Captivating Live Theatre
Immersive Interpretation
The premier destination
in our nation’s capital
to explore and celebrate
Abraham Lincoln!
A working theatre, historical monument, world-class
museum and learning center, Ford’s Theatre celebrates
the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln and explores the
American experience through theatre and education.
A Theatre With History
“Some think I do wrong to go to the opera and to the
theatre; but it rests me. I love to be alone, and yet to
be with people. A hearty laugh relieves me, and I seem
better able after it to bear my cross.” –Abraham Lincoln
During the Civil War, Ford’s Theatre provided respite for many. President
Abraham Lincoln visited the theatre on at least 10 formal occasions, finding
solace and escape from the burdens of the presidency. On April 14, 1865,
Lincoln visited Ford’s Theatre to see a performance of Our American Cousin.
At this performance, Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth entered
the Presidential Box and shot the President. Lincoln died the next morning
in the Petersen House, a boarding house located across the street.
Following Lincoln’s assassination, Ford’s Theatre remained dark for more
than 100 years, officially reopening in 1968 as a national historic site and
working theatre. Today, it is operated through a public-private partnership
between Ford’s Theatre Society and the National Park Service.
Ford’s Theatre Today
Through its inspiring theatrical productions, live historic interpretation, engaging
education programs and enriching exhibits, Ford’s Theatre offers visitors the
opportunity to immerse themselves in America’s past while revealing meaningful
connections to today.
Season Sponsors:
Pictured on cover: The cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Photo by Gary Erskine.
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Pictured right: David Selby as Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Cook as Tad Lincoln in the Ford’s Theatre
production of The Heavens Are Hung In Black. Photo by T. Charles Erickson.