Wilmington Ballet Presents Deep Roots

“Step into a world where culture, history, and art intertwine in perfect harmony. Join us for ‘Deep Roots,’ a mesmerizing showcase presented by the Wilmington Ballet at the historic Milton Theatre. Prepare to be transported on a journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of African-American arts and culture. Through graceful dance, powerful storytelling, and breathtaking performances, ‘Deep Roots’ pays homage to the resilience, creativity, and contributions of African Americans throughout history.Jonathan Whitney”s artist and musician collective Celebration of Black Joy will headline, and feature Jonathan Whitney, Nadjah Nicole, Jea Street, and Kim “Metaphor” Graham. A new work by Artistic & Executive Director Benjamin Sterling Cannon will be premier, as well as works by Pieces of a Dream Dance Theater’s Ashley SK Davis, and M. Amber Spivey’s and I AM Art in Motion. Featured wine tasting included with your tickets: Details TBA About Wilmington Ballet Website | Facebook | Instagram Founded in 1956 by Madame Helene Antonova, and James M. Jamieson as the Academy of the Dance, the Wilmington Ballet / Academy of the Dance has promoted excellence in dance training, for over half a century. The Wilmington Ballet Academy of the Dance faculty provides exceptional dance education to students of all ages. Academy of the Dance students have progressed to careers with American Ballet Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, New York City Ballet, Martha Graham Dance Company, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Royal Ballet of Flanders, Stuttgart Ballet, Washington Ballet, Boston Ballet, North Carolina Dance Theater (now Charlotte Ballet), Regional Theater, Broadway, National / International Tours, Film and TV. Since 1967, the annual performance of The Nutcracker at the Playhouse on Rodney Square in the historic Hotel duPont has provided our students the opportunity to perform with world- class professional artists and a live orchestra. Wilmington Ballet Academy of the Dance is located in the Trolley Square Neighborhood at 1709 Gilpin Avenue. Mission Wilmington Ballet Academy of the Dance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing superior arts education to foster discipline, self-actualization, and confidence for the enrichment of communities in the state of Delaware, and surrounding regional areas. Wilmington Ballet Academy of the Dance welcomes everyone regardless of training, race, age, gender or orientation.
Rockin’ Queenz Drag Show!
“Get ready to sashay, slay, and rock the house down! 💃🎤 ‘ROCKIN’ QUEENS’ is more than a show—it’s a revolution. Our drag divas are strutting their stuff to the beat of classic rock anthems, channeling the spirit of iconic frontwomen. Expect sequins, stilettos, and hair flips that defy gravity. It’s glam, it’s rebellious, and it’s unapologetically fabulous. Don’t just attend; become part of the glittering legacy!” Hosted by: Magnolia Applebottom, featuring Amethyst Diamond, and Chasity Vain! About Magnolia Applebottom FacebookMagnolia Applebottom is a world class cabaret performer from Jackson, Mississippi. Mrs. Applebottom is a mid-life crisis at its finest. She’s kooky, she’s cool, she barley finished school but she knows how to put a smile on any face. So like her page and share her antics with your friends. Maybe go to a Magnolia Applebottom show!
Ha-Ha-Halloween Hilarity: A Stand-Up Spooktacular
Join us for a night of wickedly funny jokes and ghoulish giggles as top comedians bring their best spooky humor to the stage. Whether you’re a vampire, werewolf, or friendly ghost, this show guarantees a frightfully good time for all! Headliner: ToppFliightWebsite | Instagram | FacebookComedian ToppFliight will find a way of bringing joy and laughter out of any situation. Laughter is food for the soul. ” It’s the best feeling in the world when people can relate to what you are talking about”. He leaves his heart on the stage every night and it’s a great feeling just to do what he loves. Comedy is not just entertainment, it’s soul therapy. ToppFliight has one bigger passion outside of comedy and that is his fight for Autism Awareness. With one of his three children suffering from this condition, Comedian ToppFliight created the Comedian vs Promoter basketball game to raise awareness for Autism. He is igniting awareness through his comedy but also his advocacy work.Feature: David TerusoWebsite | Instagram | FacebookDave Terruso is a mystery and sci-fi novelist based near Philadelphia doing stand up comedy professionally. He has opened for acts including Richard Lewis, Gilbert Gottfried, Dana Gould, Tim Meadows, Colin Quinn, and Maria Bamford. He has been featured on the RISK! Podcast, episode 350 Out of Bounds. He is also the co-founder of Philly Sketchfest, an international comedy festival that’s been around for over a dozen years. Host: Keith Purnell
Website | YouTube | Facebook
Keith is one of the fastest-rising comics from Delaware. He’s a high energy performer whose quick wit, style, and fast-paced humor make him a hit and personal favorite of audiences young and old. He performs at Comedy Clubs across the country and has appeared on Television and in Movies. He was a winner in the Howard Stern “Kill or Be Killed” Comedy Competition and was the Philadelphia Regional winner in the Sierra Mist Next Great Comic Comedy Competition. Keith has had appearances on Last Comic Standing and is gaining a reputation as the next rising star. So watch out America, he’s coming your way, be prepared, he’s armed with Laffs!
Oh the Horrors! Film Trailer Challenge

ATTENTION ALL FILMMAKERS! IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN!!Get ready horror hounds and fear fiends! The Revival House is bringing back The Horror Trailer Challenge with a chance to bring home a portion of the $1,500 cash up for grabs! This is your chance to take part in a fun film challenge and have your project seen on the big screen in front of a crowd at the Milton Theatre. Time to break out the camera gear, buy those gallons of fake blood, and gather your friends to make the greatest horror trailer you can imagine! The 5th annual Horror Trailer Challenge is happening Sunday, Oct. 16th at the Milton Theatre.Since its inception, the trailer challenge has grown in popularity and response, with submissions coming in from all across the state and region. All participating filmmakers will have the opportunity to demonstrate their demonic visions on a movie screen in front of a live audience and compete for a chance to win $1500 in cash prizes. On Friday, September 29, the Revival House will announce on our website (https://www.revivalhousetheater.com) and this Facebook page a specific item and line of dialogue that must be included in the trailer. They have until Friday, Oct. 14, to script, film, and edit their trailer, which can be no more than three minutes in length.For all the details and past entry examples for some inspiration go to https://www.revivalhousetheater.comJoining the contest is FREE! About Revival House Films Official Website | Facebook The Revival House is a platform to celebrate the experience of going to the movies. Our mission is to foster a community through the shared experience of film and presenting programs that are unique, entertaining, and fun. Within the walls of the historic Milton Theatre, we hope to provide monthly screenings equally dedicated to cinema and community.
Back To The 90’s: Drag Show

Step into a time machine and journey back to the iconic era of scrunchies, Tamagotchis, and flannel shirts with “Back To The 90’s: Drag Show”! Hosted by the fabulous Magnolia Applebottom at the historic Milton Theatre, this blast from the past extravaganza guarantees a night filled with nostalgic hilarity and jaw-dropping performances. Get ready to groove as Magnolia will be joined by the sensational Alonda Sanchez, the fierce Chasity Vain, and the unforgettable Candi Fuentes for a night that’s as outrageous as a neon fanny pack. It’s a rollercoaster ride of laughter, lip-sync battles, and outrageous costumes that’ll have you screaming, “As if!” Grab your butterfly clips and slap bracelets because this show is gonna be all that and a bag of chips! Don’t miss out on this comedic time-traveling experience—it’s gonna be totally rad, “dude”! About Magnolia Applebottom Facebook | InstagramMagnolia Applebottom is a world-class cabaret performer from Jackson, Mississippi. Mrs. Applebottom is a mid-life crisis at its finest. She’s kooky, she’s cool, she barley finished school but she knows how to put a smile on any face. So like her page and share her antics with your friends. Maybe go to a Magnolia Applebottom show!
End Of Summer Laughter: Stand-Up Comedy Special
Join us in bidding farewell to the summer season with a burst of laughter that will linger in your memories long after the show ends. Get ready for an extraordinary showcase of comedic brilliance that promises to tickle your funny bone and leave you in stitches. Don’t miss this chance to wrap up your summer with joy and mirth at the ultimate comedy extravaganza!Host: Keith PurnellHeadliner: Jennifer EspenshadeFeature: Tim Grille Headliner: Jennifer EspenshadeWebsite | FacebookAlthough Jennifer has been doing standup comedy for only a few years, she has been entertaining crowds for the past 25 years as a performer at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, doing comedy in a giant pit of mud! She was also the co-owner of an improv comedy troupe, and also taught improvisation at Open Stage of Harrisburg. Her transition from improv and mud pit diving to standup seemed like a natural progression, plus, standup is much more forgiving on her aging body.Feature: Tim GrilleWebsite | Twitter | InstagramTim Grill is a veteran on the comedy scene and is one of the funniest comics working today! This hilarious East Coast comedian has been entertaining audiences from Philadelphia, New Jersey, Delaware and New York City all the way to Hollywood, California!Host: Keith Purnell
Website | YouTube | Facebook
Keith is one of the fastest rising comics from Delaware. He’s a high energy performer whose quick wit, style, and fast pace humor make him a hit and personal favorite of audiences young and old. He performs at Comedy Clubs across the country and has appeared on Television and in Movies. He was a winner in the Howard Stern “Kill or Be Killed” Comedy Competition and was the Philadelphia Regional winner in the Sierra Mist Next Great Comic Comedy Competition. Keith has had appearances on Last Comic Standing and is gaining a reputation as the next rising star. So watch out America, he’s coming your way, be prepared, he’s armed with Laffs!
Jingle Laughs: A Holiday Stand-Up Spectacular
Get ready to ROFL this holiday season with ‘Jingle Laughs’ – the ultimate stand-up comedy show guaranteed to sleigh your funny bone! Join us for a festive evening of laughter, cheer, and merry mischief as top comedians unwrap hilarious jokes about all things holiday! Headliner: Mike BurtonWebsite | Facebook | InstagramMike started doing stand-up comedy in 1996 and moved up the ladder quickly; first performing in the clubs in NYC then hitting the road. He’s been on TV shows, independent feature films, and several commercials. He’s recently been the fill-in warm-up guy for daytime shows Rachel Ray, The Chew and is now the regular warm-up guy for ABC’s The Revolution. His high energy act, storytelling and facial expressions endear him to audiences and have them readily waiting to see him again. Feature: Dylan TuckerWebsite | FacebookDylan is a stand up comedian. He’s been doing comedy for 6 years . He is hilarious and edgy. He’s won several competitions and has opened up for a few D list celebrities.Host: Keith Purnell
Website | YouTube | Facebook
Keith is one of the fastest rising comics from Delaware. He’s a high energy performer whose quick wit, style, and fast pace humor make him a hit and personal favorite of audiences young and old. He performs at Comedy Clubs across the country and has appeared on Television and in Movies. He was a winner in the Howard Stern “Kill or Be Killed” Comedy Competition and was the Philadelphia Regional winner in the Sierra Mist Next Great Comic Comedy Competition. Keith has had appearances on Last Comic Standing and is gaining a reputation as the next rising star. So watch out America, he’s coming your way, be prepared, he’s armed with Laffs!
Fall Over Laughing: A Comedy Harvest of Hilarity!

Get ready for a side-splitting evening of laughter! As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, we’re bringing you the ultimate fall-themed stand-up comedy show that will warm your heart and tickle your funny bone. So grab your flannel shirts, slip on those comfy boots, and gather your friends for a laughter-filled evening that captures the essence of fall. Don’t miss out on this comedy harvest—it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and fall over laughing in the best possible way! Headliner: The Legendary Wid Facebook | YoutubeThe Wid Is a very funny veteran comedian who uses props. he is known nationwide and has worked with everyone from Bill Hicks to Jonathan Winters. He has been seen on Comedy Central to ABC, Showtime, HBO. Feature: John Kensil Website | Instagram | TwitterJohn has performed in the Boston Comedy Festival and the Las Vegas Comedy Festival. He has written for the Tonight Show, and his work has appeared in Rolling Stone magazine. Host: Chica LocaFacebook From Brooklyn, NY. 2nd Place Finalist in ExploreDE Comedy Competition. Voted Best Rising Star in Delaware
March Comedy Madness: Stand-Up Comedy Show!

Headliner: Shawn BanksFeature: Steve BickelHost: Keith Purnell”Spring into laughter at ‘March Madness’ – the ultimate comedy show that blooms with hilarious moments and seasonal cheer!” Headliner: Shawn BanksInstagram | Twitter | YoutubeShawn Banks was born in Alton, IL, a small suburb just 20-minutes from St. Louis, Missouri a rocks throw across the Mississippi River. Known for witty observations and dead-on impersonations of many, comedian Shawn Banks has been exploding in comedy clubs and theaters across the country. Shawn’s most recognizable asset when he takes the stage is his presence. At 6’3; 300+ pounds, Shawn is built like a Defensive Tackle, you can definitely tell that the ELEPHANT IS IN THE ROOM. Shawn’s brand of comedy can be explained as “Happy-Sarcastic” with stories and slanted point of views on everyday life. Shawn has taken his Family-Fun humor and auditioned and landed stand-up spots on the TOM JOYNER SKY SHOW at the WALT-DISNEY Milk-House in front of 4000+ people. The show is also heard by over 10-million listeners across the country daily. Feature: Steve BickelWebsite Steve Bickel is a Philadelphia comic who has made a name for himself with his offbeat and fresh take on family life and the hardships of trying to be a “normal” human being. As a founding member of Speakeasy Comedy, Steve produces shows all over Philly. He was a quarter-finalist at this year’s Philly’s Phuniest and performs and hosts shows throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. Host: Keith Purnell
Website | YouTube | Facebook
Keith is one of the fastest rising comics from Delaware. He’s a high energy performer whose quick wit, style, and fast pace humor make him a hit and personal favorite of audiences young and old. He performs at Comedy Clubs across the country and has appeared on Television and in Movies. He was a winner in the Howard Stern “Kill or Be Killed” Comedy Competition and was the Philadelphia Regional winner in the Sierra Mist Next Great Comic Comedy Competition. Keith has had appearances on Last Comic Standing and is gaining a reputation as the next rising star. So watch out America, he’s coming your way, be prepared, he’s armed with Laffs!
One Dame Funny Night
A tribute to Dame Edna by her Honorary Understudy Written & Performed by Scott F. Mason Dame Edna’s award-winning Honorary Understudy is back for more in a one-of-a-kind comedy show that is not to be missed!! Get ready for another belly-busting good time and make sure you come prepared! She’s ready to share a round of Coronatinis, crazy zingers, double-entendre one-liners, and mischievous observations of the Milton crowd! About Scott Mason Website | Youtube | Facebook – 2023 NYC Bistro Award Winner for Comedic Characterization – 2023 Nominee for Manhattan Association of Cabaret Male Debut Award Quote from NY Don’t Tell Mama show…. “Mason quite simply nailed it…every inch the wit and outrageous humor of the original Dame”- Gerry Geddes, Bistro Awards In 2010 and 2012, he won “Best Comedian” at the Las Vegas Reel Awards, which is akin to the Oscars for the Tribute Artist Industry.He has participated in the Sunburst Conference of Professional Celebrity Impersonators since 2008 where he won “Funniest Male”, “Best Transformation”, and “Best Male Costume” three times each and has been inducted into their Hall of Fame for each in 2011, 2013, and 2014 respectively. He was one of three finalists for the “Agent’s Best” (meaning the best act out of dozens that agents reviewed) award in 2010 and 2012. In 2011 he was awarded the Silver Best Showcase Award 3rd place and in 2012 he won Gold (2nd).His Dame has been seen on the Rachel Ray show as well as Fox News 35 in Orlando and the national CBS Sunday Morning news. He is also featured prominently in the award-winning 2010 documentary short subject “Just About Famous” and its full-length follow-up in 2013. Information on the film and Mason can be seen on IMDB.com.Mason has been active in theater since 1985, and was a member of the National Dramatists Guild, having written over 25 plays produced in Delaware and Off-Off Broadway. As an actor, he has acted over 100 roles, and appeared for 30 years with the Delaware Dance Company’s “The Nutcracker”. He has also directed over 100 plays for community and regional theater.