Originally built as a religious shrine, Atlanta’s Fox Theatre was bought and reopened as a lavishly decorated movie theatre in 1929. The building’s design, imagined by architect Olivier Vinour, is reminiscent of Islamic and Egyptian architecture, and newspapers and locals gawked at its grandeur when the theater first opened. Today, the Fox is no less astounding, and is a must-see when visiting the area.
Kick Back, Relax, and Enjoy the Show
Since its opening, renowned ballets, Broadway shows and popular artists have played at the Fox Theatre. The auditorium is a replica of an Arabian courtyard with a ceiling embedded with crystal “stars”, which are accompanied by a projection of drifting clouds. This combination of design and architectural genius creates a calming and otherworldly effect.
Tune in to Exceptional Acoustics
Home to the Mighty Mo, an impressive 42-rank pipe organ that is second-largest in the country and situated inside the theater, the Fox Theatre offers truly magnificent musicals. Played at both the Fox’s summer festival and during the Atlanta Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker, the Mighty Mo makes these productions some of the most phenomenal shows in Atlanta.
Even without use of the Mighty Mo, The Fox Theatre still hosts fantastic shows. The design and structure of the theater allows for excellent acoustics that offers even those seated in the way back the ability to hear every word and note. Recent artists to grace the theater’s stage include Jason Isbell, Louis C.K., and Bonnie Raitt.
Dig Into Dinner and a Show
For a truly decadent night out at the theater, enjoy a pre-theater drink and meal. Head to the Livingston Restaurant and Bar, located directly across from the theater, and start with a batch of their delectable asparagus frites, paired with lemon powder and aioli. For mains, try a hearty dish of shrimp and grits prepared with andouille sausage, turnip greens and crispy oyster mushrooms.
Also nearby, Baraonda Ristorante and Bar dishes up authentic Italian cuisine, like seafood linguini and lamb pappardelle. Before the show, try a slice of their rustica pizza, made with fontina cheese, freshly chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, garlic and olives. Gluten intolerant? No problem. Baraonda offers gluten-free pasta options.
If you’re craving Caribbean, Negril Village is also around the corner from the theater and serves some of city’s creamiest hummus. Their house red snapper prepared in a Creole broth with okra and green bananas is a masterpiece, and the curry shrimp may leave you drooling.
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