“Suzy Bassani brought a dream into reality that opened possibilities and fueled creative pursuits for hundreds of thousands of young people,” said Mark Antony Howard, a recent Fairmont High School grad and one of the featured entertainers. “Her dream led to countless people living their own dream. And as we begin our 36th year we’re still following in her footsteps. We can’t stop learning. We can’t stop singing. And we can’t stop moving.”
CHECK THESE PHOTOS: The breathtaking set from The Little Mermaid
Singing and moving they did — throughout the festive evening, which included yummy appetizers and desserts by Sagecraft Catering before and after the performances. “When you see these young people devote their time and energy and commitment to this wonderful celebration, it brings such hope at a time when our society seems to be in such disarray,” said former Muse Machine executive director Lorna Dawes.
Current executive director Mary Campbell Zopf announced that a new collaboration between Muse and the library will ensure that anyone with a library card will be able to take advantage of Muse programming in the new theater whether or not his or her school is affiliated with the program.
Plans for the Bassani Theater
The Suzy Bassani Theater Off Third will offer everything from theatrical performances and educational arts opportunities to musical concerts and cultural experiences. Diverse programs already on the schedule for this fall include Voices of the Immigrant Experience and the Poetry Awards and Readings. Other examples of programs that might fit the intimate space include visiting artist workshops, musical reviews, staged plays, and open-mic nights.
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Joy Quarmiley, Mark Antony Howard’s proud mom, said Muse Machine has changed her son’s life. “I thought he’d play sports but when he got into Muse and got on stage, it just fed him,” she said. “And it lets kids participate who otherwise might not have the means to participate.” Her son has been accepted into Wright State University’s prestigious musical theater program.
Said Bassani: “It’s an amazing gift. I think back to 35 years ago … never would I have dream that this all could have happened.”
VTA hosts annual meeting
There was positive news when the Victoria Theatre Association held its annual luncheon meeting this afternoon at the Schuster Center. Board member Steve Miller said it has been a “terrific year financially,” with the organization earning $14.6 million in revenue. The $14.3 million in expenses resulted in a net income of $300,000.
Based on a formula developed by the American for the Arts, the VTA’s overall revenue created an estimated $23.5 million economic impact for the Dayton Metro area. That figure includes everything from ticket sales to the impact on restaurants, parking, merchandise and more.
Reasons to go to Little Mermaid if you’re a kid or a grown-up
The VTA’s president and CEO Ken Neufeld reviewed a year which included Broadway shows, educational programs and the completion of the historic theater’s 150th anniversary celebration. Neufeld said the first sensory-friendly performance for an autistic audience was a success with two more similar performances slated for 2017-2018. The National Geographic Live series continues to grow with an additional show added for the upcoming season.
Following the luncheon meeting, a plaque was dedicated to honor those in the VTA’s Legacy Society who have included the organization in their estate planning.
Dayton Ballet School plans open house
The Dayton Ballet School, which will celebrate its 90-year anniversary this season, will hold its Fall Open House and Registration from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19 at the downtown Dayton studio on the fourth floor of the Victoria Theatre, 140 N. Main St., Dayton.
There will be a performance by members of Dayton Ballet II’s Junior and Senior companies, the pre-professional ballet companies.
Troy concert planned
The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, under the leadership of conductor Patrick Reynolds, will perform the 25th Annual Troy Mayor’s Concert at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 20 at Prouty Plaza in downtown Troy.
The Dayton Philharmonic Concert Band and Festival Chorus have performed these concerts, presented by Troy Mayors Concerts Inc., since 1992. The concert is free and open to the public. Concert-goers are asked to bring their own chairs.
Each week, arts writer Meredith Moss shares news about the people and events making arts news in our region. If you have information you’d like to share with our readers, contact Meredith: MMoss@coxohio.com
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