Washington Theater - Theatre in Washington can be divided into three different levels. At the top is the premier Kennedy Center which hosts a variety of national companies, a number of top quality performers and a number of national arts events. In the middle are a number of well-established theatres which host Broadway companies or their own productions. Last, but certainly not least, are a number of smaller theatres which host all manner of smaller productions.

Some of the larger Washington Theaters are listed below. Check with the Washington Post or the City Paper to find more information on some of the smaller theatres.

The Kennedy Center was designed to be the nation’s cultural jewel. The stately marble building overlooking the Potomac is certainly a testament to that sentiment. It is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington Chamber Symphony, the Washington Opera and the Washington Ballet. While tickets for the opera, and the symphony can be expensive, occasionally there are reduced-rate tickets available on the day of the performance. In addition, the Kennedy Center hosts the Millennium Stage which includes a series of daily free arts events. For more information: 202/467-4600, 800/444-1324, www.kennedy-center.org, Metro: shuttle from Foggy Bottom-GWU.

Folger Shakespeare Library and Theater. The Folger focuses on classic and modern interpretations of Shakespeare’s plays. 202/544-7077, 210 E. Capitol St SE, www.folger.edu, Metro: Capitol South.

Ford’s Theater: This is the historical theatre where John Wilkes Booth killed Abraham Lincoln. In addition it hosts musicals and other events. 202/218-6500, 511 10th St NW, www.fordstheater.org, Metro: Galler Pl-Chinatown.

National Theatre: The National Theatre is Washington’s oldest theatre. This is the spot for any Broadway shows. 202/628-6161, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, www.nationaltheatre.org, Metro: Federal Triangle.