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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Theaters and music

Atlas Performing Arts Center

A cultural anchor in the Near Northeast, this historic nonprofit venue is housed in a restored 1930s Art Deco movie house, presenting an eclectic mix of contemporary music, dance, and theater.

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What is the Atlas Performing Arts Center known for?

The Atlas is a historic nonprofit venue and cultural anchor on H Street NE that presents a wide range of art forms, including film, dance, music, theater, spoken word, and vocal and choral work.

What is the architecture of the building like?

The facility is housed in a renovated 1930s Art Deco movie house.

Where is it located?

It is located at 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002, in the Near Northeast neighborhood.

How do I get there using public transit?

The center is approximately a 20–25 minute walk from the Union Station Metro stop on the Red Line.

Are there any free events?

Yes, the Atlas offers free events in its lobby.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Atlas Performing Arts Center is a historic nonprofit venue located at 1333 H Street NE in the Near Northeast neighborhood of Washington, DC. The facility is housed in a uniquely restored 1930s Art Deco movie house, serving as a hub for adventurous artists and audiences. Within its walls, the center manages four distinct performance spaces and frequently hosts free events in its lobby for the public. The venue presents a wide array of artistic expressions, including film, dance, music, theater, spoken word, and vocal and choral work. It is also the operational home for the Mosaic Theater Company, contributing to its status as a center for contemporary performing arts unlike any other in the city. The center's history is deeply tied to the resilience of its neighborhood. Following the 1968 Washington riots, which devastated the H Street NE commercial corridor, many properties suffered from disinvestment for 30 years. The Atlas underwent a rehabilitation process beginning in late 2001 and officially reopened in November 2006. This restoration served as the catalyst for the dramatic revival of the entire corridor. The impact was so significant that the surrounding area was named the Atlas District, transforming the neighborhood into a modern hub for creative and entertaining activities.

Visitor tips

  • Check the schedule for free lobby events if you aren't attending a ticketed show.
  • If arriving via public transit, allow 20–25 minutes to walk from the Union Station Metro on the Red Line.
  • Explore the surrounding Atlas District for local dining and creative shops after visiting the theater.

Nearby context

The Atlas is the central landmark of the Near Northeast neighborhood. Its restoration anchored the rebirth of H Street NE, transforming a corridor once devastated by the 1968 riots into the vibrant, creative hub now known as the Atlas District.

Sources

Evidence and links