costumes; and choreographer Kiersten Farmer’s flavorful routines, particularly the seedy, expressive and disturbing aspects within “The Temple.” (Russell Florence Jr.)
Music
Music Bingo at Brandeberry Winery: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 23 at 5188 W. Jackson Road, Enon. More info: Eight rounds of musical bingo featuring various prizes. Wine and appetizers are available for an extra cost.
Zack Attack at Wings Vandalia: 9 p.m. Jan. 23 at 7902 N. Dixie Drive, Dayton. More info: Dance party featuring live performances of high-energy songs from the 1990s.
Credit: Nick Graham
Credit: Nick Graham
Half-Life at the Phonebooth Lounge: 8 p.m.-midnight Jan. 24 at 1912 E. Whipp Road, Kettering. More info: Live performance from group inspired by 1990s and early 2000s rock music.
Hiking
Lost Creek Reserve Sip and Stroll: 7 p.m. Jan. 23 at 2385 E. Ohio 41, Troy. More info: Hiking event where guests will be given hot chocolate to drink during the walk. Hikers will also be taught about ways humans have used light throughout history. Tickets are limited, and guests are encouraged to bring thermos.
Caesar Creek State Park UV Black Light Night Hike: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 24 at 4006 Pioneer Village Road, Waynesville. More info: Free after dark hiking event where trail will be lit with black lights and flash lights. Limited number of lights will be available to borrow. Guests will be split into small groups led by experienced naturalist.
Food and dining
Southern Ohio Brewing Winter Fest: Noon-10 p.m. Jan. 24 at 818 Factory Road, Beavercreek. More info: Event featuring seasonal drinks, food from Schmitd’s Sausage Truck, outdoor fire pits and live music.
St. Helen Athletics Fish Fry: 6-11 p.m. Jan. 24 at 5086 Burkhardt Road, Riverside. More info: Fundraiser for St. Helen Catholic School. Tickets include a meal and three alcoholic drink vouchers. Event is only for those age 21 and older.
Movie screenings
‘A Minecraft Movie’ screening at Springboro Performing Arts Center: Noon and 2 p.m. Jan. 24 at 280 Spring Mill Court, Springboro. More info: Free screening of the hit 2025 family film. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime and close when theater is full or movie starts. No ticket required, and concessions are available.
‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ screening at Sorg Opera House: Noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Jan. 24 at 63 S. Main St., Middletown. More info: Screening of the 1975 classic comedy. Tickets are $10 at the door, parking is free.
Other events
Greene County Home Show: Jan. 23-25 at 120 Fairgrounds Road, Xenia. More info: Home remodeling exhibition featuring various contractors, designers, demonstrations and giveaways.
Vendor Village at the Nook: Noon-4 p.m. Jan. 24 at 1400 E. Third St., Dayton. More info: 10 local vendors will be open on second floor of The Cozy Book Nook, including Callie’s Cookies and MJ Accessories.
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