The National Theater in Washington, DC, a 1,676-seat federal-style theater, produces Broadway-level plays and musicals. The theater is the oldest theater in the United States and has operated in the same location since 1835. Hundreds of celebrity stars have performed at the National Theater, including: Helen Hayes, John Barrymore, Joan Rivers, Carol Channing, Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, Pearl Bailey, Sarah Bernhardt, Spencer Tracy, and Katharine Hepburn. Every president and first lady since 1835 has attended presentations here as well.
Upcoming performances
- School of Rock – The Musical – Wednesday January 16 – Sunday January 27.
- The Magic of Adam Trent – Saturday, February 2.
- The Origin of Love: Hedwig’s Songs and Stories – Friday, February 8.
- Finding Neverland – Tuesday, February 26 – Sunday, March 3
- Jukebox Hero The Musical – Friday March 22nd – Saturday March 23rd
- A Bronx Tale – Tuesday, March 26 – Sunday, March 31
- Amanda Palmer – Friday, April 5
- Stomp – Tuesday, April 23 – Sunday, April 28
- Jim Steinman’s Bat Out of Hell The Musical – Wednesday July 10 – Saturday July 27
Tickets for the national theater
Tickets are available at www.thenationaldc.org or by calling the subscription hotline at (855) 486-2516. Group sales are also available by calling (844) 626-8090.
The National Box Theater Office is located at 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW and is open Monday through Friday, noon – 6 pm
Discount tickets: A $ 25 US lottery ticket available to all Broadway at the National performances. Two hours before each performance, individuals can submit their names to be drawn and purchase up to two tickets. Names will be announced thirty minutes after the entry period (90 minutes before the show). Individuals must be present, with cash, to redeem the offer.
Free performances at the National Theater
- Children’s theater on Saturday mornings
Location
1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC
Nearest metro station: Metro Center
See a map
The National Theater is located in the heart of Washington, DC, just three blocks from the White House. Many restaurants, hotels and shops are located around the theater. Find restaurants in the theater district of Washington, DC.
Parking near the National Theater
PMI – 1220 E Street, NW
PMI -1325 G Street, NW
QUIK PARK I – 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
QUIK PARK II – 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
COLONIAL PARKING – 1201 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
