PHOTO BY GREG MOONEY North G Arts&Entertainment Editions/December_2017_Digital... · String Jan....

1 B S M O K E S I G N A L S | A R T S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T DECEMBER 2017

BY CHRISTOPHER BARKER

Gilmer Arts has been enriching lives for almost 40 years and continues to expand opportunities in visual, literary

and performing arts for north Georgians.Gov. and Mrs. Nathan Deal recognized

the organization’s creative contributions in October, including Gilmer Arts among 12 organizations given the sixth annual Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. The 12 chosen from statewide nominations received handcrafted pottery created by 12 Georgia potters, including local potter Sheryl Holstein.

“The first lady and I are longtime supporters of the arts, humanities and expressions of creativity,” said Deal in

announcing award recipients. “These awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to Georgia’s economic, civic and cultural vitality. Our state’s creative industries provide some 200,000 jobs for Georgians and generate $62.5 billion in economic impact.”

The Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce nominated Gilmer Arts for the award, recognizing the growth of the arts organization that has served the county for almost four decades.

“We’ve had a big year,” says Gilmer Arts President Sharon Watkins. “We’ve built the Playhouse and renovated our existing [art] gallery. It’s not just construction; our programs have greatly expanded, too. We’re able to do so much more than previously.”

In June 2015, Gilmer Arts bought the 1940s building at 135 Dalton St. in downtown Ellijay for new theater space. The George Link Jr. Charitable Trust provided a gift to get the renovation started, and a $150,000 grant in May 2016 from the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s tourism program moved it further along. By December 2016, donations and volunteer efforts had raised $565,000, more than the original goal of $500,000, and the George Link Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse officially opened Labor Day weekend.

Gilmer Arts formed in 1979, and the volunteers in what was initially called the Gilmer Arts Council began their service in a small, rented building, bringing touring exhibits, arts education and instructional programming. The Gilmer Arts Council initially focused on dance and music lessons for children, says Watkins.

A two-year Community Development

Grant awarded in 1986 funded the hiring of a part-time administrative director and rental of a larger building to house office and exhibit space.

Gilmer Arts Council incorporated as a non-profit in 1991, changed its name to Gilmer Arts and Heritage Association (GAHA) to include Gilmer’s cultural heritage and artistic treasures and moved to the larger Perry House that provided more space for an office, workshops, classes and the gallery. Since then, the Native American and Civil War artifacts, farm implements and other historic items have moved to the Tabor House in Ellijay, where the Gilmer County Historical Society catalogues and preserves the area’s history. “There’s a huge interest in genealogy here,” adds Watkins.

In 2005, Gilmer Arts bought and renovated Hawthorne Hall at 207 Dalton St., creating classroom, gallery and performance space. The new building gave member artists the opportunity to exhibit their work collectively and individually.

In the early 1990s, GAHA debuted its flagship B.E.S.T. (Bringing Ellijay Sensational Talent) series that has brought Rita Coolidge, Ricky Scaggs, Asleep at the Wheel, Mark O’Conner, John Jorgenson, Sandy Patti, Jerry Reed, Kathy Mattea, Jimmy Webb, Mickey Rooney, Ralph Stanley, the Atlanta Boy Choir, the “Nutcracker” ballet, Sha Na Na, the Atlanta Symphony and Atlanta Pops Orchestra and other well-known performers to Gilmer County.

Upcoming B.E.S.T. performers include Mountain Faith Band Dec. 9, Three on a String Jan. 20, guitarist Doyle Dykes Feb. 10, Celtic Women vocalist Chloe Agnew and Dermot Kiernan in a St. Patrick’s celebration March 3 and Canadian CMA award-winner Jim Witter and his band in a Lennon/McCartney revue April 21.

B.E.S.T. performances are at Ellijay Elementary School with general admission tickets $27.50, plus taxes and processing

North GeorGia

Arts&EntertainmentDECEMBER 2017 | The area’s most comprehensive events guide and calendar | COVERING ATLANTA & NORTH GEORGIA

n GILMER ARTS | Page 6

The Alliance Theatre has presented Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” the past 27 years, and this year the Alliance is taking the traditional holiday show to Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre while the Alliance’s theater is renovated.

David de Vries – who played Lumiere in the Broadway production of “Beauty and the Beast” – returns as Ebenezer Scrooge, and other returning cast members are Cynthia D. Barker (Mrs. Cratchit), Je Nie Fleming (Mrs. Fezziwi/Mrs. Dilber), Thomas Neal Antwon Ghant (Bob Cratchit), Bart Hansard (Mr. Fezziwig/Christmas Present), Andrew Benator (Jacob Marley), Joe Knezevich (Fred), Courtney Patterson (Christmas Past), Laurie Williamson (Bess) and Marco Schittone (Tiny Tim), who played in the Alliance’s world premiere of “Tuck Everlasting” and continued in that role when the show opened on Broadway in 2016.

Rosemary Newcott directs the cast that also includes Caleb Bautmann, Lowrey Brown, Alex Cheeks, Shelli Delgado, Jeremiah Parker Hobbs, Margaret Ivey, Marcie Millard, Clayton Mote, J. Koby Parker, Shay Pretty, Noa Miryan Tsur, Brian Walker and Alex Zeiler.

In this tale of redemption, Scrooge is visited by ghosts offering him a chance at a better future. His old partner, Jacob Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future teach him it is never too late to change.

Performances Dec. 8-24 are at various times listed at www.alliancetheatre.org, and tickets start at $20 ($14 for children) at www.ticketmaster.com. Rates for groups of 10 or more are at 404-733-4690.

Alliance’s ‘Christmas Carol’ at Cobb Energy Centre

David De Vries is Ebenezer Scrooge (left) and Andrew Benator is Jacob Marley in the Alliance Theatre annual production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ Dec. 8-24. PHOTO BY GREG MOONEY

ATLANTA

Gilmer Arts among best in Georgia

Gilmer Arts has recently renovated its art gallery, giving local and outside artists a place to exhibit their work.

The Georgia Mountain String Band is one of the musical acts that Gilmer Arts has brought to Ellijay.

The popular Atlanta band Banks & Shane perform in the new George Link Jr. Playhouse, which is being used for musical and theatrical shows.

“In June 2015, Gilmer Arts bought the 1940s

building at 135 Dalton St. in downtown Ellijay for new theater space. The

George Link Jr. Charitable Trust provided a gift to get

the renovation started, and a $150,000 grant in

May 2016 from the Georgia Department of Economic

Development’s tourism program moved

it further along.”


A publication to highlight arts, entertainment and cultural events across North Georgia.

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What’s Inside | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

December Calendar: Light up Blue Ridge gingerbread house display • 5

bigcanoenews.com/art-entertainment

‘Christmas Carol’ at Cobb Energy Centre .. 1Gilmer Arts ....................................... 1, 6-8Holiday fun at the High ........................... 2Big Canoe Photo Club .............................. 2Big Canoe Artists ClubArtist Of The Month ................................. 4December Calendar ................................. 5‘Christmas at Sweet Apple’ ...................... 8Holiday Collection ................................... 9Reinhardt art exhibit ............................... 10Scuba Claus at Tennessee Aquarium ....... 10‘Phantom’ sequel at Fox ........................ 11

‘Snow Queen’ at Serenbe ....................... 12National Christmas Tree ornaments ........ 12Atlanta Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’ at Fox ......... 132018 Holly concerts ............................... 14

ATLANTA

BY RHONDA STOCK

The members of the Big Canoe Photography Club wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season! We

also thank the community for the support you have given us during the past year, particularly during our recent exhibition.

If you haven’t seen our work yet, please check out our newly designed website: www.bigcanoephotographyclub.org. Better yet, join us for a meeting. New members, regardless of current level of photographic ability, are always welcome. The meetings are on the second Saturday of each month, 9:30 a.m., in the Club Room, lower level of The Clubhouse at Lake Sconti. Our next meeting will be Saturday, Dec. 9, and will feature Atlanta photographer, John Mariana (www.jmariana.com).

Please enjoy these holiday images. May 2018 be a year of good health and wellbeing for our Big Canoe friends and neighbors!

Holiday greetings from Big Canoe

Photo Club

The High Museum of Art announces a special series of family-friendly programs sprinkling the season with cheer.

The events include First Fridays, Friday Jazz, Second Sundays, Winter Art Break and Day After Thanksgiving activities running from Nov. 24 through Dec. 30.

“This year’s holiday programming includes exciting and engaging performances and activities designed to help families get creative and make incredible memories at the museum,” said Virginia Shearer, the High’s Eleanor McDonald Storza director of education.

The schedule of upcoming events includes:

n Day After Thanksgiving – Friday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; programming from 1 to 4 p.m.

• Enjoy energetic, educational and interactive dance performances by West African dance, percussion and vocal ensemble Giwayen Mata.

• Engage in art-making workshops while exploring works in our permanent collection centered on the theme “Around the World in Thirty Days.”

• Visit the exhibition “Painter and Poet: The Wonderful World of Ashley Bryan” and enjoy story times based on Bryan’s children’s books and poems.

• Snap a picture at our Around the World photo-booth.

Museum Shop Eventsn Holiday Artisans Market – Friday,

Nov. 24, and Saturday, Nov. 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Shop for handmade gifts by Atlanta-based artists.

• Peruse jewelry, textiles, home goods, accessories and more from our special guest vendors.

n Museum Store Sunday – Sunday, Nov. 26, noon to 5 p.m.

• Receive a free High Museum of Art canvas tote with a purchase of $50 or more.

n First Friday – Friday, Dec. 1, 6 to 9 p.m.• Experience Drawing in the Galleries.• Check out a conversation between civil

rights activist Dr. Doris Derby and Atlanta photographer Sheila Pree Bright moderated by Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell, president of Spelman College.

• Enjoy drop-in art making in partnership with the Indie Craft Experience and featured Atlanta artist Sarah Neuburger of The Small Object.

• Sing and dance to holiday karaoke.• Indulge in special treats from Cult

Carts.• Capture the fun at our E. K. Sluder

photo-booth.• Explore the galleries on docent-led

tours.n Open Studio for Teens – Friday, Dec.

1, 5 to 8 p.m.• Create snow globes and watercolor

holiday cards during drop-in art-making workshops.

• Participate in Art Talks Back conversations in the galleries with Carlton Mackey, Director of Ethics & the Arts at Emory University.

n Second Sunday – Sunday, Dec. 10, Noon to 5 p.m.; programming from 1 to 4 p.m.

• Free museum admission.• Enjoy Ashley Bryan story times

and explore his children’s books in the exhibition “Painter and Poet: The Wonderful World of Ashley Bryan.”

• Get moving in the galleries with family Art Movers Tours.

• Take mini art lovers on Toddler Tours and Baby Steps Infant Tours.

• Hear performances by students from Clayton County Public Schools Chorus and Jazz Ensemble.

n Friday Jazz – Friday, Dec. 15, 6 to 10 p.m.

• December features the “fluid and fiery” sounds of saxophonist Brian Hogans. A

Georgia native, Hogans has performed with

Winard Harper, Russell Gunn, and Marcus Printup and

has appeared at noted jazz festivals and venues around the world.

• Drop in for Drawing in the Galleries.• Visit the Museum Shop and peruse

the hand-blocked printed textiles of eco-conscious clothing line Maelu Designs.

n The Art of Gospel Jazz – Sunday, Dec. 17, Noon to 5 p.m.

• Relax to the sounds of gospel jazz with live music from TK and Friends.

• Explore “Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design” with Praise 102.5 radio host Myron G.

n Winter Art Break – Tuesday, Dec. 26, through Saturday, Dec. 30; programming from 1 to 4 p.m.

• December’s family theme, The Art of Giving Back, is all about discovering new ways of giving through the arts.

• Drop in to create a lantern in our Art of Giving Back workshop.

All activities are free with museum

admission. Admission is free on Second Sundays. For more information, holiday hours or to purchase tickets, visit www.high.org.

Holiday fun at the High

Photo by Randy Lewis.

Photo by Jeanette Buffalo.

Photo by Sandra Plevin.

DECEMBER 2017 S M O K E S I G N A L S | A R T S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T 3 B

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What goes around comes around. When architectural illustrator Hugh Westberry’s drawing of a Big Canoe home was featured in a 1978 Atlanta Journal-Constitution ad promoting

life in our mountain community, little did he know that he and his wife Beth would eventually move here. What they did know was that the home they purchased here nine months ago was

also one that Hugh—who received a degree in architecture from Georgia Tech—had rendered over the course of his career.

The design of their home is central to their lives as artists. The main floor, welcoming and filled with natural light, is the primary living space. On the top floor is Hugh’s studio, a place for his large drafting table and ample flat storage for his architectural drawings. The lower level is primarily Beth’s studio. Here you will find numerous examples of her art—a kind of art unfamiliar to many people.

About six years ago, Beth attended a meeting of the Georgia Gourd Society, an organization dedicated to promoting interest in gourds and in crafting them into art objects. “I was amazed,” said Beth. “I had no idea people did this type of art.” With a degree in graphic design and years working in the design field, Beth joined one of the local gourd groups (called Patches) and began taking classes to learn the different skills required for gourd artistry.

Beth’s completed gourd pieces are gorgeous and incorporate everything from wood burning and weaving techniques to pen and ink and watercolor drawings. She adds jewelry and beads to some of her work. The final product may be a box, a bowl, an animal or an ornament. But to fully appreciate Beth’s art, it is useful to know that it begins not from the decorative gourds you find at the grocery story this time of year, but from old, moldy gourds “that need lots of prep before you get to the fun part,” said Beth. Hours of work are required with a small jigsaw and utility knife to remove the petrified innards and to clean and sand a gourd before it is ready for Beth’s creative vision.

Hugh is retired. Architectural drawings he creates now are for personal use or framed and displayed as art. A guitar player, Hugh recently became a regular at Big Canoe’s Acoustic Showcase. (If you are tempted to inform Hugh that he looks like Kenny Rodgers, be advised that he has been told this approximately one million times.) Beth, who still works about twenty hours a week, and her husband agree that being part of a group facilitates any artistic endeavor. Art is fun, they said, but it is also hard and challenging work, and you need teachers and colleagues to inspire you.

The Big Canoe Artists Club is a group of more than 40 regionally acclaimed artists who work in many genres. Exhibits at the Big Canoe Fitness Center and in the lobby of the Brownstone building at Foothills are ongoing. Visit www.bigcanoeartists.com for information about artists and club membership.

Creative couple lands in Big CanoeBig Canoe Artists Club

Artist Of The Month

KAT ALIKHAN

Beth and Hugh Westberry at home. PHOTO BY KAT ALIKHAN

A photo of a 1978 AJC Big Canoe ad featuring Hugh Westberry’s drawing. PROVIDED BY HUGH WESTBERRY

An example of Beth’s beautiful gourd artistry. PHOTO BY BETH

WESTBERRY

EVENT at The Cumming Playhouse

101 School Street, Cumming, GATickets 770.781.9178 • playhousecumming.com


CalendarDECEMBER 2017 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1Theatre

• “Love Never Dies - The Phantom Returns,” Fox Theatre, Atlanta (through Dec. 3; see article on page 11)• “Sanders Family Christmas,” Cumming Playhouse, Cumming (through Dec. 10)• “You Can’t Take It With You,” presented by Tater Patch Players, Jasper (Dec. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10)• “White Christmas,” Blue Ridge Community Theatre, Blue Ridge (through Dec. 10)• “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta (through Dec. 31) • “Cardboard Piano,” Actor’s Express, King Plow Arts Center, Atlanta (through Dec. 3)• “Christmas Canteen” Aurora Theatre, Lawrenceville (through Dec. 23)• “The Santaland Diaries,” Horizon Theatre, Atlanta (through Dec. 31)• “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,” Theatrical Outfit, Balzer Theatre, Atlanta (through Dec. 24)• “Christmas Belles,” Holly Theatre, Dahlonega (through Dec. 17)• “A Christmas Carol,” Shakespeare Tavern, Atlanta (through Dec. 23)• “The Snow Queen” Serenbe Playhouse, Chattahoochee Hills (through Dec. 30, see article on page 12)• “Christmas at Sweet Apple,” Stage Door Players, Dunwoody (through Dec. 17; see article on page 8)

Music• “Christmas at Reinhardt with the School of Performing Arts,” Falany Performing Arts Center, Waleska (through Dec. 3)• “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” in concert, performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall (Dec. 1, 2)• North Georgia Chamber Symphony presents Holiday Concert Series, Historic Courthouse on the Square, Blairsville

Visual Arts • North Georgia Juried Art Show, Bowen Center for the Arts, Dawsonville (through Dec. 15)• “Visualization: The Art of Seeing,” Gilmer Arts Link Gallery, Ellijay (through Dec. 14)

Other• Light Up Blue Ridge Gingerbread House Display, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, Blue Ridge (through Dec. 16)• Cirque Italia, Lakeshore Mall, Gainesville (through Dec. 3)

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2Music

• North Georgia Chamber Symphony presents Holiday Concert Series, Dahlonega United Methodist Church, Dahlonega• Michelle Malone, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega• University of North Georgia Vocal & Choral Holiday Performance, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, Blue Ridge • Live music, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3Music

• North Georgia Chamber Symphony presents Holiday Concert Series, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Gainesville• Family Holiday featuring “The Snowman” movie with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5Music

• Rick Springfield and Richard Marx: Acoustic Tour, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6Music

• The Brian Setzer Orchestra’s 14th Annual Christmas Rocks Tour, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta

Other• Art for Lunch: Western Therapy with Kevin Kehoe, Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7Theatre

• Gilmer Arts Players present “A Christmas Carol – The Musical,” Gilmer High School, Ellijay

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8Dance

• Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, Fox Theatre, Atlanta (through Dec. 28)Theatre• “A Christmas Carol,” presented by the Alliance Theatre, Cobb Energy

Centre, Atlanta (through Dec. 24; see article on page 1)

Music• Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta


• Christmas with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall (Dec. 9 and 10)• Live music, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay• BEST Music Series presents: Mountain Faith Band, Ellijay Elementary School, Ellijay (see ad on page 12)


• Boomers Gone Wild, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega


• Katy Perry, Philips Arena, Atlanta


• Forsyth Philharmonic, Cumming Playhouse, Cumming

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15Music

• A Very Merry Holiday POPS, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta (Dec. 15-16)• “Christmas Classics,” Cumming Playhouse, Cumming• Jingle Ball featuring Demi Lovato, Logic, Zedd, Fifth Harmony, Nick Jonas and others, Philips Arena, Atlanta


• North Georgia Barber Shop Singers, Cumming Playhouse, Cumming (Dec. 16, 17)• Winterfest 2017 Starring Chris Brown, Trey Songz and Yo Gotti, Philips Arena, Atlanta• EG Kight, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega• Live music, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Janet Jackson, Philips Arena, Atlanta• The Solstice Sisters, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega

MONDAY, DECEMBER 18Music

• Keith and Kristyn Getty, Fox Theatre, Atlanta


• Annual Holiday Organ Concert and Sing-Along featuring original 1947 version of “Miracle on 34th Street,” Fox Theatre, Atlanta• Cumming Playhouse Singers present “Hope for Christmas,” Cumming Playhouse, Cumming


• Christmas with Jennifer Nettles and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall


• “Messiah” with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Chorus, Atlanta Symphony Hall• Sounds of Sawnee Christmas Concert, Cumming Playhouse, Cumming• Shawn Mullins, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega (Dec. 22, 23)


• Home Free, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta • Live music, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Widespread Panic, Fox Theatre, Atlanta (Dec. 29, 30, 31)


• Live music, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Sentimental Journey Orchestra, Cumming Playhouse, Cumming

‘THE SNOW QUEEN’

Serenbe Playhouse

1

17

‘THE SNOW QUEEN’ CAST AT SERENBE PLAYHOUSE.PHOTO BY BREEANNE CLOWDUS

LIGHT UP BLUE RIDGE GINGERBREAD HOUSE DISPLAY

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association 1

ATLANTA BALLET’S NUTCRACKER

Fox Theatre

8

Atlanta Symphony HallFAMILY HOLIDAY FEATURING ‘THE SNOWMAN’ MOVIE WITH THE ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 3

KATY PERRY

Philips Arena

KATY PERRYA.RICARDO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

12

JANET JACKSON

Philips Arena

JANET JACKSONEVERETT COLLECTION / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Atlanta Symphony Hall

JENNIFER NETTLES

CHRISTMAS WITH JENNIFER NETTLES AND THE ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2O

LIVE MUSIC

CartecayVineyards

3O


n Continued on next page

fees. B.E.S.T. season tickets provide a 10 percent discount, and Gilmer Arts members get an additional 10 percent off season tickets.

“Where else can you drive 20 minutes and see Kathy Mattea for $30?” says Watkins. “We offer a plethora of things you don’t think about happening in a small town.”

At about the same time, B.E.S.T. For Kids began supporting arts education in schools with art activities and performers who have included the Atlanta Percussion Trio, Dancing Drum, Sebastian Baverstam, the Summer Palooza Music Festival and Atlanta Center for Puppetry Arts.

Partnership with local schools has been a priority, and an elementary school puppet program has been central. A retired teacher volunteered to teach students to make puppets, puppetry professionals demonstrate their skills and the programming dovetails with a classroom language arts unit.

The Gilmer Arts George Link Jr. Scholarship Fund recently expanded on an earlier, smaller scholarship program, and now three Gilmer County High School seniors annually receive $1,000 each for study in the performing, literary or visual arts fields.

The Gilmer Arts Community Theatre formed at the turn of the century and evolved into the Gilmer Arts Players in 2013. Their new space in the Playhouse accommodates audiences numbering about 150 with a lobby adorned with artwork, dressing rooms, sound and lighting areas, prop and costume storage space and a full catering kitchen.

The recent production of “Smoke on the Mountain” sold 1,100 tickets in its three-week run and “was a huge success” despite its run at the same time as the local apple festival, says Watkins.

Gilmer Players also takes productions off-site, including a presentation of “A Christmas Carol – the Musical” this December at Gilmer County High School. Last year, “Sanders Family Christmas” played in the high school’s theater.

“A Christmas Carol” is on stage Dec. 7-9, 14, 16-17 with adult tickets $15, family-of-student tickets at $10 and student tickets at $7 (children 5 and younger admitted free).

In January, the Players present three vignettes comprising “Mark Twain:” a typical Twain tale about a woman afraid of lightening, a monologue portraying Twain and another short story.

The Players sponsor “at least one big production per quarter, usually at least

four productions annually,” says Watkins. “Sometimes they bring in other theater groups from the area and there’s a good bit of exchange with Blue Ridge Players and Tater Patch Players.

“Nothing is going on here the end of January and the first of February,” says Watkins. “The dinner theater has been a big deal the last two years” when it was staged in the Gallery, but the dinner and show are in the new Playhouse in January.

Adding to the music in Gilmer Arts’ B.E.S.T. series are a growing number of classes and private instruction in guitar, piano and dulcimer. Megan Williams approached Gilmer Arts about teaching dulcimer and now has about 25 students, including a core group of about 10, says Watkins. James Weaver teaches guitar and piano lessons and leads a summer music camp.

And one of the most popular Gilmer Arts music programs is the monthly Acoustic Blends, an “open-mic” format in

which amateur musicians can perform with professionals. To help novice players get comfortable, a First Sessions class precedes Acoustic Blends, which Watkins says “has kind of an ‘Austin City Limits’ feel to it.”

Acoustic Blends started with 15-20 people and now attracts more than 200 amateur musicians from as far away as Arkansas. Gilmer Arts board member Steve Jones organizes the free event that features about 15 acts each night.

The Gilmer Arts Community Chorus organized in 1999 and since 2013 is even more involved, with spring and fall concerts led by local choral directors in front of a chorus of 50-plus voices in secular, sacred and popular choral works. Led by Judith Rathbone, conductors Douglas Lee, Sarah Harbin and Charles Claiborne directed the Community Chorus and singers from the elementary and high schools Nov. 11 in a Veterans Day concert of patriotic music with Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston narrating. Gilmer Players actors

contributed to the free event, reading lines and quotes from Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe and Lewis & Clark.

Writing and encouraging writers is now a fundamental facet of Gilmer Arts programming. The reinvigorated writing group Write On! meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Monday of each month at Gilmer Arts and is led by Shorter College English professor Dr. Marcia Bost and award-winning children’s author Kelly Bingham. Writers share their work, solicit critique, discuss approaches to writing and more.

Gilmer Arts hosts a Meet the Authors event annually, usually in late March. Authors and writers known locally, regionally and nationally come to Ellijay to sign books and talk about their work, and the event includes workshops and presentations. Featured authors in the past have included Raymond L. Atkins, Kelly Bingham, Michael K. Brown, Lynn Cullen and Victoria Wilcox.

Amateur musicians join more skilled players monthly for Acoustic Blends, an ‘open-mic’ event in a setting similar to ‘Austin City Limits.’

Gilmer Artsn Continued from page 1

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The organization hosts readings, book-signings and other events for members of the Gilmer Arts Authors Guild, and local authors’ books are on sale year-round at Gilmer Arts. Occasionally the group sponsors book-signings for children’s books as well.

But visual art has always been at the heart of Gilmer Arts.

Gilmer Arts’ visual arts year opens with the annual Juried Art Exhibition that shows the work of up to 35 artists and artisans Feb. 24 to March 28. A Student Art Show exhibits the work of young people March 9 through April 18. The Member Art Exhibition is in August.

The B.E.S.T. Art Series that began in 2014 partners Gilmer Arts with other art institutions and museums to bring high-quality art exhibits to North Georgia. The photography of Lance A. Lewin is on display in the Gallery through Dec. 14.

The Gilmer Arts Gift Shop that opened in 2012 gives artists a market to show and sell their work and the community a place to buy unique possessions and gifts: jewelry, pottery, greeting cards, paintings, art quilts, photography, wood carvings, sculpture and more. Gilmer Arts ball caps and T-shirts are also on sale in the Gift Shop.

An Artist Guild began meeting last summer and continues the third Thursday monthly at the Gallery, opening with a social gathering followed by a program. The Guild’s objectives are to encourage new artists, schedule exhibitions for member artists and create a curriculum of workshops and other learning opportunities.

Plein Air, Art in the Mountains, is a three-day event in June when artists come to Ellijay to paint outdoors in various nearby locations. On the Saturday that weekend, artists can join the Quick Draw Challenge, painting in designated areas for two hours before submitting their work for judging. Last year, the president of the Southern Appalachian Artist Guild judged the juried event and awarded cash prizes. Artists submit some of the work they create during the weekend for a live auction at the Gallery on Sunday.

Art classes for adults have included studios, watercolors, photography, pastel oils, calligraphy, mosaics and other art forms. Children’s programming includes summer art and drama training.

In fact, it was an art class that brought Watkins into Gilmer Arts when she retired. Soon she began to volunteer, was chosen for the board of directors and then became president.

An office manager and receptionist at the Link Gallery are the only paid staff. “We run on volunteers in a big way,” Watkins says.

‘Smoke on the Mountain’ was hugely successful, selling 1,100 tickets over three recent weekends.

n Continued from previous page

n Continued on page 8

“The Gilmer Arts Community Theatre formed at the turn of the century and evolved into the Gilmer Arts Players in 2013. Their new space in the Playhouse accommodates audiences numbering about 150 with a lobby

adorned with artwork, dressing rooms, sound and lighting areas, prop and costume storage space and a full catering kitchen.”


The writings of the late Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Celestine Sibley are the foundation of “Christmas at Sweet Apple,” which Stage Door Players is presenting this holiday season in Dunwoody.

Originally produced in 2007 at Marietta’s Theatre in the Square, the play is filled with anecdotes pulled primarily from Sibley’s books “Christmas in Georgia” and “Especially at Christmas.” The play at Stage Door’s home in North DeKalb Cultural Arts Center at 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road includes traditional mountain songs and Christmas carols to foster holiday spirit.

Shelly McCook directs the play written by novelist and playwright Phillip DePoy. The cast includes Karen Drury Howell, Jeremy Wood, Paige Mattox, Scott DePoy and Kate Johnson.

Performances are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 1-17. Tickets at $33 are at 770-396-1726 or www.stagedoorplayers.net, and senior, student and youth discounts are available.

Stage Door Players’ next production is “Picnic,” directed by Tess Malis Kincaid, Jan. 26 to Feb. 18.

DUNWOODY

n DECEMBER 1-17NORTH DEKALB CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

Celestine Sibley’s voice heard through

‘Christmas at Sweet Apple’

“A lot of sweat equity goes into everything we do. It’s pretty amazing – and tiring!

“Everyone at the Playhouse is a volunteer. One of the best things about Gilmer Arts is how much volunteer involvement there is.”

Former Gilmer Arts President John Rathbone is now executive director of the Playhouse project and is putting in a lot of long hours, says Watkins. Troy Szep is director of the Gallery, whose renovation he planned and executed along with Watkins’ husband.

“We have a very active board,” she adds. “Everyone has a job, and most wear four or five hats.”

More than 75 very active volunteers logged in excess of 16,000 hours in the last fiscal year, and Gilmer Arts has 300-plus individual, family or business members and has had membership as high as 400. Many are active and volunteers, while others “just want to support the arts.”

A very important member is Nora Link, who moved to Ellijay from New York several years ago. The couple saw a banner for Gilmer Arts and wanted to become involved in their new community. Link is the niece of the late George Link Jr. and the attorney for the George S. Link Jr. Charitable Trust, which supports education and the arts.

Link arranged for the trust to donate money for scholarships and the renovation of the Gallery and Playhouse. The Link gifts “were extremely generous,” says Watkins, and the theater and gallery now bear the Link name. Nora Link also volunteered to help tear out walls and paint new ones during the renovation. “You never know what will happen when you put a sign up,” says Watkins with a laugh.

Volunteers are active through the end of the year with “A Christmas Carol,” Light Up Ellijay, the fund-raising Snow Ball and a Dec. 16 concert at the Playhouse featuring Levi Lowery, a former member, songwriter

and opening act for the Zac Brown Band.Gilmer Arts hopes the Gallery

renovation and new Playhouse bring people to downtown Ellijay. “We hope to increase commerce for the businesses around us” and continue “interfacing with the community,” says Watkins. “We’re more involved in the community now and participate in all the community events we can participate in.”

Some of that interfacing happens at Light Up Ellijay, the tree-lighting event that kicks off the holiday season on the town square. “We always participate in some way,” Watkins says, “and the Gallery will have an open house.”

Also at the end of the year is the Dec. 2 Snow Ball, a black-tie-optional event that includes dinner, dancing and a silent auction. The ball “is a big deal around here,” says Watkins. “The Playhouse will be transformed into a beautiful winter setting.”

Tickets are $50, with a cocktail hour, auction preview bidding and opportunity to win door prizes offered for an additional $25. Snow Ball’s silent auction has already raised $6,000, Watkins says.

Gilmer Arts charges for some events and raises money through others, such as the annual spring auction of items donated by members, merchants, restaurants and service providers that raises $10,000 to $20,000. The Gilmer Arts Attic Sale each fall features furniture, household items and more that typically raise between $1,500 and $2,000.

But “we do many things free,” like November’s photography exhibit reception and the Veterans Day concert, says Watkins.

“Our mandate is to bring the arts to Gilmer County,” she adds, “and the organization has really bloomed in the last couple of years. We’re in a growth spurt with our programs and facilities. We’re happy with all that’s happening; it’s working me to death, but it’s all good.”

One of Gilmer Arts’ recent literary events has been ‘Where the

Heart Is,” a special presentation of the artwork of Camille

Day and reading by local poet Lucy

Harris.

n Continued from page 7

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Scuba Claus dives at Tennessee Aquarium

In the midst of tackling the seemingly impossible task of delivering presents to every home on the planet, Santa Claus found the time to get scuba certified. Guests to the Tennessee Aquarium are familiar with (and fond of) Saint Nick’s annual underwater visits to the Nickajack Lake and River Giants exhibits. This year, catch the Jolly Old Elf’s dives and press your wish list against the glass on Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 18 to Dec. 17. For additional hours and holiday programming, visit www.tnaqua.org/events-programs.PHOTO COURTESY OF TENNESSEE AQUARIUM

A visiting artist and Reinhardt alumnus will display his work in the Falany Performing Arts Center Nov. 15-Dec. 17 in what will be the first of many art exhibits on campus.

“In an attempt to have more art on campus, I contacted my friend and former student Kendrick (Shackleford) about a year ago to see if he would exhibit his work and give a lecture about it,” said Brett Mullinix, assistant professor of art and fine arts program

coordinator. “He was more than happy to do so, and now he will be doing just that later this month. This is hopefully the first of many biennial shows that the art program will be bringing to the Reinhardt campus. We have another alumni artist scheduled to come in fall of 2018.”

Shackleford earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Reinhardt University in 2002 and his Master of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he teaches. As an artist exhibiting his paintings and drawings, his work can be found in various galleries including New York City and Chicago.

“The work that will be on display begins with a layering of marks both with markers and India ink. The color is then incorporated into the work much as the marks are. I want there to be a synthesis between mark making and the

application of color,” Shackleford said of his work. “The forms begin when the marks and the colors start to produce tangible shapes. However nothing is taken for granted until the work is complete. During the drawing process, the paper can be rotated or cut until something of interest emerges. What I am after are suggestions of forms. I want the work

to visually oscillate between process and product. In the end the work is finished when it doesn’t need me anymore. It feels a little like tuning a guitar rather than a Eureka moment. I’m always skeptical of the emotions surrounding the completion of a work. So I tend to deliberately push it a little too far and then try to bring it back in tune.”

Shackleford also will impart his knowledge on to Reinhardt students (and anyone else who wishes to attend) during a short lecture Nov. 16 at 3:30 p.m. in the edit lab in the Falany Center.

“I think having the opportunity for students, especially art students, to interact with an alumnus who is working within the discipline in which he studied is priceless. So many times students and their parents ask, ‘What can my child do with a degree in fine art?’ Kendrick’s work and life accomplishments are great answers to that question, and it will be beneficial for students to see it in person as opposed to listening to us go on about all the possibilities available with an art degree,” Mullinix said.

For more information, please contact Reinhardt at 770-720-5600 or visit www.Reinhardt.edu.

Submitted by Reinhardt University

WALESKA

n THROUGH DECEMBER 17FALANY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Reinhardt to host art exhibit at Falany Performing Arts Center

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N December 1, 2, 3 N

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“Love Never Dies,” the spellbinding sequel to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera,” makes its Atlanta premiere Nov. 28 to Dec. 3 as part of Broadway in Atlanta’s 2017-2018 season.

The year is 1907. It is 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House, and the Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York, where he lives among the joy rides and freak shows of Coney Island. In this new, electrically-charged world he has found a place for his music to soar, but he has

never stopped yearning for his one true love and musical protégé, Christine Daae.

Now one of the world’s finest sopranos, Christine accepts an invitation to travel from Paris to New York to perform at a renowned opera house. Her marriage is suffering because of her husband’s drinking and gambling, and the couple needs the financial rewards America

offers. In a final bid to win back her love, the Phantom lures Christine, her husband and son from Manhattan to Coney Island.

The touring production reflects unusually extensive reworking of a major West End musical, and Lloyd Webber said he knew about five minutes into seeing its first run-through that he and the new production team had achieved something special. “I have the great joy of being able to say that I think this production is probably the finest one I could ever, ever hope for,” he said.

“Love Never Dies” premiered in 2010.Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 2 and 8 p.m.

Saturday and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets starting at $33.50 are at 855-285-8499 or www.FoxTheatre.org/LoveNeverDies.

ATLANTA

‘Phantom’ sequel ‘Love Never Dies’ at Fox

n NOVEMBER 28-DECEMBER 3FOX THEATRE

Jake Heston Miller (“Gustave”) and Meghan Picerno (“Christine Daae”) bring to life ‘Love Never Dies,’ the sequel to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, Nov. 28 to Dec. 3 at Fox Theatre. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS


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December 9, 2017 Mountain Faith Band From the Grand Ole Opry stage to our AFB in Qatar, IBMA multi-award winning performances and a #1 debut album on the Billboard Roots/Americana charts, this exciting young talented group will bring a Christmas themed Holiday show to our stage.

January 20, 2018 Three on a StringThe runaway hit of the Southern Governor’s Conference, Three on a String is pure entertainment! Rick Burgess, “The Rick and Bubba Show” is the perfect balance of musical entertainment and humor.

February 10, 2018 • Legendary guitarist Doyle Dykes and Band Legendary Guitarist Doyle Dykes is recognized as one of the top two or three finger style guitarists in the world! The ICGMA (International Country Gospel Music Association) awarded Doyle “Instrumen-talist of the Year” both in 2006 and 2014. They also inducted Doyle into the Hall of Fame in 2011.

March 10, 2018Celtic Woman Star VocalistChloë Agnew & Dermot Kiernan in “A St. Patrick’s Day Celebration” The show includes the songs that she is known for in Celtic Woman, Irish folk songs, Irish sing-alongs, Irish pop tunes, standards and many others.

April 21, 2018 • Jim Witter & Band Jim Witter, Canadian CMA award winner, returns with his band with his amazing revue of Lennon and Mc-Cartney called the “Long and Winding Road”. Full band along with video production and Jim’s great audience connection “The Long and Winding Road” features about 30 songs from the Lennon-McCartney catalog, including “Yesterday,” “Penny Lane,” Hey Jude” and “Let It Be.” The multimedia production uses screens to display images and tell the stories behind the songs.

AWA R D W I N N I N GLast chance to buy discounted season tickets.

For the fourth season, the traditional holiday production of “The Snow Queen” marks the end of the year for Serenbe Playhouse in Chattahoochee Hills.

From the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale that inspired “Frozen,” the play lights up the wintry Serenbe woods with the whimsical story of love’s sovereign power over evil. Appealing to all ages, “The Snow Queen” shows Gerda overcoming fear on a journey to save her brother from the snow queen’s powerful enchantment before her icy spirit overtakes his heart.

The holiday adaptation by Rachel Teagle proves love is stronger than cynicism and ends with celebratory snowfall.

Performances are Nov. 30 to Dec. 30 at 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays (Tuesdays through Sundays starting Dec. 19) and 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays (adding Tuesdays starting Dec. 19).

BY NICHOLE POTZAUFExecutive Director, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

In 1923, President Calvin Coolidge pressed the button that would light the first National Christmas Tree in Washington D.C. Since that time,

the tradition has continued and grown to include a national celebration. Presented by the National Park Service and National Park Foundation, the National Christmas Tree Lighting is one of America’s oldest holiday traditions. In addition, smaller live trees representing the 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia, form a Pathway of Peace during the holiday season.

Each year, the National Park Service and National Park Foundation commissions each state to create 12 unique ornaments that will represent their state on their designated tree. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association was honored to be selected this year in coordination with the Georgia Council for the Arts and the National Park Foundation.

The ornaments were created by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association’s staff at the Art Center represented by Nichole Potzauf, executive director; Caroline Mann, assistant director; Jennifer Danner, marketing associate; and Jennifer “Ginger” Yaxley, education and artist

development coordinator. The concept for the project was based on the tradition of barn quilts. Not only did the concept of barn quilts represent a unique way to highlight the many facets of Georgia, but they provided traditional and non-traditional quilting patterns to help steer some of the visions for certain ornaments.

One of the main goals for Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association is to honor the rich heritage of our Appalachian culture and the barn quilts concept provided that cultural canvas. Over time, barn quilts have served as unique identifiers to family farms, highlighted folk artists and even helped to serve as symbols towards freedom for many on the Underground Railroad. The one-of-a-kind ornaments will be on display beginning Dec. 1 through Jan. 1, 2018 in Washington, D.C., proudly representing the cultural and historical heritage of Georgia.

For more event information and updates, please visit www.thenationaltree.org and follow the National Christmas Tree on Twitter at @TheNationalTree. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #NCTL2017. Through a partnership with the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks, Hallmark Channel will exclusively broadcast the National Christmas Tree Lighting Dec. 4.

n NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 30SERENBE PLAYHOUSE

CHATTAHOOCHEE HILLS

Brittney Ellis is the snow queen in Serenbe Playhouse’s production that also stars Will Skelton as Kai and Allie Southwood as Gerda. PHOTO BY BREEANNE CLOWDUS

‘Snow Queen’ back at Serenbe for fourth season

These ornaments are creations of the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association’s staff that will adorn the Georgia tree. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS ARTS ASSOCIATION

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association crafts ornaments for National Christmas Tree


[email protected]

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After 22 years and 488 performances of Atlanta Ballet’s “Nutcracker,” choreographer John McFall’s beloved version of the magical holiday tale returns to the Fox Theatre for its final 24 performances Dec. 8-28.

The Atlanta Ballet Orchestra and the Georgia Youth Choir will perform live at all shows, whose varied start times are at www.atlantaballet.com.

Atlanta Ballet uses 20 pounds of snow, eight tons of scenery, elaborate lighting and props and a 38-foot Christmas tree in the final presentations of McFall’s vision, which debuted in 1995. More than 200 young dancers will join the professional company at the Fox.

The company will present a new “Nutcracker” version next year with choreography by Yuri Possokhov, resident choreographer with San Francisco Ballet.

“Over the last 22 years, McFall’s version has become synonymous with the holiday season in Atlanta, and Atlanta Ballet is proud to have brought joy to so many children and families through his magical choreography and fanciful characters,” says Gennadi Nedvigin, who succeeded McFall as the Atlanta Ballet artistic director. “We are excited to celebrate the legacy of Atlanta Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’ with every performance throughout this final run.”

McFall created his version of the classic holiday ballet to reflect Atlanta’s culture and people, saying it was “traditional, but new; familiar, yet different; classic, yet contemporary; and, above all, magical.”

Tickets starting at $25 are at www.atlantaballet.com or 855-285-8499, and group sales are at 404-873-5811, ext. 207.

The remainder of the 2017-2018 season includes the company premiere of “Don Quixote,” choreographed by Possokhov; Act III of “Swan Lake”; revival of Ohad Naharin’s “Minus 16”; George Balanchine’s “Who Cares,” featuring music by George Gershwin; and world premieres from choreographers Craig Davidson, Tara Lee and Maxim Petrov.

ATLANTA

n DECEMBER 8-28FOX THEATRE

Atlanta Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’ at Fox for 24 performances

Nadia Mara and the rest of the Atlanta Ballet are bringing their annual Christmas present to Atlanta, ‘Nutcracker,’ to Fox Theatre in December. PHOTO

BY CHARLIE MCCULLERS

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The Holly Theatre in Dahlonega has announced its 2018 concert schedule. A1A - Jimmy Buffett

Tribute Band Saturday, Jan. 13, 8 p.m.

In 1992, A1A won a Margaritaville Records-sponsored Jimmy Buffett sound-alike contest. As the first band ever to showcase a high energy concert composed of nothing except Buffett’s best songs spanning every era of his career, A1A became the only Tribute Band to be personally sanctioned by Jimmy Buffett himself. Sold out in 2016.

Sail On Band - The Beach Boys Tribute Band

Saturday, Feb. 3, 8 p.m.Spend a warm California evening in

the sand with the music of The Beach Boys. Sail On, the leading Beach Boys tribute band, re-creates the harmonies of the world’s number one summer band. Sing along to “Surfin’ Safari,” “Catch a Wave,” “Surfer Girl,” “Good Vibrations” and many more. Members of Sail On have performed with musicians from Brian Wilson’s band, The Zombies, Earth Wind and Fire, Cheap Trick and Mark Lindsay.

Johnny Cash NowFriday, Feb. 13, 8 p.m.

“Hello, I’m Johnny Cash.” Hear these famous words again at the Holly Theater. Johnny Cash Now, with June Carter Cash, has recreated the look and feel of the Man in Black by using vintage instruments to recreate that classic tone. The iconic long black coat with the pompadour hairstyle is the look of the Johnny Cash Now show. They’ve also recreated the comedic chemistry that existed between Johnny, his wife June and the band members. The Johnny Cash Returns show is a total Man in Black experience.

Jason Petty’s Hank Williams, Jr.

Friday, May 25, 8 p.m.Direct from the historic stages of

Nashville Tennessee comes “Hank Williams - The Lonesome Tour” starring Jason Petty in a show that will instantly transform you back to the early ‘50s when Hank Williams, Sr. was the biggest name in country music. When Jason Petty first performed the

role of Hank at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium in 1996, little did he imagine that some twenty years later he would still be portraying this legendary man in his own highly acclaimed show.

Satisfaction - The International Rolling Stones Show

Saturday, May 26, 8 p.m.Satisfaction is the international

touring tribute show dedicated to the “World’s Greatest Rock & Roll Band” - The Rolling Stones. This glamorous show has been in production and touring since 2001 with more than 2,000 performance dates to its credit. This highly acclaimed production showcases an authentic cast and costuming. The likes of Mick Jagger,

Keith Richards and supporting cast bring a colorful performance to more than 50 years of classic hits.

Elvis: The Concert Years (Patrick Johnson)

Friday, June 1, 8 p.m.A high-energy show recreating what

it was like to see Presley on tour in the early 70s. The performance includes classics like “C.C. Rider,” “Burning Love,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and others. Patrick Johnson is considered by many to be one of the elite tribute artists in the entertainment business. As a leading Elvis Presley tribute artist, he has traveled far and wide, recreating the music and excitement of Elvis in concerts throughout the United States, Europe, and Canada. On stage, his

Las Vegas-style recreation of an Elvis concert mesmerizes audiences.

The Alter Eagles - The Ultimate Eagles Tribute

Friday, Sept. 21, 8 p.m.No other Eagles Tribute show has

a Don Henley lookalike that sings just like him on drums. No other Eagles Tribute show has a Glenn Frey clone on guitar and vocals! This is by far the most authentic representation of The Eagles in their prime. Any fan of the Eagles music will recognize the subtle complexities of instruments and vocals paired with exacting harmonies when attending an Alter Eagles event. Sold out in 2017.

Simon & Garfunkel and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young tribute by The Boxers and Southern Cross

Saturday, Sept. 22, 8 p.m.In one night, the music of Simon

& Garfunkel and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. When you think of Simon & Garfunkel, you hear angelic voices, incredible harmonies, and “singalong songs” known for decades. The Boxers bring back that timeless music and harmony in a performance that will have you singing along all night long. Double your pleasure with the Southern Cross tribute to two of the most dynamic bands of the 60s and 70s. Sold out in 2017.

The Return - A Beatles Tribute

Friday, Oct. 26, 8 p.m.The Return got its start in 1995

when four young friends got together to play their favorite Beatles songs just for fun. They wanted to recreate the early ‘60s Beatles concert experience from the tiniest detail (John Lennon’s on-stage gum-chewing) to the biggest, most expensive details (using exact replicas of the instruments and gear the Beatles used). While they were learning to comb their mop-tops just right and finding the right black suits to wear, they learned each song note for note.

The Holly Theater is located at 69 West Main Street, Dahlonega. For additional information and to purchase tickets visit www.hollytheater.com.

DAHLONEGA

Tribute bands booked for Holly in 2018

The Holly Theatre, opened in 1948, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. The theatre hosts concerts, live theatre and other events in downtown Dahlonega.

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Dave PattonREALTOR®

(c) 404.304.3293(o) [email protected]

DEC. 1-38-10

15-17Fri - Sat 8pm

SundayMatinee 2pm

Adults $22Students & Military $14

HOLLY Theatre69 West Main St.

Dahlonega, GA30533

FREE Parkingat UNG

Parking Garage

Tickets hollytheater.com(706) 530-5162

Harold Leaver has hung up his tights and is replaced by Topher Payne in Horizon Theatre’s 19th annual production of David Sedaris’ “The Santaland Diaries” through Dec. 31.

Leaver had played the satirical, sarcastic elf down on his luck and resorting to work as a holiday elf at Macy’s since Horizon began staging the now annual tradition in the 1990s.

“Taking on the role of Crumpet in ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is a bold, thrilling challenge I’m eager to face,” says Payne, an acclaimed local actor and playwright. “I’ll be spicing up this iconic role by creating a new atmosphere while providing the same mischievous, ludicrous behavior that continuously brings new and loyal audiences out to see the show.”

Crumpet gives audiences a backstage pass to the secret lives of Santas and elves, wearing a humiliating costume and dealing with bratty kids and their overzealous parents. Enoch King and LaLa Cochran play holiday helpers. Jeff Adler directs.

Performances of the non-traditional, adult-only show are at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 8:30 p.m. Saturdays and 6 p.m. Sundays at Horizon, which is in Atlanta’s Little Five Points, except Nov. 23 and 28. Additional 6 p.m. Saturday shows are Dec. 16 and 23.

“Santaland Diaries” has sell-out shows every year, and ticket prices starting at $30 to $45 rise as shows sell out. VIP tickets for an additional $15 include reserved seating (Horizon is general admission) and a complimentary holiday beverage. Tickets and information are at 404-584-7450 and www.horizontheatre.com, and discounted group rates are at 404-523-1477.

ATLANTA

Payne new Crumpet in ‘Santaland Diaries’

‘The Santaland Diaries’ is back at Horizon Theatre for the 19th season, this time star-ring Topher Payne as beleaguered Macy’s elf Crumpet.

n THROUGH DECEMBER 31HORIZON THEATRE


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