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

Lisner Auditorium

A historic Art Deco performance venue on George Washington University's campus, home to the Washington Concert Opera and a landmark of D.C. arts and culture.

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Lisner Auditorium
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What is Lisner Auditorium known for?

Lisner Auditorium is a state-of-the-art performance venue and an anchor for arts and culture at George Washington University. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance in the stripped classicist style of late Art Deco and its history of hosting major classical, rock, opera, and theatrical performances.

Where is it located?

It is located at 730 21st St NW, Washington, DC 20052, on the corner of 21st and H Streets NW on George Washington University's Foggy Bottom campus.

What are the box office hours?

During the semester, the box office is open on Tuesdays from 11am to 3pm.

How do I get tickets?

As of Fall 2025, all advance and walk-up tickets for events must be purchased through the university's Box Office or official online ticketing platform.

What is the seating capacity?

The auditorium seats between 1,350 and 1,400 people.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Lisner Auditorium is a premier performance venue located on the Foggy Bottom campus of George Washington University at 730 21st Street Northwest. Completed in 1946, the auditorium was named for Abram Lisner, a university trustee and benefactor who provided one million dollars toward its construction. The building's architecture is characterized by the stripped classicist style of the late Art Deco period, stripped of ornate decoration, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 for its dual significance as an architectural work and a performance space. As a cultural anchor for the university, the venue draws over 100,000 visitors annually. It serves as the home of the Washington Concert Opera and hosts a wide array of performances, including classical, folk, rock, blues, and theatrical productions. The auditorium's capacity ranges from 1,350 to 1,400 people, allowing it to host world-class events that bridge the gap between the campus and the city's broader arts scene. Located at the corner of 21st and H Streets NW, the venue is a state-of-the-art facility that continues to operate as a National and D.C. historical landmark. Visitors can access tickets through the university's official online ticketing platform or the box office, which operates on a limited schedule during the semester.

Visitor tips

  • Check the GW Calendar for upcoming events and use the official online ticketing platform for advance tickets.
  • If visiting during the semester, the box office is open Tuesdays from 11am to 3pm.
  • For those driving, the University Parking Garage is the closest option and is open 24/7.

Nearby context

Lisner Auditorium is situated in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, part of the George Washington University campus, and is a key cultural hub within the university's academic environment.

Sources

Evidence and links