The National Theatre - "The Theatre of Presidents" - has operated at the same location three blocks from The White House since 1835. Its mission is to keep the historic theatre operating with top-quality touring attractions. West Side Story, Hello Dolly!, and Showboat appeared here prior to Broadway. Additionally, through outreach efforts to the Greater Washington community, the National Theatre Corporation brings free programs and other services to the public.

Saturday Morning at The National, an award-winning free children’s theatre program, has introduced Washington youngsters to the wonder of theatre for over 30 years. Children are encouraged to explore the arts in an engaging, kid-friendly atmosphere, becoming active participants in the magical worlds created by celebrated magicians, singers, and puppeteers.

Monday Night at The National provides the opportunity for mature audiences to enjoy free live performances of original plays, musical ensembles, dance companies, singers, and performance artists free of charge. Now in its 27th season, the free performances showcased in this award-winning program reaffirm the National Theatre’s long-lasting commitment of making the arts accessible to everyone.

Each summer the National Theatre is pleased to present National Theatre Summer Cinema, a free nine-film retrospective focusing on the icons of the silver screen. Audiences can see legendary films on a large screen as they were meant to be seen and enjoy brief commentaries on the careers of the featured actors, directors, and producers.

The Annie Oakley Fund enables the National to invite groups of disadvantaged children and adults to see its major attractions as guests of the Theatre. The Fund was established with proceeds from a gala benefit held to celebrate a major renovation of the National Theatre Building that was completed at the end of 1983. Annie Oakley tickets are distributed only through 501.c.3 not-for-profit charitable organizations.

For more information: www.nationaltheatre.org

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