Broadway Beats and Orchestral Feasts: Your Atlanta What's On Guide Today
Atlanta’s Thursday Spotlight: From Pop Icons to Puppet Shows
Welcome to your curated guide for Thursday, January 29, 2026. Whether you are looking for the high-energy spectacle of a Broadway musical, the refined sounds of the symphony, or a family-friendly morning in Midtown, Atlanta has a packed schedule of verified local events to keep your calendar full. Today marks a significant day in the city's cultural scene, with several major productions running concurrently across our historic venues.
Theater and Stage Highlights
The Fabulous Fox Theatre continues its highly anticipated run of MJ - The Musical. This award-winning production takes audiences behind the scenes of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, offering a deep dive into the creative mind and collaborative spirit of Michael Jackson. The performance is scheduled for 7:30 PM, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere of the iconic Peachtree Street venue.
For those seeking something for the family or a more local theatrical experience, the East Cobb Theatrical Company presents its production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta. The curtain rises at 6:30 PM for this hauntingly beautiful love story, featuring the classic songs composed by Alan Menken.
Classical and Contemporary Music
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra offers a special performance today at Symphony Hall. Guest conductor Leonard Slatkin leads the America @ 250 program, featuring works by Copland and Barber. This concert is a celebration of American musical heritage and begins at 8:00 PM. Additionally, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre hosts the globally acclaimed Shen Yun Performing Arts with two performances today at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, showcasing thousands of years of Chinese culture through dance and music.
Public Exhibitions and Community Meetups
- IPPE 2026: Today is the final day of the International Production & Processing Expo at the Georgia World Congress Center. As one of the world's largest industry marketplaces, it concludes its massive three-day run with exhibitions open until mid-afternoon.
- Pete the Cat: The Center For Puppetry Arts has scheduled two performances of the groovy puppet show at 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, perfect for toddlers and elementary-aged children.
- The Pre-Production Social: Filmmakers and production professionals are gathering at The Gathering Spot ATL for a community meetup starting at 6:00 PM. This is an excellent networking opportunity for those in the city's thriving film industry.
- High Museum Exhibits: Don't miss the ongoing exhibition "Viktor&Rolf: Fashion Statements," which continues to draw crowds with its avant-garde couture designs.
From the bustling floors of the World Congress Center to the quiet galleries of the High Museum of Art, Atlanta is alive with activity this Thursday. Be sure to check with individual venues for last-minute ticket availability and specific entry requirements.