A pioneer of the American regional theatre movement, Arena Stage has been Washington, D.C.'s flagship nonprofit theatre since its founding in 1950 by Zelda Fichandler. Its landmark Mead Center for American Theater in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood houses three distinctive performance spaces, including the iconic theater-in-the-round from which it takes its name. Arena Stage has premiered countless works that went on to Broadway and has been a steadfast champion of the American playwright. Its dedication to diverse voices and civic storytelling reflects the spirit of the nation's capital.
Acoustics, seating, and what to expect
All three theaters benefit from excellent acoustics following the 2010 renovation, with the in-the-round Fichandler Stage and modified thrust Kreeger Theater particularly praised for intimate sound quality. Even back balcony seats offer clear acoustics and good sightlines.
Fichandler Stage: All seats are excellent due to in-the-round design with no seat more than eight rows from stage; aisle seats offer extra legroom. Kreeger Theater: Center sections offer optimal sightlines for the fan-shaped thrust configuration.
Business Casual
Tickets, pricing, and getting there
Discounted rush tickets available in person at Sales Office two hours before each performance; availability and seat locations at venue's discretion, may include partial view seats. Also offers 'Pay Your Age' tickets (ages 5-35) available approximately two months before opening, and 'Metro Mondays' with half-price tickets (limit 2 per person) with valid SmarTrip/Metro card after noon on Mondays.
Full-time students receive 35% discount off regular ticket prices (one ticket per valid ID, available by phone). K-12 students receive 50% discount through 'Young Audiences' program.
Plan your visit — dining, transit, and performer resources nearby
Plan Your Visit
2 dining
Go after midnight on a show night — the kitchen stays open late and the post-show crowd from the U Street music venues fills the counter. The chili cheese fries are a secondary rite of passage.
Reserve on show nights — the Kennedy Center proximity means it fills with artistic directors, donors, and visiting international performers. The fried chicken and house-made bourbon program are the standards. Brunch on Sundays is a DC institution.
Green Room — Washington DC
Housing, coaches, practice spaces, and wellness resources for working performers.
Resident Company
Arena Stage
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