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

Lincoln Theatre

A historic landmark on Washington's Black Broadway, this 1922 theater served as a cultural sanctuary for the African American community during segregation and hosted jazz legends like Duke Ellington.

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Lincoln Theatre
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What is the Lincoln Theatre known for?

The Lincoln Theatre is a historic cultural center in Washington, D.C., that served the African American community during segregation on "Washington's Black Broadway." Built in 1922, it predated and influenced the Harlem Renaissance and has hosted legendary performers such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Louis Armstrong.

Where is it located?

The theatre is located at 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009, in the U Street Corridor. It is situated next to Ben's Chili Bowl and across from the 13th Street Metro exit.

What are the box office hours?

The box office is open Monday through Friday from 11:30am to 6pm. On weekends, it is only open when there is a show, opening 2 hours before doors and closing at 9pm; it is closed on major holidays.

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online through Ticketmaster or in person at the Lincoln Theatre box office and other IMP venues. Buying tickets at the box offices allows patrons to avoid service fees.

How can I request accessibility accommodations?

Patrons seeking accessibility accommodations should call the box office at 202-888-0050.

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 Lincoln Theatre, located at 1215 U Street NW, stands as a monumental landmark of African American history and culture. Built in 1922, the venue served as a vital cultural center for the city's African American community during the era of segregation, when other venues kept them out. It was a cornerstone of the area known as Washington's Black Broadway, providing a space for artistic expression and community gathering. Throughout its storied history, the theater has hosted an array of legendary performers. Washington natives Duke Ellington and Pearl Bailey performed here, alongside nationally acclaimed artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole, Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong, and Sarah Vaughan. These performances cemented the theater's role as a predating and influencing influence on the Harlem Renaissance. Following a period of decline, the theater closed after the 1968 race-related riots. However, the building was later restored and reopened in 1994, allowing it to continue its mission to entertain, inform, and inspire the community through cinema, live performance, and educational programs. Today, it remains a vibrant hub for events and performances in the U Street Corridor. Visitors can find the box office located between the main doors of the theatre, where tickets can be purchased in person. The venue is situated across from the 13th Street Metro exit, making it accessible for those exploring the U Street Corridor.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the box office between the main doors to purchase tickets without service fees.
  • Use the 13th Street Metro exit to arrive directly across from the theater.
  • Call the box office at 202-888-0050 if you require accessibility accommodations.

Nearby context

The Lincoln Theatre is situated in the heart of the U Street Corridor, positioned next to the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl, anchoring the historic Black Broadway district.

Sources

Evidence and links