Welcome back, everyone! With the new year in full swing, it’s time to start working on those resolutions. Two intriguing ones that continually pop up in conversation are “I want more culture.” and “I want to contribute to my community.” Admirable, indeed - and I have just the thing to help! Below you’ll find a list of can’t-miss independent productions from my favorite community playhouses. Grab a seat as Atlanta’s theatres raise the curtain, erm ... bar, for 2012.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

New American Shakespeare Tavern
January 6–29
Experience one of the world’s most-loved romantic comedies in a whole new way. The New American Shakespeare Tavern is home to the Atlanta Shakespeare Company - a cast of brilliant, witty prop comics and award-winning actors (who also happen to the nation's only theatre company to have performed each of Shakespeare's 39 plays) - offers full-length plays and decadent, English-inspired cuisine. This month, giggle at the merry mishaps and ages-old stereotypes in the laughable love story of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

God of Carnage
Alliance Theatre
January 11–29
An award-winning play that exploits the mirth in misery, this is the prefect cure for that mid-winter, cabin fever. Hilarious and heartfelt, this “no holds barred” glimpse into the intricacies of life, love and the problems with everyone else. Laugh, point fingers and perhaps be a bit humbled as God of Carnage exploits those menial things that can push each of us over the edge of reason.

Avenue Q
Horizon Theatre
January 13–February 26
Back by popular demand, this award-winning show is packed with provocative puppets and sing-along songs. Join Princeton as he tries to make his way in the real world with not much more than wit and pocket lint. With the occasional full-puppet nudity and internet porn, Avenue Q is firmly in the PG-13 category. Hilariously irreverent and guaranteed to have you humming along, this show is sure to shake those winter blues!

Another production company to keep an eye on is Fabrefaction Theatre. Tucked alongside some of the Westside’s best restaurants, this little playhouse is making huge strides for kids and the community. A registered non-profit, Fabrefaction is dedicated to helping underprivileged children express themselves through performance art. They’ve created “a space in Atlanta where young theatre artists have the opportunity to discover their identity as a performer ... [and] can continue to cultivate their craft and expand their knowledge of the theatre.” In addition to performing classic and contemporary hits, they offer FTC Outreach - programs tailored for all ages which are brought to local schools, hospitals and community events. Mark your calendars for Tartuffe, showing March 14-25.