TEMPO BY HILTON SAVANNAH: WEEKEND GETAWAY TRIP 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/25/26

Explore Savannah’s historic district at your own tempo! The brand-new Tempo by Hilton Savannah is all about location! Steps from historic homes and squares, as well as the iconic Savannah riverfront. But it can also be your retreat from it all, as well!

In the lobby, the automatic doors open to a pair of chairs with modern touches and look up! There is a stunning tree canopy fresco on the ceiling that mimics the arched tree roadways around Savannah! They have a range of lounging areas along the roped wall that leads into Bluestone Lane and a whole conference area with ample seating.

And the rooms are one word: comfort! The crown jewel is the comfy soft king-sized bed for relaxing, it has a leather headboard and lighting for those avid readers out there. The bathroom is stunning marble white with walk-in shower. There are double mirrors one the bathroom and one in the hall on the work desk.

Remember when I said the location was everything here? It is. You can stay on river street but that can get loud, so this has the best of both worlds. Squares and historic homes like the Pink House, Owens-Thomas, and Thomas Low are around the corner. We explored over 10+ squares, Forsyth Park, the Ownes-Thomas house and slave’s quarters, went to three speakeasies, The Pink House (twice), and of course Abe’s on Lincoln. The Abe Lincoln themed bar next to the hotel. And it is only a block from the Savannah Riverfront and River street. Saw the Waving Girl Statue, walked the entire Plant River District, river front area, and explored the fun alley ways and stairs along the river.

In the Lobby, Bluestone Lane is Australian coffee shop chain that we thoroughly enjoyed! We went every day for breakfast. John adored his two buttermilk pancakes side with thick bacon. For lunch on Friday, I enjoyed the chicken and avocado sandwich. It is creamy chicken salad with dill and tangy pickles, earthy spinach, and avocado smothered on the crunchy bread. Enjoyed! They have breakfast, lunch, and an array of beverage options from coffee to tea and more.

Waving Girl rooftop is on the 7th floor, a gorgeously polished bar with cocktails, views, and bites. It is a salute to one of the most famous Savannahians: The Waving Girl! An homage to Francis Martus who waved a cloth at ships passing by from 1887 to 1931 in a search for her lost love. The ships return the greeting by blowing their horns. Ships still today sound a salute at her statue!

The decor is velvet loungers and long booths, murals of ships and their crew adorn the walls, a long bar inside and out with views of the river and historic district! We tried brunch and dinner here and both were delicious.

Let’s start with brunch, we got the pastrami and eggs, WG burger, and the French toast, as well as the Sage against the machine cocktail. The Pastrami and eggs are tender and salty pastrami meat with hearty potatoes, tangy onions and peppers, and savory egg! I paired it with the Sage Against the machine cocktail. It is a creamy and herbaceous gin cocktail with earthy celery bitters.

We also got the WG burger for brunch. It is juicy and well cooked with sharp cheese, creamy comeback sauce, tangy pickle and caramelized onions. It’s served with seasoned fries. But our favorite bite is the French toast! Superb sweet and cream filled toast with an egg wash, creamy whipped cream, fruit, and just perfection with the maple syrup.

For dinner we started out with the Vidalia onion fritters. They are fried dough fritters with tangy onion flavor and a tasty spicy horseradish. John got the Charcuterie plate stuffed with brie and hard cheeses, a single meat, and accoutrement like crunch bread, olives, raisins, and nuts.

For my main course I opted for the Seared Ahi tuna. It is perfectly seared tuna with an encrusted skin, served with a bright salad topped with creamy avocado, an earthy green tomato sauce underneath, and tangy champagne vinaigrette dressing! I paired it with the Call Me Old Fashioned cocktail. It is boozy and smoky rye with bitters and brought smoked in a carafe.

Between the location close to river street and the river front, the historic district, and ample dining options, Tempo by Hilton Savannah is the best of Savannah. It is a must stay.


REVERB HOTEL ATLANTA – YOUR CONCERT STAYCATION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/21/26

Checking into the Reverb Hotel Atlanta will be your new downtown Atlanta concert ritual! Recently, John and I stayed at the Reverb Hotel Atlanta in Downtown Atlanta and think this music centric hotel is the perfect way to enjoy a concert downtown! It is only a short 8-minute walk to State Farm Arena where we go treated to see Florence & The Machine.

First, the hotel is throughly music-centric! The lobby screams music studio with a radio on air room and sound booths around the perimeter with guitars!! The lounging area next to the bar with the “on and on and on” circular sign, a nod to Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’ or whatever song you like with the phrase. They also have a Reverb button wall and the check-in is called Will Call.

Up in the rooms you are greeted by music playing in the room and it is dotted with music artwork and more! Plus, the rooms are comfy and modern with spacious bathroom, comfy king bed, perfect to lay your head after a concert experience.

They have your pre-concert pre-game right on site! Either pull up to Constant Grind the long bar in the lobby or take it upstairs to RT60 Rooftop to grab a cocktail and some serious bar bites while taking in the view before the concert.


Here are the food and drink items we had from both the RT60 Rooftop and Constant Grind. I started with the martini and hit all the right notes. Boozy floral gin, dry vermouth, and lemon for balance made this one a winner. They have a different menu than Constant Grind, but we got the lemon pepper wings on their menu. They were meaty, crunchy outside, and tender inside with the right amount of rub.

Down at Constant Grind in the lobby, I started with the Cucumber Basil Martini. It is super refreshing cucumber, earthy basil cocktail! The best bite is the chicken sandwich. It is crunchy fried chicken with a delicious spicy aioli and crunchy pickles. It comes with seasoned fries. John got the steak tips, and they are tender steak, flavorful rice and buttery broccolini.

Then, we took the quick walk to State Farm Arena to see Florence & the Machine! We tapped our tickets into the whimsigoth atmosphere of the show. They lit up the stage with a mesmerizing light show and performed hits like “Shake it Out,” and “Dog Days are Over.”

SPAMALOT COMES TO ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/21/26

The Tony Award-Winning Best Musical Comedy is Back!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Fox Theatre

July 21-26, 2026

Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2025/2026 Season

Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta is delighted to announce that tickets for SPAMALOT are on sale now for a limited one-week engagement at the Fox Theatre from July 21-26, as part of the 2025/2026 season. Tickets are available at the Fox Theatre box office at 660 Peachtree Street NE, by visiting foxtheatre.org/spamalot or by calling 855-285-8499. Group orders of 10 or more may be placed by contacting sales@foxtheatre.org. For more information, please visit spamalotthemusical.com.

SPAMALOT, which first galloped onto Broadway in 2005, features a book & lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle. The original Broadway production was nominated for fourteen Tony Awards and won three including Best Musical. 

The performance schedule is as follows:

Tuesday – Thursday                    7:30 p.m.
Friday                                          8 p.m.
Saturday                                      2 p.m., 8 p.m.
Sunday                                        1 p.m., 6:30 p.m.

Following its critically acclaimed 2023 Broadway revival at the St. James Theatre in NYC, SPAMALOT is now on an all-new North American tour. Under the direction and choreography of Josh Rhodes, the production was praised for its inventive staging, design, and exceptional performances, reaffirming the enduring appeal of Monty Python’s distinctly British wit and comedic brilliance. The Broadway revival now brings its celebrated production to audiences across the country. The tour will travel to more than 30 cities in its first year including Cleveland; Los Angeles; Washington, D.C.; Las Vegas; San Francisco; Seattle; Denver; Atlanta; Dallas; New Orleans; St. Louis; Houston; Ft. Worth; Charlotte; Schenectady; St. Paul, Greenville; Rochester; Milwaukee; Hartford and Costa Mesa. For more information, please visit spamalotthemusical.com. 

The cast includes Major Attaway (Aladdin) as King Arthur, Sean Bell (Harmony) as Sir Robin, Chris Collins-Pisano (Forbidden Broadway) as Sir Lancelot, Ellis C. Dawson III (Hamilton) as Sir Bedevere, Leo Roberts (Les Misérables) as Sir Galahad, Amanda Robles as The Lady of the Lake, Blake Segal (Mary Poppins) as Patsy and Steven Telsey (The Book Of Mormon) as The Historian/Prince Herbert.

The cast also includes Lindsay Lee Alhady, Delaney Benson, Jack Brewer, Connor Coughlin, L’ogan J’ones, Graham Keen, Claire Kennard, Ben Lanham, Nathaniel Mahone, Maddie Mossner, Emilie Renier, Mark Tran Russ and Meridien Terrell.  

The creative team includes scenic and projection design by Paul Tate dePoo III, costume design by Jen Caprio, lighting design by Cory Pattak, sound design by Kai Harada & Haley Parcher, wig design by Tom Watson and music supervision by John Bell. Jonathan Gorst is the Musical Director/Conductor. The team also includes Matthew Brooks (Production Stage Manager), Anna K. Rains (Stage Manager) and Dani Berman (Asst. Stage Manager), James Neal (Company Manager) and Kat McIntyre (Asst. Company Manager). Derek Kolluri is the Associate Director, and Michael Fatica is the Associate Choreographer. Casting is by Geoff Josselson, CSA and RCI Theatricals serves as General Manager. SPAMALOT is produced by Jeffrey Finn.

Lovingly ripped from the film classic, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, SPAMALOT has everything that makes a great knight at the theatre: from flying cows to killer rabbits, British royalty to French taunters, dancing girls, rubbery shrubbery, and of course, the Lady of the Lake. SPAMALOT features well-known songs including “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” “The Song That Goes Like This,” “Find Your Grail” and more that have become beloved classics in the musical theater canon.   

TASTE OF GENEROSITY RETURNS AUGUST 14 TO POUR PURPOSE INTO THE COMMUNITY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/21/26

Mark Your Calendar for a Fundraising Experience Benefiting the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society

Tickets On Sale Now

Third annual – Taste of Generosity: Exploring Bourbon + Botanicals.
Friday, August 14 | 6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Stave Room and ASW Whiskey Exchange | 199 Armour Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Tickets are on sale now – visit here to purchase. 



 Get ready to sip, savor, and support a powerful cause: the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is proud to present the third annual Taste of Generosity: Exploring Bourbon + Botanicals, where every sip is a step closer to a world free of Multiple Sclerosis. This immersive evening will bring together tastemakers, philanthropists, and flavor seekers for a bold night of cocktails, community, and giving back.

“Taste of Generosity is a powerful reflection of what makes this community so special,” says Rachael Fenich, President & Executive Director of the National MS Society’s Georgia Chapter. “In just a few short years, it has become one of the most significant events in our market, with ticket sales growing more than 40% year over year. It’s a testament to the grit, heart, and connection driving progress toward a world free of MS.”

This year’s event takes center stage with curated tastings from 24+ national and local brands, plus handcrafted cocktails, mocktails, and zero-proof elixirs that ensure everyone gets in on the experience. Guests can expect Southern-inspired bites from standout Atlanta restaurants, along with pours from top beverage partners. The evening will also feature live music, a live and silent auction, a bottle pull, a photo booth, a spotlight on this year’s Honorary Chairs + special guests, and a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere that’s anything but ordinary, filled with plenty of surprises.

Tickets are now available with three elevated tasting experiences designed to deliver endless flavor throughout the evening:

  • Classic Admission: Jump on the Classic Tasting Trail with pours of premium bourbons, spirits, and wines from top beverage partners – plus a custom Taste of Generosity souvenir tasting cup to remember the night. ($175
  • VIP: Enjoy all Classic perks, with early access, exclusive high-end pours from 6 p.m.-7 p.m., access to special silent auction items, and a souvenir rocks glass to elevate your home bar. ($250)
  • ASW Reserve Experience: For the true bourbon buff – early entry at 6 p.m., entry to ASW Private Tasting Room, private ASW distillery tour, and all VIP benefits included. ($400)

Sponsors and restaurant or beverage partners play a key role in bringing Taste of Generosity to life. To get involved, visit Become A Sponsor / Tasting Table Partner.

The event is co-chaired by Tara Murphy, founder of 360 Media and publisher of The Atlanta 100, who is a chapter Board of Trustees member, lives with MS, and brings her fierce energy and creative drive to the cause. “Taste of Generosity is about more than bourbon,” says Murphy. “It’s about raising our glasses – and our voices – for people living with MS. It’s about joy, connection, and impact to help raise awareness, funds, and hope for a different future. The progress made through research, disease-modifying therapies, and support by donations from events like this will absolutely one day put an end to MS. This isn’t just a tasting – it’s a movement.”

Taste of Generosity is made possible by the unwavering support of Barrel Proof Presenting Sponsor RNDC (Republic National Distributing Company) and Mara and Bill Holley, Small Batch Silver Sponsor Infosys, as well as a host of other sponsors and restaurant and beverage partners who share the vision for a world free of MS.

KINGSTON RESORTS – NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/26

This is where I hope your email finds me: at the Kingston Resorts in North Myrtle Beach! John and I recently took a weekend trip to the Kingston Resorts in North Myrtle beach that sit right on the sandy beaches of the South Carolina Coast. We stayed specifically in the Hilton on the property and were blown away by its atrium and architecture, stunning pools, and ocean views! Beyond the Hilton is the Embassy Suites and condos with everything they have to offer, so it offers everything you could want in a resort all in one place!

The Hilton lobby is grand with a 15 story atrium with a soaring ceiling and fun blue artwork on the way up. They had several sitting and lounging areas under indoor pergolas. To the right is their market for bites, drinks, and gifts and to the left, the check-in area. We really enjoyed the “We are the Beach” sign, as well.

For our room, we were up on the top floor and the 15th floor views of the resort pool, ocean views, and the sound of crashing waves from our balcony was everything! I couldn’t take my eyes off the views from our room; it was just perfect. The room itself is relaxing and comfortable with a large king bed, nice amenities, and spacious bathroom with gorgeous shower and vanity.

On the Hilton property are two pools to choose between or do both! You walk through the back of the lobby into the pool deck area and the first pool where they have a daily DJ. In front of you is the stunning ocean view of the Atlantic and to the left of the tiki/outdoor bar, Wet Whistle. On the other side is the beautiful sand-bottom pool with small lazy river, waterfall, hot tubs, and intimate cabanas. The sand-bottom resort pool that has a rock waterfall, short lazy river, and of course the sand-bottom 1-2 foot deep area.

There are several cabanas for rent at the sand-bottom pool that provide privacy and relaxation away from the main resort pool deck. They have serval lounge chairs, tons of towels, a table and chairs, and a couch to watch the TV! You can order food and drinks right to the cabana from their friendly cabana staff!

The best amenity they have is the star of the show: the beach! Take the beach access down to the pristine shores of North Myrtle Beach. The water was bluer than I thought it would be and we enjoyed strolling and relaxing!

The boardwalk connects the Hilton and the Embassy hotels in a scenic fashion! Right along the beach and amidst lush vegetation it makes it the ideal way to walk the property.

The Embassy Suites pool is a stunner. It has rows of loungers and umbrellas to enjoy on the pool deck. As well as a large, sprawling pool with beach like entrance on one end. They also offer cabanas and have a DJ that was playing music bingo when we were there. The also have two waterparks for big and little kids alike with large water slides, a water park with large water bucket waterfall and more! It is NICE!

On top of the outside entertainment, one of the best amenities at Kingston Resorts is their dining options. They have several options from Italian to seafood to BBQ and pizza to tiki bar drinks and bites. Amalfi is the dinner spot on the second floor paired with Veranda Bar. Outside is the ocean front dining and bar, Wet Whistle. In the Embassy is BBQ and pizza at Black Drum brewing and seafood and breakfast at Coastal Grille.

Amalfi in the Hilton is an ocean front Italian spot. I stared out with the Amalfi coast cocktail that is boozy vodka, floral St. Germaine, and bright lemon. For appetizers we ordered the Three-Cheese and Garlic bread and meatballs. The Three-Cheese and Garlic bread is super good. The cheeses are creamy and sharp and love the flavor explosion on the bread with the garlic and crunch! The surprise bite of the night! The meatballs were rich and hearty with a tangy marinara sauce, creamy and sharp cheese served with grilled bread.

For our dinner John and I split the Filet, a super tender and juicy steak served medium rare. It was a delicious rich and hearty demi glaze, earthy mushroom, creamy mashed potatoes and a grilled tender onion and asparagus. It was my favorite dish of our stay! Then, we also opted for the pork ragu, as well. It includes hearty rigatoni noodles with tender pork, tangy marinara and sharp cheese. Amalfi was my favorite dining experience, while John’s at Black Drum Brewing is below.

Veranda Bar in the Hilton next to Amalfi has bar bites and signature cocktails like the St. Germaine spritz! It was refreshing floral St. Germaine and tart prosecco. The bar has an array of bar bites as well!

Wet Whistle tiki bar is on the pool deck with ocean views. We tried a few of their cocktails like the Booty Bucket, a rum concoction with tons of boozy liquor, juices, and a splash of 151 on top. On the first day, I got the Lime in the coconut, a lime forward vanilla vodka cocktail with coconut. And when we enjoyed the cabana, I got the painkiller, a boozy rum cocktail with tangy OJ, pineapple, and almond liquor. Of the Wet Whistle menu, we chose two dishes, the grilled chicken sandwich and teriyaki wings. The chicken sandwich was solid with juicy grilled chicken, earthy mushrooms, and all the trimmings. It came with some seasoned and crispy fries. John got the teriyaki wings that were meaty, crunchy outside, and warm inside. The sauce was sweet and spicy and just perfect.

On our last night we went over to Black Drum Brewing. It is a BBQ, brew, and wood-fired pizza casual restaurant at the Embassy Suites pool. I opted to start with the Deviled Eggs and they didn’t dissapoint. They were creamy, dreamy, and a good sour cream bite to them. For dinner I got the brisket plate with very tender and meaty brisket that fell apart in my mouth. The waiter recommend mixing a combo of the red and blackberry smoke and we concur. It is the perfect smoky, sweet, savory sauce to go on the meat. It came with two sides: the creamy red potato salade and crunchy, tangy cucumber salad.

John went with the wood-fired pizza. It is tasty marinara and creamy cheese with spicy pepperoni and a good smokiness on the dough from the pizza oven. For drinks John opted for the crisp and cool Side Hustle Light from Side Hustle local brewery. Since I was enjoying meat, I went heavier with a boozy, tart Manhattan and then a sweet, sassy, smoky old fashioned for after dinner.

Beyond all of that there is still thing to get into like the fitness center, spa, and courts! We had a good time one morning playing pickleball, but could use some lessons.

One more thing we enjoyed was the resort shuttle! You could take it in a 2-mile radius and explore more of Myrtle Beach or go to more areas on the resort property. Also, the resort was having a sandcastle built by Create a Sandcastle while we were there and it was fun to watch how much work and math goes into one of them!

TWENTY ONE PILOTS, THE STROKES, GORILLAZ TO HEADLINE SHAKY KNEES 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/26

LINEUP INCLUDES LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, PIERCE THE VEIL, 

TURNSTILE, WU-TANG CLAN, THE PRODIGY, 

FONTAINES D.C., PAVEMENT, GEESE, KNOCKED LOOSE, 

DANNY ELFMAN, MODEST MOUSE AND MANY MORE 

SEPTEMBER 18-20, 2026

PIEDMONT PARK

ATLANTA, GA 

PRESALE BEGINS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26 AT 9AM ET

Twenty One Pilots, The Strokes and Gorillaz will headline the 13th edition of Shaky Knees Music Festival, returning September 18-20 to Atlanta’s crown jewel, Piedmont Park. The stacked lineup will bring over 50 performances across four stages including LCD Soundsystem, Pierce The Veil, Turnstile, Wu-Tang Clan, The Prodigy, Fontaines D.C., Pavement, Geese, Knocked Loose, Danny Elfman, Modest Mouse,Blood Orange, Jimmy Eat World, Hot Mulligan and many more. Fans can sign up now for the festival SMS list at ShakyKneesFestival.com to receive a passcode to the presale beginning Thursday, February 26 at 9am ET with access to the guaranteed lowest-priced tickets from 9am to 10am ET. 1-Day, 2-Day and 3-Day ticket types will be available including GA, GA+, VIP, Platinum and Ultimate, plus 3-Day group Cabanas and Bungalows. Any remaining tickets will go on sale to the public following the presale.

GA+ tickets provide unlimited access to the centrally located GA+ Lounge with views of both Peachtree and Piedmont Stages, shade, relaxing seating, air-conditioned restrooms, lawn games, a private bar with drinks for purchase, plus dedicated GA+ hospitality staff for all your festival needs. VIP offers unlimited access to the VIP Lounges at Peachtree, Piedmont and Ponce de Leon Stages with direct access to premium on-field viewing areas, air-conditioned restrooms, lockers and mobile charging units for rent, dedicated festival merch store, a dedicated VIP entrance lane at the main festival entrance and more. Platinum tickets offer all GA+ and VIP amenities plus exclusive front-of-stage viewing at Peachtree, Piedmont and Ponce de Leon Stages with complimentary beer, seltzer and water, access into the air-conditioned Platinum Lounge located inside Park Tavern restaurant with a daily acoustic performance by a Shaky Knees artist, complimentary all-day dining, full-service bar and coffee service, exclusive festival gift and more. The one-person Ultimate package includes all GA+, VIP and Platinum amenities, plus exclusive on-stage viewing available at Peachtree and Piedmont Stages, golf cart transportation, one ticket per person to an Official Shaky Knees Late-Night Show of your choice, and more. 

For the full list of amenities and all ticket types, visit ShakyKneesFestival.com/Tickets. Layaway plans are available starting at $25 down for a limited time. 

Sign up for official Shaky Knees SMS and email lists to be the first to receive new information

and follow along on social media to stay in the loop for all festival announcements and updates.

BLUE IS BACK: RESCHEDULED BLUE MAN GROUP RETURNS TO ATLANTA WITH NORTH AMERICAN TOUR, JUNE 16-17

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/26

Blue Man Group is making its way back to Atlanta with the highly anticipated smash hit North American Tour, following a postponement due to winter weather earlier this year.  For the first time since 2023, audiences will rock, laugh and party as three bald and blue characters explore the world and discover music, comedy and surprises at every turn. As part of the Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2025/2026 season, the Blue Man Group will perform at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre in a limited three-show engagement from June 16 – 17, 2026. Tickets are available at the Fox Theatre box office at 660 Peachtree Street NE, by visiting foxtheatre.org/bluemangroup or by calling 855-285-8499. Group orders of 10 or more may be placed by contacting sales@foxtheatre.org.

The beloved production will continue to showcase classic Blue Man favorites along with brand new content including the addition of a new character exclusive to the current tour. The “Rockstar” is a dynamic multi-instrumentalist with striking blue hair who will join the Blue Men in creating a multi-sensory experience fans can remember for years to come. Featuring pulsing, original music, custom-made instruments, surprise audience interactions and hilarious absurdity, showgoers will join the Blue Men in a joyful experience that unites audiences of all ages.

Blue Man Group continues to redefine live entertainment through their combination of rhythmic artistry, groundbreaking technology and immersive audience interaction. The upcoming tour showcases over three decades of creative evolution, with the iconic trio continuing their legacy as innovators of experimental performance while consistently delivering their signature blend of musical innovation, visual spectacle and spontaneous humor that has captivated millions of fans worldwide.

Blue Man Group will play a limited three-show engagement in Atlanta as part of the Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2025/2026 season from June 16 – 17. The performance schedule is:

Tuesday                                          7:30 p.m.
Wednesday                                     1 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

HORIZON THEATRE PRESENTS ENCORE PRESENTATION OF HOT JAMBALAYA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/26

Horizon Theatre Presents Encore Production of Dad’s Garage’s Suzi-Nominated Musical Comedy
HOT JAMBALAYA, May 22–June 21 (Press opening May 29)

A fast-paced, musical comedy whodunit returns following a hit world premiere –

a rollicking mix of murder mystery, screwball farce, tasty tunes and New Orleans spirit

“A wacky comedy musical with a legitimately compelling,
twisted murder mystery at its center.” — Arts ATL

Horizon Theatre Company presents HOT JAMBALAYA, an encore production of Dad’s Garage Theatre Company’s wildly popular, Suzi Bass Award-nominated whodunit musical comedy, running May 22-June 21 (press opening May 29). A break-out hit last summer, it’s back for seconds at Horizon Theatre! Family ties, lies, secrets, and the treachery of old New Orleans boil over in this rollicking mix of murder mystery, screwball farce and music set against the sultry backdrop of New Orleans.  

A murder, multiple motives, secrets, and lies: the Big Easy just got a whole lot hotter. When wealthy and crooked patriarch Papa Joe Van Horn takes a fatal spill from a French Quarter balcony, his family, friends and enemies gather for his lavish funeral aboard the aging steamboat, Fleur de Lis. Then they uncover the chilling truth:  Papa Joe was murdered, every single person on board wanted him dead, and they must uncover whodunit and why before the killer strikes again!

As the steamboat winds its way through the bayou, alliances fracture and suspicions escalate, transforming the journey into a high-stakes and hilarious game of survival. At the center of the chaos, an ex-detective and a spunky New York reporter must navigate a wacky maze of deception, ambition and buried secrets to uncover the truth before time runs out. Blending classic whodunit structure with musical comedy and heightened theatricality, HOT JAMBALAYA invites audiences to solve the mystery while reveling in its irreverent humor and infectious score.

“HOT JAMBALAYA was built to work on two levels – as a fully realized mystery and as a comedy that keeps surprising you.  And it has some of the greatest musical numbers in our history,” said Dad’s Garage Co-Artistic Director Jon Carr. “We are so excited about this next chapter at Horizon!”

Created by Dad’s Garage artists Matt Hobbs (New Orleans native and internet sensation with his Puppysongs) and Travis Sharp (Dad’s Garage’s Wicket!), HOT JAMBALAYA garnered multiple 2025 Suzi Bass Award nominations, including recognition for direction, choreography, scenic design, sound design and ensemble performance, along with a nomination for Outstanding World Premiere Production – a testament to both its creative scope and audience impact.

“HOT JAMBALAYA doesn’t just parody the murder mystery – it builds one that fully works, then throws it into joyful chaos with music, movement and characters who refuse to behave,” says Horizon Co-Artistic Director Lisa Adler. “What makes this production stand out is its precision beneath the absurdity. The comedy lands because the stakes are real, and the storytelling is airtight. That balance is rare, and it’s what makes audiences lean in just as much as they laugh. We are thrilled to bring this home-grown comic treasure to Horizon audiences.”

HOT JAMBALAYA’s cast is led by recent star of Horizon’s acclaimed Dog Mom, Marcie Millard, as Papa Joe’s bitter, dramatic widow Dorothy Van Horn. The other passengers include: Papa Joe’s twin adult children, the flamboyant Teddy Van Horn and the baby doll-carrying Mary Van Horn (Trevor Rayshay Perry, Noelle McIntyre); washed up navigator of the Fleur de Lis, Captain Pierre St. Pierre (Alexander Hudson); the ship’s knife-wielding chef, Rose Catalano (BriAnne Knights); Big Apple reporter Posie Davenport, on the trail of a hot mystery (Charis Sellick); honest but disgraced detective Benny Broussard (Sully Brown); and our two ever present deckhands (Mya Burns and Riley Given). The entire cast reprises their roles from last year except for newcomer Givens. Candy McLellan Davison (The Color Purple at Aurora Theatre and Petite Rouge at Synchronicity Theatre) returns to the helm as director/choreographer, alongside Avery Sharpe (assistant director), Kari Twyman (assistant choreographer), Javar Parker (music director), Gavin Mosier (scenic designer), Rachael D. Blackwell (lighting designer), Jarrod Barnes and Liz Singleton (costume designer and costume coordinator) and Dan Bauman (sound designer).

With its mix of suspense, spectacle and irreverent humor, HOT JAMBALAYA captures the spirit of New Orleans while delivering a theatrical experience that is both wildly entertaining and smart. As an encore presentation, the production offers audiences who missed its initial run – as well as those eager to return – another opportunity to experience one of Atlanta’s most talked-about new works.

Performances are at Horizon Theatre, located at Euclid and Austin in Little Five Points/Inman Park (1083 Austin Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307). The musical starts May 21, with a press opening on May 29, and runs through June 21 with a possible extension, based on demand.  Performances are on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m.   Tickets start at $40* on weekdays and $45* on weekends. Prices increase with demand, and patrons are encouraged to purchase early for the best prices and availability. Best deals are for subscribers – 25-35% off.  Group pricing is available for parties of 10 or more. Full-time students under 25 may purchase $20* tickets with valid ID. *7.5% Sales Tax/fee is added onto all ticket orders. Single ticket seating is general admission, with a reserved seating section for season subscribers. 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.

For full actor and creative team bios, visit horizontheatre.com/plays/hot-jambalaya.

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CREATIVE TEAM

Director/Choreographer                 Candy McLellan Davison
Assistant Director                           Avery Sharpe
Assistant Choreographer                Kari Twyman
Music Director                                 Javar La’trail Parker
Scenic Designer                               Gavin Mosier
Costume Designer                           Jarrod Barnes

Costume Coordinator                      Liz Singleton

Props Designer                                Melissa DuBois
Sound Designer                               Dan Bauman

Stage Manager                                Davan Glynn

CAST

Posie Davenport                              Charis Sellick: A spunky New York reporter investigating the murder.

Benny Broussard                             *Sully Brown: An honest detective and piano player.

Dorothy Van Horn                           Marcie Millard (alternate,Christina Cusack Curbelo): Papa Joe’s bitter, dramatic widow.

Teddy Van Horn                              *Trevor Rayshay Perry: Papa Joe’s flamboyant son/twin.

Mary Van Horn                                Noelle McIntyre: Papa Joe’s daughter/twin, who carries a baby doll,

Chef                                                  BriAnne Knights: A grudge-carrying chef with a love of knives.

Captain                                             Alexander Hudson: The washed-up captain of the Fleur-de-Lis.

Deck Hand/Understudy                  Mya Burns, Riley Given

Understudies                                   Mya Burns (Mary), Riley Given (Teddy/Captain), Jonah Harmone                                                                                   (Benny/Deckhand), Amy Duffy (Posey, Dorothy, Deckhand)

*Members Actor’s Equity Association

IMMERSIVE GAMEBOX LAUNCHES SOCCER ARCADE TURNING GLOBAL SOCCER ENERGY INTO A COMPETITIVE EXPERIENCE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/26

Free Play Day 6/12

 Immersive Gamebox – the global leader in immersive group gaming – announces Soccer Arcade, a brand-new competitive social experience inspired by the energy of the highly anticipated World Cup. Launching on June 1 for a limited time, Soccer Arcade invites fans and families to celebrate the tournament, represent their country and climb a global leaderboard for a chance to win a $10,000 grand prize. 

Designed to capture the pulse of match day, Soccer Arcade puts teams of 2–6 players at the center of the action, transforming them into the controllers inside signature Gameboxes. Powered by cutting-edge 3D motion tracking, projection mapping, and touch-sensitive walls, players compete across a series of fast-paced mini-games — no controllers required.

Key Game Features:

  • Compete Across Soccer-Inspired Mini-Games: Players choose their nation, customize their avatar, and battle through multiple rounds of interactive challenges inspired by the excitement and chaos of soccer tournaments. Games include Headers, where players compete to score the most headed goals; Goalie, where participants dive to block shots; and Dribbler, where teams navigate obstacle-filled soccer courses together.
  • Chaotic Bonus Challenges: Additional rounds like Human Foosball and Streaker Security add unexpected twists as players race to stop pitch invaders before they reach the ball. 
  • Final Team Showdown: After individual rounds, teams unite for a final challenge, working together to keep multiple virtual soccer balls in play for as long as possible.
  • Limited Time Only: Soccer Arcade will be available at all Immersive Gamebox locations in the U.S. between June 1, 2026 – July 19, 2026 with bookings opening today. Reserve your spot now at https://www.immersivegamebox.com/en-US/soccer-arcade.

To kick off USA’s first match of the series, Immersive Gamebox will host a special Free Play Day on June 12, where anyone wearing a soccer jersey can play Soccer Arcade completely free of charge across all U.S. locations. The event will operate on a walk-in-only basis, with guests grouped together to maximize gameplay capacity. Spaces will be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, while guests unable to secure a slot on the day will receive exclusive return offers and discounts for future bookings.

As part of the launch, players across the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Germany, and Australia will have the chance to compete on a global leaderboard, with the competition culminating on July 19, the day of the 2026 World Cup Final. The group sitting top of the global leaderboard will win the $10,000 grand prize, turning every session into a chance to climb the ranks and claim victory.

“At a time when soccer’s energy is reaching new heights, we set out to create a fast, social, and highly replayable experience that captures the spirit of the sport,” said Lisa Paton, CEO of Immersive Gamebox. “Whether players are lifelong fans or just in it for the fun, Soccer Arcade invites people to jump straight into the game and compete together. With the added excitement of a $10,000 prize on the line, there’s real stakes behind every shot, save, and goal – making every session as competitive as it is unforgettable.”

Soccer Arcade builds on Immersive Gamebox’s growing portfolio of hit experiences, incorporating significant cultural events and popular IPs like Netflix’s Squid Game, Paramount’s Paw Patrol, and Warner Brothers Batman into arcade-style gameplay with social competition. With no need for prior gaming experience, the game is designed to appeal to a broad audience– from casual players to competitive thrill-seekers.

CREATIVE TEAM BEHIND WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE TO OPEN POP-UP CONCEPT AT THE KROG DISTRICT – OPENING JUNE 18!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/13/26

LikeMinds Will Be an Inclusive Space to Gather With Your People- Different Stories, Same Frequency

Featuring Live Music, Craft Cocktails and Food, Curated Vinyl Program, Billiards, and More

The Krog District will welcome a new pop-up concept this spring. That concept is LikeMinds, an inclusive and inviting space that is founded on the common thread that unites us all, whether it is immediately recognizable or not. Different journeys, same destination.  The pop-up, slated for a limited 120-day run, is fueled by a collective of Atlanta hospitality veterans for a high-energy experience rooted in music, food, and community.

Located adjacent to the BeltLine Eastside Trail, the 14,700-square-foot space (12,000 indoor, with an additional 2,700 outdoor) is LikeMinds, a concept led by Kelly Campbell and powered by teams from Southern Culinary & Creative, Smith’s Olde Bar, Frazie’s Meat & Market, Bunker Design, and other Atlanta partners. LikeMinds aims to offer a thoughtfully curated social venue that expands on the creative vision behind Westside Motor Lounge—Atlanta’s favorite adult playground known for its expansive indoor-outdoor spaces, curated menus, and the jazz kissa listening bar, Echo Room. 

But LikeMinds will be more than just an extension of Westside Motor Lounge- it is a brand new concept, envisioned by Campbell’s team over the last several months.  Open 7 days a week, LikeMinds will be a vibrant space, steeped in programming developed by Beau Nolen of Smith’s Olde Bar with regularly scheduled live music, guest DJs, a curated vinyl program, billiards and bar games, and an upgraded audio/visual setup for sports-viewing parties of all kinds. Additionally, LikeMinds will have a full menu led by Julian Hower of Smith’s and Mark Frazie of Frazie’s Meat and Market featuring Frazie’s Meat + Market sandos, sharables, and more.  On weekends, LikeMinds will introduce a brunch program designed by Hower and inspired by his Pho Cue concept, paired with a brunch beverage menu crafted by Dana Roberts of Westside Motor Lounge. Roberts is also designing the full bar program, which will feature craft and draft cocktails, spirit-free options, beer, wine, and THC beverages.

“This idea started with a simple goal—create a space where people can find their people,” says LikeMinds Co-Creator Kelly Campbell. “What makes LikeMinds special is the team behind it. This is a group with shared history, shared values, and a real passion for hospitality coming together to build something that only exists for a moment.”

LikeMinds is scheduled to open in late Spring in time to welcome the world to Atlanta.  The short-run “lightning in a bottle” nature of the project reflects a like-minded team of operators, each with their own established businesses, joining forces to create a can’t-miss summer destination.

“The LikeMinds team shares our belief that The Krog District serves as a place for connection and community,” said 26th Street Partners. “This pop-up concept aligns with our vision of creating an engaging, community-driven destination while shining a light on Atlanta businesses and brands, and we’re excited to have them on board for the summer.”

LikeMinds will be located at 112 Krog Street NE, Atlanta, GA in the former BrewDog space. For more information about LikeMinds or to inquire about private events and sign up for the newsletter, visit 

LikeMindsATL.com. Follow along on Instagram @LikeMindsATL for progress updates and details on all our programming.