ATTRACTIONS
Arts Center Where to see a show, take a class, add to your collection, and admire masterpieces BY KELUNDRA SMITH
nce a relatively sleepy suburb, Gwinnett County is now home to some of the best arts and culture venues in metro Atlanta. Gone are the days when Gwinnettians had to drive to the heart of the city to see the work of internationally renowned artists or a Broadway musical. Here are five essential stops on your Gwinnett arts tour.
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Studio time Driving past the rail yards in Buford, it’s easy to miss Tannery Row Artist Colony, but those who wander into the 20-studio complex will not find themselves lost. Every day from noon to 4 p.m., visitors can stop in to see (and purchase) an array of paintings, pottery, jewelry, and sculptures. After strolling through the studios, grab a bite to eat at the attached Tannery Row Ale House.
Stage presence
Beyond top-notch productions of contemporary dramas and Tony Award–winning musicals (“Mary Poppins,” “Memphis,” and “In the Heights,” to name a few), Lawrenceville’s Aurora Theatre also hosts stand-up comedy, children’s shows, and cultural nights. Employing more artists than any other theater in the state, Aurora will be getting a new home following the completion of a state-of-the-art performing arts complex in downtown Lawrenceville later this year. 52 • EXPLORE GWINNET T
