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    Arena Stage

    4.3 (203 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 8:00 PM

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    Carlton M.

    Great venue. Good service. I like the events they host. I highly recommend. Great bar.

    Chez Joey
    Randi K.

    I love this theater - every seat in the house is intimate and a great view. We say Chez Joey recently and it was incredible!

    Damn Yankees
    Victoria M.

    I went with a friend to go see Damn Yankees and had an amazing time. I had never been to Arena stage, so was not sure what to expect. It is a pretty large space and I was very impressed with how up-to-date and new it was. The bar was very impressive. I love that it had so many drink options, alcoholic, and nonalcoholic. It also had lots of snack options as well that catered to a lot of different food taste and intolerances. There is also a cute little sitting area to sit and enjoy your pre-theater snacks. I also appreciate that they have multiple options to get into the venue. This was an extremely fun experience. I love the stage set up and it truly feels like everybody has a front row view to the performance. I also thought Damn Yankees was a really great performance. I felt engaged the whole time and felt like I was laughing the whole time as well. I would absolutely be a returning visitor for future performances.

    Meghan P.

    I had a great time here. Went to see Damn Yankees opening night. The stage is set up for a 360 view nothing like normal theaters. I truly enjoyed this experience. I truly didn't have any expectations upon arriving. But it was great. The place is pretty clean. They offer complementary parking and there was a happy hour after the show for networking. I really enjoyed the free wine and beer. I will point out the prices are a little higher for concession stand. And this is in comparison to the Kennedy center. But I did have a great experience.

    Standing Ovation - Quentin, Bryonha Marie, Ana Villafane and Jordan Donica
    Jacqueline V.

    Damn Yankees knocked it out of the park on opening night! From the very first number, the vocals and choreography were absolutely electric. The way the production transformed the entire theater--turning every seat into part of the stage--was a brilliant directorial choice that pulled the audience right into the storyline. The cast left me in awe. Truly multitalented, with powerhouse performances by Ana Villafañe, Jordan Danica, Quentin Earl Darlington, Neal Joshi, Rob McClure, and an ensemble that matched their energy every step of the way. It's rare to see a neighborhood theater bring this level of A+ talent, including Tony nominees and original (THE OG) Hamilton cast members. This show deserves awards, standing ovations, and all the Bravos--because it's nothing short of spectacular. Do yourself a favor and get a ticket. You will not be disappointed!

    Mike E.

    Very interesting use of space to stage a fresh take on an old classic (Inherit the Wind). I think the creative team should get a special mention for set design on this one. It was nothing spectacular or over the top, but I thought it was pretty imaginative and served the story well.

    Arena stage: interior
    Bella J.

    It was my first time visiting this awesome space and I cannot believe I missed it for so long! I will be checking their performance schedule more diligently from now on. Stage is very well lit and visibility isn't impacted no matter where you sit, beautifully acoustic and most appropriate stage for any play. The drinks are pretty good, wish they had better snack options for sale.

    Piper H.

    I recently saw Chez Joey at Arena Stage last weekend and I was blown away. From the acting, to the live music, the show had me dancing in my seat all night! This was my second show at Arena Stage and I'm continually impressed by the talent!

    Alice J.

    A truly beautiful venue. This time we came to see the musical Bedwetter, a moving story full of tears and laughters. Great staff and creative merchandizing (see photos). To follow the theme of the story they are running a diaper drive. Some people actually dragged big bags of diapers to donate. Speaking of which, the downstairs ladies room (by the orchestra) only has two stalls! For such a brand new modern building that is an oversight. Long lines!

    Hannah H.

    Absolutely loved watching 'The Other Americans' here at Arena Stage! Even better, John Leguizamo had a signing session, afterwards, in which he signed copies of his books! YAHOO! Seating is fine, and you can get a clear view of the stage; just be careful of the stages that have pillars/columns that could potentially obstruct your view. The ushers are helpful and friendly, and the restrooms are clean. I just wished they had other food options! Metered and restricted street parking can be found in the area. +well-kept theater +limited street parking in the area

    Theater set up for Step Afrika holiday celebration
    Trish T.

    What a wonderful venue! I don't know how - after nearly 30 years in DC - I'd never been to Arena (well, I got my J&J vaccine there at the start of COVID, but that doesn't count! LOL). And what a fabulous night for it. The Step Afrika holiday performance was just dazzling. We had a little trouble figuring out how to get into Arena after we walked up from having dinner down on the Wharf. If you're back is to the Wharf - cross over Maine Ave and go around to the right to the 6th St entrance. There appeared to be multiple theaters inside. We were inside the theater on the left as you go up the stairs. It was a theater in the round. No seat was a bad seat. We paid $72 for our seats - and we were maybe 4 rows from the stage. I can't recommend this venue more highly. Everyone was super friendly. The music the DJ was playing out in the lobby was great. The bar was well-stocked. Can't wait to return!

    Jessica A.

    Fake It Til You Make It is another great show at Arena Stage. Tickets are delivered to your phone shortly before the performance. Seating is comfortable, show is 90 minutes without an intermission dealing with many relevant themes of the day.

    Post-show goodies
    Win S.

    This is one of my favorite theaters in the area!! Several big-name productions workshopped here before debuting on Broadway! ("Dear Evan Hansen," "Next to Normal"). This theater was Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's favorite! She would often be ushered to the front seats by her bodyguards to watch all the plays. Trust that she had great taste. Former artistic director Molly Smith was a force. She initiated these amazing Power Plays that featured the work of emerging playwrights and explored politics and identity. I hope they still maintain great curation under the new director. Jury is still out on that. Getting to know what they have in store for the future. I recently watched "Cambodian Rock Band" (very moving and historic) and also "The Other Americans" by John Leguizamo (a bit harsh). I admit the ticket prices are quite high, so you have to look hard and download the TodayTix app for deals or lottery tickets. But you do get what you pay for! Any seat is a good seat here, and they're usually comfortable. They sometimes offer discounts to people who live in the local area/neighborhood, and there's a pay-your-age program if you're under 30. Their stages like The Fichandler are very intimate and you feel in close proximity to the actors, which makes for a great, unique experience. But their AV team could kick it up a notch with the volume. It feels like the actors voices are straining when their back is toward you. It's a very beautiful space with the all the windows, wood beams and plush carpet. Lovely architecture. The sunlight spills in during the day and golden hour. In the evening, it's just as regal. Valet parking can be pricey, so metro here if you can. Street parking is very limited. Thankfully it is conveniently two blocks from the Waterfront metro and five minutes away from the Waterfront restaurants (the food options right next door are so-so unfortunately, so plan ahead and make time to walk over). At the theater, they serve light bites and drinks at the bar. They even have some fun seasonal cocktails and non-alcoholic options. There is usually a line, but it moves fast. You can also order ahead, if you like, with their reservation service. The staff is always kind and gracious. It makes me want to volunteer here one day. Grateful to have spots like this in D.C.!

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    Page 1 of 6

    Ask the Community - Arena Stage

    Review Highlights - Arena Stage

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    The National Theatre - View from row Q, seat 101

    The National Theatre

    3.5(203 reviews)
    1.4 mi

    A pretty decent venue for shows! I have been for a ballet and could see everything well from the…read morebalcony; was surprised the seats were cheap for my spot with the view I got. The balcony is rather steep though, which could be scary for some. They have stairs and an elevator to go between floors, but the elevator is kind of small. Security is friendly and timely. I would come again for another show.

    Came to the National Theatre on Easter Sunday to see Beauty and the Beast and had such a great…read moreexperience overall. I was running a little late, about five minutes after showtime, but somehow luck was on my side because I found street parking right on the same block, winning . I definitely would not count on that every time though; there are parking garages nearby that are probably a safer bet if you are cutting it close. Since I arrived just after the show started, I was expecting a hassle getting in, but it was actually super smooth. I did not have to deal with a long line at all, and the staff were really helpful in getting me seated quickly. I did not grab any food or drinks, so I cannot speak to pricing or options, but one thing I will say is avoid the bathroom lines during intermission if you can. They get very long. Try to go right before the show, after, or sneak away at a less obvious time if possible. As for the show itself, I loved it. I was seated in the very last row at the top and still had a clear view, which says a lot about the layout. Since there is no recording allowed, it really lets you stay present and enjoy the performance for what it is. I went solo and honestly it was the perfect solo outing. Super grateful for the experience and would definitely do it again.

    Photos
    The National Theatre - Stage

    Stage

    The National Theatre - We moved to the back for more space!

    We moved to the back for more space!

    The National Theatre - View from row Q, seat 101

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    View from row Q, seat 101

    Shakespeare Theatre Company - Inside

    Shakespeare Theatre Company

    4.4(104 reviews)
    1.4 mi

    I visited the Shakespeare Theatre Company's Harman Hall this past Sunday for a performance of…read moreParanormal Activity (their seasons include non-Shakespeare works), and I was really impressed by the production and the building itself. (FYI: STC has productions in two separate theaters - Harman Hall and Klein Theatre, so make sure you know which location is the location for your production). Harman Hall is beautiful - modern, bright, large. We sat in the front row of the mezzanine, and the seats were great but I think most of their seats would be great. Unlike the prices are outrageous, I often like to sit in the front row of the mezzanine when I attend the theater, because I'm short and often find my view obstructed by people in front of me in theaters. Because Harman Hall is modern and newer than historic theaters (on Broadway in NYC, for example), the incline of seats in the theater is much more pronounced than in other theaters. I didn't need to sit in that front row, because I probably could have seen from anywhere. Our performance wasn't sold out, and the theater was not packed or crowded - short lines for the bar (especially on the top floor where we were sitting anyway), short lines for the bathroom. The location is convenient, near a couple of Metro stations, lots of restaurants and bars, and a few museums. We parked in a garage I reserved a spot in on SpotHero, which was less than $15 for the day, too. Although I tend to focus my reviews of theaters on the theater itself (you could see a good production at a theater and then a production you don't like as much - but you can still appreciate the theater - its comfort, its location, its amenities), I will say that the production we saw was interesting and thought-provoking. I'd say I'm likely to return, but I have tickets for a production in April, so I know I will be.

    My first time at the Harman Hall theatre to see Paranormal Activity. I was so blown away by this…read moreshow! I'm still in awe of the robe scene IYKYK. The actors were so good in their respective roles and I was completely immersed in the story. It came together at the end really well and the practical effects were incredible. I loved the staging with the 2 floors and getting to see everything all at once. The theatre itself was very nice. The bathrooms were spacious and clean, the ushers were kind and helpful, and the seats were relatively comfortable. Pro tip, choose row E if you want extra legroom!

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    Shakespeare Theatre Company
    Shakespeare Theatre Company
    Shakespeare Theatre Company

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    Folger Shakespeare Library - Reading room

    Folger Shakespeare Library

    4.0(99 reviews)
    1.3 miCapitol Hill

    As you like it production: If you're visiting DC and want…read moreto catch a Shakespeare production in an intimate, character-filled theater, this is your place. Their production of As You Like It deserves real praise -- it was funny, engaging, creative, and performed by a very talented cast. What made it especially memorable was the modern-day, DC-inspired interpretation, which gave the play fresh energy while still honoring the spirit of Shakespeare. The cast was lively and audience-engaging in a way that made the whole experience feel immersive rather than foreign. And the theater itself? A gem. In true Shakespeare fashion, it's small and intimate, which makes every seat feel close to the action. The architecture is part of the charm -- rich wood columns, beautiful preserved details, and a space that feels historic in all the right ways. Arrive early to visit the museum. They offer a snack bar with bites and beverages, though fair warning: it's on the pricey side. Overall, a really enjoyable evening and a wonderful pick for theater lovers who appreciate strong performances and a venue with soul.

    As someone who loves the Shakespeare Library as a whole (and frequently goes there for shows) this…read moreis exclusively a rating for their afternoon tea. The tea has been lauded as amazing on instagram so when reservations went live in December, I booked our April tea before it sold out in 15 minutes. Directions to finding the room for it, are not clear. Despite what you see in social media, this is in a small room with just quite a few tables - not in their famous cafe. You are given bagged tea (not the brand listed on their menu), and your tray is brought over almost immediately upon seating. It was not explained what any of it was like traditionally is done. The food is TINY, and you barely get a single bite out of each. We didn't receive nor were we offered refills of cream or jam, despite there being four of us. We had the 3PM slot and pretty much everyone was rushed out after an hour. We spent some time just talking at our table and were the last ones there despite it not being closed. We felt very unwelcome by the time we left at 4:30. You pay $85 per person and there are WAY better teas in DC that are cheaper. I would never bring anyone here for their tea, what a disappointment.

    Photos
    Folger Shakespeare Library
    Folger Shakespeare Library - WOW

    WOW

    Folger Shakespeare Library

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    Woolly Mammoth Theatre - Interior

    Woolly Mammoth Theatre

    4.5(132 reviews)
    1.2 miPenn Quarter

    Woolly mammoth better not ever go extinct because this theatre is truly one of a kind. I've been to…read moreseveral plays (some through Yelp and some on my own) and I have really enjoyed or at the very least, learned a lot, through every single one I've been to. The range of shows that they host is incredible and I always appreciate that they have out of the box plays. For example I saw GUAC a play performed by the father of a Joaquin, a Parkland shooting victim. It was an emotional, powerful, and beautiful tribute to his son. I also saw Dead Inside a comedic play about Riki Lindhome's fertility journey. I also really enjoy the set up of the theater, they always decorate the hallway and cafe section based on the play they are hosting which helps continue the atmosphere and dialogue of the shows outside of the walls of the theatre. Overall, I really enjoy Woolly Mammoth and I cannot wait to go back!

    It was my first time going to Woolly Mammoth Theatre to see the Great Privatization with a friend…read morethat got tickets. It was a great time! The space is intimate and ambitious. As soon as you walk in, the lobby is striking with its soaring ceilings, transparent walls, and buzz of students, artists, and 'creative types' mingling. The programming has a reputation for championing bold and provocative work that is social- justice minded and pushes boundaries. The production, acting and staging, as well as the technical aspects are very high quality.

    Photos
    Woolly Mammoth Theatre - Group discussion following play

    Group discussion following play

    Woolly Mammoth Theatre - Interior

    Interior

    Woolly Mammoth Theatre

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    Warner Theatre - Nutcracker

    Warner Theatre

    3.7(341 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $$

    3.14.26 This was my…read morefirst visit to the venue, and the décor, rich and opulent, was entirely my style and absolutely stunning. We had premium box seats with in-seat service, which allowed us to place orders throughout the show; my husband and our friends took advantage of that convenience. Other amenities at the concert hall include a lounge with a full-service bar that opens 90 minutes before showtime and is exclusive to guests for the first hour. There is also a rooftop area, available for select performances, that offers impressive views of the Capital, along with merchandise available for purchase. A quick note for visitors: small bags up to 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted, and all bags are searched prior to entry. We came to see Brit Floyd, and everything about the experience was exceptional--the service, the acoustics, the laser and screen visuals, and the intimate feel of the venue.

    Warner Theatre leaves me with mixed feelings. I've attended several events here over the years,…read moreincluding Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performances and The Nutcracker during the holidays, and those experiences were excellent. The theater itself is beautiful--its decor always gives me a jazz-era renaissance vibe that adds to the atmosphere. Recently, I came to see Lalah Hathaway and Robert Glasper, and while the show itself was great, the acoustics for live music were unfortunately not. From where I was seated, it was difficult to clearly hear the vocals, which took away from the performance. The venue itself is stunning and has hosted some memorable shows for me, but based on this experience, it seems better suited for theater and dance performances than for certain live music concerts. Despite the sound issues, I still enjoyed the show as much as I could and would return for the right performance.

    Photos
    Warner Theatre
    Warner Theatre - Batman Live in Concert at Warner Theater

    Batman Live in Concert at Warner Theater

    Warner Theatre - 3.14.26

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    3.14.26

    The Miracle Theatre - Inside show lighting

    The Miracle Theatre

    4.2(50 reviews)
    1.4 miCapitol Hill

    We went to a mock court scene at The Miracle Theater where we as the audience judged a particular…read morecriminal court case which involved a person died to an AI driven vehicle where someone lost his life due to the decision of AI vehicle. So the CEO of the company was being charged in a criminal case of manslaughter. That's all I'm going to say, and it was pretty dope. Check it out !!!!

    A pleasant surprise in DC's theater scene! The Miracle Theatre, one of the city's oldest theaters,…read moreis now under new ownership by Union Stage, and they're doing a great job breathing new life into this historic space while keeping its charm intact. I was invited to attend a Moth storytelling event here and it was such a refreshing night out. The stories were heartfelt, funny, and sometimes deeply vulnerable in the best way. The host kept the energy going all night and was absolutely hilarious. It was the kind of clean fun that reminds you how powerful a room full of people sharing stories can be. The theater itself adds to the experience. Being inside feels like stepping back into the good old days before everything was streamed and watched at home. If you're feeling a little nostalgic for live entertainment and the magic of gathering together for a shared experience, this is the place. Definitely check out their lineup. It's a great excuse to get out of the house and enjoy something real, live, and memorable.

    Photos
    The Miracle Theatre - Theatre !!!!

    Theatre !!!!

    The Miracle Theatre - Miracle Theater-Candlelight Concert

    Miracle Theater-Candlelight Concert

    The Miracle Theatre - Moth host

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    Moth host

    Arena Stage - theater - Updated May 2026

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