2025’s most notable: Theater, art + design, music, dance & news stories

In a year marked by significant financial and cultural losses, closures and instability, artists in Atlanta have found ways to continue to inspire and intrigue audiences through performances and exhibitions that showcase the diverse array of talent that call this city home. Looking back, the editors of ArtsATL each chose 9 stories that felt particularly notable in their respective disciplines. We hope you enjoy reflecting on this year’s highlights just as much as we have. 

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Notable 9 in theater in 2025: Tradition, but give it a twist 

Notable 9 in art + design in 2025: Compelling exhibitions, curatorial feats and public art highlights

Notable 9 in music in 2025: Finales, debuts and stories of survival

Notable 9 in dance in 2025: Classical, cultural and contemporary

Notable 9 in arts news in 2025: A year of change, losses and the retirement of a local icon