23 Jan Atlanta Events for the week of January 21st with The Anderson Group

First the holidays, then Atlanta’s Snowstorm 2011…the The Anderson Group says, “Let’s get out of the house!” In metro Atlanta, there’s always much to see and do. Here are picks for the weekend of January 21.

First, an act we’ve long wanted to see: Blue Man Group. By all accounts, this show is both unconventional and fun. The 90-minute show presented by a trio of (what else?) blue men features LED screens, shadows and lighting, an original rock score performed by a live band, and giant lighted balls bouncing around the crowd. Of course any event Is special at Atlanta’s Fox Theater, but this one looks like a blast. Shows are 8 p.m. Friday, and two shows on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $30-$70 at the box office or Ticketmaster.

Top-notch entertainment calls for top-notch dining, so before the show it’s off to La Fourchette in Buckhead. Far be it from us to weigh in on the current spat between AJC food critic John Kessler and Atlanta’s chefs, but we agree with Kessler that La Fourchette is just the ticket for an elegant night on the town. Located in the former Agnes and Muriel’s, the restaurant showcases chef Jeff Wall who has already gained a following for smoked trout tart, duck confit, and breads, pastries and pasta made on site in the restaurant’s kitchen. Desserts include profiteroles, vacherin with blackberry/red wine sorbet and hot Tunisian beignets. Yum! Visit La Fourchette at 3133 Piedmont Road. For more information, call 404.748.1229.

Tickets for a few upcoming shows go on sale this weekend: First, elderly rocker Rod Stewart will be at Philips Arena March 5, along with Stevie Nicks. Not a lover of big venues? We like smaller, more intimate performances so on our list are advance tickets for the Steep Canyon Rangers at Variety Playhouse, a budget-pleaser at only $15. The Steep Canyon Rangers have built a reputation for rich acoustic sound, earning two International Bluegrass Music awards, including Album of the Year in 2008. You’ll find the Variety Playhouse in the Little 5 Points area, adjacent to historic Inman Park, at 1099 Euclid Avenue. For more information, phone 404.524.7354. Want more to see and do in Atlanta? Watch this space for more Anderson Group favorites!