Mercerians — whether they be new bears on the block or ones that already have their bearings — can find plenty of ways to be entertained outside of the classroom. Without driving too far or spending too much money, local cultur- al experiences are plentiful no matter the preferred medium of art. Although this list by no means includes all of the fine arts offerings, here is a point of reference for fun times to come.
Tattnall Square Center for the Arts
Newly renovated and opened in April 2014, the Tattnall Square Center for the Arts was once a Presbyterian church. Mercer University received a $425,000 grant from ArtPlace America to trans- form the church, which was donated to the school, into an art-centric spot for the whole community. It also houses Mercer’s Theatre department. The N. Logan Lew- is Theatre held the inaugural production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest last year. The Tattnall Square Center for the Arts is located at 1096 College St. Unless noted otherwise, tickets for general admission are $15 or $10 with a valid Mercer ID. For more information about upcoming productions, call (478) 301-5470.
Macon Little Theatre
Founded in 1934 and in its 82nd season, Macon Little Theatre serves up theatrical productions almost every month. There is a rumor that refreshments, such as tea and coffee, are served during show time inter- missions. The next staging will be “On Golden Pond,” a comedy and a drama which will be directed by Weldon Ledbet- ter. Performances will go from Aug. 28- Sept.6. And the box office will open four days before opening night. Tickets will be $20 for adults,$15 for seniors (60 +) and $10 for students ages 5 to 23. To make a reservation, call (478) 477-3342. Macon Little Theatre is located at 4220 Forsyth Road.
Cox Capitol Theatre
More well-known artists and bands have been known to take the stage at the Cox Capitol Theatre located at 382 Second St. Because of this, admission prices vary by event. Marty Stuart will be performing at the Cox later in August, and Drivin N’ Cryin will play in September, just to name a couple upcoming shows. For more in- formation, go online to www.coxcapitol- theatre.com.
The Hummingbird Stage and Taproom
For a versatile music venue that can be relaxed or rowdy, The Hummingbird Stage and Taproom is the place to go. Located on 430 Cherry St, The Hum- mingbird — The ‘Bird as some refer to it — offers a variety of regional, national and local live music. People must be 18 years or older to visit this entertainment venue. For extra activities, The ‘Bird has open mics, karaoke and team trivia on Wednesdays. Unlike most places on this list, ‘The Bird is open every day of the week, except Sunday when it is only open for private events. For more information, visit www.hummingbirdmacon.com.
The Grand Opera House
The most ornate and luxurious cultural location on the list hands down has to be The Grand Opera House. It has style, it has grace and it has musicals. The Grand Opera House is the sole presenter of pro- fessional touring Broadway productions in Middle Georgia. In the off season, the venue presents comedy acts, concerts and community-based arts productions, such as the Nutcracker of Middle Georgia. Gregg Allman will be playing there in January, but the next show at The Grand Opera House will be “1964: The Tribute” in honor of The Beatles Sept. 19. Because The Grand has a relationship with Mer- cer, students receive discounts. For more information or to call the box office, dial (478) 301-5470.
Taste and See Coffee Shop and Gallery
Although most don’t consider it a go-to for entertainment, Taste and See Coffee Shop and Gallery is one of the interesting and intensely intimate venues to listen to live music in Macon. Live music is avail- able most Friday and Saturday nights. As a plus, they have stellar coffee and pas- tries. For more information, visit www. tasteandseecoffee.com.
Check back in The Cluster’s next issue for a continued list of even more enter- tainment venues Mercer University and Macon have to offer.
