The National Theatre

Historic Stage for Theatrical Excellence

Best Seats in The National Theatre

10 Affordable Events

Sep 08

Sun . 02:00 PM

MJ - The Musical - Washington

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Sep 27

Fri . 07:30 PM

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Sep 28

Sat . 02:00 PM

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Sep 28

Sat . 07:30 PM

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Oct 15

Tue . 07:30 PM

Mean Girls - Washington, DC

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Oct 16

Wed . 07:30 PM

Mean Girls - Washington, DC

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Oct 17

Thu . 07:30 PM

Mean Girls - Washington, DC

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Oct 18

Fri . 07:30 PM

Mean Girls - Washington, DC

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Oct 19

Sat . 02:00 PM

Mean Girls - Washington, DC

The National Theatre, Washington, DC

Oct 19

Sat . 07:30 PM

Mean Girls - Washington, DC

The National Theatre, Washington, DC
The National Theatre in Washington DC is a versatile venue known for its excellent acoustics and visibility. Located on Pennsylvania Avenue, it's been a mainstay of the performing arts scene since its founding in 1835. Besides the traditional Broadway shows and ballets, you'll find an eclectic mix of artists who have graced its stage. From indie acts like Glass Animals to comedians like Michelle Wolf, it’s a venue that provides variety.

When it comes to choosing the best seats, options abound. The theater is divided into Orchestra, Dress Circle, First Balcony, and Second Balcony. Here's a breakdown:

Orchestra: Generally, the central middle rows offer the most balanced experience, both visually and audibly.
Dress Circle: Great if you prefer a bit of elevation but still want to be close to the action. The first few rows offer the best sightlines.
First Balcony: Suitable for those who want a bird's-eye view without sacrificing much detail.
Second Balcony: The most economical, but you might want to bring binoculars.

Ticket prices vary depending on the event and seating section. Expect to pay upwards of $200 for premium Orchestra seats for a high-demand Broadway show. Dress Circle usually falls within the $100-$180 range. First Balcony offers a more moderate price range of $75-$150, while the Second Balcony can go as low as $45 for less popular events.

Being aware of the in-house amenities can also make your experience enjoyable. The National Theatre offers several bars and a fairly large lounge area where you can socialize before the show and during intermission. Coat check services are also available.

For those seeking an exceptional auditory experience, seats near the theater’s sound control booth often provide excellent sound quality. Technicians calibrate the venue's sound system based on the booth's location, making it a reliable spot for consistent audio quality.

Accessibility is commendable at this venue. Wheelchair-accessible seats are available in various sections, and assistive listening devices can be borrowed at no cost.

Another intereSting aspect of The National Theatre is the National Theatre Live program, which broadcasts live performances to cinemas worldwide. This initiative extends the theatre’s influence beyond its physical location and has included performances from less mainstream artists such as Rufus Wainwright and Imogen Heap.

In terms of timing, buying tickets as soon as they go on sale generally offers the best selection, but you can often find decent seats in The Weeks leading up to less popular events. There are occasional last-minute deals, but those are a bit of a gamble.

The National Theatre in Washington DC is a venue that caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets. By understanding the nuances of its seating options, you can snag the best seats for an unforgettable entertainment experience.

The National Theatre Location

 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

How do I get to The National Theatre?
Centrally located in downtown DC, easily accessible via Metro, bus, or car.
What's the dress code?
Generally smart casual; however, attire may vary based on the specific performance.
Does the theater offer any premium packages?
Yes, VIP packages may include backstage access, premium seating, and complimentary refreshments.
Is late seating allowed?
Late seating is generally at the discretion of the event organizers and might be limited.
What is the theater's cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies are event-specific, so check your event details carefully.

Interesting Information about The National Theatre

  • The National Theatre is the second-oldest, continuously operating theater in the U.S.
  • The stage has hosted actors like Robert Redford and Carol Burnett early in their careers.
  • Offers both Broadway shows and local productions, giving a diverse theater experience.
  • The venue has undergone multiple renovations, the last being in 2012.
  • This theatre has been the site of three presidential inaugural balls.