Atlanta is a thriving cultural hub with a performing arts scene that blends historic charm and modern innovation. From grand theaters hosting Broadway productions to smaller, experimental venues pushing creative boundaries, the city offers a rich variety of performances year-round. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a music lover, or someone looking for a unique night out, Atlanta has a stage for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the city’s most iconic and emerging theaters, highlighting must-see performances, hidden gems, and the best venues for live entertainment.
Historic Theaters in Atlanta
1. The Fox Theatre – Atlanta’s Iconic Venue
The Fox Theatre is one of the most famous landmarks in Atlanta. Originally built in the 1920s as a movie palace, it now serves as a premier performing arts venue known for its stunning Moorish architecture, opulent interiors, and grand stage.
- Must-See Shows: Broadway productions, classic film screenings, live music concerts
- Location: Midtown Atlanta
- Fun Fact: The Fox Theatre houses “Mighty Mo,” one of the largest theater organs in the world.
Each year, the Fox Theatre welcomes top Broadway productions like The Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked, drawing thousands of visitors to its historic stage.
2. Alliance Theatre – Home to New & Classic Productions
Situated in the Woodruff Arts Center, the Alliance Theatre is a Tony Award-winning institution that plays a crucial role in Atlanta’s arts scene. Known for its commitment to developing new plays and musicals, this venue has premiered works that later made their way to Broadway.
- Must-See Shows: World premieres, family-friendly productions, reimagined classics
- Location: Midtown Atlanta
- Fun Fact: The Alliance Theatre helped launch The Color Purple musical, which later became a Broadway hit.
Modern & Experimental Theater Venues
3. Actor’s Express – Bold & Innovative Performances
For those seeking something different, Actor’s Express is the place to go. This cutting-edge theater company is known for its contemporary and thought-provoking productions.
- Must-See Shows: Modern dramas, LGBTQ+ stories, socially relevant plays
- Location: West Midtown
- Fun Fact: Actor’s Express frequently showcases new playwrights and unconventional storytelling techniques.
4. Horizon Theatre Company – Intimate & Locally-Driven Shows
Located in Little Five Points, Horizon Theatre Company is one of the city’s best spots for experiencing fresh, offbeat performances.
- Must-See Shows: Original works, comedies, and socially relevant plays
- Location: Little Five Points
- Fun Fact: Horizon Theatre is known for producing work by Southern playwrights, showcasing Atlanta’s rich storytelling culture.
Performing Arts & Dance Companies
5. Atlanta Ballet – A Legacy of Dance
Founded in 1929, the Atlanta Ballet is one of the oldest professional dance companies in the U.S. It combines classical ballet with modern choreography, appealing to both traditional ballet lovers and contemporary dance fans.
- Must-See Shows: The Nutcracker, contemporary dance showcases, world premieres
- Location: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
- Fun Fact: Atlanta Ballet was the first U.S. ballet company to perform in China.
6. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra – World-Class Music Performances
For fans of live orchestral music, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is a must-visit. The ASO performs everything from classical compositions to live film score concerts.
- Must-See Shows: Beethoven’s symphonies, live movie score performances, holiday concerts
- Location: Woodruff Arts Center
- Fun Fact: The ASO has won multiple Grammy Awards for its recordings.
Smaller Theaters & Hidden Gems
7. Dad’s Garage Theatre Company – Improv & Comedy
If you love comedy and improv, Dad’s Garage Theatre Company is a must-visit. Known for its quick-witted performers and unpredictable shows, this venue offers some of the best live comedy in Atlanta.
- Must-See Shows: Improv comedy nights, original comedic plays
- Location: Old Fourth Ward
- Fun Fact: Many performers from Dad’s Garage have gone on to work in TV and film.
8. Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse – A Taste of the Classics
For fans of the Bard, the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is a unique venue offering live Shakespearean performances in an old-world setting, complete with traditional pub-style dining.
- Must-See Shows: Romeo & Juliet, Macbeth, Hamlet
- Location: Downtown Atlanta
- Fun Fact: This is one of the few venues in the U.S. dedicated to performing Shakespeare’s works in an authentic, interactive setting.
Best Time to Experience Atlanta’s Performing Arts Scene
While performances happen year-round, the best time to experience Atlanta’s performing arts scene is during the fall and winter months. Many theaters premiere new productions in the fall, and holiday-themed shows like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol attract large audiences.
For those visiting in the spring and summer, outdoor theater events and music festivals offer a different but equally exciting experience.
Atlanta’s theaters and performing arts scene cater to a wide range of tastes, from Broadway-style spectacles at the Fox Theatre to intimate experimental productions at Actor’s Express. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always a new performance to discover in this dynamic city.
Plan your next theater outing and immerse yourself in Atlanta’s vibrant performing arts culture!
