Discovery Theater050

Discovery Theater, a division of The Smithsonian Associates, presents live theater performances for children in its own theater in the S. Dillon Ripley Center on the National Mall. Performances are open to the public, and advance reservations may be arranged for school groups, youth organizations, and families with children.

Performances have included original productions, contemporary and traditional live puppetry, theatrical performance, dance, storytelling and musicals - all designed with the intent to entertain, educate and enlighten young audiences.

Often interactive, Discovery Theater performances unite ideologies, enact themes that reflect the diversity of its audiences, open avenues of self-reflection, and are enjoyable means for parents and teachers to demonstrate life's lessons.

While many shows are in the main theater, they are also held in the following locations: the Baird Auditorium at the National Museum of Natural History and the Round House Theatre in Silver Spring.