Atlanta, GA, December 28, 2025
News Summary
Topher Payne, an accomplished Atlanta-based playwright and screenwriter, is gaining recognition for his recent works that deftly combine humor with timeless themes. His latest theatrical piece, ‘A First Lady’s Guide to Killing the President,’ debuted at Onstage Atlanta, while his Hallmark movie, ‘The Christmas Baby,’ has also premiered, showcasing his storytelling prowess. Furthermore, Payne’s performance in the holiday show ‘Y’allmark Christmas’ and his new play ‘Let Nothing You Dismay’ continue to captivate audiences, further solidifying his impact in the Atlanta arts scene.
Atlanta – Topher Payne, an Atlanta-based playwright and screenwriter, is celebrating a series of recent projects that highlight his dynamic contributions to the world of theater and film. With over 25 years of experience, Payne continues to make a significant impact on the stage and screen, most recently with his comedic works during the holiday season.
Payne’s stage comedy A First Lady’s Guide to Killing the President premiered at Onstage Atlanta in September. This unique comedy takes on the events leading up to the death of President Warren G. Harding in 1923, mixing elements of melodrama and farce to create a thought-provoking narrative on historical events.
Adding to his festive offerings, a Hallmark Channel movie he wrote, titled The Christmas Baby, premiered on December 21 and is now available for streaming. This film showcases Payne’s ability to weave lighthearted yet heartfelt stories that resonate with audiences during the holiday season.
Currently, Payne is performing in Y’allmark Christmas at Dad’s Garage, which runs through December 28 at the 7 Stages Theatre. The holiday show features Payne’s signature fast-paced comedic style and explores themes of family, adoption, and dynamics that evoke both laughter and introspection.
From December 4-20, Payne’s new comedy Let Nothing You Dismay premiered at Dunwoody’s Stage Door Players. This work received positive feedback for its humorous take on family themes, further solidifying Payne’s reputation as a talented playwright.
In addition to his work in the theater, Payne recently completed a successful six-week off-Broadway run in New York with his play Perfect Arrangement, showcasing his versatility and reach as a playwright. He emphasizes the viability of maintaining a national playwright career while being based in Atlanta.
Payne shared his ideal day in Atlanta, which consists of enjoying coffee at Banjo Coffee, gluten-free treats from Hell Yeah Gluten Free bakery, and spending quality time with family. His perfect day includes visits to the Center for Puppetry Arts and Eagle Eye Book Shop with his goddaughters, ending with a tattoo session and dinner at La Calavera followed by karaoke at the Atlanta Eagle.
His recent work also includes a play about the first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel, highlighting his penchant for storytelling that engages and entertains. Overall, Topher Payne continues to be a significant figure in Atlanta’s thriving arts scene, combining humor, history, and family in his plays that captivate diverse audiences.
FAQ
Who is Topher Payne?
Topher Payne is an Atlanta-based playwright and screenwriter with over 25 years of experience.
What is A First Lady’s Guide to Killing the President about?
The comedy focuses on events leading up to the death of President Warren G. Harding in 1923, framed as an overwrought melodrama mixed with farce.
What is Let Nothing You Dismay?
Let Nothing You Dismay is a holiday play that explores themes of family, particularly adoption and family dynamics, and premiered at Dunwoody’s Stage Door Players from December 4-20.
What other recent works has Topher Payne released?
In addition to Let Nothing You Dismay, Payne recently completed a successful six-week off-Broadway run in New York with his play Perfect Arrangement.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Career Duration | Over 25 years |
| Recent Stage Comedy | A First Lady’s Guide to Killing the President |
| Holiday Movie | The Christmas Baby |
| Current Performance | Y’allmark Christmas |
| Another Recent Play | Let Nothing You Dismay |
| Off-Broadway Success | Perfect Arrangement |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- AJC: Topher Payne Shares 11 Good Things
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Comedy Play on Presidential Scandal
- Atlanta Magazine: Let Nothing You Dismay Premiere
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Topher Payne’s New Comedy
- Axios: Topher Payne’s Gluten-Free La Calavera
- Wikipedia: Topher Payne
- Google Search: Topher Payne
- Google Scholar: Topher Payne
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Topher Payne
- Google News: Topher Payne
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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