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 for a performance of Our American Cousin. At this performance, Lincoln was shot by Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth. Lincoln died the next morning in the Petersen House, a boarding house located across the street.
For more than 100 years, Ford’s Theatre remained dark. But in 1968, it reopened as a working theatre, museum and national historic site, dedicated to Lincoln’s legacy and his love of the performing arts. Today, more than 650,000 visitors a year take part in programming at Ford’s Theatre. Here, you can see live theatre in a historic space like no other and learn about the life and legacy of our 16th President.
As a working theatre, Ford’s produces renowned plays, vibrant musicals and newly commissioned works that captivate and entertain, while examining political and social issues related to Lincoln’s legacy. The 2015-2016 season includes the holiday classic A Christmas Carol, the great American play The Glass Menagerie and the classic American musical 110 in the Shade. Ford’s also presents walking tours and one-act plays that delve into the events of Lincoln’s assassination.
With a thought-provoking presentation of an infamous story, the Ford’s Theatre Museum highlights Lincoln’s major achievements as president, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits that bring the legacy of Lincoln to life. The restored Ford’s Theatre and historic Petersen House immerse audiences in Lincoln’s world, offering an authentic glimpse into a singular and transformative moment of America’s past. The Center for Education and Leadership, which features a 34-foot-tower of Lincoln books, brings Lincoln’s values and ideals from the past into the present with additional exhibitions.
Groups and tour operators receive special ticket discounts, have priority access to the best seats in the house and receive flexible payment terms. Contact Group Sales at 202-638-2367 or groups@fords.org for more information.
View from the stage of the President’s Box at Ford’s Theatre. Photo by Maxwell MacKenzie
Large figures representing jobseekers and visitors to the Lincoln White House, on view in the Ford’s Theatre Museum. Photo by Maxwell MacKenzie
The 34-foot tower of Lincoln books within the lobby of the Center for Education and Leadership. Photo by Maxwell MacKenzie
