Washington, D.C.’s vibrant theater scene is buzzing this fall with thrilling performances at The Keegan Theatre, The National Theatre, and the newly reopened Folger Theatre. Each venue offers unique productions, from spine-chilling thrillers to Broadway musicals and immersive Shakespearean experiences. Let’s explore the standout shows you won’t want to miss!
Folger Theatre: Fall Programming Highlights
Dates: September – November 2024
Location: Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E Capitol St SE, Washington, D.C. Theater | Folger Shakespeare Library
After a multi-year renovation, the Folger Theatre reopens its doors with a captivating lineup of fall programming, offering something for everyone. From Shakespeare’s classic plays to interactive workshops and seasonal celebrations, the Folger is a must-visit for theater and literature lovers.
Romeo and Juliet (October 1 – November 10, 2024)
Directed by Raymond O. Caldwell, this fresh interpretation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet delves into the violence and politics of warring families. As star-crossed lovers attempt to navigate societal and familial pressures, this production breathes new life into the timeless tale.
Special Programs:
October 17: Folger Salon – A conversation with scholar fellows on art and research.
October 26: Mixology Event – “How Alchemy Gave Us Alcohol.”
November 1: “Tarot, Magic, and the Fairy King” – Performance piece with artist Alexander D’Agostino.
The Folger offers something for every age and interest, from spooky family workshops to insightful discussions on democracy and banned books.
The Keegan Theatre: The Woman in Black
Dates: October 12 – November 17, 2024
Location: Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St NW, Washington, D.C. The Keegan Theatre
Keegan Theatre kicks off its 28th season with the return of The Woman in Black, a spine-chilling theatrical thriller adapted by Stephen Mallatratt from Susan Hill’s novel. A hit during its 2013 run, this ghostly tale returns by audience demand. Directed by Josh Sticklin, the production promises to blur the lines between reality and nightmare.
The story follows Arthur Kipps, a young solicitor sent to the eerie Eel Marsh House to settle an estate. His routine assignment turns into a terrifying encounter with a malevolent spirit, the elusive Woman in Black. As Kipps recounts his experiences with the help of an Actor, the audience is drawn deeper into this haunting tale.
The National Theatre: Tina – The Tina Turner Musical
Dates: January 24 – January 26, 2025
Location: The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. Broadway at The National
Back by popular demand, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical returns to The National Theatre for one weekend only in January 2025. This electrifying musical celebrates the life and legacy of the Queen of Rock n’ Roll, Tina Turner, who overcame adversity to become a global superstar.
Tina traces the legendary artist’s rise from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her emergence as an international icon. The musical delves into her struggles with racism, sexism, and domestic abuse, portraying her incredible resilience and unyielding determination to take control of her destiny.
Performance Schedule:
Friday, January 24, 2025: 7:30pm
Saturday, January 25, 2025: 2:00pm & 7:30pm
Sunday, January 26, 2025: 2:00pm & 7:30pm
Tickets for Tina – The Tina Turner Musical start at $69 and can be purchased at BroadwayAtTheNational.com.
The National Theatre: Shucked – D.C. Premiere
Dates: February 25 – March 2, 2025
Location: The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. Broadway at The National
Get ready to laugh until you cry! Shucked, the Tony Award®-winning musical comedy, makes its D.C. premiere at The National Theatre. Hailed as one of the funniest musicals on Broadway, Shucked pairs witty New York humor with Nashville music in a charming and audacious farm-to-fable about—corn!
When a small town’s corn crop fails, its citizens are forced to tear down walls (literally and figuratively) to save their way of life. Shucked delivers big laughs, catchy tunes, and a kernel of hope for a divided nation.
Performance Schedule:
February 25 – March 2, 2025: Evening and matinee performances are available, with tickets starting at $69. Tickets go on sale September 20, 2024, so grab yours before they sell out!
Whether you’re in the mood for a suspenseful ghost story, a laugh-out-loud musical, or a deep dive into Shakespearean classics, D.C.’s theaters have something spectacular for you this fall. Grab your tickets early and enjoy the magic of live stage performances!
