Recently SpotHero announced our expansion to our nations capitol, Washington DC. It has been a huge step for us make it to the east coast, and we are hoping that this is the first stop on our eventual world tour of the disposal of parking problems! As we enter new markets and cities, we like to familiarize ourself with the local culture, community and happenings. This post is dedicated to some of the top live theater spots Washington DC has to offer. With a very diverse theater scene, Washington DC brings a whole lot to the stage every night. Enjoy!
Arena Stage: An American Tradition
Reopened in 2010 after an extensive renovation, the Arena Stage is the leading Washington DC theater for productions of American Playwrights. A highly touted theater, it has won dozens of awards for its work including a Tony Award for best regional theater. Inside the Arena Stage there are actually three theaters. One is a rounded stage in which the audience surrounds the actors during productions and the other two are typical thrust stages. Some alumni and notable performers at the Arena Stage include Jon Voight, Samuel L. Jackson and James Earl Jones.
Ford’s Theater: “Where Lincoln’s Legacy Lives”
Unfortunately known best for President Lincoln’s assassination, the Ford’s Theater has beautifully found a way to pay homage to our nations 16th President, and produce theater, musicals and engaging educational events. When visiting the theater you can learn the about the legacy and great history of President Lincoln, and share in a wonderful experience. Watch a video by Ford’s Theater.
Wooly Mammoth Theater Company:
Opening their doors in the early 1980’s the Wooly Mammoth Theater Company has been described as as “the hottest theater company in town” by the Washington Post and “known for its productions of innovative plays” from the The New York Times. WMTC consistently breaks down boarders, and pushes the envelope to help grow the community. With a passion for new and engaging material, the WMTC is a stop to make on your DC Theater list.
” …to ignite an explosive engagement between theatre artists and the community by developing, producing, and promoting new plays that explore the edges of theatrical style and human experience, and by implementing new ways to use the artistry of theatre to serve the people of Greater Washington, DC. ” – WollyMammoth.net
Folger Theater: DC’s Shakespeare Hub
If you are in the Washington DC area, and looking for a Shakespeare fix, look no further than the Folger Theater. Doubling as a library and research center for all things Shakespeare and the renaissance period, you can see a show and educate yourself all in one day. In the heart of DC, the Folger Theater actually houses the largest collection of Shakespeare materials. Not only a theater and research center, there are multiple educational opportunities no matter if you are k-12, college level student or anyone who is looking to learn more about Shakespeare. Opened in 1932, the Folger Theater was a gift to the American Nation, and it doesn’t take long to see what a beautiful gift it is.
The Warner Theater:
Built in the 1920’s for silent films, the Warner Theater was also known for its rooftop garden, and bassement that featured a famous restaurant and ballroom. Through the years the Warner Theater has transitioned more to a music venue that features R&B, Soul, Jazz and funk music. It is common to see other events such as comedy acts, and theater. Some acts that have preformed in the past are Zeola Gaye, Keyshia Cole, and David Cook.