SPOTLIGHTS, PERFORMANCE GUIDE, AND SO MUCH MORE INSIDE!
SCHWARTZ CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS SPEND VALENTINE’S DAY WITH SAXOPHONIST
DAVID SANCHEZ AND THE GARY MOTLY TRIO
Spend Valentine’s Day with Saxophonist David Sánchez and the Gary Motley Trio
Timeless Music and Unforgettable Performances Await You at Rialto Center!
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: The Beethoven Project Begins this Spring
The Swan Princess Promises a Royally Good Time this February
Shen Yun Brings 5,000 Years of Civilization to Atlanta
Oglethorpe Theatre and Actor’s Express Present Dark Comedy “Marie Antoinette”
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center Warms Your Winter
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Takes a Historical Road Trip with The Watsons Go to Birmingham
Two World Premiers at the Alliance Theatre
Puppetry NOW Explores Raymond Carr’s Work Through Raymond vs Raymond
Celebrate the Holidays and the Arts at the Fox Theatre
Ballethnic’s Urban Nutcracker: A Soulful Holiday Tradition
Start the New Year with ArtsKSU
Power, Madness, and Music: Don’t Miss Verdi’s Macbeth at The Atlanta Opera
Spend Valentine’s Day with Saxophonist David Sánchez and the Gary Motley Trio
On February 13–15, Jazz saxophonist David Sánchez headlines
Emory Jazz Fest 2025 at the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts. The annual three-day festival brings world-class jazz to the community with artist demonstrations, a jazz clinic, and concerts featuring the Gary Motley Trio, Emory Big Band, as well as Sánchez.
Since his early exposure with Dizzy Gillespie’s United Nations Orchestra, Puerto Rican tenor saxophonist and composer David Sánchez has become one of the most celebrated instrumentalists in jazz, recording nine albums as a leader and winning a Latin Grammy Award for his 2004 orchestral session, Coral. The seventime Grammy nominee has performed with a roster of greats including Charlie Haden, Eddie Palmieri, Roy Haynes, Tom Harrell and countless others.
Sanchez’s latest album is the 2019 release Carib, exploring the folkloric music of Haiti. He is also a member of the SFJazz Collective — an all-star octet that has been one of the most prolific ensembles of the
last decade — recognized for its stellar musicians, groundbreaking compositions and innovative takes on the music of some of the world’s most influential artists. Event details and tickets can be found online at schwartz.emory.edu or by calling the Schwartz Center Box Office at 404-727-5050.
All events take place in the Schwartz Center’s Emerson Concert Hall unless otherwise noted.
Jazz Fest 2025 Schedule of Events:
Thursday, Feb. 13 at 2:30 p.m., Lecture/ Demonstration with David Sánchez; Free — No tickets required
Friday, Feb. 14 at 8 p.m., David Sánchez and the Gary Motley Trio; Tickets $30
Saturday, Feb. 15 at 11:30 a.m., Jazz Clinic; Tharp Rehearsal Hall; Free — No tickets required
Saturday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m., Emory Big Band with Gary Motley, Kaleb Thomkins, and Leon Anderson; Free — Tickets required
Schwartz Center for Performing Arts 1700 North Decatur Rd Atlanta, GA 30322
Emory Jazz Fest 2024 by Bill Head
Gary Motley by Bill Head
Daniel Hope by Daniel Waldhecker
Alessio Bax by Marco Borggreve
Emory Big Band by Bill Head
Emmanuel Pahud by Josef Fischnaller
SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK®
by Christopher Robinson
Timeless Music and Unforgettable Performances Await You at Rialto Center!
Immerse yourself in the magic of live music, where history, culture, and timeless classics come together in three spectacular performances. From the powerful harmonies of SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK® to the legendary sounds of The Drifters, The Platters, and The Coasters, followed by New Orleans Songbook A Jazz At Lincoln Center presents Production, these shows promise an unforgettable experience.
Celebrating over 50 years and three Grammy nominations, SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK® is a versatile all-female African American a cappella ensemble that blends powerful harmonies with an American Sign Language interpreter. Founded with the mission of combining education, entertainment, and empowerment, their work spans genres, tackling civil rights, spirituality, and environmentalism. SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK® has earned accolades including a special commission from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Company, as well as appearances in PBS television specials, making this a must-see event for all audiences
Relive the golden era of rock’n’roll with three iconic groups, The Drifters, The Platters, and The Coasters. With hits that defined a generation, including “Under the Boardwalk,” “Only You,” and “Yakety Yak,” these legendary bands are bringing their classic sounds to
Cornell Gunter’s Coasters
the stage. The Drifters, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988, continue to captivate with their timeless tunes. The Platters, with 40 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and their Rock Hall induction in 1990, remain one of the most influential vocal groups in history. And Cornell Gunter’s Coasters, continuing the legacy of their legendary members, bring their high-energy performances of beloved hits.
Experience the heart and soul of New Orleans with an incredible production by New Orleans Songbook A Jazz at Lincoln Center presents Production. This performance honors the iconic music of New Orleans legends like Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, Ellis Marsalis, and James Black. Audiences will be transported to the birthplace of jazz with a collection of timeless songs that capture the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras and the historic center of jazz innovation. March 8, 2025, 8 p.m., prices: $46-$81, Rialto Center for the Arts.
Don’t miss these performances celebrating music, history, and culture! Visit https://rialto.gsu.edu/ for tickets!
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: The Beethoven Project Begins this Spring
Starting this January, Music Director Nathalie Stutzmann and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra are set to deliver a sonic tour of Beethoven’s most memorable works, including all nine symphonies, his Triple Concerto, and Missa solemnis. Delve into this revolutionary figure’s works hear how he evolved during his lifetime from his first symphony to the monumental 9th.
January 23 and 25, your Orchestra kicks off the first concert of the Beethoven Project with the First Symphony. We meet the composer in a public phase of his career, venturing into the concert hall with a work that’s already bending the rules. By the Third Symphony, “Eroica,” he’s confident in a revolutionary vision that would usher in the Romantic age.
January 30, February 1 and 2, audiences can explore opposite sides of Beethoven: the tempest and the humorist. Savor the lesser-known Second Symphony side by side with the rocket-fueled Fifth February 27 and March 1, the ASO continues the Project with Beethoven’s ever-popular “Pastoral” Symphony, the piece that found its way into The Simpsons and Walt Disney’s 1940 animated classic Fantasia.
Then, Maestro Stutzmann conducts a piece that extends Beethoven’s gift for invention and charm — the Eighth Symphony March 6, 8 & 9, the Atlanta Symphony performs in the magnificent Seventh, a piece that bristles with bounding exuberance and rustic charm, yet shimmers with a kind of unfathomable genius. Hear the Seventh Symphony paired with the electric energy of the Fourth Symphony, a piece that Hector Berlioz admired for its contrasts between a “lively, alert, and joyful” spirit and a “heavenly gentleness.”
April 3 and 4, Stutzmann conducts Beethoven’s Triple Concerto, mingling the singing qualities of the violin, cello, and piano with the artistry of the ASO family. Finally, wrapping up the Project for the season, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and acclaimed Chorus perform the monumental, sacred work Missa solemnis, May 8, 10 & 11. For this masterpiece written as an appeal for peace and in praise of God, the ASO welcomes four acclaimed soloists from the world of opera. The ninth symphony will be performed in the fall. For tickets and additional details, visit aso.org/beethovenproject.
The Swan Princess Promises a Royally Good Time this February
Watch your child’s imagination take flight with The Swan Princess this February. This family-friendly adaptation of Swan Lake, performed by Atlanta Ballet 2, features all the mystery and magic of the beloved classic Swan Lake in a one-hour format perfect for ages two and up. The Swan Princess is a great way to introduce young audiences to the elegance and beauty of ballet and provides a valuable educational experience, fostering a love for the arts.
classics such as Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella, created for Atlanta Ballet. Wells’ choreography, paired with the stunning performances of the Atlanta Ballet 2 dancers and a children’s cast from the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education, promises to enchant young audiences and parents alike.
The Swan Princess is performed by Atlanta Ballet 2, Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education’s highest level of training that provides new performance opportunities for the next generation of professional dancers. Atlanta Ballet 2 represents Atlanta Ballet’s continued commitment to training dancers for professional careers and is the pathway to becoming an Atlanta Ballet company member.
The Swan Princess features dazzling choreography from internationally acclaimed choreographer Bruce Wells, who returns to Atlanta for his fifth family ballet production for Atlanta Ballet. You may recognize his work from past family performances such as his world premiere adaptations of fairy tale
The fun doesn’t end after curtains close. Back by popular demand, a royally good time awaits families at ‘The Royal Tea’. Following the matinee performance of The Swan Princess on Sunday, February 16, families can enjoy a child-friendly high tea (with mimosas for the over 21s!) featuring delightful bites and sweet treats. Immerse yourself in the festivities with whimsical face painting, magical moments with our graceful dancers, and plenty of fun arts and crafts. Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite regal attire and prepare for a day of lifelong memories. This enchanting teatime event sold out last year, so act fast! Enjoy this timeless tale and witness the next generation of ballet dancers as The Swan Princess takes the stage February 1516, 2025 at Cobb Energy Centre. For tickets: www.atlantaballet.com/performances/ swan-princess
Atlanta Ballet 2, The Swan Princess Cast, photos by Kim Kenney
Starting this January, Nathalie Stutzmann and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra are set to deliver a sonic tour of Beethoven’s most memorable works, including all nine symphonies, his Triple Concerto, and Missa solemnis. Delve into this revolutionary figure’s works to hear how he evolved during his lifetime from his first symphony to the monumental 9th.
VISIT ASO.ORG FOR DATES AND TICKETS
Shen Yun Brings 5,000 Years of Civilization to Atlanta
Exquisite beauty from the heavens. Profound wisdom from dynasties past. Discover authentic Chinese culture, as Shen Yun Performing Arts, the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, comes to Atlanta’s Symphony Hall in December.
Shen Yun, a New York-based company, was founded in 2006 by an impressive group of Chinese artists. Their dream was to create a renaissance for mankind’s most ancient heritage. Today, their wish has become an international phenomenon.
Shen Yun performs in 150 cities worldwide. With breathtaking dances, gorgeous costumes, live orchestra, and dynamic backdrops, this is a show brimming with themes of courage, hope, and triumph of good over evil. Shen Yun is the world’s only company depicting Chinese culture as it had been before it was nearly destroyed by decades of communist rule.
Each year, the company debuts a new lineup of original music and choreography, ranging from classical Chinese dance to traditional ethnic and folk dance styles to
theatrical depictions of beloved stories. At the performance’s core is classical Chinese dance. This is the same richly expressive art form that had once been performed in front of emperors in palace halls. Today, it has evolved into one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world.
Shen Yun features hundreds of handmade costumes — showcasing apparel from China’s 5,000 years of history. Their exquisite colors blend seamlessly with the animated backdrops, instantly transporting the audience to another world. The animation also contains a few surprises, but those are best left for the performance.
In this holiday season, Shen Yun’s warm embrace of this ancient heritage is a great way to celebrate holidays, and is a highly accessible, enlightening, and entertaining experience.
Shen Yun is at Atlanta Symphony Hall from December 23 to December 27, and at Cobb Energy Centre from Jan 31 to Feb 2. For tickets and more information, visit www.shenyun.com/Atlanta.
Photo courtesy of Shen Yun
A Ritual. A Chosen One. A Sacrifice.
With the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra
February 7–14, 2025
Raw, instinctual and emotionally powerful, Claudia Schreier’s The Rite of Spring tells the story of humanity’s struggle against nature’s inescapable forces. Set to the iconic Stravinsky score.
Paired with Helgi Tomasson’s 7 for Eight, with music by J. S. Bach.
Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Emily Carrico.
Photo by Rachel Neville.
Oglethorpe Theatre and Actor’s Express
Present Dark Comedy “Marie Antoinette”
Oglethorpe University and Actor’s Express are once again storming the stage at the Conant Performing Arts Center this spring—this time with a hilarious and audacious riff on the clattering downfall of the last queen of France — one of history’s most infamous “it girls.”
In a departure from previous collaborations between Oglethorpe and Actor’s Express, “Marie Antoinette” is not a musical. This show depicts the young royal as the product of unadulterated extravagance who accedes to the French throne amid a time of mounting disgust toward her particular brand of aristocratic indulgence. Salacious rumors about Queen Marie churn through the streets, and the popularity of the royal family plummets as the thrum of revolution swells. The clinking of crystal glasses soon devolves into the clatter of the guillotine.
In this modern take on a provocative, historical icon, this young queen’s survival will hardly be a piece of cake.
“Not only is “Marie Antoinette” a funny satire that asks us to stare history in the face in order to better understand the present, it unflinchingly examines the corrupting nature of power,” says Freddie
Ashley, artistic director at Actor’s Express.
“Marie Antoinette” is the fourth consecutive co-production of Oglethorpe and Actor’s Express, the bold, awardwinning theatre company based in Atlanta. This collaboration annually produces the largest, most anticipated live theatre event on Oglethorpe’s campus, drawing visitors from across the state to enjoy top-notch performances featuring Oglethorpe students alongside working professionals. This collaboration is especially impactful for Oglethorpe students, who benefit from the ability to learn and work with industry experts. It’s an invaluable opportunity for students to learn from the best — to hone their craft while still in college, instill a love of the arts, and prepare for a career after graduation.
“Marie Antoinette” will premiere at the Conant Performing Arts Center on Feb. 6. Tickets are on sale at actors-express.com.
Conant Performing Arts Center, the university’s premier venue, stages both student and professional theatre productions and music performances throughout the year. View Oglethorpe’s full calendar of performing arts events, plus exhibitions, lectures, readings, and more at oglethorpe.edu/arts.
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center Warms
Your Winter with Magical Mystery, a Swinging Valentine’s Day, and a Blues Legend
You can always count on Sandy Spring PAC for a lively variety of shows! January brings America’s Got Talent finalist Mike Super, bringing amazing magic and illusions on January 18. Bring family and friends to share in an evening of the impossible when Mike Super returns to our stage with a BRAND NEW show with all new magic! He calls it 2.OH!™ SHOW! because of its newly created jaw-dropping moments. Get ready to be wowed in a brand new way! It’s possible that someone will travel through time, the audience could solve a murder mystery, impossible predictions will be made and minds will be read…all in the first 10 minutes of the show!
On February 14, Crooner Ryan Davis brings his big band, The Chairmen of Swing Orchestra, for a swingin’ Valentine’s Day celebration — a special retro-romantic treat for all those hopeful romantics and love birds everywhere! Ryan and his big band will present the classic love song standards like “Fly Me to the Moon,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” and many more, in Sinatra style. Pull out your sharpest suit, put
on your snazziest dress, call up that special someone, and come join us for a splendid evening of music and romance.
Blues icon. Soul man. Rock and roller. Georgia-born Robert Cray is all these things — and more. In the past half-century, Robert Cray has developed into one of American music’s most singular artists. His commitment to making music of the highest standard has won Cray both a loyal audience and the respect of many of popular music’s most legendary figures. He has shared stages and/or studios with John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Chuck Berry, Albert Collins, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Stevie Ray Vaughan, the Memphis Horns and Hi Rhythm Section. Cray’s stinging guitar playing and soulful voice, and his skills as a band leader and performer mark him as keeper of the flame for American roots music: an artist who never fails to deliver. See him live on February 23. Tickets and information at citysprings.com.
Robert Cray
Ryan Davis
Mike Super
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Takes a Historical Road Trip with The Watsons Go to Birmingham
...on the Octagon Stage from February 6-23
Playwright Cheryl West adapted the popular historical fiction novel The Watsons Go to Birmingham — 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis for the stage. Ten-yearold Kenny chronicles the Watson family’s cross-country road trip from Flint, Michigan to Birmingham, Alabama. The family is heading south because Momma and Dad decide it’s time for Kenny’s teenage brother, Byron, to learn how to stay out of trouble by staying with strict Grandma Sands. The Watsons don’t know they are also driving toward a defining tragic moment in American history.
Don’t miss your chance to subscribe to ASF’s Season 53! The 5-Show Flex subscription is still available, but only through the run of The Watsons Go to Birmingham. The 5-Show Flex package also includes the swashbuckling fun of Ken Ludwig’s Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood; the epic Shakespearean tragedy, Hamlet; the world premiere of Kudzu Calling; and a trip down the musical yellow brick road to see The Wizard of Oz. Subscribe today for exclusive benefits and discounts. Learn more by visiting ASF.net.
On Saturday, February 8, at 12:45 p.m., Alabama Shakespeare Festival will host ASF Insights: The Watsons Go to Birmingham in the Patrons’ Room. Sponsored by Auburn University of Montgomery, ASF Insights is a free discussion series that provides a thought-provoking and behind-the-scenes look at the work on the stage and the art of theatre.
Atlanta ShowGuide readers can receive a 10% discount (on zones A+, A, B, or C) with promo code ATLSHOWGUIDE. Ticket prices range from $30 – $70. Buy tickets online any time at ASF.net, https://tickets.asf.net/ overview/14813 or call the ASF Box Office at 334-271-5353 from noon to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. ASF offers special rates for groups over 10 — book your group today with the official State Theater of Alabama!
Two World Premiers at the Alliance Theatre
The second half of the Alliance Theatre’s 56th season will kick off will the world premiere adaptation of William Steig’s Newberry Award-winning picture book DOCTOR DE SOTO, adapted by playwright Idris Goodwin (Ghost, The Boy Who Kissed the Sky). Full of excitement and laughter, this new play for youth and family audiences proves that even the smallest creatures can make a big difference with kindness and a little quick thinking. DOCTOR DE SOTO will be on the Hertz Stage January 18 through March 2, 2025.
in association with Sonia Friedman Productions, Khaliah Neal and Thomas Swayne, will produce the world premiere of the gripping new play, BUST It’s not only hell that breaks loose in this ground-breaking, form-defying, laugh-out-loud drama from Pulitzer Prize finalist playwright Zora Howard.
“As Atlanta continues to build on its reputation as a creative capital, we’re proud to deepen our commitment to new work with the six world premiere productions included in our 24/25 season,” said Jennings Hertz Artistic Directors Tinashe KajeseBolden and Christopher Moses. “We’re thrilled to share such a wide variety of stories with our Atlanta community — stories that reflect the beautiful diversity of our city, crafted by the finest artists working in our field.”
On The Coca-Cola Stage, the Alliance, in partnership with Goodman Theatre and
In BUST, Retta and Reggie are enjoying their usual evening on the porch when a longtime neighbor is pulled over by the police just before turning into his driveway. Everything goes as expected —until the unexpected happens. Humor, spectacle, and surrealism converge in this interrogation of what it costs to be Black and free. Lileana BlainCruz, a “master of curating chaos” (The New York Times) directs. BUST runs February 13 through March 16, 2025.
“BUST is a very personal play,” said playwright Zora Howard. “The opportunity to bring it to life alongside Lileana — and in the cities of Atlanta and Chicago especially — is a long-time dream come true. We are beyond ready to kick down the walls and welcome folks into its world(s).” www.alliancetheatre.org/bust
Puppetry NOW Explores Raymond Carr’s Work Through Special Museum Exhibition and Performance of Raymond vs Raymond
The Center for Puppetry Arts will present the latest installment of Puppetry NOW, from January 9 to February 23, 2025. Since its debut in 2022, Puppetry NOW has been a Center initiative providing space and support to contemporary puppeteers and artists of color. This year’s exciting exhibition features the work of Raymond Carr, an accomplished filmmaker, director, designer and puppeteer.
Carr is an Atlanta-based artist, celebrated for his award-winning sci-fi, dark fantasy and horror films. Throughout his extensive career, Carr has collaborated with major names like The Jim Henson Company, Nick Jr., Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, BBC, Discovery Channel and Vice TV.
Carr’s exhibition offers an exclusive,
behind-the-scenes look into his creative process. Visitors will gain insight into how Carr brings his imaginative characters to life. The exhibition features a variety of mixed-media puppets, from whimsical marionettes to oversized, dramatic figures. Each piece embodies Carr’s unique blend of humor, absurdity, and emotional depth.
Raymond will return later in the year for The Ninja Puppet Shenaniganza: Raymond vs. Raymond live performance from June 5-15, where Carr’s larger-thanlife characters will be on display with wild humor and physical comedy.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Raymond Carr’s unforgettable contributions to TV, film, and stage.
To purchase tickets or learn more, visit puppet.org.
Photo Courtesy of Raymond Carr
Hip Hop Nutcracker 2023
Celebrate the Holidays and the Arts at the Fox Theatre
The Fox Theatre is Atlanta’s go-to destination for unforgettable holiday entertainment, offering a lineup of festive performances for the whole family. From dazzling acrobatics to heartfelt music, there’s no shortage of holiday magic. Plus, with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returning in February, the season of artistry and celebration extends well into the new year.
Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Twas the Night Before… runs from Nov. 29 through Dec. 15, bringing a thrilling twist to the classic holiday tale. On Dec. 17, A John Legend Christmas invites audiences to an intimate evening of storytelling and songs from Legend’s holiday album, “A Legendary Christmas.”
Families can enjoy the free Merry Mighty Mo & More! on Dec. 18, featuring sing-alongs, Santa photos, and a screening of Elf. For ballet enthusiasts, Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet on Dec. 19–20 offers a spectacular fusion of dance and acrobatics. Jazz fans won’t want to miss Samara Joy:
A Joyful Holiday on Dec. 22, showcasing Grammy-winning vocals.
Post-Christmas, The Hip Hop Nutcracker on Dec. 26 brings a contemporary twist to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music, while Straight No Chaser on Dec. 27 wraps up the season with its signature a cappella harmonies
Looking ahead, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater graces the Fox Theatre stage from Feb. 12–16. As a special holiday treat, enjoy 25% off tickets priced $39 or higher when purchased by Dec. 24 using the code AILEYFAN. This early bird deal makes a perfect holiday gift for arts enthusiasts.
The Marquee Club, with exclusive lounges, rooftop terraces, and gourmet preshow dining, is available for all events and can elevate any visit into a grand celebration. For tickets and the full listing of holiday events, visit foxtheatre.org or call 855-285-8499. Celebrate the holidays in style at the iconic Fox Theatre!
Hip Hop Nutcracker 2023
John Legend Christmas Show 2024
Samara Joy, photo by Meredith Truax
Ballethnic’s Urban Nutcracker: A Soulful Holiday Tradition
Join us this holiday season for the annual fun-filled production of Ballethnic’s Urban Nutcracker December 14 (2 p.m. & 8 p.m.) and December 15 (3 p.m.) at the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel!
As one of the first ethnicized adaptations of the classical ballet, it brings a soulful approach to a classical holiday tradition. Ballethnic’s signature style blends classical ballet with jazz, modern, African, and other ethnic dance forms. This unique and captivating style creates a fast-paced and upbeat performance which delights audiences of all ages and cultures.
The first act, which is set in Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn community, showcases culturally relevant landmarks of the 1940s. It begins with the party scene which features the Reggae Ragdolls who twirl and flip through hoops, and culminates with a beautiful Pas De Deux in a snowy winter wonderland. In the second act, a wholesome Mother Spice and high-flying Spice Drops paint the stage with acrobatics and flips, while the Black
Russians bring an urban flair to a classic role. Waverly T. Lucas II, co-founder and co-artistic director, proudly states that “many of the movements [were inspired by] young males playing basketball or break dancing. It is athletic and funky, and the audience goes crazy over it.”
Ballethnic’s Urban Nutcracker showcases performers of all ages and levels. Students as young as three years old from the Kiddie Ballethnicize program, which focuses on movement fundamentals, motor development, and music, will be performing alongside senior citizens from the Engele Edeliegba Senior Dance Ensemble, the eldest of whom is 77 years old.
Please spread the word to your family and friends as this production is sure to bring communities together in joy and delight this holiday season!
For more info or to get your Urban Nutcracker tickets visit us at www.eventbrite.com/cc/urbannutcracker-2024-3736229.
Urban Nutcracker Sirk Photography
Start the New Year with ArtsKSU
Relax after the holiday rush and begin the new year inspired by the arts, close to home. The College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University will welcome 2025 with numerous ArtsKSU events. Leave your 2024 worries behind and start the new year with inspiration from art and design, dance, theatre, and music.
The Bailey School of Music will welcome pianist Robert Koenig to the Morgan Concert Hall stage on January 13 at 7:30 p.m. The Canadian artist has performed to great acclaim as a collaborative pianist and chamber musician. He has graced New York’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center. His performance will feature solo piano works and faculty collaborations.
Over 200 students and faculty members will showcase their specialties in the Bailey School of Music’s Collage Concert on Feb. 8 at 3 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. at the Bailey Performance Center. Proceeds and donations from this event help support scholarships to make the study of music more affordable for KSU students.
Sewing Circles
Students in the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies will immerse themselves into William Shakespeare’s world in the Feb. 13-23 production of “Macbeth.” Don’t miss this epic adventure into the realms of witchcraft, madness, and death, all in the cozy confines of the Stillwell Theater on the Kennesaw campus.
Artist and teacher Annet Couwenberg will showcase her work of marrying traditional textile techniques with digital technology in “Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles.”
The Zuckerman Museum of Art, a unit of the School of Art and Design, will host the works Jan. 28 through May 10. Featured projects highlight expanding technological parameters related to textiles and fabrics, and their specific application in a variety of fields.
On the Marietta campus, the Department of Dance will host Anne Plamondon in “Myokine” Feb. 14-15 at the KSU Dance Theater. An exceptional dancer, Plamondon traces her path as a choreographer in this new creation. “Myokine” focuses on the body in its entirety and lets its voice emerge to express very current concerns.
Buy tickets online or call 470-578-6650 ticketing.kennesaw.edu.
Power, Madness, and Music: Don’t Miss Verdi’s Macbeth at The Atlanta Opera
Journey into the heart of ambition, power, and madness with The Atlanta Opera’s upcoming production of Giuseppi Verdi’s Macbeth. Based on Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, Verdi’s operatic masterpiece breathes life into the intense drama of Macbeth’s rise and fall, delivering a visceral blend of haunting music and gripping storytelling. At the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, performances are Saturday March 1, Tuesday March 4, Friday March 7, Sunday matinee March 9. Featuring a world-class cast and a visionary production team, Macbeth promises to be an unforgettable experience. Baritone Michael Mayes takes on the role of the tormented Macbeth, whose unchecked ambition drives him to unspeakable acts. Opposite him, soprano Sara Gartland brings fiery intensity to Lady Macbeth, a character whose thirst for power matches her husband’s but whose guilt ultimately consumes her. Atlanta’s internationally acclaimed bass-baritone Morris Robinson is the righteous but ill-fated Banquo.
This production highlights Verdi’s genius, from his ominous, spine-chilling choruses to the poignant arias that delve into the psyches of the doomed characters. Under the baton of conductor Iván López Reynoso and the innovative direction of Tomer Zvulun, Macbeth will captivate audiences with its dramatic setting, evocative action, and a bold interpretation that develops the opera’s psychological depth. Whether you’re a longtime opera lover or experiencing Verdi for the first time, Macbeth at The Atlanta Opera is a mustsee. Don’t miss this iconic work, where the supernatural and the all-too-human collide in an explosive tale of ambition and its consequences.
Tickets start at $52 and are now on sale for all performances. Call to ask about free tickets to veterans and active military (Box Office: 404-881-8885). Sung in Italian with English supertitles. Reserve your seat today and immerse yourself in the gripping world of Macbeth! Tickets and more information at Atlantaopera.org.
Humor, spectacle, and surrealism converge in this gripping interrogation of what it costs to be Black and free. BUST premieres on the Coca Cola Stage at the Alliance Theatre, February 13 through March 16, 2025. It’s not only hell that breaks loose in this form-defying, laugh-out-loud new drama from Pulitzer Prize finalist playwright Zora Howard. Retta and Reggie are enjoying their usual evening on the porch when a longtime neighbor is pulled over by the police just before turning into his driveway. Everything goes as expected — until the unexpected happens. Lileana Blain-Cruz directs. https://www.alliancetheatre.org/ bust.
Residence Claudia Schreier add their names to the historic list of those preserving and reinventing The Rite of Spring, bringing a fresh take on the seminal classic this February. Set to the iconic Stravinsky score, performed with mystery and majesty by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra.
Sharing the program will be 7 for Eight by Helgi Tomasson. 7 for Eight brings fluid, dramatic choreography intertwining eight dancers with the sumptuous melodies of seven Johann Sebastian Bach movements, performed by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. www.atlantaballet.com/performances/ the-rite-of-spring.
Experience the Power of Verdi’s Macbeth at The Atlanta Opera
March 1 – 9 at Cobb
Energy Performing Arts Centre
Alabama Shakespeare Festival ushers in 2025 with The Watsons Go to Birmingham Alabama Shakespeare Festival ushers in 2025 with a story about fear and change mixed with love and humor in The Watsons Go to Birmingham on the Octagon Stage February 6-23. Based on the book by Christopher Paul Curtis, the play chronicles the events the Watson family faces as they drive from Michigan to Alabama in the early fall of 1963. Their arrival in Birmingham coincides with a tragic, defining moment in American history and the Civil Rights Movement. Atlanta ShowGuide readers can receive a 10% discount (on zones A+, A, B, or C) with promo code ATLSHOWGUIDE. Buy tickets at ASF.net.
Ring in the new year with unforgettable performances at Atlanta Ballet. Raw, instinctual and emotionally powerful, world premiere The Rite of Spring tells the story of humanity’s struggle against nature’s inescapable forces. Atlanta Ballet and Choreographer-in-
A world of ambition, power, and madness ends with ultimate justice in The Atlanta Opera’s stunning production of Verdi’s Macbeth. Based on Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy, this operatic masterpiece brings intense drama and haunting music to life. Baritone Michael Mayes and soprano Sara Gartland lead a world-class cast, exploring the dark depths of human desire and guilt. Under the baton of Ivan Lopez Reynoso and visionary direction of Tomer Zvulun, this production promises evocative staging and psychological intensity. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music and storytelling. Tickets are on sale now — secure your seat for an extraordinary operatic experience! Tickets and information at AtlantaOpera.org.
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Family Concerts Return This Spring
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Family Concerts Return This Spring
The ASO’s Family Concerts are back this Spring for child-sized concerts and interactive
ATLANTA SPOTLIGHTS WINTER
pre-concert activities. Join the Orchestra for storytelling and your favorite classical music, designed with children ages 6 to 12 in mind, but fun for the whole family!
On Sunday, February 16, experience the rhythm of friendship and love at I Love Music – Valentine’s Day Concert
Sunday, April 27, blast off on a galactic journey with Out of This World – Symphonic Space Adventure.
For tickets and more information, visit aso.org/family-concerts.
Love and Laughter at The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse
Shakespeare’s most famous lyrical comedy returns in January to start the year off with love and laughter. Can four young men attempt to honor their pledge to avoid love, food, drink and sleep, for the sake of becoming more intellectual and contemplative? Not in Shakespeare’s world! After four young
women arrive on the scene, the result is far from a blissful pondering of noble deeds and nobler thoughts. As has been the tradition at The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse for over 20 years, Romeo and Juliet can also be seen in February. ShakespeareTavern.com
The new hit musical, King Of Pangea, is making its home here at Aurora Theatre!
After a breakout hit with audiences at the National Alliance for Musical Theatre
New Musical Festival, The new hit musical, King Of Pangea, is making its home here at Aurora Theatre! Drawing inspiration from the playwright’s own experiences, this fantasy musical memoir intertwines realism, humor, and whimsy, reminiscent of the enchanting adventure found in The Wizard of Oz. Following the sudden loss of his mother, 21-year-old Christopher
Emerson Concert Hall, photo by Mark Teague
Crow embarks on a poignant journey back to the imaginary island of Pangea, a whimsical realm he and his mother created together during his childhood. Along the way, Christopher encounters transformed versions of his family, who embody the vibrant characters of his childhood imagination. As Christopher navigates this fantastical landscape, he seeks answers to heal his shattered heart and put the pieces of his life back together. Making its way to Aurora Theatre, audiences will discover that hope is the true way back home, and the journey to reclaim one’s identity is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the magic that binds us. auroratheatre.com
Ballethnic’s Urban Nutcracker takes the Stage
This spirited holiday tradition, choreographed by Waverly T. Lucas II, returns to Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel December 14-15. Act I of this soulful ballet
is set in Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn community of the 1940’s, while Act II whisks the audience to a decadent and chocolatey wonderland. As one of the first ethnicized adaptations of the classical ballet, it features Reggae Ragdolls, a sultry Arabian duet, buoyant Black Russians, wholesome Mother Spice and high-flying Spice Drops, bubbly Coca-Cola Pas de Six, and the elegant Brown Sugar and Chocolatier. For ticketing information, visit www.eventbrite.com/cc/ urban-nutcracker-2024-3736229
Celebrate Classical Arts Entertainment’s 10th Anniversary Experience
“Swan Lake,” performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine, on February 21, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Byers Theatre, Sandy Springs, GA. This full-scale production by Classical Arts Entertainment features Tchaikovsky’s iconic score and choreography by Petipa and Ivanov. Witness
Midori with Festival Strings Lucerne 2021, by Fabrice Umiglia
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the elegance of Ukrainian dancers, the Little Swans variation, and Odile’s 32 fouettés amid over 200 custom scenery pieces. Celebrate Classical Arts Entertainment’s 10th anniversary with this visual masterpiece. View the 2024-2025 North American Tour at www.classicalarts.net
Squirrel Stole My Underpants and Rainforest Adventures at the Center for Puppetry Arts
Squirrel Stole My Underpants (January 8-19, 2025) is a poignantly silly adventure for all ages. When a mischievous squirrel steals Sylvie’s favorite piece of clothing, she follows it into a magical world that emerges from her laundry basket. Also, don’t miss out on Rainforest Adventures (February 6-March 9, 2025). This engaging and educational experience takes audiences deep into the Amazonian rainforest and uses captivating storytelling to showcase the region’s diverse wildlife while highlighting the importance of environmental conservation. Grab your tickets now for these unforgettable experiences at puppet.org.
An electrifying co-production hits the Conant stage at Oglethorpe University Feb. 6-23.
For the fourth consecutive year, Oglethorpe University has teamed up with award-winning Atlanta theatre company Actor’s Express to present another captivating performance. This year’s production is Marie Antoinette, a hilarious and audacious riff on the clattering downfall of the last queen of France — one of history’s most infamous “it girls.” Queen Marie is young, indulgent, and hardly prepared to face the ire of a country fed up with royalty. As tensions mount, she soon realizes that her survival will hardly be a piece of cake. Tickets at actors-express.com.
DeKalb History Center’s 17th Annual Black History Month Celebration
This year’s celebration highlights the diversity of the Caribbean diaspora in the metro Atlanta area. Monica Foderingham’s presentation showcases unique aspects of Caribbean culture such as food, film, and music, while Charmaine Hooke-Powell discusses her immigration journey to
Silkroad Ensemble, photo by Adam Gurczak
the U.S. and the challenges of assimilation. The program also features live musical selections and a delicious Caribbean meal.
The celebration takes place on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 11 am – 1 pm at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse.
Tickets will go on sale in January. Visit dekalbhistory.org for details.
The Fox Theatre brings joy this season with an array of holiday performances!
Highlights include Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil, A John Legend Christmas, and the enchanting Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet. Celebrate New Year’s cheer with The Hip Hop Nutcracker and a capella sensations, Straight No Chaser. Looking ahead, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater graces the stage Feb. 12–16. Don’t miss the early bird holiday discount for tickets purchased by Dec. 24. Explore the full lineup and get tickets at foxtheatre.org or call 855-285-8499. Celebrate the season at Atlanta’s iconic Fox Theatre!
The Holly Theatre Showcases the Vast Talents of our Georgia Mountains Region
The Holly Theatre, Dahlonega, is a historic, 300-seat community theater featuring small-town charm and big-town quality. The Holly provides a choice for every taste from our current productions like The Mystery of Edwin Drood to various cover bands like Troubadour Project, 70’s Rock Revival (Tickets at hollytheater.com). We showcase the vast talents of our Georgia mountains region: old-timey traditions of singin’, fiddlin’, and strummin’ translate into musical experiences that give Broadway a run for its money!
KSU to Present “Macbeth”Venture into Witchcraft, Madness, and Death
KSU to present “Macbeth”Venture into witchcraft, madness, and death with “Macbeth” Feb. 13-23 from Kennesaw State University Department of Theatre and Performance Studies. Scottish general Macbeth receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he
will become King of Scotland. Consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, Macbeth murders King Duncan and takes the Scottish throne for himself. Wracked with guilt and paranoia, he commits more murders to protect himself from enmity and suspicion. He soon becomes a tyrant, leading to a bloody civil war. Tickets are available online at artsksu.com or call 470-578-6650.
Out Front Theatre Celebrates the Holidays with Murder on the Polar Express
The World’s Foremost Drag Detective” Shirley Holmes boards the world’s most elegant train with her sidekick Dr. Jody Watley and twelve other unsavory characters, all en route to the North Pole for a much-needed Christmas vacation. But not so fast: there’s a psycho killer onboard! Holiday mystery ensues on an excursion filled with greed, deception, eggnog, and festive bloodshed! Suspects include Santa, Rudolph, Elsa, Frosty, Virgin Mary, and more. Tickets can be purchased at www. OutFrontTheatre.com
Celebrate excellence in arts education with students at Pace Academy. The independent college-preparatory school serves 1,150 students in Pre-First through 12th grade and provides the highest level of artistic experience and knowledge by embedding study of the visual and performing arts in its curriculum for all ages. Theatrical productions, concerts and arts exhibitions are open to the public. Learn more at paceacademy.org/arts.
Experience the Magic of Timeless Music!
Celebrate history and culture with three unforgettable performances.
SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK® has 50 years of powerful a cappella harmonies, blending song, dance, and American Sign Language to promote education and entertainment. Relive the golden era of rock’n’roll with The Drifters, The Platters, and The Coasters, as they perform timeless hits like “Under the Boardwalk” and “Only You.” Finally, immerse yourself in the soulful spirit of New Orleans
Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer, and Zakir Hussain in concert, photo by Sachyn Mital
with New Orleans Songbook A Jazz at Lincoln Center presents Production, featuring classics from legends like Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton. Don’t miss these iconic performances! Visit rialto.gsu.edu/ for tickets!
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center warms your winter with Magical Mystery, a Swinging Valentine’s Day, and a Blues Legend
You can always count on Sandy Spring PAC for a lively variety of shows! January brings America’s Got Talent finalist Mike Super, bringing jaw-dropping magic and illusions for the whole family on January 18. Ryan Davis channels Ol’ Blue Eyes with his big band for a retroromantic Valentine’s Day show, and blues rocker Robert Cray blesses us with some of the many hits from his 50-year career on February 23.Tickets and information at sandyspringspac.com
Flutist Emmanuel Pahud Makes His Schwartz Center Debut! Experience the incomparable flutist Emmanuel Pahud as he and pianist Alessio Bax kick off the 2025 concerts on January 24 at 8 p.m. After enjoying this classical concert of Bach, Mozart, and Bacri, come back for the annual Emory Jazz Fest, featuring saxophonist David Sánchez, the Gary Motley Trio, and the Emory Big Band. Jazz Fest runs February 13–15 with master classes, demonstrations, and concerts. Become a Schwartz Center subscriber and save money by selecting four or more concerts. Subscription packages and single tickets are on sale at schwartz. emory.edu, or by calling 404.727.5050.
School Street Playhouse has some wonderful talent coming your way. Make an evening with family and friends and enjoy the ambience of a historic
Legendary dance photographer Richard Calmes just published his new book! It features his favorite images from the last 6 years of his work!
You can see a preview and purchase here at richardcalmes.com (and click on books)
theatre and amazing acting. December will be full of the holiday spirit with our classic A Christmas Carol. January will be rocking with a band from tribute of the Doobie Brothers and Joe Cocker. Following up in February with the smash Broadway hit “Rock of Ages the Musical”. Tickets can be purchased on our website at www.schoolstreetplayhouse.com.
Shen Yun Lets You Experience China Before Communism
Dust off your memory of what a more compassionate world used to be like. And experience China before communism. Shen Yun is a beautiful display of goodness, wisdom, and faith. Its timeless legends celebrate valor and traditional virtues. For our world today, it is a message of hope.Based in New York, Shen Yun’s mission is to revive the best of 5,000 years of civilization. Combining the expressivity and athleticism of classical Chinese dance with an East-West live orchestra and innovative backdrops, Shen Yun is being hailed as a breakthrough in performing arts.
Woodward Academy Empowers Students to Thrive
From pre-K to 12th grade, Woodward Academy empowers students to thrive through academic excellence and character-building experiences. Offering 25 AP courses, 100+ student clubs, and championship athletics, Woodward fosters creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. Our inclusive community teaches respect and compassion, preparing students for success in today’s world. With opportunities like STEM programs, global study abroad, and Maymester enrichment, students gain real-world experiences. Located on two metro Atlanta campuses, Woodward serves families from 20 counties, ensuring every child has the chance to grow,
lead, and make a difference. Learn more at info.woodward.edu/inquire.
The Robert Ray Christmas Special
“The Robert Ray Christmas Special” has been a smash sellout for the past 3 seasons and this year’s rendition takes on a more uptempo vibe while repeating everyone’s absolute favorites like “The Prayer”...”Merry Christmas Darling” and “Oh Holy Night.”Look forward to new versions of “The First Noel”...”What Child is This” and a rousing Gospel Finale of “Children Go Where I Send Thee” followed by a Complimentary Champagne Reception. The show features a 7-piece Orchestra and 10 of Atlanta’s top Opera and Broadway Singers. Purchase tickets through Robert’s Venmo...$100 VIP or $60 General...@broadwayboy80
A High Energy, Electrifying, Kwanzaa Celebration
In 1998, cultural dance artist, Terrie Ajile Axam was named Kwanzaa Queen by the Creative Loafing. In 2023, on behalf of WXXI PBS, Ajile was featured in an award winning Kwanzaa documentary. On Saturday, December 28, 2024, Total Dance/ Dancical Productions, will produce their 27th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration featuring the traditional holiday performance, Girl Why You Dance Like That? Fusion, from Africa to hip hop. Fusion was conceptualized in 1994 from a speech by the Grammy awardwinning rap group Arrested Development and written by Ajile. From 1994-1997, this national production toured over 150 colleges and has now become a traditional Kwanzaa holiday presentation. Learn more at dancicalproductions.com
School Street
woodward.edu/inquire
ATLANTA PERFORMANCE GUIDE WINTER
As of press time the following events are scheduled, but may be subject to change
KIDS
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER
Family Performance
Now-12/29/24
Prices: ($26.75-$42.00)
Center for Puppetry Arts
1404 Spring St NW
TIX: 404-873-3391 puppet.org
SQUIRREL STOLE MY UNDERPANTS
Family Performance
1/8/24-1/19/24
Prices: $20.50-$22.75
The Gottabees of Boston, MA
Center for Puppetry Arts
1404 Spring St NW
TIX: 404-873-3391 EXT 0 puppet.org
RAINFOREST ADVENTURES
Family Performance
1/28/25 - 3/2/25
Prices: $20.50-$22.75
Center for Puppetry Arts
1404 Spring St NW at 18th
TIX: 404-873-3391 EXT 0 puppet.org
THEATRE
MURDER ON THE POLAR EXPRESS
12/12/24-12/22/24 Prices: $35
Out Front Theatre Company
999 Brady Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
TIX: 404-448-2755 www.outfronttheatre.com
LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST
1/11-26/25 Prices: $25-$50
Atlanta Shakespeare Company
The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse
499 Peachtree St NE Atlanta GA 30308
TIX: 404-874-5299 ShakespeareTavern.com
STUDENTS COMPANY FOR MUSICAL THEATRE (SCMT) SHOWCASE
1/12/25, 7:30 p.m. Price: Free
Kennesaw State Department of Theatre & Performance Studies
Stillwell Theater
471 Bartow Ave NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144
TIX: No ticket required.
MIKE SUPER – MAGIC & ILLUSION
1/18/24 Prices: $33+
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center
1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA 30328
TIX: 770-206-2022 sandyspringspac.com
ANDREW STANLEY:
Comedy Special Taping 2/1/25 Prices: $73-$106
Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Rd Atlanta, GA 30305
TIX: (404) 843 2825 www.thebuckheadtheatre.com
ROMEO AND JULIET
2/1/25-3/2/25 Prices: $25-$50
Atlanta Shakespeare Company
The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse
499 Peachtree St NE Atlanta GA 30308
TIX: 404-874-5299 ShakespeareTavern.com
MARIE ANTOINETTE
2/6 – 23/25 Prices: $23 - $50
Oglethorpe University and Actor’s Express
Conant Performing Arts Center
4484 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30319
TIX: 404-607-7469 actors-express.com
THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM
2/6-2/23/25 Prices: $30 – $70
Alabama Shakespeare Festival
Octagon Stage — Alabama Shakespeare Festival 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117
TIX: 334-271-5353 ASF.net
https://tickets.asf.net/overview/14813
ATLANTA PERFORMANCE GUIDE WINTER
MACBETH
2/13-2/23/25 Price: $20
Kennesaw State Department of Theatre & Performance Studies
