48 upcoming theater events
The Crucible (Opera)
Sat, 21 Mar 2026 at 19:00
Lisner Auditorium
Washington National Opera presents The Crucible at Lisner Auditorium. Conducted by WNO Music Director Robert Spano and directed by Francesca Zambello, this staging of Robert Ward’s Pulitzer-winning opera brings Miller’s Salem tale to life with themes of fear, accusation, and the cost of truth.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast
Sun, 22 Mar 2026
Disney's Beauty and the Beast arrives on stage as a dazzling musical in Washington. This Broadway-style production features beloved songs, lavish costumes, and spectacular sets, offering a magical, family-friendly night of live theater for Disney fans.
Young Playwrights in Progress: Spring Workshop Performances
Sat, 21 Mar 2026 at 19:00
DC Theater
Young Playwrights’ Theater presents Young Playwrights in Progress — Spring Workshop Performances at DC Theater in Washington, D.C. This showcase features scenes created by young playwrights during the Spring workshop, offering fresh voices and collaborative theater in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.
Pillow Fortress — Peregrine Theatre Company
Sun, 22 Mar 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
Pillow Fortress at DC Theater by Peregrine Theatre Company runs March 5–22, 2026. An intimate drama following three characters, blending lyrical storytelling with experimental staging in a contemporary Washington venue.
Travesty
Tue, 24 Mar 2026 at 19:30
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
Travesty at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company is a bold, contemporary drama performed in an intimate space. The show promises incisive writing, dynamic performances, and a fearless take on timely themes that typify the venue’s reputation for boundary-pushing theatre in Washington, DC.
Artist Talk and Performance with Alexander D'Agostino
Sat, 28 Mar 2026 at 16:00
Folger Shakespeare Library
An intimate evening at the Folger Shakespeare Library as artist Alexander D'Agostino shares his creative process in an artist talk, followed by a live performance in the library's intimate lecture hall.
Insider's Circle at Arena Stage Broadway Studio
Mon, 30 Mar 2026 at 19:00
DC Theater
Arena Stage's CFA Broadway Studio hosts the Insider's Circle, a live conversation series on March 30 at 7 PM. This moderated talk offers behind-the-scenes insights from artists and creators with audience Q&A in an intimate DC Theater setting.
Match 25: TBD featuring The Broken Bones
Sat, 28 Mar 2026 at 21:00
Washington Improv Theater
Washington Improv Theater presents Match 25: TBD featuring The Broken Bones, a lively evening of spontaneous improv built on audience suggestions and rapid-fire scenes. Expect sharp humor, surprising twists, and a playful showcase from DC's improv scene at WIT.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Sun, 5 Apr 2026 at 13:30
The National Theatre
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast brings the beloved fairy tale to life on the National Theatre stage with lavish sets, show-stopping songs, and dazzling performances. A family-friendly musical that charms audiences of all ages, pairing nostalgia with top-tier theatre craft.
60 Minutes to Curtain: A Rhizome Larp
Sat, 4 Apr 2026 at 13:00
Rhizome DC
Rhizome DC presents a 60-minute live-action role-playing experience: an immersive, narrative-driven game inviting participants to improvise and collaborate in a theatrical setting. Held at Rhizome DC, this compact performance offers adults an engaging evening of storytelling and tension in a studio venue.
Machete Wastoid Megazillion Lagoon
Fri, 3 Apr 2026 at 19:00
Rhizome DC
A provocative live performance at Rhizome DC, Machete Wastoid Megazillion Lagoon blends surreal visuals, experimental sound, and stage presence in an intimate gallery setting. This boundary-pushing piece invites audiences to navigate a chaotic, dreamlike lagoon of textures and ideas.
The Jury Experience: Death by AI
Fri, 17 Apr 2026 at 18:00
Miracle Theatre
An immersive courtroom experience at Miracle Theatre in Washington, DC, where you listen to testimonies, weigh evidence, and render verdicts on a driverless car dilemma. Audience participation drives the outcome, exploring accountability in AI-driven justice and the limits of algorithmic fairness. A sharp, thought-provoking piece blending theatre and current-tech themes.
Matt Fraser - America's Top Psychic Medium
Fri, 17 Apr 2026
Warner Theatre
Matt Fraser, America's Top Psychic Medium, brings a live evening to Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. This intimate show blends psychic readings, storytelling, and audience interaction as Fraser channels messages from the spirit world.
Macbeth (Staged Reading)
Sat, 25 Apr 2026
Folger Theatre
Experience Macbeth as a staged reading by the Federal Theatre Project at the Folger Theatre. This intimate linguistic performance emphasizes text and imagination over full production, offering a fresh, accessible Shakespeare experience in a historic Washington, DC venue.
An Asian American Dance Journey
Fri, 24 Apr 2026 at 19:30
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
A contemporary dance journey exploring Asian American experiences, staged by Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. This intimate, movement-driven performance blends storytelling with bold choreography in a vibrant Washington, D.C. theatre setting.
Compass Rose Cabaret
Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
A spirited cabaret at DC Theater celebrating Compass Rose with performances running April 10–26, 2026. Expect intimate live singing, theatrical flair, and a festive cabaret atmosphere in Washington, DC.
Student-Directed One-Act Plays by Encore Stage & Studio
Fri, 17 Apr 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
Encore Stage & Studio presents student-directed one-act plays at DC Theater, April 17–19, 2026. A weekend showcase of short, student-directed works offering intimate, energetic performances in a supportive community theatre setting.
Pippin
Tue, 12 May 2026 at 19:30
Signature Theatre - The ARK
Experience Pippin, Signature Theatre's dazzling musical at The MAX in Arlington on May 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM. This production blends spectacular choreography with intimate storytelling, delivering a witty, energetic exploration of fame and ambition in a Broadway-style setting. A must-see for theatre lovers.
Seussical Kids (Grades 3-5) - Encore Stage & Studio
Sat, 2 May 2026 at 11:00
DC Theater
Encore Stage & Studio presents Seussical Kids at DC Theater, a lively, family-friendly musical based on Dr. Seuss for grades 3–5. This engaging live show features imaginative staging and catchy songs, ideal for a weekend family outing.
The Motion
Wed, 6 May 2026 at 19:30
Arena Stage
The Motion is a contemporary theater-dance piece at Arena Stage in Washington, blending movement with storytelling on a dynamic stage. A visually striking, immersive performance that showcases athletic choreography and live artistry.
PLAYdate by Happenstance Theater
Sun, 3 May 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
Happenstance Theater presents PLAYdate, a devised theatrical piece by a powerhouse ensemble. Over May 2–3 at DC Theater in Washington, D.C., the company crafts a new play through collaboration, blending scripted moments with improvisation for an intimate, live stage experience.
Here to Make Friends + BURDKALL
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 at 20:30
Washington Improv Theater
An evening of improvised comedy at Washington Improv Theater featuring Here to Make Friends and BURDKALL. Expect fast-paced scenes, audience participation, and witty character work in a cozy DC venue.
Yolks on You! Burlesque and Variety Brunch
Sun, 10 May 2026
The Comedy Loft of DC
Yolks on You! burlesque and variety cabaret headlines The Comedy Loft of DC with risqué humor, dazzling acts, and colorful costumes. This intimate, nightlife-friendly show blends comedy and performance for adults seeking a playful, late-evening cabaret experience.
CrazySexyCool – The TLC Musical
Fri, 12 Jun 2026 at 19:30
Arena Stage
Experience CrazySexyCool – The TLC Musical, a stage adaptation celebrating TLC's hits. At Arena Stage on June 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM, the show brings R&B classics to life with high-energy dance and live performers.
Disney's Dare to Dream Jr.
Fri, 29 May 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
Encore Stage & Studio presents Disney's Dare to Dream Jr., a kid-friendly musical at DC Theater. Running May 29–June 7, 2026 in Washington, DC, this lively production features young performers delivering magical songs and imaginative storytelling.
Bill Murray & Blood Brothers: Pre-Show Meet & Greet
Sat, 20 Jun 2026
Warner Theatre
A pre-show meet-and-greet with Bill Murray before the Blood Brothers performance at Warner Theatre in Washington, DC. Fans can mingle and snap photos ahead of the show in an intimate theatre setting.
MEMORIALS
Wed, 20 May 2026
Pie Shop
An intimate live performance at Pie Shop in Washington, DC, Memorials explores memory and loss through theatrical storytelling and evocative staging. A small-venue experience blending drama and reflection that invites attentive audiences.
What Became of Us
Tue, 16 Jun 2026 at 19:30
Signature Theatre - The ARK
An intimate evening of contemporary drama at Signature Theatre’s The ARK, exploring memory, belonging, and the questions of what comes after. A thought-provoking, character-driven production in a compact, immersive space.
Bra & Order: Civil Libertease
Wed, 20 May 2026
The Comedy Loft of DC
A risqué, tongue-in-cheek fundraising night at The Comedy Loft of DC, Bra & Order: Civil Libertease features burlesque acts and variety performances to tease and entertain while supporting a cause. Expect saucy humor, dazzling acts, sharp repartee, and a cabaret vibe in an intimate comedy club setting.
PRECARIOUS
Thu, 4 Jun 2026 at 19:30
Mosaic Theater Company
Mosaic Theater Company's PRECARIOUS offers a provocative evening exploring equity and inclusivity, uniting a diverse community on stage. A bold, intimate performance that sparks conversation and celebrates theatre as a gathering place for bold voices.
PURLIE VICTORIOUS
Sun, 14 Jun 2026 at 19:30
Studio Theatre
Purlie Victorious delivers a vibrant Broadway musical about justice, community, and resilience. Staged at Studio Theatre, it combines energetic songs with witty dialogue in an intimate venue, offering a powerful story of hope and equality.
Happenstance Theater: Physical Comedy Intensive
Sat, 30 May 2026 at 10:00
DC Theater
A two-day Physical Comedy Intensive by Happenstance Theater at DC Theater, running on May 3 and May 30, 2026, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Participants explore timing, physical storytelling, and stage presence through hands-on exercises and group work.
The Marvelous Miss Gender starring BOSCO (Ages 18+)
Sat, 11 Jul 2026
Warner Theatre
An adult-only drag cabaret at Warner Theatre in Washington, DC, starring BOSCO in The Marvelous Miss Gender. Expect witty, bold performances, glittering costumes, and high-energy numbers that celebrate gender expression in an intimate theater setting.
Musical Theater Summer Camp (Compass Rose Theater)
Mon, 22 Jun 2026 at 09:00
DC Theater
Compass Rose Theater offers a Musical Theater Summer Camp from June 22–26, 9:00 am–4:00 pm at DC Theater. Trainees explore singing, dancing, and acting, culminating in a small showcase, guided by professional instructors in a playful week of performance.
Fairytales Onstage Theater Summer Camp
Mon, 29 Jun 2026 at 09:00
DC Theater
Compass Rose Theatre presents Fairytales Onstage, a week-long theater summer camp at DC Theater from June 29 to July 3, 9am–4pm daily. Kids explore acting, storytelling, and stagecraft through classic fairy tales in a fun, immersive setting.
Mamma Mia! (Encore Stage & Studio)
Fri, 17 Jul 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
Encore Stage & Studio presents Mamma Mia!, a sun-soaked jukebox musical built on ABBA’s greatest hits. This family-friendly production at DC Theater in Washington runs July 17–26, delivering bright songs, big dancing, and a heartwarming story.
Rhizome DC Puppet Slam: Call for Acts
Sat, 18 Jul 2026 at 18:00
Rhizome DC
Rhizome DC hosts a Puppet Slam: Call for Acts at Rhizome DC. This open-call showcase invites puppeteers to submit short, experimental pieces for a night of bold, boundary-pushing theater in Washington, DC. Expect a diverse line-up of daring puppetry showcased in an intimate, indie venue.
Welcome to Theater: Summer Program for Ages 5-12
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 at 09:00
DC Theater
Compass Rose Theater invites young actors to Welcome to Theater, a weeklong program for ages 5-12 at DC Theater. From July 13–17, participants meet daily 9 AM–4 PM to explore acting basics, imagination, and performance in a friendly, developmental setting.
Compass Rose Theater Improv Camp (Aug 3–7)
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 at 09:00
DC Theater
Spend a week at DC Theater for an improvisation theater camp from 9 am–4 pm (Aug 3–7). Led by Compass Rose Theater, the program blends games, scene work, and collaborative performance to sharpen listening, spontaneity, and stage presence.
Create A Play Summer Camp
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 at 09:00
DC Theater
Join Compass Rose Theater for Create A Play Summer Camp, Aug 10–14, 9 AM–4 PM daily at DC Theater. Young performers explore acting, staging, and collaboration as they develop a short play from auditions to a final performance, guided by experienced instructors in a friendly theatre setting.
Theater Bootcamp for Teens
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 at 09:00
DC Theater
Teens can sharpen acting, voice, and stage craft at Compass Rose Theater's Theater Bootcamp, July 20–24 at DC Theater. Daily 9 am–4 pm sessions led by professional theater educators culminate in a short show. A teen-friendly program to build confidence and performance skills.
Dirty Dancing on Stage
Tue, 29 Sept 2026 at 19:30
The National Theatre
Experience the iconic Dirty Dancing on stage at The National Theatre in London. This Broadway-style musical brings the beloved story to life with unforgettable songs, high-energy dance numbers, and romance in an intimate theatre setting. A must-see live theatre event for fans of timeless romance and iconic 80s hits.
Patriot Games
Tue, 1 Sept 2026
Patriot Games is a contemporary stage drama exploring nationalism and power through sharp dialogue and intense performances. This intimate Washington, DC production invites reflection on civic myths and personal choices, blending topical themes with gripping storytelling.
Creepypasties: A Burlesque and Variety Tribute to Urban Legends
Fri, 16 Oct 2026
The Comedy Loft of DC
A burlesque and variety tribute to urban legends at The Comedy Loft of DC. Expect sultry acts, witty sketches, and cabaret-inspired numbers that remix infamous tales in a playful, spooky-night atmosphere.
The Magic Duel
Sun, 22 Nov 2026 at 20:00
DC Theater
Spellbinding duel between two magicians at DC Theater. The Magic Duel runs select Saturdays at 5 and 8 PM, delivering razor-sharp illusion, suspense, and high-energy tricks that bend reality, with audience participation and surprising twists.
Yolks on You! Burlesque and Variety Brunch
Sun, 4 Oct 2026
The Comedy Loft of DC
Burlesque and variety acts take the stage at The Comedy Loft of DC for an adults-only cabaret night. Expect glamorous performances and sharp comedy in an intimate, club-like setting that blends nightlife energy with theatrical flair in downtown DC.
Six the Musical: Teen Edition
Sat, 20 Mar 2027 at 19:00
Georgetown University
Six the Musical: Teen Edition is a high-energy stage musical based on Tudor queens, performed in Georgetown. Expect pop-infused songs, dynamic vocals, and teen-focused storytelling delivered in a polished, professional production.
DC Theater Talk with Holly Twyford
Tue, 8 Dec 2026 at 19:30
DC Theater
Theater J's DC Theater Talk features Holly Twyford at DC Theater. An intimate, insightful discussion on acting, directing, and the DC theatre scene as part of select Mondays.