As the first Christmas nears, who among the animals can lead Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem? Fearsome Lion and graceful Unicorn are the top contenders—though it certainly won’t be Donkey, whose only humble gift is a small but sturdy back. But with the birth of a very special king on the horizon, Donkey soon discovers that miracles can happen anywhere!
Whimsical costumes. Endearing characters. Playful music. It’s no surprise that when WNO first premiered this family-friendly opera in 2013, the Washington Post praised its “fresh energy and charm,” and tickets quickly sold out. Based on the award-winning children’s book and featuring music from Tony®-winning composer Jeanine Tesori, this heartwarming production returns for the holidays featuring a talented cast of members of our Cafritz Young Artist Program and the WNO Children’s Chorus.
Twelve-year-old Kenny Li is being bullied at school. When he finds a magical tablet, he is transported to the Jade Kingdom where he meets Xing, the Dragon King’s daughter. Together, they go on a quest to save the world, finding courage and friendship along the way.
Chinese dragon mythology, martial arts, and stunning voices combine in this world premiere musical following an unlikely young duo on a daring adventure. Marcus Yi’s heroic story and inspiring songs come alive onstage, with direction by Chongren Fan and choreography by Billy Bustamante.
Clover’s mom says it isn’t safe to cross the fence that segregates their African-American side of town from the white side where Anna lives. But the two girls strike up a friendship, and get around the grown-ups’ rules by sitting on top of the fence together.
Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s simple yet powerful book The Other Side comes to life in an evening-length dance piece from choreographer and Kennedy Center Artistic Advisor for Dance Education Hope Boykin. When literal and figurative fences keep us apart, can we find the courage—and creativity—to knock them down?
The town of Dustbin is known for two things: rules and dust, the kind you get when it doesn't rain for years and years. But one day a young girl named Raina spies a cloud in the sky. No one believes her, so she sets out on a great adventure to bring the cloud back home. Along the way, she meets outlaws, folk heroes—and a thunderstorm.
Come along with Raina in this modern-day feminist folktale with music! A ZACH Theatre production, this captivating journey takes the stage, with script and lyrics by Sarah Saltwick, music and additional lyrics by Helyn Rain Messenger, Amber Quick, and Paul Sanchez, and direction by Liz Fisher.
Young people with autism or sensory sensitivities are invited backstage at the Concert Hall for a small group tour. Play instruments on the stage, visit the artists’ dressing rooms, learn about how the lights and sound work, and more.
All children and teens must be accompanied by an adult. Each person attending must have a free ticket. Due to the small-group nature of this program, we recommend reserving tickets in advance, which also helps us plan. Tickets may be available at the door if space remains.
Six months ago, a massive flood wiped away most of Arcady. Born with cerebral palsy, unable to contact her family, and trapped in the library, Artemis has built the place into her sanctuary. Trying to find a way back to Aunt Maggie's house, Artemis soon learns of a new danger—a committee determined to claim the town for themselves.
Follow Artemis, Aunt Maggie, and a talking heron in the fight to save their dying town. First commissioned and released by the Kennedy Center as a radio play as part of WTYA Presents… in 2021, Tim J. Lord’s play transforms into a new musical, with music by Avi Amon and direction by Cara Phipps. This heartening world premiere amplifies the voice of a commonly overlooked community and teaches us how we can make the world a little better for everyone.
Take the A-Train to a special afternoon of music paying tribute to the beloved jazz composer and bandleader! Conducted by Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser, the National Symphony Orchestra performs this swinging session as part of the Kennedy Center’s season-wide Duke Ellington at 125 celebration.
Join us for our Sensory-Friendly performance of Little Shop of Horrors! Please call (202) 347-4833 to reserve tickets or email access@fords.org with questions. Sensory-Friendly experiences are designed to create a museum or theatre experience that is welcoming for individuals on the autism spectrum or those with other sensory sensitivities who might benefit from an adjusted environment. Our Sensory-Friendly experiences aim to provide a safe environment where individuals and families can relax and be who they are.
Little Shop of Horrors is a nonstop blast, sci-fi horror comedy, love story and rock musical that has become one of the most treasured pieces of American musical theatre. Little Shop pays homage to doo-wop and Motown recordings. The story follows a luckless florist shop worker, Seymour, who raises a wisecracking carnivorous plant – Audrey II – that develops a craving for human blood. He delights in the fame and fortune that his leafy, ever-growing friend attracts, while trying to show his co-worker Audrey that she is the girl of his dreams. As Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out-of-this-world origins and intent toward world domination, he learns the lesson: “Don’t feed the plants!” Join us for the return of Little Shop to our historic theatre, directed by Kevin S. McAllister (The Wiz, Ragtime).