Join hosts Philip Drennen and Josh Stucky on Dayton Drama Queens as they sit down with Andrew Mitakides, Executive Artistic Director & Co-Founder of Gem City Groundlings. In this illuminating episode, Andrew shares:
A twist of fate from dentistry to drama: how one unforgettable chemistry class and a nosebleed led him straight into Macbeth at college.
Late-night laughs: behind the scenes of “Gem City Tonight,” his Dayton-based talk show inspired by Carson and Fallon—complete with live audience antics and celebrity guests.
Founding Gem City Groundlings: the story of launching Dayton’s first paid Shakespeare troupe, reclaiming the “groundling” spirit for modern, accessible productions in a thrust-style, 90-seat venue.
Demystifying the Bard: why minimal sets, modern dress, and a pop-friendly pre-show soundtrack (Adele, Beastie Boys, Phil Collins) make Macbeth, Comedy of Errors, and As You Like It irresistible.
Beyond the Globe: partnerships with Dayton Metro Library (lecture series on Shakespeare’s power, politics & lovers), Ruby Girls drag collaborations, and bringing “Shakespeare Behind Bars” to local correctional institutions.
What’s next: building a season around A Steady Rain, God of Carnage, and a vintage ’60s Much Ado About Nothing, plus plans for Titus Andronicus and more community-driven theatre.
Whether you’re a Shakespeare newbie or a seasoned stagehand, Andrew’s journey proves that the Bard’s language belongs to everyone. Tune in to Dayton Drama Queens and subscribe for more insider stories on the city’s hottest arts innovators!
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