"The Light" at Horizon Theatre

A must-see, "The Light" at Horizon Theatre is brilliantly written and exquisitely acted by Cynthia D. Barker and Enoch King. You will laugh. You will cry. You will have conversations. Playwright Loy A. Webb said, "I write to point toward hope. I want my work to be a neon sign in the darkness: This way out. This way to hope."

The Light | Horizon Theatre | Cynthia D. Barker and Enoch King

"The Light", onstage now through Sunday, April 17, was set to open just before COVID hit in 2020. Believe me when I say it was worth the wait. I'm extremely grateful that Horizon Theatre moved forward with this production and believe it to be the must-see for 2022!

But don't just take my word for it. Local actor, playwright, narrator, and activist Lee Osorio said in a social media post, "If you do not see @cynthiadbarker and @enochaking in this play, you will miss one of the most amazing and necessary pieces of theater. Go see this play. Do whatever you have to, but see this play."

ABOUT THE PLAY

The press release announcing the play shared, "A surprise marriage proposal takes an unexpected turn that upends the world of Genesis (Barker) and Rashad (King), forcing them to confront secrets from the past. The Light is a roller coaster journey of laughter, romance and reckoning that unfolds in real time, peeling away layers of truth, doubt, pain and ultimately, the power of love."

The Light | Horizon Theatre | Cynthia D. Barker and Enoch King

ABOUT THE CAST

When I saw the cast announcement for this play I was ecstatic! Cynthia and Enoch are world-class performance artists...I recommend seeing everything they're in!

Suzi Bass award nominee Cynthia D. Barker has been seen at Horizon Theatre in Citizens Market, How to Use A Knife, and other popular plays. I love her work and she's a beautiful human being.

Atlanta native and film star Enoch King has been part of the Horizon Theatre family for nearly two decades, with credits including Sweet Water Taste, Constellations (which would be his breakout dramatic role), The Waffle Palace, and many years of The Santaland Diaries. 

Co-director, Marguerite Hannah, has been on this blog numerous times (The Waffle Palace, Freed Spirits) and is the only person pictured twice in my book, 111 Places in Atlanta That You Must Not Miss. You'll find both photos of Marguerite in chapter 47 featuring Horizon Theatre. She's an absolute delight on stage and off.

"The Light is a present-day love story complicated by the many things that go unsaid," explains co-director Marguerite Hannah, Horizon's Associate Artistic Producer. "The characters explore many questions about love universally... They unearth the questions we have been taught not to ask: Is surviving our past enough? Is a Black woman's accomplishments and personal strengths a strong enough salve for emotional wounds? Is gender bias a tangible issue for a community historically defined by racial discrimination?" 

The Light | Horizon Theatre | Cynthia D. Barker and Enoch King

The first part of this play, set in Chicago in 2018, is funny—sometimes hilarious—playful, and romantic. In the second portion (75 minutes total, no intermission) things get serious and emotional. If you have a heart you'll want a tissue or at least a sleeve. The very last scene, the last moment of the play, is my personal favorite. Even the actors were in tears...impactful!

The Light | Horizon Theatre | Cynthia D. Barker and Enoch King

I recommend seeing this as soon as you can so that you can tell everyone about it and/or bring other friends and family to see it. Get your tickets here and—always a bonus in Atlanta—parking is FREE! If you happen to be at Horizon Theatre for the performance on Thursday the 14th, I'll see you then! "The Light" will be onstage through Sunday, April 17.

10 Reasons to See "Freaky Friday" in the Park

Horizon Theatre's production of "Freaky Friday" is coming to Piedmont Park!

Freaky Friday | Horizon Theatre

For the fourth consecutive year, Horizon Theatre is sharing one of its super-popular musical comedies at the Park's Promenade. This year's show—one of the theatre's main stage plays earlier this year—has been met with hilarity, fantastic acting, super-fun musical numbers, and awesome reviews.

With only four performances, Wednesday through Saturday, June 20-23, this is a can't miss-show! In no particular order, here are 10 awesome reasons why you should see "Freaky Friday" in Piedmont Park...

1.) It's FREE! 

That's right. Horizon Theatre is giving away thousands of free tickets to see the four-day run of Freaky Friday in Piedmont Park. There's also reserved seating, for a nominal fee, closer to the stage, and if you're not a fan of sitting on the grass, you can buy reserved seats at a table near the stage or get a private table (for 6) also near the stage! I've sat on the lawn and reserved seats...whichever you chose, you'll have a great experience!

I think it's totally awesome is it that Horizon brings free theatre to our local community, and many others visiting Atlanta. "Thank you!", Horizon Theatre!

2.) The CAST is phenomenal!

The cast from the spring performance at Horizon Theatre in Inman Park/Little Five Points are all returning for the Piedmont Park run...I'm so excited! This was the largest cast to ever perform on the stage at Horizon Theatre and they truly are phenomenal. 

There are 19 actors in every performance, performing considerably more characters than that!

If you're an Atlanta theatre regular, you'll recognize names and faces of many of the cast, several of them multiple Suzi Bass award nominees and winners!

Jennifer Alice Acker, a personal favorite, is so incredibly talented and an amazing human being! She loves her craft, loves her fans, loves life and gives everything she has to every role she performs. Driven to continually improve (she's already AMAZING!), she's going to always deliver a magnificent performance! 

The spring show was the first time I'd seen Abby Holland on stage. She's AMAZING! Her voice is bold and beautiful and her acting is brilliant. I think you'll love her, too!

Christian Magby is multi-talented the likes you don't see very often. He acts, plays multiple musical instruments, writes, and he's one of the most personable artists you'll meet.

Freaky Friday | Horizon Theatre

3.) It's in PIEDMONT PARK, "Atlanta's Favorite Greenspace"!

This is the fourth year that Horizon Theatre has brought one of their mainstage shows to Piedmont Park, which is in the heart of Midtown and easy to get to! The Promenade is near the Atlanta Botanical Garden—accessible from the Garden's entry road—and the Sage Parking Deck, accessible from Piedmont Avenue and Monroe Drive.

I've attended the last three Horizon Theatre shows in Piedmont Park and can personally attest to their being great fun...the shows and seeing them in the Park! [2015] [2016] [2017]

4.) There's something for EVERYONE!

Horizon Theatre has made a commitment to produce at least one play per season that multiple generations can enjoy together, and "Freaky Friday" is exactly that! Bring the kids, bring your parents, bring your friends of all ages!

Freaky Friday | Horizon Theatre

5.) You get to MEET the cast and take PHOTOS with them!

In the wonderful Horizon Theatre tradition, after the show you'll get to meet the cast and make photos with them! Being the celebrity-spotter I am, this perk is a huge one for me and I love seeing so many other theatre-goers talking with the cast, congratulating them on their performance and getting to know them a little more.

6.) You've probably seen the MOVIE(s)!

"Freaky Friday" has quite a fun history, having been a book; then a movie in 1976 starring a young Jodie Foster who would go on to win two Oscar Awards; then another movie in 2003 starring Golden Globe-winner Jamie Lee Curtis and actress/musician Lindsay Lohan. 

Now...it's a MUSICAL!!!

Freaky Friday | Horizon Theatre

7.) There will be FOOD and DRINKS!

You're going to get hungry and thirsty, right? Of course you will!

The grounds will open at 6:00pm (show starts at 7:30pm each night), so bring a picnic and enjoy! NOTE: Feel free to bring your own food, water and soft-drinks, but no alcohol and no glass, please.

There will be concessions, and beer, wine, water and soft-drinks available for purchase.

Remember, the earlier you arrive the closer you can get to the stage! But it's such a big show, they're all great seats. 

8.) The SET is awesome!

Twin sisters and Suzi Bass award winners Isabel and Moriah Curley-Clay have done a magnificent job! I mentioned that this is the largest Horizon Theatre cast ever, and they brilliantly maneuvered the set at the theatre, but I'm super excited to see what they're do when it's in Piedmont Park. We're talking lots more real estate...more possibilities! 





9.) You're going to LAUGH!

Yes, it's a musical. Yes, it's about switching bodies. Yes, it's about the drama of a broken family—I come from one, so I know the hilarity that can come from that. It's ALL incredibly funny! You'll connect with this family, their friends, the wedding vendors, police encounters, and the wide range of relationships one encounters throughout life. Oh, and there's a high school scavenger hunt with a—by unanimous vote—totally hot list master...♫Aaaadddaammm!♫

10.) Horizon Theatre is GRATEFUL for your support!

Lisa Adler, Co-Founder and Co-Artistic/Producing Director, shares every opening night of every show that ticket sales make up for only about half of what it takes to run the theatre. Not everyone can see a show at the theatre, but most everyone can go to a free show...and then tell friends and family how great it was!

As a member of the Board of Directors at Horizon Theatre since August—and a patron of many years—we are incredibly grateful for your support, whether in ticket purchases, subscriptions and/or sharing how much you enjoyed your theatre experience with friends and family.

There you go...10 awesome reasons to come to Piedmont Park to see Horizon Theatre's production of Freaky Friday. I think you're going to love it!

Freaky Friday | Horizon Theatre

INTERVIEW: Actress Jennifer Alice Acker

I've been a Jennifer Alice Acker fan for years! 

She's currently starring in "Freaky Friday" at Horizon Theatre, the sixth show I've seen her in over the last few years. You can imagine how excited I was when she granted me an interview over lunch at 5Church Atlanta. 

Let's get right to that interview and then I'll share a little bit about "Freaky Friday", Horizon's newest must-see show!

Jennifer Alice Acker | Photo: Daniel Parvis Photography

wanderlust ATLANTA: Who is Jennifer Alice Acker?

Jennifer: I'm a person—I'm more than my career—a person who loves family life, being outdoors, art and music. I love being an actor, director, and theatrical educator.I love beauty.

I'm originally from Connecticut, went to Florida State, and moved to Atlanta in 2011.

wanderlust ATLANTA: Why acting? Why musicals? What was the catalyst that launched your acting career?

Jennifer: I started singing in high school, doing two shows per year, and I love music, but even more I love storytelling.I enjoy the expression of emotion, the transfer of emotion, helping someone through changing something in their lives encouraged by a character I've played on stage. That's amazing.

Musicals are fun, rewarding, and I find myself firing on all cylinders when singing on stage. I love the emotional honesty, the singing, and sharing a 'frequency' with other beings. At first, acting felt like a scary career choice. I felt vulnerable, like my whole person was on display to be judged. But people kept telling me, "You're really good!" 

Abby Holland (Ellie), Jennifer Alice Acker (Katherine) | "Freaky Friday" | Horizon Theatre

wanderlust ATLANTA: Tell us about your acting career, please.

     Favorite Role?

Jennifer: Katherine in "Freaky Friday", of course! 

Also, Maureen in "Rent". At first I felt reckless, but then there was a point in the production when everything gelled. It was one of those "F*ck it. Let's do this!" moments. I found my stride and it was so awesome!

(NOTE: Jennifer received a Suzi Bass Award nomination, for 'Best Featured Actress in a Musical', for her portrayal of Maureen in "Rent".)

     Greatest Challenges?

Jennifer: I think it's always confidence vs. ego. Too many egos = War of the Worlds! I think the truly great actors must be confident, yet not egotistical. They have to have lots of discipline, kindness, forgiveness, and trust.

     Greatest Successes?

Jennifer: The aftermath of landing the role of Juliette. People were coming at me asking about the iconic Juliette, offering opinions of what she should be. I didn't do that. I wasn't completely happy with the first few nights, but by the end of the run, I felt that it was one of my greatest performances.

     Most Desired Role?

Jennifer: I don't yet know when or where, but I want to play Hamlet! I'm not sure if I want to play him as a man or a woman, yet, either. As one of the most 'damaged' characters ever, it would be incredibly fascinating to portray Hamlet on stage. 

Other roles I'd like to play include Evita, Medea, and a couple of 'honorable mentions' would include the roles of Audrey in "Little Shop of Horrors" and Lady Macbeth.

wanderlust ATLANTA: "Freaky Friday" is the largest cast Horizon Theatre has ever had on its stage. What's that been like?

Jennifer: It's been crazy! There are 19 of us! It's also the biggest cast I've worked with in Atlanta. We've expanded the dressing rooms to the basement and we've started calling back stage the "submarine". There's no room for error; precision is a must! 

One of the interesting things is that because it's a larger cast we've not had the opportunity to get to know each other as well as we would have by now if we were a smaller cast. I'm trying to connect with everyone, but while the space restriction has made it a more intimate experience, it's difficult to really get to know everyone as much as I would like. Still, we're having a great time!

wanderlust ATLANTA: In "Freaky Friday" you play the mother of a teenage high school student. Who are you channeling?

Jennifer: My own mother. And I've been playing roles as a mother since I was 15. To portray the the mother-daughter, daughter-mother relationships, I pulled from my own relationships with my mother and grandmother. Playing the daughter, well, I'd "observed" what a bratty kid was like when I was growing up, so that part was pretty easy.

wanderlust ATLANTA: What's your favorite scene in "Freaky Friday" and why?

Jennifer: The scene right after we switch bodies when we have to very quickly switch gears, right in front of the audience! Abby and I worked on our characters' charcteristics, explored tactics, planning next scenes...and it's been a lot of fun to perform with such responsive audiences.

Jennifer Alice Acker (Katherine), Brittani Minnieweather (Torrey)
"Freaky Friday" | Horizon Theatre

wanderlust ATLANTA: What advice would you give an aspiring actor/actress?

Jennifer: Commit! Trust what you're doing. An audience can tell if you're not comfortable, so you have to be committed. If acting isn't for you, you can change your mind, just not in the middle of a performance. Again, commit, commit, commit.

wanderlust ATLANTA: What do you do for fun? To relax?

Jennifer: I like to eat, drink cocktails, and watch a good show with my fiancé. When we have time, we'll spend an evening watching a movie or catching up on a series, with a cocktail, and enjoy some lively discussion afterward. I also love fashion and although I don't go shopping often, when I do I go hard! I love being near the water...Sweetwater Creek State Park locally and the beach when I can get away. And I enjoy hanging out with friends!

"Freaky Friday" Cast | Horizon Theatre

wanderlust ATLANTA: What's next for you?

Jennifer: Professionally, I feel called to be a director. Personally, the next stage is "home". I'm in the middle of some personal growth, working on getting fully grounded. Some of the words that could describe my current path include simplicity, joy, intentionality, mindfulness...I'm working hard to be an agent for my own life.

wanderlust ATLANTA: What questions has a journalist never asked you that you wished they had?

Jennifer: "What scene actors have changed you?" 

There are those brilliant moments in acting when a fellow actor changes you. It's a wonderful surprise when it happens. Working with Ben Thorpe, he challenged me to be the most honest version of myself. Working with Jonathan Horne, he challenged me to be the most compassionate, kind person I can be. When these moments happen, they're profound and cherished.

Joseph Masson (Fletcher), Christian Magby (Adam) | "Freaky Friday" | Horizon Theatre

About "Freaky Friday"

When an overworked mother and her teenage daughter magically swap bodies, they have just one day to put things right again before mom’s big wedding. Freaky Friday, a new musical based on the celebrated novel by Mary Rodgers and the two hit Disney movies, is a hilarious and heartfelt update of an American classic in which a mother and daughter really see what it takes to be a family when they experience each other’s lives first-hand for just one "Freaky Friday".

"Freaky Friday" Cast | Horizon Theatre

I've already seen "Freaky Friday" twice, plus the Sneak Peek—when you get to see a few numbers and meet cast and crew. And I'm certain I'll go again...it's truly that fantastic! 

Get ready to massage your face cheeks after the show. You're gong to laugh, laugh some more, and laugh again. There may be a tear or two, but you'll find yourself mostly surrendering to the fast-paced hilarity breezing by before you. 

It's true, when sitting in the front row for one of the performances, I caught a breeze coming from all the activity on stage!

A little about some of the cast...

Jennifer Alice Acker (Katherine) is phenomenal, doesn't miss a beat! From overprotective mom to rebellious teenager to compassionate mother, Jennifer convinces audiences that she's all of that and more. And that lovely voice!

Abby Holland's voice is simultaneously powerful and elegant. She's vibrant, vivacious, and victorious as a singer and actress. You can't help but love her character.

Christian Magby (Adam) is as energetic and brilliant as ever. Keep your eyes on his career. He's already done so much, but it's only his beginning. Randi Garza (Savannah, Alexandra) is 'Mean Girls' come to life, totally convincing as a stuck up, snotty popular high schooler, yet a total delight in real life.

Jeff McKerley (multiple characters, the cop being a favorite) is as amazing as ever, true to what his Atlanta fans have come to love. Jill Hames (multiple characters) is amazing also, working in perfect harmony with counterpart Jeff's characters, yet standing out on her own.

Brittani Minnieweather (Torrey, Ms. Meyers) will have you in stitches! Whether sweating on the gym floor or frantically planning a wedding, Brittani is brilliant!

Joseph Masson (Fletcher) I'd seen in "Sweeney Todd" and he's even more wonderful in this play. He's 1,000% into his role and his acting is meticulous. And you can totally tell that he's having a blast!

A number of Horizon Theatre's Apprentice Company members are in this performance and they're fantastic! I've not met all of them, but I have had the pleasure of getting to know a number of them, each a distinct actor/playwright/director, yet they're symphonic on stage.A few personal favorites are Shaun MacLean, Alexis Young, Maariyah Espinoza, and Sloka Krishnan. I hope to get to know the others while they're still here. 

So, I hope you enjoyed the interview with Jennifer. She and I were always cordial at the theatre, but now she feels like a friend. She's one of those people who is warm, inviting, and one that makes an effort to make a connection. We talked about life, we talked about philosophy, and we regaled our mutual love of theatre. If you ever befriend each other, you're in for a magical, uplifting experience.

Now, get yourself to Horizon Theatre...there are only three more weeks to see "Freaky Friday". It's perfect for a group of friends, a mommy-and-me night, girls night out, a first date...pretty much anyone who likes to laugh will love this show! #htcLetsGetFreaky!!!


NOTE: I was voted to Horizon Theatre's Board of Directors last fall, however I've been a fan of and dedicated patron of this theatre for many years. My opinions on this blog are absolutely my own.

The Ballad of Klook and Vinette

The American debut of The Ballad of Klook and Vinette has been magnificent! You can still see it at Horizon Theatre through Sunday, February 18, 2018, and believe me, this is one that you do not want to miss! 

Klook and Vinette | Horizon Theatre | Photo by Russell Scott

I've been a Brittany Inge fan for years and will make every effort possible to see anything she's in. She's not only an incredibly talented actress—with a spectacular voice—she's a kind, grateful, and fun human being. As Vinette, she's strong, vulnerable, passionate, hilarious and her beautiful voice is perfect for this role.

British playwright Che Walker, who came across the 'big pond' to direct his play, gives us incredibly sophisticated dialogue, but no so complex that you're not offering the actors a hearty laugh at the appropriate times, of which there are a lot!  

The question has been posed, "Is Klook and Vinette a musical or is it a play with one long song?" The songs meld with the dialogue so well, you sometimes don't realize that a song has started. The lyrics are beautiful and heart-touching, as well as clever as the dialogue.

Klook and Vinette | Horizon Theatre | Photo by Russell Scott

This was my first time seeing Imari Cheatom perform—aside from seeing him in Django Unchained—and I sincerely hope it's not the last! Imari is a shy individual, but a brilliant actor. 

You feel Klook's emotions, particularly the stronger ones, right from your seat. You feel his excitement over meeting Vinette, you feel his love for Vinette, and you feel his love for what he must do in the grand finale. You're going to feel everything!

The set is minimal, lending focus to the performers and the story being told. With that said, the giant 'Phoenician blinds' are used to set incredibly dramatic scenes at the opening and as the play closes. The only props in this play are two wooden stools. They're used quite a lot, but you rarely even notice that they're there. 

Klook and Vinette | Horizon Theatre | Photo by Russell Scott

In its American debut, The Ballad of Klook and Vinette is heartwarming, heartbreaking, hilarious, and saddening. From their hilarious meeting over carrot juice, to Klook's encouragement for Vinette to pursue a previously shelved writing career, to a fire fight with local authorities, you're going on an emotional roller coaster ride...one that I believe you will find enchanting and one that touches your heart.

I expect this play to be around for a very long time. It's such that you can plop it down practically anywhere and it'll fit right in. It debuted in London and with the insertion of "Southeast Atlanta" you would never know that it wasn't written for the Atlanta stage.

Christian Magby, the music director and playing keyboards in Klook and Vinette, is an artist of many talents. The first time I met him, he was doing the music for 'Da Kink in My Hair while simultaneously presenting a musical in the Atlanta Musical Theatre Festival. He's at it again! While he's working on The Ballad of Klook and Vinette, he's simultaneously rehearsing the role of Adam in Freaky Friday, the next show coming up at Horizon Theatre! 

Klook and Vinette | Horizon Theatre | Travis, Brittany, and Elisa

I've said it time and again, one of the things that I LOVE about Horizon Theatre is the post-show opportunity to meet the stars, offer a word of congratulations, and snap a photo with them. In the photo above, that's me, Brittany Inge, and a playwright friend of mine Elisa.

You have only two more weekends to see The Ballad of Klook and Vinette! Get your tickets now to see it by Sunday, February 18 at Horizon Theatre!

Disclaimer: While I am a member of the Board of Directors at Horizon Theatre, the opinions shared here are my own and not influenced by my position or by the theatre. I've been a strong supporter of the performing arts throughout Atlanta for many, many years.

wanderlust ATLANTA's 2017 Photo Review

Wow! What an eventful year! Let's have a look back...

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times]

Usually when I make the time to reflect on the year, I sometimes feel unaccomplished ... until I look back at the photos of everything I did throughout that year. I'm fully reminded that I've been having the time of my life and that I'm fortunate enough to get to do so many amazing and fun things!

Here's a quick list from 2017, some of which I wrote about in wanderlust ATLANTA and some you may be hearing about for the first time:

• I was voted to the Board of Directors at Horizon Theatre
• I and Nikki (@atlantafoodie on Instagram) partnered on a 10-month, 10 restaurant series: Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers"
• I had my television debut! It was The Cooking Channel's Late Nite Eats when it featured 5Church Atlanta.
• Featured in Mitch Leff's "4 Questions Journalist Spotlight"
• Went on a helicopter tour of Atlanta!
• Was a judge for Castleberry Hill Loft Tour
• Was given two interviews: Mary Moore and Topher Payne
• Surpassed the milestone of 500,000 views on wanderlust ATLANTA

There's even more and I'm ever grateful for such a fantastic year! I hope you enjoy the photos in this recap and that they encourage you to go out and play in your own backyard (Atlanta). Here we go, in no particular order...

Helicopter Tour of Atlanta | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Helicopter Tour of Atlanta]

My only previous helicopter ride was over the Grand Canyon. That was awesome, but flying over the city you call home, flying over your actual home, and seeing Atlanta in a whole new way was absolutely fascinating! I highly recommend it! We flew with Select Helicopters.

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | 10th & Piedmont 

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | 10th & Piedmont]

Nikki (@atlantafoodie on Instagram) and I had a blast partnering on our 10-month, 10-restaurant series Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers". We finished at 10th & Piedmont in October and that post has garnered thousands and thousands of views!

We met just this week to plan our next year's series. We're so excited! We put a lot of thought and strategy into our 2018 plan. Look for the announcement sometime in January!

The Curious Garden | Atlanta Botanical Garden | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

["The Curious Garden" at the Atlanta Botanical Garden]

I've been going to the Atlanta Botanical Garden since the late 80s and volunteered as a docent for 4.5 years when I moved back this last time. To say that I love the Garden would be an understatement. 

This year's summer exhibition "The Curious Garden" was well beyond what I was expecting. I hope you got to see it, but if not, read about it at the above link. 

Exciting news! For the Garden's 2018 and 2019 summer exhibition, Imaginary Worlds is returning...bigger than ever! (2013 and 2014) 

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[An Andretti Checkered Flag Birthday]

Most anyone who knows me knows that I'm a big kid at heart. So, it was no surprise that I spent my 2017 birthday at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in Marietta. Killing zombies, adrenaline-rush laser tag, and driving the fastest karts in Georgia made for an exciting, memorable birthday outing!

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Nine Mile Station

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Nine Mile Station]

Our ninth stop on our Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" was brunch at Nine Mile Station at Ponce City Market. I think the above photo speaks for itself, but visit the link above for even more deliciousness!

Orchid Daze 2017 | Atlanta Botanical Garden | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Orchid Daze 2017]

If you've ever thought that going to the Atlanta Botanical Garden in the dead of winter is a waste of time, you must not know about Orchid Daze! This exhibition is absolutely stunning and features thousands of additional blossoms in addition to what is already one of the largest collections of orchids in the United States. If you've not been, please treat yourself this coming year.

Nobody Loves You | Horizon Theatre Company

[10 Reasons to See "Nobody Loves You" in the Park]

"Nobody Loves You" was the smash hit musical at Horizon Theatre this year, which included a run—free to theatre goers—in Piedmont Park on the Promenade. It was the theatre's third, wholly successful, free show in Piedmont Park. 

One of the things that I love about Horizon Theatre is that you get to meet and take photos with the stars immediately following the show—even the shows in Piedmont Park. The above photo is following a stage performance of Nobody Loves You with Austin Tijerina and Leslie Bellair.

The Pudding House | The Walking Dead | Atlanta Movie Tours | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Big Zombie Walking Tour]

I've been on most of the tours offered by Atlanta Movie Tours—they're up to 10—and every one has been a fantastic experience! A new tour this year is their Big Zombie Walking Tour (I'm in the photo on that page!), which is amazing! You get to visit numerous film sites including the Chocolate Pudding House, where Carl Grimes ate 112 oz. of chocolate pudding...on that very roof! 

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Eight Sushi

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Eight Sushi Lounge]

Nikki and I went to Eight Sushi Lounge—which was our 8th stop on our "By the Numbers" series—this week to plan next year's restaurant series. We had a great time planning, especially while dining on their Lobster Ramen, the dish that won them the top honors at the Atlanta Ramen Festival this year. This is their second year in a row to win that honor and both of the winning ramen dishes are on the menu!

Dragon Con Parade | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Dragon Con Parade 2017]

Dragon Con is one of the BEST celebrity-spotting opportunities in Atlanta! The Dragon Con Parade features a number of celebrities, including this year's Grand Marshal Stan Lee, comic book author and creator of Spider-Man, X-Men, Iron Man, Hulk, and many more. Atlanta's Dragon Con Parade is the city's largest parade, one not to be missed!

Dragon Con Parade | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Dragon Con Parade 2017]

I've been a trekie since my first childhood memories. Meeting Leonard Nimoy (Spock) at the National Press Club in 2002 was one of my most cherished celebrity memories. He was amazing! The "Spock" in this year's Dragon Con Parade was one of the best Spock cosplayers I've ever seen!

Southeastern Railway Museum | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Southeastern Railway Museum]

I've loved trains since I was a little kid, as early as third grade. The Southeastern Railway Museum had been on my to-see list for a number of years and I finally made it there this year. It was such an incredible day! Definitely going back!

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Seven Lamps | Photo: @atlantafoodie

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Seven Lamps]

I'm not sure about Nikki, but I have a favorite dish from each of our 10 restaurant experiences in our "By the Numbers" series. At Seven Lamps, it was definitely the Roasted Garlic Panisse. Wow! What an amazing dish. Read more about that particular experience at the link above.

"Atlanta Blooms" | Atlanta Botanical Garden | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

["Atlanta Blooms!" 2017]

Tulips are my favorite flower—a story that goes back to my late grandmother Evelyn—so getting to see so many at the "Atlanta Blooms!" exhibition at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a real treat.

Scarecrows in the Garden 2017 | Atlanta Botanical Garden | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Scarecrows in the Garden 2017]

I always enjoy Halloween and sometimes, very rarely, will dress for the occasion. But I totally don't have to to get my fix of creative, clever costumes by dressing up. Scarecrows in the Garden features more than 100 scarecrows and they keep getting better year after year!

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Six Feet Under | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Six Feet Under]

When we decided on Six Feet Under for the sixth stop on our 10 restaurants, we selected the one across the street from Oakland Cemetery, the final resting place of Margaret Mitchell and Bobby Jones, to name a couple. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that this restaurant offers much more than one might expect.

"Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum | Fernbank Museum of Natural History

[Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum]

Fernbank Museum of Natural History has had countless magnificent exhibitions in its 25 years, and "Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum" is no exception. I personally found that the numerous artifacts from the actual Colosseum made it extremely fascinating!

Travis, Giggy, Sue | Fernbank Museum of Natural History

[Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum]

I loved getting to hang out with my blogger friends in 2017, especially Sue of Field Trips with Sue (now merged with 365 Atlanta Family) and Lesli of 365 Atlanta Family. I got to see Sue at Fernbank Museum of Natural History when she was visiting with her father. And I got to see Lesli at a blogger event at 5Church Atlanta.

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | 5Church Atlanta | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | 5Church Atlanta]

5Church Atlanta has become one of my favorite dining destinations, in part because they make me feel like family. Yes, they were our fifth stop on our Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" series, but since then I've had the great honor of meeting the owner, the executive chef, and their families. I'm so grateful for their friendship.

Since that visit in May, Chef Scotley Innis came on board as the new executive chef. He's AWESOME! And he recently introduced a new menu that will keep you returning to the restaurant again and again. There are a few favorites that remain on the menu, but I'd bet one of the new dishes will become your new favorite!

In late summer, I was invited to be part of a television show featuring 5Church Atlanta. I was super flattered and uber excited! We filmed one evening (the diners, that is; the film crew had been there all day), but couldn't talk about it for months. It was great fun!

While I had no expectations, save a hope to at least see my bald spot from across the room in the televised version. Well, as we all watched at the viewing party at 5Church Atlanta months later, with complimentary champagne, there I was! Six or seven times, in fact!

Watch the Atlanta episode on The Cooking Channel's Late Nite Eats  replaying again later this month! 

St. Simons Island Lighthouse | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[St. Simons Island Lighthouse]

I had the great pleasure of visiting St. Simons Island this year as a guest of The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort. What a fantastic experience!!! They were keen on ensuring our media group experienced all the Island has to offer, beyond the Resort. They excelled in this mission! 

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[The King and Prince: The Food]

When on the media tour of The King and Prince Beach & Gold Resort, we were treated to a number of dining experiences at the Resort, including an Executive Chef's Wine Dinner. The food here is exceptional, not to mention the hospitality, the accommodations, and the beach views!

Georgia Renaissance Festival | Gypsy Geoff Fire Circus | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Georgia Renaissance Festival 2017]

I'd only been to one Renaissance Festival before, and had been anxious to attend ours! (the other was when I lived in Washington, DC) I think you'll enjoy the Georgia Renaissance Festival with a group of friends, patient and adventurous friends, because there's so much to see and do here! 

Fair Play: The Bobby Jones Story | Atlanta History Center | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Fair Play: The Bobby Jones Story]

Every golf pro or enthusiast knows who Bobby Jones is. The newly renovated "Fair Play: The Bobby Jones Story" exhibition at the Atlanta History Center is magnificent. Even if you've never played golf, I still recommend a visit to this exhibition...it chronicles the magnificent career of a fellow Atlantan!

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Bar Margot at Four Seasons

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Bar Margot at Four Seasons]

Bar Margot at the Four Seasons, our fourth stop on our "By the Numbers" series is a special treat for visitors and locals alike. I've been numerous times now and every time is a special occasion, whether I'm celebrating something or not. 

Interview: Mary Moore of The Cook's Warehouse | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[From Crepe Pan to 'Every Excuse to Cook']

I've come to greatly admire Mary Moore, founder of The Cook's Warehouse. It was through Les Dames d'Escoffier International-Atlanta Chapter, of which Mary is a founding member, that I got to know who she is. It was through wanderlust ATLANTA that I got to know The Cook's Warehouse better than ever. 

I've shared with Mary on numerous occasions that every visit to The Cook's Warehouse is a discovery of something I didn't know I needed! Mary graciously granted me an interview this year when we discussed the founding of The Cook's Warehouse, a story that begins with the search for a crepe pan.

Japanese Maples ColorFest 2017 | Gibbs Gardens | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Japanese Maples ColorFest 2017]

One visit to Gibbs Gardens and you'll want to go again and again, as I have. I've been to their Japanese Maples ColorFest several years and their Daffodil Festival—featuring 20 million daffodils—is spectacular! They have flower and plant festivals throughout the year. 

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Local Three

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | Local Three]


On our third stop on our Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" series, Nikki and I dined at Local Three. Since then, I've heard multiple reports that they have a magnificent brunch, so we'll have to go again. If you go for dinner, I highly recommend the fish dish pictured above...it was one of the best first dishes I've ever had!

Old Fourth Distillery | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Old Fourth Distillery Tour]

Part of Nikki's birthday celebration in January included a tour of Old Fourth Distillery. 

When we arrived, we were the only ones there. By time our tour started, we had a great crowd of fun people, some from out-of-the-country and locals, too. I'm a vodka man and since this visit when I see Old Fourth Distillery vodka on a cocktail menu in a local restaurant, that's exactly what I order. 

Movie Site Miller's Rexall | Atlanta Movie Tours | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Atlanta Movie Tours: Best of Atlanta Tour]

I've been on most of the tours offered by Atlanta Movie Tours, but I'd put off their "Best of Atlanta" tour for years. I finally went this year, with actor friend Jonathan Horne, Suzi Bass Award winner, "Outstanding Lead Actor in a  Play" for The Crucible.

The "Best of Atlanta" tour is outstanding! I was worried that it would be about a lot of shows that I'd never heard of. Evidently I'm a bigger cinema fan than I realized. The tour was totally awesome and great fun!

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | TWO urban licks | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | TWO urban licks]

The second stop on our Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" was TWO urban licks. I felt like I was driving through Gotham City to get to the restaurant and the dining experience transported us to another land. The food, atmosphere, and service are outstanding! And meeting Chef Michael Bertozzi was indeed a special occasion. We both highly recommend a visit to TWO urban licks.

My Patak Tradition | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[My Patak Tradition]

Patak Meats is open to the public only one Saturday per month and on the few occasions I make it there, the trip becomes an excursion that includes an afternoon visiting Sweetwater Creek State Park, one of many amazing Georgia State Parks. 

Fall Folklife Festival 2017 | Atlanta History Center | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Fall Folklife Festival 2017, Atlanta History Center]

The Atlanta History Center has programming for families, individuals, visitors, tourists, and locals alike...all year long! The Fall Folklife Festival is particularly as entertaining as it is educational. I highly recommend adding it to you yearly "things to do" calendar.

Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | ONE midtown kitchen | Photo: Travis S. Taylor

[Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" | ONE midtown kitchen]

Nikki and I launched our Top 10 Atlanta Restaurants "By the Numbers" with a personal favorite, ONE midtown kitchen. We're grateful that it set the perfect tone for our series, and deliciously so. We're excited to be planning another restaurant series for 2018. Thank you, ONE midtown kitchen, for your hospitality!

"The Santaland Diaries" | Horizon Theatre Company

[INTERVIEW: Topher Payne, "The Santaland Diaries"]

I started this look back at 2017 by sharing with you that I was voted to the Board of Directors at Horizon Theatre this past autumn. One of the things that I've learned is that Horizon doesn't recruit the Board members for someone's name or position, they recruit first and foremost based on a person's love of theatre. I've been dedicated a fan of Horizon Theatre for a number of years, seeing some of their shows multiple times!

I'd met Topher Payne for the first time not too long before he assumed the role of Crumpet for the 19th year of "The Santaland Diaries". He graciously granted me an interview shortly after the run began. We talked on the telephone for half an hour. Well, we mostly laughed—he's hilarious!—and I had a great time getting to know an Atlanta living legend.

THANK YOU and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thank you for joining me for a trip down memory lane of the last year. Thank you so very much for your fanship, for reading my stories, and enjoying my photos. Please feel free to ask a question or share a comment on any of my posts. And please know how grateful I am for your support. I look forward to sharing more of Metro Atlanta with you in 2018!