Photograph courtesy of Alliance Theatre
Candide
Where: Symphony Hall at the Woodruff Arts Center
When: May 9-20
Cost: $20-$60
Details: The Alliance Theatre teams up with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for this musical version of the Voltare classic. How do you portray the show’s more fantastical elements (shipwrecks, volcano) on a stage already packed with 170 performers? Puppeteer Matt Acheson animated the action in a toy theater, which will be video projected during the show.
Xperimental Puppetry Theater
Where: Center for Puppetry Arts
When: May 10-13
Cost: $15
Details: Proof that puppets aren’t just for kids, the annual showcase, now in its 35th year, features a variety of experimental and original short films and performances aimed at adults. On the lineup for this year: a film about a singing monkey who befriends a popcorn kernel, a live puppet burlesque show, and an interactive instillation that “utilizes the sights and sounds of a public restroom” to tell stories.
Decatur Lantern Parade
Where: Decatur Square (starts at Color Wheel Studio)
When: May 11, 9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: No need to wait until the fall for the popular Eastside Trail parade—buy a paper lantern or get creative and make your own, then join this free nighttime event in Decatur. The parade kicks off the Decatur Arts Festival later this month.
Sweet Auburn Springfest
Where: John Wesley Dobbs Avenue between Piedmont Avenue and Hilliard Street
When: May 12, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; May 13, 1 p.m.-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: This family-friendly outdoor festival in the Historic Sweet Auburn District features two days of live music, plenty of food vendors, a zipline, a pop-up library, and much more.
Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour
Where: Varies
When: May 12 and 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $22-35
Details: Get some serious design inspiration on this self-guided tour, hosted by the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which features 10 private gardens from Druid Hills up to the north Perimeter.
