A company of performers all dressed in gala wear assemble on the Ford’s Theatre stage. Featured talent stands on the Ford’s Theatre raked stage. The Ford’s Theatre ensemble stands on a balcony, with the house band behind them. The Presidential Box is visible on their right.
The full company performs at the Ford’s Theatre Annual Gala on June 11, 2023, in Washington, D.C. Photo by Stephen Voss.

Annual Gala

In a landscape rich with arts and culture organizations, Ford’s Theatre is unique. Not only is Ford’s an official national historic site dedicated to preserving President Abraham Lincoln’s memory, but it is a living tribute to the indelible mark our 16th President left on the country. By honoring his legacy through a culturally-significant museum, celebrating his love of theatre through award-winning productions and instilling his principles in future generations through educational programs for students and teachers, Ford’s Theatre brings President Lincoln’s ideals to life. At the heart of Lincoln’s efforts was a desire to bring people together and unite the nation.

Today, Ford’s Theatre ennobles that sentiment through its renowned Annual Gala, an opportunity for government officials, philanthropists and legendary figures in American culture to come together through the performing arts in support of this timeless institution.

Funds raised from the Annual Gala support the artistic and educational efforts of Ford’s Theatre, enabling nearly 700,000 visitors each year to find inspiration and encouragement in the achievements of one of our nation’s most beloved presidents.

For more information, please contact us at [email protected].

Lincoln Medalist Morgan Freeman at the Ford’s Theatre Annual Gala on June 3, 2012. Photo by Margot Schulman.
Lincoln Medalist Morgan Freeman at the Ford’s Theatre Annual Gala on June 3, 2012. Photo by Margot Schulman.

Celebrating 42 Years of the Lincoln Medal

The presentation of the Ford’s Theatre Lincoln Medal is a highlight of the annual gala performance. The Lincoln Medal is presented to individuals who, through their body of work, accomplishments or personal attributes, exemplify the lasting legacy and character embodied by President Lincoln. Past recipients have included: Dr. Maya Angelou, Julie Andrews, Morgan Freeman, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Hon. John Lewis and Elie Wiesel.

Videos from the Gala

Rita Moreno accepted the 2023 Ford’s Theatre Lincoln Medal on June 11, 2023, at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C.
Marlene A. Malek accepted the 2023 Ford’s Theatre Lincoln Medal on June 11, 2023, at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C.

Photos from the Gala

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