A large, multi-ethnic group of people dressed in early twentieth century clothes stand in a group and look to the right.

The cast of the 2017 Ford’s Theatre production of Ragtime. Photo by Carol Rosegg.

What’s Happening

We honor Lincoln’s love of the performing arts by producing theatre that captivates and entertains.

Experience a live performance in a historic theatre like no other. Join us for an American musical, a classic play, a history-based drama or a dynamic world premiere.

Since its reopening in 1968, Ford’s Theatre has produced plays and musicals celebrating the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and exploring the American experience. With commissions like The Guard and Lincoln-based premieres such as The Heavens Are Hung in Black and Necessary Sacrifices, Ford’s Theatre is making its mark on American theatre.

On Stage Now

A group of performers and musicians standing across a theater stage, with several musicians playing instruments including an accordion, a fiddle, a bodhrán drum, and guitars. The performers are positioned across the circular wooden floor, stepping and dancing forward with energetic expressions. Tall wooden panels form the backdrop against a bright blue lit sky, illuminated by hanging pendant lights above.

September 10 – October 25, 2026

Come From Away

The heart-warming true story of how a small Canadian town cared for 6,579 airline passengers stranded there on 9/11.

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Upcoming Events

19th century photograph of Union soldiers dressed for battle, standing inside Fort Stevens with several cannons positioned, ready to fire. Most stand on the grass.

Civil War Washington Forts: An Interpretive Hike of Civil War Defenses of Washington

October 10, 2026

When the Civil War broke out, Washington, D.C. was surrounded by slave-holding states and confederate sympathizers. In the summer of 1861, 68 forts were hastily built to defend this city.

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Front cover a book entitled, "A Glorious Fate: The Life and Legacy of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw." In the background is a blurred color drawing of a civil war battle.

History Talks: A Glorious Fate

Friday, November 6, 2026

What transforms an ordinary man into an enduring symbol of courage and sacrifice? Historian Kevin M. Levin presents his new biography of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, A Glorious Fate: The Life and Legacy of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, tracing Shaw’s transformation from reluctant volunteer to Union mar

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A bronze relief of a regiment of civil war soldiers, with the foreground dominated by an officer on horseback.

The Art of Memory: A Civil War Walking Tour

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Led by Civil War memory historian Kevin M. Levin, this walking tour and museum experience traces monuments associated with the Union cause and concludes with an in-depth look at the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial at the National Gallery of Art.

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Ongoing Events

An actor stands dressed as an 1860s detective, holding a notepad. Behind him on a brick wall is posted a reward poster for the capture of Lincoln's assassin.

History on Foot Walking Tour

A walking tour that brings history to life! Join Detective McDevitt as he revisits the sites and reexamines the clues from the investigation into the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy.

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Actors playing Harry Hawk and Harry Ford wear 1860s costumes and mourning arm bands. They stand smiling and clap at someone not pictured in the distance. Behind them is the flag-draped Presidential Box at Ford’s Theatre.

One Destiny: On Demand

Ford’s Theatre presents One Destiny: On Demand – a play that explores the fateful night of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination told from the perspectives of Ford’s Theatre owner Harry Ford and actor Harry Hawk.

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Free and Discounted Tickets

We are committed to providing affordable ways for you to experience live performances at Ford’s Theatre. We offer discounted and free tickets throughout the season.We are committed to providing affordable ways for you to experience live performances at Ford’s Theatre. We offer discounted and free tickets throughout the season.

Discounts

Gift Certificates

Treat friends and loved ones to a night out at the theatre. Or give them a chance to explore the history of Ford’s and Lincoln’s legacy.

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