Ford's Theatre (Washington DC)

Ford's Theatre is a live, working theatre located in downtown Washington, DC. As a national historic and cultural site welcoming visitors from across the nation, Ford's Theatre blends its rich history with performance excellence in serving as a living tribute to President Lincoln's love of the performing arts. When Ford's Theatre re-opened its doors in 1968 - after having been closed 103 years - it truly was reclaimed as a national treasure for all Americans, and those of us who work here are mindful of that legacy and grateful that Ford's Theatre once again is a vibrant showcase for the performing arts that President Lincoln so appreciated.

Under the new leadership of Producing Director Paul R. Tetreault, Ford's Theatre is excited about a dynamic new chapter in its history. He hopes to produce some of this country's most gifted playwrights from the 20th century and plans to bring to Washington the greatest theatre artists working today - Directors, Designers, Actors and Artisans.

As an integral part of its mission, Ford's Theatre provides accessibility to Washington area audiences with special needs. Through education and community outreach programs - ranging from interactive workshops for inner-city students, to teacher and student guides, to performances complemented by American Sign Language or audio description - Ford's serves a large, diverse population with differing backgrounds, ages, and economic means. Operation Discovery, Ford's subsidized ticket program, has been a vital part of community outreach since 1977. The program has introduced more than 100,000 economically disadvantaged young people to what is for many, their first theatrical performance. Nearly 25,000 students attend our productions each season on discounted tickets. We also hold Opening Act pre-performance workshops every season. Opening Act is an innovative series led by professional theatre instructors. Presented free of charge, the program combines exercises, discussion, and improvisation as learning tools for these younger audiences.