15+ BEST Live Theater in Washington DC: Must-See Shows Starting from $126

Warner Theatre is a historic venue that has hosted famous musicians for many years. The building has a beautiful art deco design and was originally a movie theater. Now, it is known for hosting performances by popular bands, comedians, and dance groups.

Many big-name musicians have graced the stage at Warner Theatre, making it a must-visit for music lovers. The venue also attracts comedy fans with its lineup of well-known comedians. Whether you’re into music, comedy, or dance, Warner Theatre offers a diverse range of entertainment options for all types of audiences.

Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater is a theater located in Washington, D.C. that has multiple stages for performances. It was founded in 1950 and has three different spaces with seating capacities of 200, 514, and 680 seats. This allows for a variety of American productions to be showcased, ranging from intimate plays to large-scale productions.

The theater is known for its diverse programming, featuring a wide range of performances that highlight the rich tapestry of American theater. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking drama or a lively musical, Arena Stage has something for everyone. With its long history and commitment to showcasing the best of American theater, it is a must-visit destination for theater lovers in the D.C. area.

The John F. Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts is a famous venue known for hosting a variety of performing arts events. From plays to music concerts and dance shows, this cultural center offers a diverse range of entertainment options for visitors to enjoy. With multiple theaters and art tours available, guests can immerse themselves in the world of creativity and talent.

Established as a tribute to the late President John F. Kennedy, this renowned arena continues to attract top performers and artists from around the world. Whether you’re a fan of theater, music, or dance, the Kennedy Center has something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of live performances at this iconic cultural institution.

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company is a small, modern theater that puts on live shows. The venue is cozy and intimate, making audience members feel close to the action on stage. The theater is home to a well-known theater company that creates its own unique productions.

The company has been around for a while and is known for its original and innovative shows. The space is small, but that just adds to the charm and intimacy of the performances. If you’re looking for a night of exciting and thought-provoking theater, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company is the place to go.

Ford’s Theatre is a famous performing arts venue with a rich history. It is well-known as the site where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Visitors can enjoy nightly performances and also take guided tours of the theater.

The theater offers a unique opportunity to experience live entertainment while learning about a significant event in American history. With its historic significance and diverse programming, Ford’s Theatre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts and history.

Lincoln Theatre is a historic venue that showcases performing arts in a refined setting. The theater has a rich history, having once been home to legendary artists like Nat King Cole.

Today, Lincoln Theatre offers a diverse range of multicultural programming, catering to a wide audience. Whether you’re a fan of music, dance, or theater, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic venue.

Studio Theatre is a cozy venue that puts on contemporary plays from various cultures. The intimate setting allows the audience to feel close to the action on stage, creating a unique and immersive experience. The theater showcases new writing from talented playwrights around the world, offering a fresh and diverse perspective on modern life.

In addition to performances, Studio Theatre also offers acting classes for those interested in honing their craft. These classes provide aspiring actors with the opportunity to develop their skills and learn from experienced professionals in a supportive environment. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast or looking to pursue a career in acting, Studio Theatre is the perfect place to explore the world of contemporary theater.

National Theatre DC is a historic theater that has been around since 1835. With a capacity of 1,672 seats, it is known for hosting touring Broadway musicals and public-service shows. The theater has a storied Broadway-style stage that has seen countless performances over the years.

Located in the heart of Washington D.C., National Theatre DC is a popular destination for theater enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to catch a Broadway show or attend a public-service event, this iconic venue has something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of live theater at National Theatre DC.

Mosaic Theater Company is a diverse and inclusive theater group that aims to showcase a wide range of voices and perspectives. They produce thought-provoking and socially relevant plays that spark conversation and inspire change. With a commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding, Mosaic Theater Company creates a space for artists and audiences to come together and explore important issues.

Founded in 2014, Mosaic Theater Company has quickly become a prominent force in the Washington, D.C. theater scene. Their productions are known for their high-quality performances and innovative storytelling techniques. By challenging traditional norms and pushing boundaries, Mosaic Theater Company continues to push the boundaries of what theater can achieve.

The Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre is the troupe’s original home with 451 seats, including boxes for a more intimate experience. This award-winning theater company has two theaters, with the Klein Theatre being the smaller of the two.

The Klein Theatre is a cozy and historic venue where audiences can enjoy Shakespearean classics and other theatrical productions up close. With its 451 seats, the theater provides a more intimate setting for patrons to fully immerse themselves in the world of the play.

The Atlas Performing Arts Center is a beautiful art deco theater that showcases a variety of performances including music, dance, and more. The venue has been renovated to preserve its historic charm while providing a modern space for artists to showcase their talents.

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Atlas Performing Arts Center is a popular destination for those looking to experience live entertainment in a unique and vibrant setting. Whether you’re a fan of classical music, contemporary dance, or experimental theater, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this cultural hub in the city.

The Howard Theatre is a historic African-American theater that now serves as a Southern soul-food supper club. Guests can enjoy live performances while indulging in delicious Southern cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a special date night.

On Sundays, the Howard Theatre offers a gospel brunch that is not to be missed. Guests can enjoy traditional Southern dishes while listening to uplifting gospel music. The combination of great food and soulful music creates a unique and memorable dining experience at the Howard Theatre.

Shakespeare Theatre Company: Harman Hall is a spacious and modern performance venue that showcases the talented Shakespeare Theater Company. The theater features multiple levels, providing a dynamic and immersive experience for audience members.

The award-winning Shakespeare Theater Company delivers captivating performances that bring the timeless works of William Shakespeare to life on stage. With a diverse range of productions, from classic tragedies to lively comedies, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic theater.

Theatre Washington is an organization that supports and promotes the vibrant theatre community in the Washington, D.C. area. They provide resources and opportunities for local theatres and artists to thrive and connect with audiences. Through their programs and events, they aim to celebrate and elevate the diverse voices and stories found in the region’s theatre scene.

Theatre Washington also hosts the Helen Hayes Awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in professional theatre in the D.C. area. These awards honor actors, directors, designers, and productions that have made a significant impact on the local theatre community. By shining a spotlight on excellence in theatre, Theatre Washington helps to foster a culture of creativity and innovation in the region.

The Washington Stage Guild is a professional theater company based in Washington, D.C. They have been producing classic and contemporary plays for over 30 years. The company is known for their high-quality productions and talented actors.

The Washington Stage Guild offers a diverse range of performances, from thought-provoking dramas to lighthearted comedies. They aim to engage and inspire audiences with their innovative and entertaining productions.

Gala Hispanic Theatre is a center for Latino performing arts that produces a variety of theatrical productions. The center aims to engage the Latino community through its diverse range of performances, including plays, musicals, and dance shows.

With a focus on showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community, Gala Hispanic Theatre provides a platform for Latino artists to share their talents and stories. Through their productions, the center strives to promote cultural understanding and appreciation among audiences of all backgrounds.

State Theatre is a cool place where you can see live music and comedy shows. It used to be a movie theater back in the 1930s, but now it’s a concert venue for all kinds of bands and performers. The building has a lot of history and character, which adds to the experience of going to a show there.

You can catch all kinds of acts at State Theatre, from popular touring bands to tribute acts that pay homage to famous musicians. They also host comedy groups that will have you laughing all night long. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy some live entertainment.

Union Stage is a cozy taproom and live-music venue that offers a laid-back atmosphere for music lovers. The small and intimate space is perfect for enjoying a wide range of live performances, from local bands to up-and-coming artists. The venue also features a bar serving draft beer and delicious pizza, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy some great music.

Whether you’re looking to discover new music or just relax with friends, Union Stage provides a welcoming environment for all. With its diverse lineup of acts and tasty food and drinks, this venue is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun night out. Come experience the magic of live music in a cozy setting at Union Stage.

Anacostia Playhouse is a small theater that showcases a variety of performances, including plays, dance shows, and concerts. The cozy black box theater provides an intimate setting for audiences to enjoy live entertainment.

Located in the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington D.C., this compact venue offers a diverse range of cultural experiences for theater-goers. With a focus on supporting local artists and performers, Anacostia Playhouse is a vibrant hub for creativity and community engagement.

Constellation Theatre Company is a professional theatre group based in Washington, D.C. They are known for their innovative and visually stunning productions that bring classic stories to life in new and exciting ways. With a focus on storytelling and artistic collaboration, they strive to create immersive experiences for their audiences.

Founded in 2007, Constellation Theatre Company has quickly become a staple in the D.C. theatre scene, earning critical acclaim and multiple Helen Hayes Awards. Their diverse and talented ensemble of actors, designers, and directors work together to create unique and thought-provoking performances that engage and inspire audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or a first-time attendee, Constellation Theatre Company offers a truly unforgettable theatrical experience.