Welcome to Season 2 of the Alliance Theatre Podcast: An exploration of theater and the people who make it happen.
Join artist & activist Maya Lawrence leading a conversation with Mellon Playwright in Residence, Pearl Cleage, as they explore the role of art & activism in our world, and how to have the courage to invite in truth and speak it.
Pearl Cleage
Pearl Cleage is currently the Mellon Playwright in Residence at the Alliance Theatre. Her world premieres at the Alliance include Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous, Pointing at the Moon, What I Learned in Paris, The Nacirema Society Requests the Honor of Your Presence at a Celebration of Their First One Hundred Years, Tell Me My Dream, Blues for an Alabama Sky and Flyin’ West. She also serves as playwright for the Palefsky Collision Project, an Alliance program for Atlanta area high school students. She and her husband, writer Zaron W. Burnett, Jr., recently collaborated with artist Radcliffe Bailey on In My Granny’s Garden, a children’s book, for The Mayor’s Reading Club 2019.
Maya Lawrence
Maya Lawrence is a NYC born- Atlanta based multidisciplinary artist, specializing in theater, performance, and poetry. As an actor, teaching artist, and facilitator with an audience range from newborns to as long as one can be alive, she uses her superpowers of creativity, curiosity, and compassion to facilitate theatre-based experiences rooted in Anti-Bias work for youth, families, corporations, and organizations in pursuit of becoming the most authentic and empathetic versions of themselves. She is a proud Spelman College alumna, the Inaugural Spelman Leadership Fellow, and now Artist-in-residence/ Allyship Program Director at the Alliance Theatre. Maya is on a mission to liberate the world through art using radical Love to light the path.
Learn more about HANDS UP ATLANTA: Art & Activism.
For more information about the Alliance Theatre Podcast please click here.
In case you missed it, our production of the musical adaptation of Mo Willems critically-acclaimed book, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed, is now available for streaming. To prepare you for this rockin’ musical about being yourself, we’re here to give you 10 facts about naked mole rats that you didn’t know you needed to know!
1. It’s a pitch-black life
Naked mole rats spend almost their entire life in the dark! They live underground in a series of tunnels they create, meaning there’s hardly any sunlight. They aren’t blind, though! Their eyes are just really small, and they will often keep them closed when they run through their tunnels.
2. They’ve got tunnels for miles
It takes a lot of naked mole rats to make up a colony (anywhere from 20 to 300), so they need a lot of tunnels to live in. A single naked mole rat colony can have up to 2.5 miles of tunnels at their disposal over an area of almost six football fields. They designate parts of each tunnel system for different purposes, such as eating, resting, and even bathrooms.
3. A dentist’s worst nightmare
Naked mole rats have some pretty wacky teeth! Their iconic front incisors can actually be moved independently of each other, which means that they can move those teeth like pairs of chopsticks.
4. An interesting diet
Remember how naked mole rats have entire tunnels for bathrooms in their colony? Well, since indoor plumbing hasn’t made it to the naked mole rat world yet, they have to get rid of that waste somehow: they eat it! Naked mole rats practice coprophagy, which is the act of eating your own feces. They do this for a reason, though. There isn’t a lot to eat underground, so coprophagy helps them get the most nutrients possible!
5. One Queen to rule them all
Naked mole rats are eusocial, which means that their society is organized into a hierarchy. There are tons of soldier naked mole rats and there are tons of worker naked mole rats. There is only one queen, though! She is the only female naked mole rat that will produce offspring, so all new naked mole rats that are born into a colony during a single queen’s reign will come from her.
6. They aren’t big fans of water fountains
That’s because naked mole rats don’t drink water! They consume a largely plant-based diet (aside from their, um, poop), which contains plenty of water. They only eat the undersides of plants and normally get full before eating the entirety of it, so they can keep coming back for more meals and more water as they please.
7. They should be professional breath-holders
Naked mole rats can go a crazy amount of time with little to no oxygen. Studies have shown that naked mole rats can survive just fine in an atmosphere with only 5% oxygen (that’s less oxygen than there is at the top of Mount Everest). It’s unhealthy for humans to be in a situation with an oxygen level less than 19.5%, so that just shows how skilled naked mole rats are in adapting to a low-oxygen environment.
8. Naked mole rats can take a punch, too
Studies have suggested that in addition to surviving dangerously low oxygen levels, naked mole rats have a very high pain tolerance. They have been shown to brush off everything from acid to extreme heat to physical pain. They really are tough.
9. They could be the key to beating diseases
Not only are they tough and able to withstand low oxygen, but they are also resistant to many diseases, including cancer! Scientists have never found cancer in naked mole rats and have begun to study the naked mole rat genome in hopes of finding clues that could help us fight cancer and other deadly diseases.
10. Maybe that’s why naked mole rats live so long
Naked mole rats take the prize of the longest-lived rodents because they can survive up to 30 years, an insanely old age for such a small mammal. As we’ve seen, they are pretty resistant to basically everything, so that could be a factor in their long lives. Only time will tell!
Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Virtual Rock Experience is now streaming!
Nothing about this season has been normal. The pandemic has forced us to expand our minds, stretch our imaginations, and shatter the boundaries of what it means to create theatre. As theatre artists, we have been put in a position to create in ways we have never done before. For us, the beginning of this new endeavor has taken the form of an entirely digital season of programming to live in tandem with our in-person season.
Our live season begins with the theme joy, so what better way to spread some love and light than through laughter! With a combination of creativity and comedy, Laugh Track was born. We envisioned a sketch comedy show with a company of kooky, yet lovable characters, and who better to partner with than some of the funniest people in town, Dad’s Garage. Jon Carr and the team at Dad’s took the idea and ran with it, creating the absurdly funny Halloween themed episode that you are about to see. Even though our audiences aren’t able to gather within the four walls of the Coca-Cola Stage for now, our sincerest hope is that Laugh Track will remind people of the joys of theatre.
In addition to new monthly episodes of Laugh Track, we have even more content in store for you throughout the rest of the digital season. Next to take the digital stage is Spotlight Studio, a platform dedicated to Atlanta Artists where we will grant seven artists $5,000 to produce digital work for our platform. To learn more or apply please click the link below:
Following is Backstage Atlanta – an original documentary series about our city and the people and places that make it what it is, a true embrace of our motto, “Your Story. Your Stage.” Closing our digital season is Classic Remix, where we will work in tandem with our Teen Ensemble to create an entirely new digital production, devising a modern story from a classic text. We are so thrilled about what we have in store for you and can’t wait for you to come on this new adventure with us.
~ Team Digital: Jessenia Ingram, Alexis Woodard, Skylar Burks, and Raiyon Hunter
Naima Russell Carter, actress, mother, bookstagrammer, and curator of It’s the Drama Mama, shares a list of books to inspire families in their anti-racist journey as part of our Hands Up Atlanta: Arts and Activism series. Check out @DramaMamaReads on Instagram for more great book recommendations, and support a Black-owned Atlanta bookstore when you purchase these titles from Brave+Kind.
A Kids Book About Racism by Jelani Memory
Yes, this really is a kids book about racism. Inside, you’ll find a clear description of what racism is, how it makes people feel when they experience it, and how to spot it when it happens.
This is one conversation that’s never too early to start, and this book was written to be an introduction for kids on the topic.
Hands Up! by Breanna J. McDaniel
A young black girl lifts her baby hands up to greet the sun, reaches her hands up for a book on a high shelf, and raises her hands up in praise at a church service. She stretches her hands up high like a plane’s wings and whizzes down a hill so fast on her bike with her hands way up. As she grows, she lives through everyday moments of joy, love, and sadness. And when she gets a little older, she joins together with her family and her community in a protest march, where they lift their hands up together in resistance and strength.
We March by Shane W. Evans
On August 28, 1963, a remarkable event took place–more than 250,000 people gathered in our nation’s capital to participate in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The march began at the Washington Monument and ended with a rally at the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech, advocating racial harmony. Many words have been written about that day, but few so delicate and powerful as those presented here by award-winning author and illustrator Shane W. Evans. When combined with his simple yet compelling illustrations, the thrill of the day is brought to life for even the youngest reader to experience.
Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi
Take your first steps with Antiracist Baby! Or rather, follow Antiracist Baby’s nine easy steps for building a more equitable world.
With bold art and thoughtful yet playful text, Antiracist Baby introduces the youngest readers and the grown-ups in their lives to the concept and power of antiracism. Providing the language necessary to begin critical conversations at the earliest age, Antiracist Baby is the perfect gift for readers of all ages dedicated to forming a just society.
Woke Baby by Mahogany L. Browne
Woke babies are up early. Woke babies raise their fists in the air. Woke babies cry out for justice. Woke babies grow up to change the world.
This lyrical and empowering book is both a celebration of what it means to be a baby and what it means to be woke. With bright playful art, Woke Baby is an anthem of hope in a world where the only limit to a skyscraper is more blue.
A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara
A is for Activist is an ABC board book written and illustrated for the next generation of progressives: families who want their kids to grow up in a space that is unapologetic about activism, environmental justice, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and everything else that activists believe in and fight for.
An ABC of Equality by Chana Ginelle Ewing
From A to Z, simple explanations accompanied by engaging artwork teach children about the world we live in and how to navigate our way through it. Each right-hand page includes a brightly decorated letter with the word it stands for and an encouraging slogan. On the left, a colorful illustration and bite-size text sum up the concept. Cheerful people from a range of backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities lead the way through the alphabet.
Something Happened in Our Town by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, and Ann Hazzard
Something Happened in Our Town follows two families — one White, one Black — as they discuss a police shooting of a Black man in their community. The story aims to answer children’s questions about such traumatic events, and to help children identify and counter racial injustice in their own lives.
Teach Your Dragon About Diversity by Steve Herman
Having a pet dragon is very fun. He can sit, roll over, and play… He can candle a birthday cake, lit a campfire, or so many other cool things… But what if your dragon is sad because he is DIFFERENT from his friends? What if he feel bad that his skin is red, and is not like any of his friends? What if he’s worried that none of his friend has wings, tails and scales like him? What if he’s so nervous because he’s different? What should you do?
You teach him about DIVERSITY!
Get Up, Stand Up by Cedella Marley
A heartfelt and meaningful book that brings Bob Marley’s music to life in a new way: As a young girl goes on with her day in school, she comes across several instances of teasing and intimidation. But with loving action and some help from her friends, she’s able to make things right for herself and others.
I Am Brown by Ashok Banker
I am brown. I am beautiful. I am perfect. I designed this computer. I ran this race. I won this prize. I wrote this book. A joyful celebration of the skin you’re in―of being brown, of being amazing, of being you.
We are the Change by Harry Belafonte
Sixteen award-winning children’s book artists illustrate the civil rights quotations that inspire them in this stirring and beautiful book. Featuring an introduction by Harry Belafonte, words from Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. among others, this inspirational collection sets a powerful example for generations of young leaders to come. It includes illustrations by Selina Alko, Alina Chau, Lisa Congdon, Emily Hughes, Molly Idle, Juana Medina, Innosanto Nagara, Christopher Silas Neal, John Parra, Brian Pinkney, Greg Pizzoli, Sean Qualls, Dan Santat, Shadra Strickland, Melissa Sweet, and Raúl the Third.
Hands Up Atlanta Community Resources
Vote for social change! The 2020 presidential election will happen on November 3, 2020. Visit our voting resource page for educational resources about early voting and absentee ballots and ways you can support voter mobilization in your community.
Get Involved, locally
Atlanta Theatre Artists for Justice
The Atlanta Theatre Artists for Justice is a coalition of over 1500 artists fighting for equality. Members join together in protests and social work, get involved through fighting voter suppression, donating, and hosting intensives aimed at making the theatre design world more equitable. In partnership with the Atlanta Artist Relief Fund, they have launched the voting initiative #atlvotescount.
Atlanta Artist Relief Fund
Supporting Atlanta’s artistic community through support programs such as mental health services, unemployment assistance, and personal development, the AARF aims to creatively assist artists in their pursuit of a sustainable and enriching artistic career. Since March 2020, AARF has been raising funds to support artists during COVID-19.
Georgia Stand-Up
Georgia STAND-UP serves as a think and ACT tank, organizing and educating working communities about issues relating to labor unions, transit equality, affordable housing and economic development. With a coalition of organizations, they are supporting a platform Black Agenda 2020.
United Way of Atlanta Racial Equity and Healing Fund
The United Way of Atlanta Racial Equity and Healing Fund aims to bring people and resources together through volunteer work, organized events, education and outreach. The group joins together to strive toward sustainable change and positive growth to help our community thrive.
The Emory Ethics and Arts Program
This program at Emory encourages ethical discourse and debate through and about the arts, and it partners with signature arts organizations to demonstrate the way art challenges our perspectives.
Art, Therapy and Wellness Resources
Ri2se Theatre
Ri2se Theatre is a community-centered theatre group that aims to provide a space and platform for the artistic expression of those recovering from mental health challenges or substance abuse.
Not So Strong
Not So Strong is an online space for Black women to gather and share, encouraging healing and strength in one another.
Art Dreams and Psychotherapy
Wendy Phillips, Ph.D., LMFT, REAT is a Psychotherapist, a Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Contact Wendy at dreamsandpsychotherapy@gmail.com or at 404-798-1061.
Black Mental Health Alliance
The Alliance strives to provide resources to members of the Black community who are struggling with mental health challenges. The group provides a multitude of resources and outreach programs.
Advocacy in the Arts Organizations Resources
Black Leaders Advocating Cultural Theatre (B.L.A.C.T.)
B.L.A.C.T. aims to build a strong and relevant black artistic community through networking, service, and collaborative creation. They strive to be on the front lines of the hard conversations that are needed, speaking up on behalf of their community and pushing for representation on both sides of the table.
Coalition for Racial Equity in Atlanta Theatre (CREAT)
CREAT was founded to remove barriers that prevent full and equitable inclusion of Black, Indigenous, and people of color from participating in all aspects of theatre-making. Their goal is to fundamentally reshape the Atlanta theatre community so that it prioritizes opportunities for the historically underserved and underrepresented.
Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in the Arts ATL (I.D.E.A. ATL)
IDEA ATL is a collective of theaters and professionals in Atlanta committed to developing and managing education and training for ourselves and our community in equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice. Their goal is to “Amplify Common Ground and Celebrate Uncommon Ground.”
Out of Hand Theater
Out of Hand works at the intersection of art, social justice, and civic engagement, sparking conversations to build a better world by using the tools of theater to support and enhance the work of community partners. Out of Hand has three programming areas: In-Home Shows, Community and Civic Collaborations, and Creative Kids.
Arts and Social Justice Resources
Black Men Smile
Created one month after Michael Brown was murdered in Ferguson, Missouri, Black Men Smile celebrates the way Black men see themselves and creates sustainable environments to help Black men smile more often.
The Cultural Worker’s Podcast
Minka Wiltz hosts a podcast on art that extends beyond the confines of the performing arts sphere to merge into everyday life. Interviews with artists and guests from across a range of fields.
The Emory Arts and Social Justice Fellows Program
The Center for Ethics at Emory encourages ethical discourse and debate through and about the arts and recently launched an Arts and Social Justice Fellows program.
Men Not Myths
A line of tees and hoodies by a loving father, for other loving fathers and those who love them. Men Not Myths aims to destroy the myth of the “absent Black father.”
Family and Youth Resources
Embrace Race
With the foundational goal of providing educational resources about race and equality, Embrace Race is centered around education and outreach programs for youth. The project has grown to include many volunteer programs and other ways to get involved in a passionate and growing community.
- Webinar: Same Family, Different Colors: Talking Colorism in the Family
- Article: 7 Ways to Support the Young Activist in Your Life
The Drama Mama
Naima Carter Russell’s candid blog about pursuing a career, raising kids, and searching for the best books that bring “black joy.”
Brave + Kind Bookshop
Support your local bookstores and purchase a copy of Breanna J. McDaniel’s book Hands Up and other wonderful books for your family.
Be The Bridge
Be The Bridge provides faith-based educational and outreach resources to inspire people and organizations and then equips them with the resources to go and make change themselves. They have formed a community of people and groups responding to the racial and systemic injustice in society and seeking to educate others as a means for change.
Center for Racial Justice in Education
A compilation of resources from the CRJE for talking about race, racism, racialized violence with kids. Not exhaustive, but thorough.
The Baton Foundation
The mission of the foundation is to facilitate truth-based education about African Diasporic culture and history in order to strengthen Black boys with a richness of culture, emotional support and intellectual capacity.
LGBTQIA+ Resources
The Counter Narrative Project
CNP aims to create a political and community space for Black gay men and allies of the Black gay community. The project amplifies the voices of Black gay men, prioritizing storytelling as a means for social change.
Southern Fried Queer Pride
A community-lead, grassroots non profit that is devoted to providing a community space through organized events and fundraising. The organization spotlights Southern queer history, culture and activism, providing a platform for queer voices.
Out Front Theatre
Atlanta’s LGBTQIA+ theater committed to producing outstanding theatrical experiences with focus on voices in the LGBTQIA+ cannon. Programing includes landmark queer pieces like The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told and world premieres like The Ethel Merman Disco Christmas Spectacular!
Sweet Tea: Black Gay Men of the South (an oral history) by E. Patrick Johnson
Giving voice to a population too rarely acknowledged, Sweet Tea collects more than sixty life stories from Black gay men who were born, raised, and continue to live in the South.
National Resources
Campaign Zero
Campaign Zero works to fight against the disproportionate number of Black lives affected by police brutality and police violence. They propose a “comprehensive package of urgent policy solutions – informed by data, research and human rights principles – can change the way police serve our communities.” Which is laid out in further detail on their website. One may choose to get involved through donating, planning or participating in planned events.
National Black Bailout Fund
A Black-led and Black-centered collection of abolitionist organizers, lawyers and activists fighting against the extraordinary high and disproportionate number of Black people who are incarcerated. They provide a multitude of educational resources as well as pathways toward involvement through public demonstration, organization, donation and education.
Black Lives Matter
The organization Black Lives Matter promotes a movement toward liberation and justice with a focus on the Black community. Support the group through following their social media presence, donating and participating in organized events.
Organizations to follow
- Equal Justice Initiative (EJI): Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
- The Conscious Kid: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
- NAACP: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
- The Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
- Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ): Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
- Coalition of Anti-Racist Whites (CARW)
In My Granny’s Garden, the newest production in our Kathy & Ken Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young 2020-21 season, is now streaming. In celebration of this streaming release, we have compiled a list of five children’s books that focus on the joy and curiosity that comes with planting a garden. These books are sure to delight and inspire children and parents alike to go outside, plant a seed, and see what grows!
A huge thank you to Kenneth Vesey at the Peachtree Branch Library for curating these selections. Happy reading!
Lenny in the Garden by Ken Wilson-Max (Ages 0-2)
While Lenny’s mother digs the soil and plants and waters some young flower plants, Lenny goes on a search for wildlife. He finds an ant, a caterpillar, a butterfly, a ladybird, a spider, and other insects — and all the time their dog Wilbur is trying to join in. It’s a situation that will be very familiar, but the charming depiction of Lenny and his mother engaged in these ordinary activities is brought to life by Ken Wilson Max’s bright colors and strong simple lines. Its portrayal of a mixed-race family is refreshing, as is the depiction of a delightful and characterful black child at the heart of the book.
The Surprise Garden by Zoe Hall (Ages 2-4)
In simple language and vibrant, full-color cut-paper collages, three children celebrate the delights of planting a garden in the spring, then watching with joyful anticipation what grows from each seed, from green beans to yellow squash to red carrots.
Summer Supper by Rubin Pfeffer (Ages 2-4)
From sowing seeds in spring to savoring succotash, follow the creation of a family meal from the farm to the picnic table on a warm summer evening. Told entirely in words beginning with the letter “s,” this book will give children an appreciation for the process by which their food travels to the dinner table.
Mike Austin cleverly incorporates Rubin Pfeffer’s words into his art and creates a visual feast in which kids will love to indulge! Layers of humor and storytelling make this worth many revisits.
Green Green: A Community Gardening Story Baldev Lamba and Marie Lamba (Ages 4-6)
Green grass is wide and fresh and clean for a family to play in, and brown dirt is perfect for digging a garden. But when gray buildings start to rise up and a whole city builds, can there be any room for green space? The neighborhood children think so, and they inspire the community to join together and build a garden for everyone to share in the middle of the city.
Bloom by Deborah Diesen (Ages 4-6)
“Dig holes in the autumn soil.
Drop the bulbs in one by one.
Cover them with dirt.
Come spring, the bulbs will flower!”
In this lushly illustrated story that celebrates life and growing up, a mother and daughter plant a garden to see how something small blooms into something as beautiful and strong as their love.
AVAILABLE TO STREAM NOW
Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience
You know what it’s about. We know what it’s about. Rock on.
Family show!
In My Granny’s Garden
Inspired by Pearl Cleage and Zaron Burnett Jr.’s children’s book of the same name, In My Granny’s Garden invites our youngest audiences to explore the glory of growing your own food. Watch a tiny seed become a field of corn, green beans, collard greens, and bright red tomatoes. Step into a visual feast inspired by world renowned artist Radcliffe Bailey’s original paintings and discover the one superpower that fuels Granny’s garden. This streaming play promises to leave you nourished in body and soul.
Kathy & Ken Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young
AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER
A Very Terry Christmas
From author and Broadway icon Terry Burrell (Ethel; Ever After; Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous) comes a holiday celebration of all the things that give us joy — even in the most chaotic of times. Terry will take us on a tour of her favorite Atlanta destinations while sharing her personal holiday stories and songs in this pre-recorded streaming production. Give yourself the gift of laughter, light, and love by spending a very Terry evening.
A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play Drive-In
Can’t get to Summerhill for our drive-in, live radio play version of our favorite Christmas classic? Don’t worry — this stream is almost like being there! See this Alliance tradition come to life in our brand new, interactive experience, available only this year!
UPCOMING SHOWS
Laugh Track
March… April… October… as the months tick away, the talented comedians of Dad’s Garage examine what life’s key moments and holidays look like in this strange new world. With a mix of ridiculous characters and hilarious situations, get some much-needed laughter in this brand-new original sketch comedy show.
Coming this Halloween
(Knock, Knock) The Sounds of Winter
Come in from out of the cold and celebrate community, family, and warmth this holiday season! Welcome to The Apartment Building. Below us, above us, and beside us, the residents are preparing for the holidays and trying to stay warm. Join us on a floor to floor adventure, meeting and celebrating with a variety of friends who all call The Apartment Building home. Surprises hide behind each door — all you need to do is (Knock, Knock) and listen closely.
Coming December 2020
Kathy & Ken Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young
Sit-In
Written by Atlanta’s bestselling author, playwright, and Civil Rights Activist, Pearl Cleage (Blues for An Alabama Sky, In My Granny’s Garden, Tell Me My Dream) this original animated short celebrates the power of youth to change history. Meet three friends as they learn about the sit-ins of the Civil Rights era, and powerfully apply those lessons to issues they — and we all — face today.
Coming January 2021
Family show!
Sounds of the West End
Inspired by the children’s book In the West End by Will Power and R. Gregory Christie, this aural adventure will immerse you in the sounds of Atlanta’s historic West End neighborhood. From the talk on the sidewalks to the whoosh of the MARTA trains, join us for a rhythmic and tasty trip through the epicenter of vegan cooking in Atlanta.
Coming March 2021
Kathy & Ken Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young
Classic Remix
Time to rewrite the norm. Classic Remix is a modern look at traditional texts. From Shakespeare to George Orwell, this show reimagines old themes, characters, and plots through a 21st century lens.
Coming 2021
Backstage Atlanta
Atlanta’s roots run deep. Peel back the layers of culture that define this city in Backstage Atlanta. A behind-the-scenes look at the art, food, and style that make this city tick.
Coming 2021
Spotlight Studio
The Spotlight Studio is dedicated to spotlighting local Atlanta artists. Whatever their story, whatever their vibe. The Spotlight Studio is a platform for innovative creation. Artists can apply for funding to be on the program! Learn more here.
Coming 2021
Visit Alliance Theatre Anywhere
5 Things to know about the rest of 2020 at the Alliance:
1. vroom vroom beep beep
A CHRISTMAS CAROL is being presented drive-in-style. And tickets are only being charged per vehicle so you can pile your whole pod in… as long as it’s fewer than six people. Let’s be cozy, responsibly, people. To make things extra special, you will get to experience a mix of stage and screen, and live sound effects artists. The experience begins this December and tickets will likely go fast, so get yours ASAP.
2. Summer(hill) Lovin’
Summerhill is a community near the old Turner Field full of cute little shops and yummy restaurants… and now a drive-in! We’re incredibly excited to be their inaugural drive-in event and introduce our audiences to everything they have to offer. Walk to Phoenix II Park nearby to stretch those legs before the show, or grab a cup of coffee from Little Tart and some ice-cream from Big Softie.
3. But I’m not ready to get out there…
We hear you. In addition to top-notch health and safety protocols, we have options available that fit any comfort level. Alliance Theatre Anywhere, our new digital platform, is perfect for anyone who isn’t quite ready to leave the comfort of their own home. Cozy up with your kids to watch (KNOCK, KNOCK) THE SOUNDS OF WINTER, a four-part adventure created by our Theatre for the Very Young team. Each episode will include an audio adventure and activity guide to allow caregivers to play out the story with their children through games, crafts, and musical moments. Check it out to see everything else we offer!
4. I see the light…
Missing your favorite ATL destinations? Missing not seeing the inside of your home? Terry Burrell takes us on a lighthearted adventure through some of our favorite places in this city as she sings us a few Christmas tunes in A VERY TERRY CHRISTMAS, which you can stream on Alliance Theatre Anywhere beginning this November.
5. Is my brain melting?
Maybe. (We know ours are.) Sounds like it’s time to continue some learning. Take an acting class! Our teaching artists have adapted so well to the zoom experience that you will barely able to tell a difference. Plus, you will have classmates from different parts of the country, which makes us all feel cool and connected.
Great! … Now what?
Very good question. Grab tickets now so you don’t miss out on an abundance of holiday cheer and kick-ass theatre!
Pro-tip:
Annual Memberships are on sale and are the only way to immediately secure tickets for all these great shows. Otherwise, we will see you on October 21st.