Tower Stage: A New Meeting Place in Vinings

Ask for directions to the heart of Vinings and chances are good you’ll wind up at the congested intersection of Paces Ferry and Paces Mill roads. But as of Thursday night, there’s a new focal point that may become the social crossroads of the community.

The debut of the Tower Stage at Vinings Jubilee unveiled a central  location where locals can gather for a concert, a performance or a cooking demonstration.

A recent makeover of the shopping center created a raised area that easily doubles as a stage that’s covered, lit and miked for performances. An expanded area of brick pavers creates a natural seating area where the public can set up beach chairs and relax under the stars. The arrangement has a town square atmosphere, much like other nearby, small towns.

“There are a lot of people who live and work in this area who are very excited about this,” said Emily Marcil, a partner in , a wine bar in the Jubilee whose patio is adjacent to the performance area. “It’s a great opportunity. We’re planning on hosting cooking demonstrations here on Saturday afternoons, when people can come have some wine and see a demo. It’s a great space.”

Terri Hilderhoff of Paces Holdings, managers of the shopping center, said creating the stage wasn’t too difficult.

“The porch area was already there, so we expanded it - made it wider, got rid of the planters in the seating area,” she said. “It’s ideal for all sorts of events.”

Last night, the stage was surrounded by about 50 spectators who enjoyed free comedy improv from Relapse Theater performers. Spectators took seats in chairs arranged in front of the stage and at tables on The Grape’s patio area. The arrangement allowed for plenty of interaction between the audience and the performers.

There’s already a lineup of activities that will take place on the stage, including a September 17 children’s magic show and an October 1 concert to celebrate the center’s 25th anniversary.

Future plans also call for food and beverage kiosks to be set up around the stage, so guests can sip a glass of wine or nibble munchies while enjoying an evening in the open air.

More details about the Tower Stage and upcoming events are available at the Vinings Jubilee website