Rike’s Holiday Windows
2024-11-25, 2024-11-26, 2024-11-27, 2024-11-28 | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
The holiday season is here and one of Dayton’s most beloved traditions is visiting the Rike’s Holiday Windows!
The RIKE’S HOLIDAY WINDOWS’ animated elves and animals first appeared in NCR’s New York office windows in 1943, but many Daytonians remember them from their annual holiday pilgrimage to the Rike’s Department Store which sat on the corner of Second and Main Streets (where the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center now sits). They’ve been on display in the Schuster Center’s Wintergarden during the holidays for more than 20 years.
In 2018, the displays were redesigned by critically acclaimed theatre and opera scenic designer and Dayton native Adam Koch, reconstructed by internationally acclaimed set and stage designers Scenic Solutions from West Carrollton, Ohio, and the characters were recostumed by the Dayton Sewing Collaborative.
SANTA’S SECRET
Santa and his magical team of crafty reindeer make a special stop each year to the Schuster Center to hide a special something in each of the Rike’s Holiday Windows. Can you guess what it is this year? It’s tiny, often at a child’s eye level, and has something to do with Dayton!
If you’re right, you’ll be entered to win a special gift certificate from Dayton Live. The winning entry will be notified after the new year begins!
You’ll be able to submit your entry when the RIKE’S HOLIDAY WINDOWS open for the season!

Windows are generally available for viewing Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The windows will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, and will not be available for public viewing during private events.
Presented by Dayton Live

Polar Bear Express
2024-11-25, 2024-11-26, 2024-11-27, 2024-11-28 | Downtown Dayton
Thru Feb. 28 • Polar Bear Express
Routes throughout downtown; call for dates, times, and cost.
Book a ride aboard the abominably decorated Pedal Wagon for a 2-hour pedaling adventure through the festive streets of Dayton and to the best bars and restaurants. Reservations required. pedalwagon.com/dayton. 388-3006.

Holly Jolly Social: A Holiday Pop-Up Experience
2024-11-25, 2024-11-26, 2024-11-27, 2024-11-28 | Two Social, 123 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Get ready to celebrate the season at Holly Jolly Social! We’re decking the halls and transforming Two Social into a festive haven with cheerful décor, seasonal cocktails, and plenty of holiday spirit. Join us for a cozy and merry time this holiday season! (11/8-1/12)

Exhibit: Experiencing Veterans & Artists Collaboration (EVAC) Project
2024-11-25 08:00 - 18:00, 2024-11-26 08:00 - 18:00, 2024-11-27 08:00 - 18:00, 2024-11-28 08:00 - 18:00 (America/Detroit) | Galleries at Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St., Bldg. 13, Dayton, OH, 45402
The Sinclair Community College Art Department proudly announces new exhibits featuring works from the Experiencing Veterans & Artists Collaboration (EVAC) Project and contemporary steel sculptures by artist Chris Mohler.
The exhibits will be displayed in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery and the Works on Paper Gallery from November 8 through December 14, 2024. The EVAC Project uses storytelling and art to bridge the gap between veterans and civilians.
Through the collaboration, over 60 veterans share their life stories, which are then interpreted into visual artwork by talented artists. As visitors explore these powerful stories alongside the artwork, the exhibit fosters empathy and a deeper connection with the experiences of veterans. Chris Mohler’s collection of steel sculptures shares a common theme of personal storytelling. Each piece reflects a chapter of Mohler’s life, inspired by topics such as current events, human existence, science, politics, personal joys, sacrifices, and social injustices. Mohler, however, encourages viewers to derive their own meanings from the works, allowing for an open-ended exploration of the art.
A virtual artist talk will take place on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. More details can be found at Sinclair.edu/ArtGalleries.
The exhibitions are free and open to the public.
Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Both galleries are located on the fourth floor of Building 13 at the corner of West Fifth and Perry Streets in downtown Dayton.

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical
2024-11-26 19:30, 2024-11-27 19:30 | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway – and head out on the road across America.
Like Jersey Boys and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical before it, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.

Exhibits: Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family
2024-11-27, 2024-11-28 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
The Dayton Art Institute (DAI) will close its 2024 Special Exhibition season with an exciting presentation of two combined traveling exhibitions, Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family, on view now through January 19, 2025. Just in time for the holidays, enjoy these nostalgic exhibitions highlighting two beloved classics that continue to influence the art of animation. View original drawings of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) and Chuck Jones, who brought Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday tale to life in the 1966 animated special How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, then laugh alongside Homer, Marge, Lisa, Maggie and Bart as you experience the original handmade animation cels of the acclaimed series.

“The art displayed in our newest exhibitions explores the significant influence animation has had in pop culture and the worlds of art, entertainment and business,” said DAI Head Curator & Curatorial Affairs Director Jerry N. Smith. “Animation art is beloved worldwide, and for many of us, this medium is our introduction to art. This work showcases how in each animated classic, thousands of individual artworks come together to tell a story and create a larger singular work.”

In 1966, the animation of Chuck Jones brought to life Dr. Seuss’ treasured 1957 children’s book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The animated story is a true television classic, with generations tuning in annually to watch the story of redemption with the despicable Grinch, the sweet Cindy Lou Who and the innocent dog Max. The exhibition Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic features original cel art used in the cartoon’s production, along with concept drawings by Jones (famous for Looney Tunes) and those by Dr. Seuss.

(B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family showcases the often-irreverent antics of Homer, Marge, Lisa, Maggie and Bart—alongside many other unforgettable figures from the longest-running animated series on American television. Since its debut in 1989, there have been more than 770 episodes. Initially crafted through traditional ink-and-paint techniques on transparent acetate cels, the first 13 seasons (1989–2002) were produced by hand before transitioning to cost-effective digital animation. These hand-drawn cels are featured in the exhibition. In the early seasons elements, now vital to the series, were created, including the famous sofa and living room set used to open each episode, which is replicated at the DAI, allowing guests the chance to truly enter the fictional world of Springfield.

Fun and colorful, these two exhibitions showcase the art of illustration. A family-friendly and nostalgic outing, guests will enjoy more than 400 works of original art, as well as interactive sensory stations, educational resources and photo opportunities.

“In addition to learning about the art of animation and illustration, those attending our newest special exhibitions can expect a joyful, playful, and nostalgic experience,” said DAI Director & President Michael R. Roediger. “This artwork was created to bring a smile to your face and brighten your day. We’re excited to offer each guest the chance to slip away from any of life’s stresses and spend time reconnecting with characters they know and love. These two exhibitions are fun, colorful and truly memorable.”

Several related programs will be offered in conjunction with the Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family. These include:

Community Tour: November 2, 1–2 p.m.; November 23, 1–2 p.m.; December 7, 1–2 p.m.; December 19, 6–7 p.m.; January 18, 1–2 p.m.
Cost: Members: Free, Non-members: Included with the Price of Admission

Family Studio Special: December 7, 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Cost: Members: $20, Non-members: $25, Member Family 4-pack: $70, Non-member Family 4-pack: $90
Adult Studio Special: November 16, 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Cost: Members: $35, Non-members: $45
Ask Me Anything: November 7, 6–7 p.m., December 12, 6–7 p.m. and January 9, 6–7 p.m.
Cost: FREE

These exhibitions are from the collection of Bill Heeter and Kristi Correa. Admission to Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family is included in the museum’s general admission, which includes access to all Special and Focus Exhibitions currently on view, as well as the museum collection galleries. General admission is $15 adults; $10 seniors (60+), active military and groups (10 or more); $5 students (18+ w/ID) and youth (ages 7–17); and free for children (ages 6 & younger). Admission is free for museum members. Membership information can be found online at www.daytonartinstitute.org/membership.

Other current and upcoming Exhibitions at the museum include Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection (on view until September 2025), Devil’s Promenade (on view until January 5, 2025), Making Faces: 18 Essential Kabuki Plays (on view until March 30, 2025) and The Need for Beauty (on view from November 30, 2024–May 18, 2025).

For more information about planning a visit, including current museum hours and updates, go to www.daytonartinstitute.org/visit or call 937-223-4ART (4278). Connect with the Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and videos, and exclusive offers.

The CoSHOP Holiday Shopping
2024-11-27, 2024-11-28 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The Contemporary Dayton’s CoSHOP gets a holiday refreshing of new handmade ornaments, cards, decor and all sorts of giftables from a selection of local artists and artisans. At the Nov. 21 Preview Party, enjoy shopping, browsing the current exhibitions, and light bites from Gather. 224-3822.

Stock-up Wednesday at the Market
2024-11-27 11:00 - 15:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
The holidays are here! Stop by the 2nd Street Market to support your favorite small businesses. Whether you’re shopping for fresh produce or kitchen staples for a meal or looking for a one-of-a-kind gift from one of the Markets artisans, the Market is your one-stop destination for the holidays this year.

John Lauer: Demon Heads
2024-11-27 11:00 - 18:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Drawing on fantasy, queer culture, and architecture, Lauer creates demon heads out of paper. Combining digital and manual techniques, he first models the heads with architectural software, converts them into patterns which he cuts out of paper with a digital cutter, then meticulously assembles them by hand. Inspired by natural forms—bones, leaves, shells—demons and horned creatures burst forth from more placid human heads merging into structures that are both intertwined and interdependent symbolizing an inner struggle in conflict with the outside world.
John Lauer is an artist and architectural/exhibit designer who lives in a treehouse on the edge of Appalachia. He has a BA in Architecture from Washington University, St. Louis, an MFA in Design from Cranbrook Academy of Art, Bloomfield Hills, MI, and an M.Arch from Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta.

CURTIS MANN: Precious Blood
2024-11-27 11:00 - 18:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
CURTIS MANN: Precious Blood

THE DR. ROBERT L. BRANDT JR. FAMILY GALLERY
THE IRA & SUSAN THOMSEN FAMILY GALLERY

SEP 6 – DEC 21, 2024

Dayton native, Curtis Mann, returns home to present an experimental new body of work inspired by reflections on his childhood attending Parochial schools, his mother’s Catholic funeral services this past May, and the challenges he faced hiding and then embracing his atheism. Using a mixture of personal family photographs, found, and AI-generated images, Mann has cut and affixed them to shards of glass to create sculptural collages. The work presents us with questions about what a photograph is, about the precarious space between the image and the object, and about the larger ideas of absolute faith, its teachings, and leaders. The work also serves as a love letter to his mother and his own feelings of mortality. Curated by Jeffrey Cortland Jones.
Mann is a graduate of the University of Dayton, where he worked under the mentorship of Sean Wilkinson, whose work is on view in the companion exhibition, Flora, also on view. His work has been exhibited widely, most notably at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; the Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, France; the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago.

OPENING NIGHT / SEP 6

Members Preview with the Artist 5-6 pm / Public Reception 6-8 pm

ARTIST TALK / NOV 22 / 6:30 pm

Curtis Mann and Sean Wilkinson in Conversation with artist and writer, Carmen Winant
Doors open 6 pm / Reception immediately following ‘til 8 pm / FREE & open to all / The Tank at The Dayton Arcade

SEAN WILKINSON: Flora
2024-11-27 11:00 - 18:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
SEAN WILKINSON: Flora

THE MITOSIS GALLERY

SEP 6 – DEC 21, 2024

Wilkinson’s ongoing series of photographs, Flora (2020-2024) are the artist’s response to the exuberant vitality of plants, their thrusting and thriving, their boundless energy and raw power, their elegance and grace, their constant changing, and their utter disregard for anything to do with the human world. Photographed over many seasons at Dayton’s Five Rivers MetroParks, Wilkinson brings attention to change, the overlooked, the undisturbed, and how profoundly meditative life can be. Curated by Jeffrey Cortland Jones.
Wilkinson is a Distinguished Service Professor and Professor Emeritus at the University of Dayton, where he served as chair of the Department of Visual Arts and as the Graul Endowed Chair in Arts and Languages. He is the recipient of several Ohio Arts Council and Montgomery County Fellowships among many other awards and prizes. His work has been widely exhibited and housed in over twenty-five significant collections.

OPENING NIGHT / SEP 6

Members Preview with the Artist 5-6 pm / Public Reception 6-8 pm

ARTIST TALK / NOV 22 / 6:30 pm

Curtis Mann and Sean Wilkinson in Conversation with artist and writer, Carmen Winant
Doors open 6 pm / Reception immediately following ‘til 8 pm / FREE & open to all / The Tank at The Dayton Arcade

Stage & Sip: A Beautiful Noise
2024-11-27 16:30 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
STAGE & SIP redefines the traditional theatre experience for adults ages 21 and up. On November 27 at 4:30 p.m., join us for an evening of Broadway magic and sophisticated entertainment prior to the performance of A BEAUTIFUL NOISE. Delight in an exclusive workshop, indulge in a curated cocktail, and collect unique tour merchandise. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and you can segue to BACKGROUND ON BROADWAY at 6:30 p.m. or grab a drink or snack at Starbucks or at the Performance Bars.
If you already have your tickets for the November 27 performance, you can add the STAGE & SIP to your evening for $30 per person. Don’t have a ticket to the November 27 performance? No problem! You can also get the STAGE & SIP + A BEAUTIFUL NOISE ticket for $100 per person! Each STAGE & SIP includes preshow cocktails, an exclusive workshop, and special tour merchandise.
Each person in your party must have a STAGE & SIP ticket to participate.

Werksgiving Event
2024-11-27 19:00 - 23:00 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Werks are back with WERKSGIVING 2024 on November 27 It’s a hometown throwdown with support from Chalk Dinosaur and Tasting Colour! On saIe now
HOW TO GO? November 27, 2024 The Brightside Dayton – 905 E 3rd St Doors 7pm | Show 7:15pm All Ages Get your ticket here: https://werkoutpresents.ticketspice.com/werksgiving2024

Such A Night – The Last Waltz Live!
2024-11-27 20:00 | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join with us as more than 25 of Dayton’s most talented musicians gather to celebrate the music of The Band. Now in it’s 11th year, SUCH A NIGHT – THE LAST WALTZ LIVE! is a Dayton Thanksgiving tradition and one of the must see concerts of the season. Proceeds from the performance support the greater community and will benefit WYSO radio and other local organizations.
On November 25, 1976, one of rock and roll’s most influential groups, The Band, held their final concert. This event was documented by director Martin Scorsese and made into the film The Last Waltz. Considered one of the best concert films ever, The Last Waltz also featured performances by Dr. John, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Neil Diamond, Van Morrison, Emmylou Harris, Muddy Waters, Paul Butterfield, Eric Clapton, and Bob Dylan.

Holiday Greenery Crafting
2024-11-28 11:00 - 16:00 | Now and Zen DIY Studio, 121 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Stop in for a jolly good time with whimsical holiday plant projects, including terrarium snowmen, air plant ornaments, and more!
Thursdays through Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 22
