Howard Theatre, located in Washington D.C., is a historic theater that originally opened in 1910. After being closed for renovations from the 1980s to 2010s, the theater reopened in 2012 and has been operating as a premier performing arts venue hosting live music, comedy, theater, and dance performances ever since.
Brief History of Howard Theatre
Howard Theatre was originally built in 1910 in the Shaw neighborhood of Washington D.C. It was one of the first major theaters built specifically for African-American audiences during the era of racial segregation. The theater thrived for many decades, hosting famous acts like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, and many others.
By the 1960s and 70s, Howard Theatre began to decline along with the surrounding neighborhood. It closed in 1980 for renovations but remained unused for decades due to funding issues. In 2008, plans were made to renovate and reopen Howard Theatre as part of a larger redevelopment effort in the Shaw neighborhood. After extensive restorations costing around $29 million, Howard Theatre reopened in 2012 as a modern yet historic performing arts center operated by Blue Note Entertainment Group.
Seating at Howard Theatre
Yes, Howard Theatre does have seats for audience members attending performances. The seating capacity and layout has changed a bit over the years, but the current theater has both a main floor seating area as well as a balcony with seats.
Here are some key details about the seating at modern-day Howard Theatre:
- The main floor has removable seats allowing for standing general admission configurations for certain concerts. There are about 600 seats on the main floor.
- The balcony has fixed tiered theater seats totaling around 325 seats.
- Total seating capacity is around 925 seats when the main floor seating is utilized.
- The seats are spacious padded orchestra seats with chair backs rather than bleachers or pews.
- There is accessible seating for wheelchairs and companion seats in the rear orchestra section and the balcony.
- The seating layout provides good sightlines to the stage from all sections.
So in summary, the renovated Howard Theatre contains seating well-suited for enjoying performances from all sections of the theater.
Notable Performances at Howard Theatre
Howard Theatre has hosted an impressive array of performances since reopening in 2012. Some notable concerts, shows, and acts at Howard Theatre in recent years include:
Year | Notable Performances |
---|---|
2012 | Reopening celebration with Wanda Sykes, Blue Note Jazz Festival |
2013 | Jill Scott, Kendrick Lamar |
2014 | Mariah Carey, Pharrell Williams |
2015 | Mumford & Sons, Ed Sheeran |
2016 | Adele, Sturgill Simpson |
2017 | John Legend, Zac Brown Band |
2018 | Dave Chappelle, National Geographic Live |
2019 | Sarah Silverman, Tedeschi Trucks Band |
2020 | Fantasia, Patti LaBelle (performances halted due to COVID-19) |
2021 | Leon Bridges, Trevor Noah |
This list highlights the diversity of star talent that has performed on Howard Theatre’s stages since it reopened. The theater presents a wide variety of musical genres from R&B and rock to country and comedy.
Venue Overview
Here is an overview of Howard Theatre and its features:
- Location: 620 T Street NW, Washington, D.C.
- Capacity: 925 seats
- Main floor seating: About 600 removable seats
- Balcony seating: 325 fixed tiered seats
- ADA accessible seating: Rear orchestra and balcony
- Performance stages: Main stage and smaller Jazz supper club stage
- Amenities: Full service restaurant and bar, coat check
- Architectural features: Intricate original interior decor, grand lobby, picture window bay
- Historic status: On the National Register of Historic Places
- First opened: 1910 (reopened in 2012 after renovations)
- Operated by: Blue Note Entertainment Group
- Types of performances: Music, comedy, theater, dance, more
This overview shows that Howard Theatre offers a flexible mid-sized performance space with modern amenities while preserving its historic character. The seating allows audiences to have an intimate experience with the acts on stage.
Buying Tickets to Performances
Howard Theatre has an exciting lineup of performances scheduled throughout the year. Tickets can be purchased in the following ways:
- Online via Ticketmaster – All upcoming shows and dates are listed on the Ticketmaster website. Secure online ticketing with electronic delivery or printable tickets.
- Phone – Call the Howard Theatre box office at 202-462-SEAT to purchase tickets over the phone.
- In person – The Howard Theatre box office is open 90 minutes before showtime for walk up sales and will calls.
- Discounts – Students, military members, and seniors (65+) receive a discount on tickets by showing valid ID at the box office.
Tickets for popular performances often sell out in advance online. Booking early via Ticketmaster is recommended to secure seats. The box office has very limited last minute walk-up availability.
Accessibility at Howard Theatre
Howard Theatre aims to provide quality accessibility for all guests. Features include:
- ADA compliant seating – Wheelchair and companion seats are available in the rear orchestra section and balcony.
- Accessible parking – Dedicated accessible parking spots are located near venue entrances.
- Accessible restrooms – Wheelchair stalls and elevators allow access to all levels.
- Assistive listening devices – Headsets available upon request.
- Accessible drinking fountains – Lowered fountains accommodate wheelchairs.
- Usher assistance – Ushers can provide guidance or assistance as needed.
Guests with accessibility requirements are encouraged to indicate their needs when purchasing tickets online or to call the box office ahead of the event.
Food and Drinks at Howard Theatre
Howard Theatre has excellent dining and drinks options conveniently located right in the venue:
- Ben’s Next Door – Full service restaurant attached to the theater. Southern-inspired new American cuisine, cocktails, and late night menus.
- Jazz Supper Club – Intimate bar and lounge serving cocktails and small plates. Some performers do special late-night jam sessions here.
- Main bars – Well-stocked bars located on the main and balcony levels serve beer, wine, and cocktails.
No outside food or drinks are allowed, but guests are welcome to enjoy food and drinks from the theater’s on-site restaurants and bars before shows and during intermission.
Nearby Parking at Howard Theatre
As an urban theater located downtown, Howard Theatre does not have dedicated parking of its own. However, there are many parking garages and street parking spots located conveniently nearby. Here are some options:
- Pay garages – Garages within 2-3 blocks charge $5-10 for evening rates.
- Street parking – Metered street parking (free after 6:30pm) lines the blocks around Howard Theatre.
- Public transportation – The Shaw/Howard University Metro stop is just across the street.
- Rideshare – Pickup/drop-off zones are located right out front of the main entrance.
When driving to Howard Theatre, it is recommended to allow extra time to find parking in the busy U Street area. Using Metro, rideshares, or taxis can be easier options.
Security and Policies at Howard Theatre
Howard Theatre aims to provide a safe and secure environment for guests. Here are some key policies and procedures:
- Security screening – Bags, purses, coats, etc. are checked upon entry.
- Prohibited items – No weapons, illegal substances, or outside food/drinks.
- Age limits – Varies based on event, typically 18+ or 21+ for concerts.
- Re-entry – Not permitted for most shows.
- Camera policy – Subject to performer preferences, no detachable lenses.
- ADA access – Notify staff ahead of show for accommodation needs.
Guests are encouraged to arrive early to move through security smoothly. By following all policies, everyone can have an enjoyable evening.
Conclusion
In summary, Howard Theatre is a historic DC performance space that contains excellent seating in an intimate theater setting. The theater presents a wide variety of productions from comedy to concerts. Guests can easily get seats through Ticketmaster and enjoy on-site dining as part of their show experience. With accessible seating options and convenient nearby parking, Howard Theatre provides a quality experience for audiences.