Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Washington, D.C. places

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

Howard Theatre

A historic landmark in the Shaw neighborhood, the Howard Theatre was the first African American-owned theatre in the United States, hosting a rich legacy of music, dance, and drama.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Howard Theatre
www.thehowardtheatre.com, website_hero_img_www.thehowardtheatre.com

What is the Howard Theatre known for?

The Howard Theatre was the first African American-owned theatre in the country and is a historic venue known for hosting music, dance, drama, and comedy.

Where is the Howard Theatre located?

It is located at 620 T St. NW in the Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

What kind of events are held there?

The venue showcases a variety of events, including live music, comedy, weddings, and private events.

What is the capacity of the venue?

The theatre can accommodate up to 600 people in a theatre layout and up to 750 people in a reception layout.

What is the history of the Howard Theatre?

Opened in 1910, the theatre was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It closed in 1980 and remained abandoned for nearly 32 years before reopening in 2012.

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 Howard Theatre, located at 620 T Street, Northwest, stands as a pillar of the Washington, D.C. community. Opened in 1910, this venue was the first African American-owned theatre in the country, serving as a vital cultural hub for music, dance, drama, and comedy for most of the twentieth century. In 1974, the theatre was added to the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its architectural and cultural significance was formally recognized. Despite its importance, the venue faced a period of decline and was closed in 1980, remaining abandoned and left to ruin for nearly 32 years. Following a comprehensive renovation, the Howard Theatre reopened in 2012. Today, it continues to host a diverse array of events, including live music, comedy, and private functions. The venue is designed for versatility, featuring a built-in stage and a dance floor to accommodate various performance styles. Capacity varies by layout; the theatre can hold 600 people in a theatre layout and up to 750 people in a reception layout. It remains an active venue, currently presenting shows operated by Union Stage, such as performances by artists like Kurt Vile And The Violators and Arlo Parks.

Visitor tips

  • Check the official website for upcoming show schedules and ticket information before visiting.
  • Explore the surrounding Shaw neighborhood for local dining and trendy shops.
  • Allow extra time to arrive early for ticketed events to navigate the seating charts provided by Live Nation.
  • Take photos of the historic exterior to appreciate the 1910 architecture.

Nearby context

The Howard Theatre is situated in the heart of the trendy Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C., making it a perfect stop for those exploring the local culture and arts scene.

Guided options

Tours that include this stop

Gyde's walks are free and self-guided. If you want a live guide or skip-the-line entry, these cover Howard Theatre:

Gyde may earn a commission from ticket and booking links.

Sources

Evidence and links