David Coucheron, the 27 year old violinist and concertmaster of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, is in the spotlight once again. Soon to complete his second season in Atlanta, David has created quite a name for himself in a very short time. Most recently, he was awarded the The Mabel Dorn Reeder Honorary Chair – a 5-year notoriety – which honors musicians demonstrating excellence in artistry and a dedication community enrichment, as well as leadership and collegiality.

Photo courtesy of Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and © Jeff Roffman.

A quick overview of David's star-studded performances in Atlanta include:

• Haydn's Sinfonia Concertante in B-flat where, led by guest conductor Hugh Wolff, he accompanied ASO principal players Christopher Rex (cello) and Carl Nitchie (bassoon.)
  
  
• Conducted by Robert Spano, his performance of Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 5 (the "Turkish" Concerto) marked his solo debut with the ASO in February of 2011.
  
  
• In November 2011, he was featured in a performance of Brahms' double Concerto in A-minor with Principal Cello Christopher Rex and guest conductor Oliver Knussen.

Sibelius & Tchaikovsky (featuring Concertmaster Soloist Coucheron)
May 31-June 2
Atlanta Symphony Hall

A smashing success nearly a quarter of a century after his mother purchased his first violin from a grocery store, Coucheron finds inspiration by “collaborating with new musicians and helping the audience feel something they’ve never experienced.” The jet-set performer whose playbills include Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall (London) and the Olympic Winter Games (Salt Lake City, Utah) finds Atlanta to be “very open, welcoming and filled with people who enjoy good music” – and we know where to find it. Now in its 67^th year, the Grammy Award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra boasts more than 90 musicians, six annual series and its own record label.

Known for his own astonishing talent as well as riveting duets with his sister Julie, David stresses the importance of incorporating music into the family. He points to the ASO’s SuperPOPS series, Family series and Holiday Classics concerts as a great first step toward creating a lifelong love of live music.
While you’re never too young (or old) to discover a new favorite tune, David recommends “Find what you love to listen to and stick with it but look for new ways to experience it.”

Looking for even more ways to connect with your family? David suggests great food and at least one imagination-fueled experience. A few of his favorite Atlanta eateries include Tamarind Seed (Thai), Daddy D'z BBQ JOYNT and Nori Nori (sushi) – and next on his list is The Varsity. As for Atlanta’s wow-worthy attractions, the Georgia Aquarium is an all-time favorite. For even more kid-friendly arts and culture activities, check out these options for Summer Family Fun.

The weather is gorgeous, there's ton of fun all around Atlanta - but what if you just can't decide what to do? This Sunday, shake up that Spring fever with guest artists of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Pink Martini!

Pink Martini
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Sunday, April 1 at 7 p.m.

Pink Martini, an avant-garde chamber orchestra, has spent the last 18 years blending and borrowing genres from all across the globe to create a unique, buoyant sound perfect for any audience. As self-proclaimed “musical archeologists” the 13-piece band reinvigorates tunes from Old Hollywood musicals, pulls inspiration from world-renowned festivals and has even penned overnight sensations such as “Sympathique.” Though the group was initially formed to provide a more approachable background soundtrack for political fundraisers, Pink Martini has become a “rollicking adventure” of boundless melodies.

Performing once again on a global tour, Pink Martini is in Atlanta for one night only. The band will perform hits from their seven albums and perhaps a few surprise songs, too. With such an eclectic fusion of sounds, this Pink Martini concert is the perfect excuse to dust off your swankiest outfit (and maybe a few retro dances moves!) Purchase tickets online or call the Atlanta Symphony Hall box office at 404-733-5000.

What better way to jolt yourself out of the workweek blues than a warm Spring breeze and a vibrant show? If you’re wondering what to do this weekend be sure to check out these hot musical performances:

Billy Elliot the Musical

The Fox Theatre

Through Sunday, March 18
This 10 time Tony Award-winning musical chronicles the childhood of Billy Elliot - a poor miner’s son who stumbles into a talent that could free him from the picket lines. Brilliantly scored by none of than the legendary Elton John, this poignant tale combines extravagant staging, top talent and captivating choreography in one riveting, feel-good show. 


Bond & Beyond

Atlanta Symphony Hall

Friday and Saturday, March 16 & 17

8 p.m.

Part of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s renowned POPS series, Bond & Beyond features Principle POPS Conductor, Michael Krajewski, leading an energetic show curated from the best scores of the James Bond films. The “musical retrospective” of classic murder/thriller cinema includes favorites such as “You Only Live Twice” and “Casino Royale,” as well as iconic tunes from “The Pink Panther” and “D ick Tracey.” The evening’s smoking gun is Tony award-winner Debbie Gravitte, as she returns to sing the bewitching score of “Goldfinger.”


Next week, pull on your dancing shoes and check out:

Tango Night

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center

Friday, March 23

8 p.m.
Discover the passion and technique of an authentic Argentine Tango! Perfect for dancers of all skill levels, this event begins with an introductory lessor at 8 p.m. Expert instructors will teach you a few key steps and have you ready to move and groove during the open tango dance party, with live music, at 9 p.m.

Tickets are sold only at the door. $15 for the introductory lesson & Tango Party or $10 for the Tango Party only. Soft drinks and light snacks will be provided. Call 404-872-5338 for more info.

This month the city spotlights passion, talent and creativity with three debut shows! Be sure to reserve your tickets for these can’t-miss productions:

The Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls
Hertz Stage at the Alliance Theatre
Through Feb. 26

Winning national acclaim in the Kendeda Graduate Playwriting Competition, this coming-of-age thriller blurs the boundaries of fact and fiction through traditional fairytale elements. Join Annie, an American in Moscow, as she explores her history and loses herself in The Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls.

Purchase tickets online, or call the box office at 404.733.5000.

Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin
Atlanta Ballet, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Feb. 10-19

Based on a long-loved children’s story, this family-friendly ballet is a perfect introduction to performance art. A monumental collaboration between legendary choreographer and the award-winning Atlanta Ballet company, Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin is a coming-of-age tale of courage and companionship. Join the Princess as she discovers hidden realms in dark caverns and hatches a plan to thwart the villainous Goblin Queen and her dream to rule the human race.

Purchase tickets online, or call the Ticketmaster Arts Hotline at 1.800.982.2787.

The Art of Golf
High Museum of Art
Through June 24

The first-ever exhibition to explore the game's origin through paintings, photography and Pop art, The Art of Golf features more than 90 pieces, spanning more than 400 years. The exhibition is split into three categories: Dutch landscape painters and the predecessors of the game of golf; Scottish portraiture and iconic objects - including a 1780s Silver Club with inscribed balls; and American works, including a Warhol silk screen and full collection of Harold Edgerton’s long-exposure photographs documenting the swing of Atlanta’s own Bobby Jones.

Bill Traylor: the Traveling Exhibit
High Museum of Art
Through May 13

The High Museum has partnered with the Montgomery Museum of Fine Art to create a traveling exhibition of works by Depression-era, African-American artist Bill Traylor. Comprised of 65 works, Bill Traylor: the Traveling Exhibit includes three distinct phases of Traylor’s career: portraits drawn from “people-watching” on the streets of Montgomery; animals drawn mostly from memories of his days as a farming slave; and his interpretation of special events in Montgomery. Traylor’s almost-elementary approach features works created from found media, including crayons and poster paint on cardboard. This exhibition marks the first time much of Traylor’s work will be viewed outside the Southeast.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
Theaters city-wide
Feb. 8-29

The 12th Annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival premieres more than 65 films in theaters city-wide. Celebrate cinematic storytelling with film screenings, guest appearances and Q&A sessions. A treat for movie buffs and animation lovers alike, AJFF features films from numerous genres including docudramas, romantic comedies, animated shorts, biographies and more. Check the daily schedule for a complete listing of can't-miss films.

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.

Part equestrian event and part multimedia interpretive dance, Cavalia: Odysseo is filled with gorgeous costumes, intricate sets and stunning showmanship!

Cavalia: Odysseo

Through Jan. 8, 2012

The White Big Top (Midtown on the corner of Spring and 8th streets)

Tucked beneath the world’s largest touring big top tent, the show has made its US premiere in Atlanta. Combining the enthralling acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil with breathtaking steeds, Cavalia: Odysseo is an homage to the harmony between horse and human. Accompanied by live musicians and a vocalist, more than 70 horses and 40 performers create an ethereal dreamscape of intertwining figments and storylines which prance along the fringe of comprehension. Says Normand Latourelle (Cavalia’s President and Artistic Director) of the enchanting exhibition, horses have allowed humans to “… travel to the ends of the world. This animal enabled mankind to build bridges between cultures, to create alliances … and thus freely roam the planet.”

The verdict is in - Cavalia: Odysseo is the Atlanta’s must-see show of the holiday season!

Want to take dinner and a show to a whole other level? For an extra-special treat, enjoy a three-course, prix-fixe menu from Briza - contemporary American flavors with Southern flair. For $45 per person, enjoy: 

• Winter Squash Panzanella with crispy pork belly, tossed with arugula and spiced goat cheese
  
• Berkshire Pork Chop with crispy brussels sprouts and French onion mousse
• Figgy Pudding with Fernet ice cream on fig paper with crème fraiche

The pre-theatre, prix-fixe menu is available from 5-7:30 p.m. through January 8, 2012. Make reservations online or by call 678-412-2334.
 

Adapted from Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday tale, How The Grinch Stole Christmas! the Musical is a merry mix of memories and new sing-a-longs. Featuring oversized sets, elaborate costumes and one very enthusiastic Grinch, this is the perfect show for introducing the kids to performance theatre!

How The Grinch Stole Christmas! the Musical

Fox Theatre
Through Sunday, Dec. 4

Narrated by Old Max (the sweater-clad older version of the Grinch’s loyal rein-dog,) Grinch the Musical begins in a true-to-film fashion of Whoville dancing and prancing across the stage. Complete some very Seuss-ian scenery, the “hand-drawn”, oversized props and backdrops are paired with intricate costumes, screens and film projections for a kid-pleasing multi-media experience. Though there’s no intermission in this show, lively lyrics and the Grinch’s love for audience interaction will leave your kids (and you) squealing with delight!

Showtimes vary, but the curtain rises at 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. True to from, the Fabulous Fox Theatre offers weekend matinees, as well: 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m. on Saturday, as well as 2 and 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at just $28 each and can be purchased online or at the box office.

Insider info: Be sure to grab your seat early and enjoy a special seasonal performance by Larry-Douglas Embury on "Mighty Mo" - the Fox Theatre's pipe organ that just so happens to be the second largest in the world!

Continuing the unprecedented success of the mission to expand their modern art collection, the High Museum of Art has collaborated once again with New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to present “Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen Modern Masters.” Containing a total of 129 pieces, this multimedia exhibit offers an in-depth exploration of the 20^th century’s radical redefinition of “art.”

"Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen Modern Masters"
High Museum of Art
October 15, 2011 – April 29, 2012

Opening Saturday, October 15, “Picasso to Warhol” is a unique exhibit which features works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Constantin Brancusi, Piet Mondrian, Fernand Léger, Marcel Duchamp, Giorgio De Chirico, Joan Miró, Romare Bearden, Alexander Calder, Jackson Pollock, Louise Bourgeois, Jasper Johns and Andy Warhol. In addition to highlighting the century’s stylistic shifts, “Picasso to Warhol” also spotlights the intriguing collaborative effort among the artists, creating a fascinating showcase of the inherent malleability of a single idea.

Among the stylistic shifts, you’ll find:

* Picasso’s first forays into Cubism (Girl Before a Mirror, 1932)

* Miró’s seemingly inadvertent introduction of Surrealism (Dutch Interior (I), 1928)

* Brancusi’s Abstract Expressionist sculptures (Young Bird, 1928)

* Pollock’s abandonment of the easel in his quest to become one with his work (Number 1A, 1948)

* Calder’s kinetic sculptures in which he began to drawn in mid-air with wires and shadows (Snow Flurry, I, 1948)

* DuChamp’s calculated exhibitions of his “ready-made” found objects (In Advance of the Broken Arm, 1964)

* Warhol’s experimentation with clashing colors, repetitive screen printing and self-observation (Self-Portrait, 1966)

In keeping with the theme of radical innovations, the High Museum has created a free smartphone app – ArtClix – which uses photo recognition software to enable visitors to access audio clips for each work and participate in discussions with ArtClix community and museum staff. It’s fascinating, really, to be in an exhibit of modern art, exploring the pieces in yet another new way!

There are a number of easy ways to explore “Picasso to Warhol”: buy tickets online, add the High Museum to your CityPASS or – for Fulton County residents – enjoy complimentary admission during Fulton Free Saturdays the first of each month.

BROKE is a riveting, semi-biographical drama that takes an in-depth, and at times achingly funny, look at the new economic normal.

BROKE
Hertz Stage at the Alliance Theatre
Tuesdays - Sundays, through Oct. 23

With quick wit, a few tears and an astonishingly well-written cast, BROKE is the tale of the six-figure-salary Eliason family who find themselves on a shoestring budget after Mom is laid off. Watch as the family tiptoes around, trips into and finally comes up gasping for air in the murky mire of perceived poverty. In a feat that is more heartening than after-school special, BROKE is “no shame ... just talk” about the value of relationships and the ultimate worthlessness of tangible property.

Known for its keen sense of exceptional storytelling and dedication to spotlighting local playwriting and acting talents, BROKE, by Janece Shaffer, heralds the 2011-2012 season of the Hertz Stage at the Alliance Theatre. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, as well as Sunday; and 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Matinees are available at 2:30 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday, through Oct. 23.

Cringingly comical and fraught with stark truths, Shaffer’s play is a must-see in a time when we all make sacrifices just to make it work.

Insider info: In the spirit of going broke, and with a nod to the “new economic normal," the Alliance Theatre is offering “pay what you can” seats for every Sunday evening performance.

Still a top bill after more than 60 years, Broadway's Guys and Dolls is a rollicking comedy about the taking a risk on romance. Through Sunday evening, come explore the intricacies of love and discover the price of a holy roller's heart and soul!

Guys and Dolls
Fox Theatre
Through Sunday, August 21

Touted as "the perfect musical", the Tony Award-winning Guys and Dolls is a charming rom-com packed with catchy tunes, hilarious stereotypes and intricate sets. Swinging and swindling their way through the seedy streets of New York, Sky Masterson and Nathan Detroit - two high-stakes gambling gents - try to beat the odds and get lucky in love.

The storyline (now a personal favorite) tells the tale of the love-worn Adelaide and her well-meaning yet selfish 14-year beau, while the righteous and religious Sister Sarah Brown finds, denies and finally gives into love with a seductive sinner. Tag along as the much-lauded score discusses the reasons why a lazy slob takes a good steady job ("Guys and Dolls",) how waiting around for a little band of gold can cause a cold ("Adelaide's Lament",) when a girl should "Marry The Man Today" and change his ways tomorrow; and how to save your soul ("Rocking The Boat".) With brilliant choreography and captivating characters, Guys and Dolls is sure to remain a hit for another 60 years!

Showtime for Guys and Dolls is 8 p.m. through Saturday, and 7 p.m. on Sunday at the fabulous Fox Theatre. Two matinees are also available at 2 p.m. on Saturday and 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at just $30 and can be purchased online or at the box office. Remember: follow the Fox or become a Facebook fan to get last-minute deals and insider info on upcoming shows!

Where else but Atlanta can you find the complete works of Shakespeare, traditional English treats and one adorable dog? The New American Shakespeare Tavern offers belly laughs and full bellies every Thursday through Sunday.

Two Gentlemen of Verona
New American Shakespeare Tavern
Through August 14
(Additional shows: September 15, 18, 24 and 30)

Serving authentic-inspired English dishes in an intimate dinner theatre, the New American Shakespeare Tavern is a one-stop shop for the best of Atlanta's eclectic culture and cuisines. More prop comedy than traditional theatre, the plays take place on a stark stage, jutting among the audience. There's no scenery, but the "backdrop", built directly into the anterior of the dining hall, is a multi-level facade which mimics the interior of a feudal England castle. From these three tiers, the exquisitely clad, brilliant and hilarious cast engage the audience for a unique theatrical experience. (And the ale ain't half bad either!)

Speaking of English eats and treats, the made in-house menus change with ever other production. Through October 2, you can enjoy sumptuous bites as well as favorite staples. My top picks from this menu: Ratatouille with Crispy Polenta Triangles (summery stew of eggplant, zucchini and tomatoes with herb-sprinkled baked polenta) and the creamy basil-laden Rainy Day Tomato Soup. The soup is accompanied by a slice of decadent zucchini bread, which pairs perfectly with a Rogue Shakespeare Oatmeal Stout. An intermission tradition, be sure to save room for the Apple Crisp a la Mode - this legendary tart is a guaranteed contender for your grandma's apple pie! The wine and beer (ale) lists are impressive, offering numerous varietals and an array of microbrews. (Oh, and just f.y.i. - all the pints are half-off each Friday.)

Home to the nation's only theatre company to have performed each of Shakespeare's 39 plays, the New American Shakespeare Tavern is ready to have a laugh. Starting this month, the resident actors (billed as the Atlanta Shakespeare Company) are doing it once more, and from the beginning this time! Dubbed the "Shakespeare Evolution Series", the players will first perform The Comedies, including the rarely produced Two Gentlemen of Verona. Working through the 39-play Cannon from the first play to the last, the ASC hopes to help audiences "trace the development of [the Bard's] dramatic craft."

Admission is $12 - $38 per person. (You can also purchase preview seats the first two days of each production. Preview Thursday seats are $12 and Preview Friday seats are just $15.) Purchase tickets online or at the door.

Come Fly Away
Through Sunday, August 7
Fox Theatre
Tickets from $30

Featuring 15 dancers and 14 big band musicians, Come Fly Away is an energetic revue of lust-worthy lyrics and legs. Onstage, the band accompanies authentic recordings of Frank Sinatra in this neo-rock opera, playing more than 30 of his famous hits which tell the tales of four couples and their intricate infatuations. Set in a New York night club and vaguely reminiscent of the 1940s, there’s a lot of sleeping around going on in the city that never sleeps.

Sing and swing along as Kate and Hank find a few benefits in being “just friends”, to the tune of “Nice ‘n‘ Easy”, while the shy sweethearts, Marty and Betsy, telling one another “I’ve Got a Crush on You.” Enjoy the “Witchcraft” between Slim and Chanos – as they have a one-night stand with blistering passion – and the rollicking romance of Babe and Sid, who flirt, fight and love one another with “Body and Soul.”

Showtime is 8p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 7p.m. on Sunday. Two matinees are also available, at 2p.m. Saturday and 1:30p.m. Sunday.

What if walls could talk?  Stalwart for 130 years and packed with Old South soul, scandals and success, just imagine the tales they could tell! While the walls of The Wren’s Nest walls aren’t quite so clever as their owner, Joel Chandler Harris - famed Atlanta journalist and storybook author - brought all of that and more to the leafy lot on the Westend.

Now a house museum, The Wren’s Nest was once the creative headquarters of the Brer Rabbit and Uncle Remus stories. Perched on his magnolia-shaded front porch, Harris penned the majority of the 190 narratives which, enchanting the world, became the first serialized storyline of walking, talking animals. Preserved sine 1913 with the original 1880s furniture, tile, structure and fixtures, the house offers a unique glimpse of life in the Old South. Three must-see focal points are the Disney dummies, Joel Chandler Harris’ bedroom which has remained untouched since the day he died and, a personal favorite of the curator’s, an 1880s Bavarian wood carving where Harris stored his tobacco and cigars.

Standing not only as an homage to one of Atlanta’s most lauded writers, tours of the home delve into the sordid and shady facets of Harris’ success. Born illegitimately and suffering from a stutter, Joel Chandler Harris seemingly was destined for a life of strife. Finding himself a slave at age 15, he immersed himself in the African custom of storytelling. Throughout his life, he collected tales and, through his fictitious counterpart Uncle Remus, produced his most famous works - the Brer Rabbit stories.

Perhaps best described as the bawdy, blasé cousin of Aesop’s Fables, Uncle Remus and the Brer Rabbit stories have long been burdened with knee-jerk assumptions. Deemed racist and rude for ages, Uncle Remus, and indeed Harris himself, were covertly educating the white, upper class South; subversively filling their bedtime stories with lessons of empathy, equality and racial reconciliation.

... but I can’t spoil the ending, so you’ll just have to take the tour! Storytime begins at 1p.m. sharp each Saturday. Tours of The Wren's Nest are available Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. In true Southern fashion, just walk up and ring the bell!