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.

Up Next

A woman and man stand next to a decorative cart: a man in a long, dark red dressing robe and white nightcap speaks to a woman in a green, gold and red gown draped with a white fur stole.

November 19 – December 31, 2026

A Christmas Carol – 2026

Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption.

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Upcoming Events

A side view of the stage and seating at Ford’s Theatre. On the left is the Presidential Box with an American flag, a framed picture of George Washington and American flag bunting draped over the box.

From Quill to Curtain: Crafting Plays Inspired by History

January 9, 16 and 30, 2027

Join us for a three-part community playwriting workshop series where writers of all levels are invited to explore the art of building a narrative centered on a historical figure or event.

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A sepia-toned photograph of Edwin Booth dressed as Hamlet overlayed on a black and white photograph of Ford’s Theatre from 1865.

History Talks: Edwin Booth and the Burden of Memory

Thursday, January 27, 2027

After his brother assassinated Abraham Lincoln, Edwin Booth faced a question few Americans could imagine: how do you live with a name the nation has come to hate?

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Ford's Theatre Civil War Washington attendees stand on the ground in front of the white house with peaked eaves known as President's Lincoln's Cottage.

Lincoln’s Life, Death and Legacy Tours

February 15, 2027

Gain comprehensive insight into Lincoln the person and Lincoln the president with an exclusive full-day experience encompassing visits to three historic locations.

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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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