Ditch the movies this month and opt for the magic of live theater, whether it’s a song-filled musical, a dramatic play, a night of improvised scenes or classic stand-up. If you’re already a fan of The Fox Theatre – as you should be, thanks to their regular seasons of national stars and Broadway tours – you’ll be pleased to know that your live theater options don’t stop there. Atlanta’s live theater scene is rich and varied, so this sampling is just the tip of the iceberg. Ticket prices vary by show time and location, but rest assured that you won’t go wrong with shows on any of these local stages.
Act3 Playhouse
This theater is showing the play “The Elephant Man” from January 30 through February 13, which tells the story of Joseph Merrick, a disfigured man living in 19th century London. Director Russ Ivey and lead actor Jack Allison help bring this character – and his true story – back to life. act3productions.org
Alliance Theatre
This company, which has been staging productions since 1968, is showing a musical adaptation of the young adult back “Tuck Everlasting.” Shows run through February 22 at the Woodruff Arts Center. www.alliancetheatre.org 
Aurora Theatre
This theater – the only professional theater in Gwinnett – is showing the dramatic hit “Les Miserables” through March 1. auroratheatre.com
Dad’s Garage Theater Company
Dad’s Garage performs a mix of original plays, creative musicals and improv shows at the 7 Stages Theatre in Little Five Points. Don’t miss their sci-fi adventure show Battle Space Wars, starting February 5, or enjoy an alternative Valentine’s Day at their February 14 improv shows. dadsgarage.com
Horizon Theatre Company
Based on the huge – and hilarious – range of events that happen at real-life Waffle Houses, “The Waffle Palace” plays at Horizon in Little Five Points through March 8. horizontheatre.com
The Improv Comedy Club & Dinner Theater 
This classic stage on East Andrews Drive hosts touring comedy celebs, such as Carlos Mencia in February, and Gilbert Gottfried in March, and weekly open mic nights for stand-up comics just starting out. theimprovatlanta.com
OnStage Atlanta
Who doesn’t love a story about a man-eating plant? If you haven’t seen the classic “Little Shop of Horrors,” catch it at this Decatur theater from February 20 to March 28. onstageatlanta.com
The Punchline Comedy Club
Another staple of Atlanta’s stand-up scene. The Punchline Comedy Club celebrates its 33rd anniversary this month. The Punchline will move to a new location in April of this year, so before the move, grab a seat in their classic theater to enjoy sets by Caroline Rhea, Tommy Blaze, “Last Comic Standing” winners and more. punchline.com
Whole World Improv Theatre
This nonprofit company celebrated its 20th anniversary this past October, so you know their improv skill is tried and true. Attend their shows on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays each month. wholeworldtheatre.com
