Variety Playhouse sold to Agon Entertainment

?Given the recent wave of gentrification changing the face of inner city Atlanta as of late, news of Variety Playhouse being sold is distressing to some. But according to a Nov. 3 press release, Agon Entertainment, the new owner of the staple Little Five Points venue, plans to renovate and enhance “the theater’s existing art deco design while creating a more spacious layout.” The press release goes on to say: “Patrons can expect the Variety Playhouse to continue and build upon its legacy as being one of Atlanta’s top music venues.”
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?In 2009, a fire destroyed much of the Georgia Theatre — all but the building’s exterior. Owners Wilmot Greene, Scott Orvold, and Randy Smith rebuilt and reopened the venue in 2011. In 2014, they sold Georgia Theatre to Agon Entertainment, who kept much of the existing staff in place. Likewise, Agon has brought in management from the Georgia Theatre to help oversee the switchover, while working with the venue’s owner and existing staff. The goal, according to the press release, is to “give a fresh face to the venue, both physically and operationally.”
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? Renovations will begin in May 2016, and a reopening is scheduled for August 2016. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.