Performing Arts in Washington, DC

If you think the nation’s capital is all about government and bureaucracy, you couldn’t be more wrong, for there is an abundance of performing arts in DC.

Visitors and long-time residents alike take advantage of stellar theatrical performances at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, grab seats for the host of acts at Arena Stage and the Ford's Theatre, revel in classic Shakespeare at the Shakespeare Theatre Company, and line up for Broadway-style megahits at the National Theatre.

There are more than sixty professional theaters in the District, hardly a surprise considering DC architect Pierre L'Enfant actually designed the city to have avenues lined with theaters way back in the 1790s. That’s right; Washington, DC performing arts were ingrained in the architecture.

In the mood for a musical? Check out the Warner Theater. Hankering for some burlesque? Red Palace can handle that. Dying for some cabaret? Then head on over to District Cabaret for the latest on sultry shows all over the city.

To top it off, there are several additional great performing arts venues a quick skip away in Baltimore, including classic symphony at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall and a whole variety of acts at the Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric. No matter what kind of performing arts in Washington, DC you seek, the capital isn’t going to let you down.