My son recently read The One and Only Ivan in school. He loved it. For him to really like a book this much says something. It just so happened that the Synchronicity Theatre was hosting an adaptation this month for their children's series. I got tickets as a surprise for my son for getting an A on his book test and being the only one in his class who did! I had not read the book with him, only a few parts but I did learn it was based on a true story of a gorilla who spent 27 years in a shopping mall in Tacoma, Wash. The real-life Ivan finally made his way to the Atlanta Zoo.

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Synchronicity Theatre is located in Midtown on the edge of Buckhead. The building is beautiful. Pro-tip : They validate parking! The tavern inside is not open for lunch, Mellow Mushroom is a 3/4 mile walk but service is fast. They do sell snacks, beer and wine and we brought our own water and that was fine too.

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The performance was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! I did not know what to expect going in and only new a summary of the story. The costumes were great. The acting was superb and I cried...like a lot. I think every adult in the place had glassy eyes at intermission. Though we were surrounded by kids, it did not feel like we were watching children's theater. My son totally busted my friend and I out for crying.

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We met the cast afterwards. Really talented acting!

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Last year I set a goal to see more local plays. I only saw 2 all year. Maybe I will do better this year. Local theater really is where it is at.

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The company could not be better. I mean who else can awkwardly pose like us?

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