HORIZON THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS ATLANTA PREMIERE OF LAUGHS IN SPANISH – MAY 23 TO JUNE 22

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/22/25

Latin-infused comedy to play at Inman Park theatre

“A great show… I can see the play itself becoming a new American Classic.” – Broadway World

Part telenovela, part whodunnit, Laughs in Spanish comes to Horizon Theatre May 23 – June 22. High stakes Art Basel is about to begin in Miami, and the art has vanished from Mariana’s trendy modern art gallery! Chaos erupts—and so does laughter— in this fast-paced comedy. Artist and intern Caro and her policeman boyfriend are scrambling to find the thief or replace the art when Mari’s larger-than-life movie-star mother shows up, stealing the spotlight yet again. Then a past girl-crush arrives, and things get even more complicado. Laughs in Spanish is a joyous celebration of Latinx creativity, messy love, mothers and daughters, and the beautiful challenge of finding your place—and your people. This production is performed in English.

Laughs in Spanish is a vibrant, heartfelt comedy that shines a light on the joy and chaos of a Latinx family and identity,” said Horizon Theatre Co-Artistic/Producing Director Lisa Adler. “It’s fresh, funny and full of heart—perfect for anyone who loves a good laugh with a lot of soul.

At the helm of this cafecito-infused comedy is Erika Miranda, a Mexican-Norwegian actor, producer, director and founder of the Atlanta-based, incubative production company Cafecito Productions.  Erika is also an alumna of the Horizon Apprentice Company and was last seen on the Horizon stage in The Wolves

Laughs in Spanish is a joyful comedy about art, identity and the beautiful chaos of being a daughter… or a mother… or a lover,” Director Erika Miranda explains. “Set in a Miami art gallery during the frenzy of Art Basel, the play kicks off with the entire exhibit being robbed and everyone pointing fingers. But the real drama is not just the missing art—it’s the emotional masterpieces we’re all trying to restore at home. The characters remind us that love isn’t always neat, vulnerability is never easy, and sometimes — rather than say ‘I love you,’ ‘I need you’ or ‘I believe in you’— we build cinematic empires and embark on life-altering adventures.  It’s heartfelt, hilarious and alive with the messy magic that unfolds when we begin to see our mothers not just as parents, but as people. Come for the laughs. Stay for the catharsis. Call your mother after.”

Miranda’s company’s first production, Mi Casa, which was first performed at Horizon during the Apprentice Company, can be found on all HBO platforms. Films produced by Cafecito Productions have been screened at festivals across the country, including Cleveland International and Palm Springs Short Fest. Trailer [Trash] Magic, Erika’s directorial debut, won the GA Film Impact Grant and premiered at LALIFF in 2024. Erika was also named One of the Amazing Women in Film by Oz Magazine (2023) and one of Georgia’s Top Industry Influencers by Georgia Entertainment (2024).  Erika is also first Executive Producer of SheATL Arts (of SheNY), a festival that mentors up-and-coming women playwrights.

In Laughs in Spanish, the stakes are high for young Miami gallery owner, Mariana (Ana Miramontes, seen regionally in productions at Houston’s Alley Theatre, Theatre Squared and Florida Studio Theatre), when art goes missing on the eve of Art Basel. Her artist intern, MFA student Caro (Lorena Guillen Castillo, SheATLBFA NYU Tisch) and Caro’s policeman boyfriend Juan (Marcello Audino, City Springs’ Legally Blonde, Theatrical Outfit’s Clyde’s, Aurora’s The Play That Goes Wrong) are onsite to help through the panic while also uncovering some surprises of their own.  When Mariana’s movie-star mother (Denise Arribas, Horizon’s Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike and The Book Club Play) and a past girl-crush (Mabel Thomas, BA Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) show up, the complications rise in this fast-paced comedy about art and success, love and romance, and mothers and daughters.

Performances begin Friday, May 23 at 8 p.m., with a Press Opening on May 30 at 8 p.m. Performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 5 p.m., running through June 22.  Wednesday performances are May 28 and June 4 at 8 p.m. and June 11 and 18 at 2 p.m. There will be no Saturday matinee on June 7.  Seating is general admission with a reserved seating section for subscribers. General admission tickets start at $35 on Wednesdays and Thursdays and $40 for all weekend performances. Prices rise as performances fill up, so patrons are encouraged to order early for the best prices and availability.  Full-time students under 25 can get $20 tickets with valid student ID by calling the box office or at the door if tickets are available.  There is limited accessible seating for those needing mobility accommodation, and it must be reserved by phone. For tickets and more information, visit horizontheatre.com or call the Box Office at 404.584.7450. Horizon Theatre is in Iman Park/Little Five Points at 1083 Austin Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

ATHDAY AT WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/19/25

Saturday, May 24th

Paint the town red and black for ATHDay at Westside Motor Lounge, a celebration of all things Athens, Georgia, on Saturday, May 24, 2025. The Westside Atlanta venue will kick things off at noon with a full-on takeover featuring local food, Creature Comforts beer, artists, and giveaways—all straight from the Classic City and America’s best college town. The energy kicks into high gear from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. when five Athens-based musical acts take the stage to put on an electrifying show that gives audiences a taste of Athens’ legendary underground music scene. Featuring the southern twang of Peach Ice Cream Bluegrass, the bluesy folk sensibilities of Cannon Rogers, the groovy psychedelic funk rock of Patio, the unbridled chaos of electronic hard rockers Alien Funk Academy, and the reimagined jam band classics of Grateful Dead cover band Dire Wolf, Westside Motor Lounge’s ATHDay celebration is sure to have something for any and every concertgoer. Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased at www.westsidemotorlounge.com.

For more information, call 678-388-9536. Westside Motor Lounge is located on the corner of Northside Drive and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway at 725 Echo Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318. Stay connected on Instagram @Westside_Motor_Lounge.

THOMPSON ATLANTA – BUCKHEAD TO HOST NATIONAL BARTENDING COMPETITION DURING U.S. BARTENDERS’ GUILD SUMMIT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/16/25

Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead is proud to serve as a host venue for the USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO, which brings its highly anticipated national finals to Atlanta this month.

From May 18 to May 20, 2025, the city will welcome the Top 30 regional bartenders from across the country as they compete in the USBG Presents World Class U.S. Finals, a multi-day event designed to test the creativity, technical skill, and knowledge of the nation’s best mixologists. Competitions and programming will take place within Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead, offering guests a front-row seat to the craft cocktail world’s most exciting showdown.

Following a series of immersive and challenging rounds, 10 finalists will be selected to continue vying for the title of 2025 U.S. Bartender of the Year. The national champion will go on to represent the U.S. at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto, Canada this August, competing against top bartenders from more than 50 countries.

“We’re honored to be part of such a prestigious event and welcome bartending talent from across the country to Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead,” said Donte Johnson, General Manager of Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. “Our hotel celebrates craft, culture, and community – values deeply shared with this competition and the bartending profession at large.”

The World Class competition, sponsored by global spirits leader Diageo, will take place exclusively at Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. While select off-site events – including the Top 10 Dinner and Winner Announcement – will be held at other locations, the main competition is open to the public for consumers 21+. See the full schedule here.

“World Class is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of bartenders at the highest level,” said Bo Shuff, Executive Director of the United States Bartenders’ Guild. “We’re honored to host this event as part of the USBG Bar Summit and to partner with Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead in welcoming and showcasing these professionals from across the country as we celebrate their craft. It’s a powerful reflection of how education and community – core to the USBG’s mission, continue to shape the future of our industry.”

The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG), a nonprofit with thousands of members and chapters in nearly 50 cities, including Atlanta, has long championed professional development within the beverage industry. The USBG Presents World Class Sponsored by DIAGEO event not only showcases exceptional bartending talent but also highlights emerging trends in the industry, from sustainability and low-ABV cocktails to bartenders’ growing roles as educators and community leaders. In celebration of this year’s U.S. Finals, World Class will be hosting a Cocktail Festival that will be serving specialty drinks at various bars and restaurants in Atlanta to engage the local community and build buzz around the competition. A list of participating bars and restaurants can be found here.

Cocktails created for the duration of this year’s competition can be found on Instagram using the handle @WorldClassUS.

For additional information about the program and for details on the upcoming global competition, follow hashtags #worldclassus and #worldclass2025 on Twitter and Instagram, and visit worldclass.usbg.org and www.usbg.org.

FOOD THAT ROCKS 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/16/25

Sandy Springs’ Tastiest Tradition Turns 10—Food That Rocks Set for June 5 at City Springs 

Taste of Atlanta proudly presents the 10th annual Food  That Rocks on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m. at City Green at City Springs. This all inclusive event features unlimited tastings from more than 20 of Sandy Springs’ favorite restaurants,  plus beer, wine, craft cocktails, and live music — all included with your ticket. 

Guests can enjoy bites from local favorites including Banana Leaf Thai & Bar, Baraonda Ristorante &  Bar, Blue Moon Pizza, Bocado, Breadwinner Café, Chef Rob’s Caribbean Café, CityBar. & Café, City  Barbeque, Gus’ World Famous Fried Chicken, Hopdoddy Burger Bar, il Giallo, McDaniel’s QN2 BBQ,  Mexico Linda, Mojave, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Nowak’s, Rumi’s Kitchen, The Select, Southern Bistro,  

Sunnyside Pizzeria, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, Thos. O’Reilly’s Public House, Three Dollar Café and Yalda. 

Celebrate 10 years of Food That Rocks with bold flavors, sweet treats, and high-energy  performances by Java Monkey and CJ and The Doughboys, led by Chef Jamie Adams of il Giallo. 

Ticket Information: 

VIP Admission – $125 

• Early entry at 6 p.m. 

• Exclusive VIP swag bag (one per household) 

• Unlimited tastes from 20+ Sandy Springs’ restaurants 

• Craft cocktail, beer, and wine tastings 

• Live Chef Chats & Mixology Demonstrations 

• Live music and entertainment 

General Admission – $95 

• Entry at 7 p.m. 

• Unlimited food, dessert, and beverage tastings 

• Access to all live chef chats and mixology demos 

• Live music and entertainment 

Tickets are available now at www.FoodThatRocks.org. Advance purchase is strongly encouraged as  the event regularly sells out. All attendees must be 21 or older to enter. 

“Food That Rocks is more than a food festival — it’s a celebration of the Sandy Springs community  and culinary talent,” said Dale DeSena, founder and CEO of Taste of Atlanta. “We’re thrilled to mark  our 10th anniversary with a night of sensational flavors, local chef talent, and a spirit of connection  that truly reflects the heart of Sandy Springs.” 

Event Details: 

Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025 

Time: VIP 6–10 p.m. | General Admission 7–10 p.m. Location: City Green at City Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA

GLOBAL MINI GOLF PROS HEAD TO GEORGIA TO COMPETE FOR $20K PURSE AT 2025 US OPEN

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Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/15/25


 This Free Event Brings Together the World’s Best Putters, Local Atlanta Legends & Family Fun

Friday, 5/16 and Saturday, 5/17!

The 2025 US Open, one of the US Pro Mini Golf Association’s two premier global tournaments, will bring nearly 100 of the top putters from around the world to Tin Cup Grill in Cumming, GA, for a high-stakes, family-friendly weekend of competitive play and community celebration.

Hosted in partnership with the Putters League and sanctioned by the USPMGA, this year’s Open marks the first time the event has been held on a PuttTek real-grass-style putting course that will challenge even the most seasoned competitors. Admission is free for spectators, and fans are encouraged to attend and cheer on local favorites and international stars alike.

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  • Nearly 100 players, including 50+ elite global competitors, featuring two of the only four players in history to record a perfect 18, and competitors previously featured on ESPN.
  • Players include:
    • Rick Baird, One of only four players in history to shoot a perfect 18
    • Josh Mars, A fan-favorite YouTube personality from Australia known as “The Putting Wonder from Down Under”
    • Greg Newport, USPMGA Hall of Famer and one of only four players to achieve a perfect 18
    • Gary English, Atlanta-based legendary putter

THE RENAISSANCE ORCHESTRA ANNOUNCES A SPECIAL ONE-NIGHT ONLY CONCERT EVENT, MAY 30, AT CENTER STAGE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/12/25

‘Up the Score’ Takes Classical Back to the Lab with the Help of Guest Artists Genre Bending Violinist Michael Prince and Piano Prodigy BLKBOK 

Tickets Are On Sale Now

What if the score wasn’t the final version? What if you scratched beneath the surface, infused it with your own vibe remixed for the culture, tossed it with R&B and hip-hop, and set it with a full accompaniment of strings fueled by scores of the past?  These are the very questions The Renaissance Orchestra will answer as they ‘Up the Score’ on May 30 at Center Stage in Atlanta, GA.  Fueled by visionary founder Tyrone “OG” Bowie- a multi-talented, Atlanta-based musician, producer, and DJ, The Renaissance Orchestra is a groundbreaking musical collective that blends classical instrumentation with the pulse of modern production and what you end up with is a sound as much rooted in tradition as it is radically redefined and new.

“This isn’t just music, it’s personal,” says Tyrone “OG” Bowie, Founder of The Renaissance Orchestra. “When people experience ‘Up the Score,’ I want them to leave feeling like they have just witnessed a new cultural moment where orchestral music reflects the stories, energy, and excellence of Black artistry.”

‘Up the Score’ will not be the typical night at the symphony, while top hats and tails won’t be discouraged; this is a cultural experience and should be embraced as such. Guests can expect classical music tossed on its head, remixed for the culture — where hip-hop meets violin, R&B gets reimagined with full strings, and original scores get flipped like samples. 

For this special one-night-only concert event, Houston-born violinist producer and composer Michael Prince, known for his innovative fusion of classical hip-hop R&B jazz and pop music, will join The Renaissance Orchestra. Prince has collaborated with notable artists such as Jon Batiste, T-Pain, A$AP, Rocky Timbaland, and LaRussell and is revved up to bring that same collaboration spirit to ‘Up the Score.’  Additionally, BLKBOK, a classically trained pianist and composer known for blending classical music with hip-hop R&B and jazz influences, will tickle the ivories, adding another dimension to The Renaissance Orchestra’s sound. BLKBOK has toured with stars like Justin Timberlake and Rihanna before launching his solo career and redefining what it means to be a modern classical artist.

General Admission tickets for ‘Up the Score’ with Michael Prince and BLKBOK are on sale now at www.CenterStage.com. ‘Up the Score’ is produced by The Renaissance Orchestra. Visit www.TheRenaissanceOrchestra.com for the most up-to-date information. Stay connected on Facebook @TheRenaissanceOrchestra and Instagram at @RenaissanceOrchestra_. Center Stage is located at 1374 West Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia.

TIO LUCHO’S & PUMA YU’S PAIR UP FOR ONE-NIGHT-ONLY EVENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/12/25

Sunday, May 18

They started out the same way—late-night pop-ups, word-of-mouth dinners, and a whole lot of hustle in Athens and Atlanta. Now, Tio Lucho’s and Puma Yu’s, two James Beard-nominated restaurants that turned those early days and late nights into something bigger, are teaming up for the first time for one night only on Tio Lucho’s patio, Sunday, May 18, 2025. It’s Peruvian meets Thai. Open flames, stacked grills, citrus, smoke, herbs, spice. Whole chicken quarters kissed by the fire, shrimp skewers sizzling in chili and lime, pastel de papa layered and rich, a wedge salad made wild with huacatay ranch, papaya salad piled high, and sticky rice to bring it all together. Dessert? A creamy, dreamy Suspiro de Atlanta. And then there’s the bar. Smitty Luck of Puma Yu’s is pulling up from Athens to collaborate with the Tio Lucho’s crew on a one-night-only cocktail menu made for golden hour and good decisions (or bad ones—no judging). Two seatings are available at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $100 and include dinner for two; beverages will be available for purchase separately. Space is limited, so grab a ticket today at tioluchos.com. For more information, call (404) 343-0278. Tio Lucho’s is located at 675 N. Highland Ave. NE, Suite 6000, Atlanta, GA 30306. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook @tioluchos.

HOUSTON’S BANDISTA POPS UP AT BAR MARGOT ATLANTA FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/9/25

Tuesday, May 13th at 7pm

Bar Margot is hosting a one-night-only takeover by Bandista, the acclaimed speakeasy from Four Seasons Hotel Houston recently named one of North America’s 50 Best Bars (#59 on the 2025 list) on Tuesday, May 13 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Known for its inventive cocktails, rare spirits, and high-touch hospitality, Bandista is bringing the heat—and the mezcal—to Midtown for one unforgettable night. From a macadamia- and pineapple-laced Colada Cosmico to a toasted bolillo–infused Patrón Reposado creation, each drink on the featured menu is a nod to Bandista’s playful precision and boundary-pushing style. Expect impeccable cocktails, creative flair, and Bar Margot’s signature laid-back energy. No cover; cocktails available à la carte.  Bar Margot is located inside Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta at 75 14th Street NE.  For more information on the Bar Margot x Bandista pop-up or to book a table, visit www.barmargotatl.com or call (404) 881-5913. Follow along at @barmargotatl.

PUTTSHACK CELEBRATES NATIONAL MINI GOLF DAY WITH FREE GAMES AND NEW MENU DROPS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/6/25

Swing by the Atlanta and Dunwoody Locations for All-Day, Tech-Infused Gameplay, Signature Cocktails, and Next-Level Bites 

Saturday, May 10, 2025 

On Saturday, May 10, Puttshack Atlanta and Puttshack Dunwoody are taking National Mini Golf Day up a notch with an all-day celebration packed with tech-infused gameplay, signature cocktails, and next-level bites. Guests who play a round on National Mini Golf Day will receive a free game card for a future visit, because one round is never quite enough.

The bar is teeing up a trio of featured cocktails made for post-putt celebrations, including the Ultimate Top Shelf Margarita with a Supertube shot, a classic Arnold Palmer, and the spiked John Daly for those looking to keep the party going. Just in time for the festivities, the new Quesabirria is hitting the expansive menu with slow-braised beef, a rich Chihuahua cheese blend, smoky chipotle aioli, and consomé for dipping. 

From sliders and street food to curated playlists and neon-lit vibes, Puttshack delivers the energy of a night out with the thrill of friendly competition. Puttshack Atlanta is located at 1115 Howell Mill Rd., and Puttshack Dunwoody is at 111 High Street, Suite 210. For more information or to make a reservation, visit puttshack.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @puttshack.

MAKE MAY MEMORIES AT THE INTERLOCK

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/4/25

Enjoy a month full of happenings at the West Midtown mixed-use destination

From festive Cinco de Mayo happenings and tequila tastings to women-led maker markets, fitness pop-ups and local shopping experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month at The Interlock. Whether you’re sipping margaritas at Holiday Bar, strolling through the markets or sweating it out at Lululemon’s Sunday Sweat Series, The Interlock is your go-to destination for fun all month long. 

The Interlock’s full May events lineup is outlined below:

Velvet Taco Cinco de Mayo Special

May 2 through May 5

Stop by Velvet Taco from May 2 to May 5 and purchase a large Boozy Liberation, which includes the Kick Ass Margarita, Grand Kick Ass Margarita, Sangrita, Sangrita Swirl, or Paloma, to receive a free souvenir cup while supplies last. Stay tuned on Velvet Taco’s Instagram for more information.

Cinco de Mayo at Holiday Bar

May 2 through May 5

Join Holiday Bar for a Margarita Happy Hour from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 2, followed by a Tequila Market from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, featuring a tasting of four different types of tequila. Then, enjoy a Mexican Cocktail Class from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 4 while catching the Miami Grand Prix on the TVs at 4 p.m. On Monday, May 5, indulge in the all-day Cinco de Mayo Menu and join the Duolingo Cocktail Class for a fun, interactive experience. Stay tuned on Holiday Bar’s Instagram for more information.

Cinnamon Toasted Atlanta Cinco de Mayo Event

Saturday, May 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo this weekend with A.M. vibes and P.M. energy. Guests can enjoy tequila flight specials, margarita specials, a Churro Bar and Latin-inspired music. Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details.

Pepsi Zero Sugar Sampling Event

May 8 through May 10 from noon to 7 p.m.

Visit The Interlock from May 8 through May 10 to sample Pepsi’s new zero-sugar soda. Guests can participate in a head-to-head taste challenge to receive a coupon for a free 20-ounce Pepsi Zero Sugar or Wild Cherry. Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details.

Gurl to Girl Women’s Makers Market

Saturday, May 10 and 24 from 4 to 9 p.m.

Shop local and empower women entrepreneurs at the Gurl 2 Girl for Women’s Makers Market on The Highline at The Interlock. Explore handmade goods by talented woman-owned businesses in the community while you network with like-minded individuals. Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details.

Westside Market

Sunday, May 17and 31 from noon to 8 p.m.

Support local businesses at the West Side Market this month on The Highline at The Interlock! Connect with the West Midtown community by shopping vintage goods, jewelry, clothing and more, featuring entertainment from local artists and DJs.  Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details. 

Lululemon Sunday Sweat Series

Sunday, May 25 at 10 a.m.

Grab a friend and join the sweat session hosted by Lululemon West Midtown! Enjoy a complimentary, high-energy workout designed to help you feel good all month long. Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details. 

Hillz 4 ATL

Thursdays in May at 6:30

Join us for Hillz 4 Atlanta’s High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Class on Thursdays in May at Highline Park. Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details. 

West Coast Swing at the Interlock

Friday, May 2and 23from 7 to 10 p.m.

Get ready to step, spin and sway at The Interlock with West Coast Swing dance instruction led by veteran dancer Melissa Klein! This is your chance to experience a timeless yet fresh style of partner dancing that brings movement, music and community together. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your steps, join us for an engaging, fun and social way to dance into something new! Stay tuned on The Interlock’s Instagram and Facebook for more details.