Frequently Asked Questions
You know, the FAQs
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What's the parking situation?
We have a full parking lot across from the theatre on Bradley Street, free to our patrons. Please do not leave anything visible in your vehicle. We’re also within walking distance of the King Memorial MARTA station and The Beltline. Which is all to say: bike! Walk! Use rideshare! Enjoy free parking! We’ve got it all.
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How old do you have to be to attend a Dad's Garage show?
All of our shows (except kids shows like Wowie Zowie and Adventure Playhouse) are created and intended for adult audiences, and often contain the following types of adult humor: cursing, sexual innuendo, violence, and/or nudity… if not all at the same time. We typically play it safe and use 18 as our age limit. However, we also believe that parents have the right to choose what's okay for their children to watch. If you let your kids watch FX, you’ll be cool with us too.
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Do you serve food and booze?
Yes! We have a full bar (with a ton of local beer on draft), plus popcorn and light snacks (think chips and candy bars). For more substantial grub, O4W Market is just around the corner, and tons of options are within walking distance just down the Beltline.
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What is improv?
“Improv” is short for “improvisation,” which means everything you see on our stage (save the plays) is unscripted, made up in that moment, totally original, and completely unique. Governed by the principle of “Yes, And,” improv focuses on building scenes using collaboration and, often, suggestions from our audience.
Also, we promise — you will NEVER need to participate in a scene or offer a suggestion if you don’t want to! -
How much do your tickets cost?
The average ticket price is about $18, but the full range is typically $4-35. It really depends on the show and the day of the week. If you're looking to save money, buy your tickets online (they're $2 cheaper than buying on the phone or at the door). We also send out discount offers from time to time through Twitter (@dads_garage), Instagram (@dadsgarageatl) and our email newsletter.
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If I don't use my tickets, can I get a refund?
No. It’s pretty much like a movie theater or a concert in that respect. If you buy tickets and don't show up, that's on you. Sorry. If you truly have an emergency, please email tickets@dadsgarage.com or call us before the show and let us know. We only guarantee exchanges if you give us 48 hours notice.
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Why can't I buy tickets for the show I want online?
Hi! There are a few possibilities.
(a) Is it within 30 minutes of the show start? Our online system closes and the in-person box office opens 30 minutes before showtime!
(b) The show may be sold out! Sorry! You should receive notice as you try to purchase if that’s the case.
(c) Is the show more than a few weeks away? It’s possible we just haven’t set it up yet — email tickets@dadsgarage.com for clarification!
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I purchased tickets to a show I can no longer attend, can I exchange my tickets for another show?
The short answer is yes! The long answer is if you can no longer attend a show and would like to exchange your tickets for a future show, you can request an exchange by emailing tickets@dadsgarage.com
if you are emailing after 6 PM on a weeknight or any time on a weekend, we will get back to you the next business day. Rest assured, we will still exchange your ticket if it's processed after the show you missed!
Exchange requests are not applicable to celebrity, special, or private events.
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What are you near? I don't know what to do in Atlanta!
Buddy, you’re in luck! We’re incredibly close to some of the most happening things to do in Atlanta, and we’re not afraid to say it. Looking for fine Atlanta nightlife? Look no further than Edgewood on a Saturday, when it often becomes pedestrian-only. The Beltline is a block away, and you can ride a rented bike from Dad’s Garage to Ponce City Market in a heartbeat, arguably one of the best things to do in Atlanta. We’re only three blocks from the Martin Luther King Center and even closer to Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthplace, a National Historic Park, we don’t mind saying. Whether you make a day, a night, or just 90 minutes of visiting us, you’ll have a great time. More on our “Plan Your Visit” page!
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How long are your shows?
Most shows are approximately 90 minutes — two 45-min halves separated by an intermission.
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How do I get on stage at Dad's?
All of the performers you see on our stage have been acting and/or improvising for years. Most of them started in our Level 1 improv class and worked their way up. If you want to get involved behind the scenes, start by volunteering. Classes and our audition-only Conservatory program are also great routes!
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I've taken improv classes before, do I really have to start in Level 1?
Probably! Every improv company teaches a different style of improv. It's important that you get to know how Dad’s Garage plays if you're interested in improvising here. That said, if you’re a bonafide pro, feel free to reach out to our artistic director directly to discuss placement.
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I'm celebrating a birthday/planning a proposal/etc. -- can you help me make it special?
We sure can! Start by emailing Nate@dadsgarage.com. With 48 hours advance notice, we can put a message on the marquee at the front of the theatre (for a small fee) and ensure it’s displayed during your visit. The further in advance you can get in touch, the better! We’ll do our best to make it a night to remember.
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Can I rent your space for a fundraiser/to show a film/to host a live podcast?
Yep! As usual, start by emailing Nate@dadsgarage.com. We rent out our space (we’re particularly well-suited to one-off events, thanks to our heavy show schedule) and are equipped with everything you need. Since we do have shows Thursday through Saturday nights, it’s tough for us to host on those days, but it can be done!
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What happened to BaconFest?
One of the most beloved Atlanta Festivals went to the big barbecue pit in the sky. Sustainability concerns put an end to our porkfest, and then COVID put an end to its replacement, The Big Stupid Parking Lot Carnival. Keep an eye out for our next big fundraiser and festival!
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Do y'all ever have food trucks?
Sometimes! We love to be able to make Dad’s Garage a one-stop-shop for your evening fun! Keep an eye on socials for announcements about when we’re serving.
Do you own a food truck and think you’d be a good fit for us? Email Nate@dadsgarage.com!
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I have a script that's perfect for Dad’s Garage. Where should I send it?
We almost always produce our own original work. That said, if you really think you have a script that makes sense for Dad's Garage to produce (and you’ve seen our scripted shows to confirm it’s up our alley), you can send it here:
Dad's Garage Theatre
Attn: Tim Stoltenberg
569 Ezzard St
Atlanta, GA 30312 -
Does Dad's Garage host stand-up?
We specialize in improv and original comedy, and that’s what we put onstage. That said - we do offer stand-up classes and workshops!
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Do you sell tickets through third-party platforms?
Nope! Unless you purchase directly from Dad’s Garage, we can’t account for the tickets. Please be careful if you choose to purchase from an individual.
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I've heard about car break-ins in Atlanta. Is it safe to park at Dad's Garage?
Dad’s Garage is not responsible for lost or stolen property, which is why we HIGHLY recommend you leave nothing visible in your car (especially not computers, backpacks, or suitcases). There are break-ins in our area, just like every city, and we’re doing what we can to deter thieves. Additionally, we’re within walking distance of two MARTA stations and the Beltline — avoid the issue altogether!
If you do have items you can’t hide, ask our Front of House staff (at Will Call, etc.) to store your bag — we’re happy to do so! -
Do you have shows for kids?
We do! Our two kids shows, Adventure Playhouse and Wowie Zowie, run for approximately eight weeks each season. They’re great for ages 3-10.
We also offer summer camp for rising 3rd - 12th graders each summer, occasional workshops for the teenagers in your life, and family-friendly community events. (Look for Spooktacular in October!) -
Do you offer workshops for companies or teambuilding?
You bet! Check out dadsgarageworks.com for the full scope of our corporate trainings, workshops, specialized offerings, and more!
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Can you accommodate a private party or a large group?
Sure can! We’ll work to meet your needs, whether it’s a block of tickets, a private happy hour + show, or arranging a kids show to celebrate your little one. You can also arrange a private show here.
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Do you offer discounts?
We do! Discounts always go to subscribers of our weekly newsletter first; sign up here. Volunteering earns class discounts and seeing shows for free, and we offer class, workshop, and camp scholarships!
COVID-specific FAQs
1. What are Dad’s Garage’s policies re: COVID safety?
Nobody wants Dad’s Garage to stay open more than us. We strongly, strongly encourage patrons to wear masks the entire time they’re inside the theatre. We want every member of our community to feel comfortable here!
2. What is Dad’s Garage doing to prevent the spread of coronavirus?
To protect our patrons, performers, and staff, we have implemented frequent cleanings with products designed to sanitize and kill viruses and other pathogens. We have hand sanitizer available all over the place, and have implemented crowd movement measures to keep air flowing in the best possible way. We also now have an outdoor patio, where guests are encouraged to enjoy themselves (and a drink) before and after shows.
3. I bought a ticket to see a show and now am sick. Do you offer refunds?
Please stay home if you are unwell! While we can only guarantee refunds with at least 48 hours notice, we understand that sometimes last minute illnesses happen. Please email us at tickets@dadsgarage.com as soon as possible requesting your refund. We want you to stay home and get better, and we’ll do what we can to make that an easy choice.
Licensing A Show
Did you like what you saw on our stage? Want to do it at your own theatre? This is the way to do it! That’s right, any of the shows you see on our stage are available to license and perform at your place. Let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll get back to you with details.