Beyond the Kennedy Center

Avi Galanti

5 Local Theaters You Should Know About

In the Washington DC – Maryland – Virginia area, most can only mention the Kennedy Center when referring to local theaters. There are a number of neighborhood and intimate theaters in the DMV that are truly hidden gems. Next time you’re looking for a night out to the theater, be sure to check out one of these local venues.

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

The Woolly Mammoth Theatre is an experimental theater in which solely original plays are performed. Located in Penn Quarter, this is an experience you don’t want to miss out on. The New York Times called the venue “Washington’s most daring theatre company”. Check out their website to learn more about the highly anticipated upcoming productions.

Gala Hispanic Theatre

Formed in 1976, the mission of the Gala Hispanic Theatre was and is to highlight the beauty of Spanish and Latin American plays by bringing them to the capital of the United States. Located in the neighborhood of Columbia Heights, the theater illustrates a variety of genres such as dance, music, and plays. Don’t miss out on the Latin American and Hispanic-rooted performances.

Arena Stage

Located in a beautiful glass-enclosed venue on the Southwest Waterfront is the Arena Stage Mead Center for American Theater. The venue presents original productions as well as modern takes on classic American plays. The majority of plays offer time for Q&As with the playwright after the performance.

Atlas Performing Arts Center

Those who live near and around H Street know about the Atlas Performing Arts Center. It is not only a theater but a community gathering space as well. The stage offers diverse performances of art including live music, theatrical, and choral work from local, national, and international artists. The variety of performances each night makes it somewhere you can visit time and time again, not knowing what you’ll experience.

Anacostia Playhouse

The Anacostia Playhouse puts on memorable performances that you’ll be talking about for years. Located in the historic neighborhood of Anacostia in Southeast DC, you can expect to see not only plays but jazz concerts and other artistic performances as well. The intimate venue makes you feel like you’re a part of the performance.