Broadway at The National Announces 2025-2026 Season
May 6, 2025
Theatre enthusiasts in Washington DC have reason to celebrate as Broadway at The National has unveiled its spectacular 2025-2026 season lineup, featuring more Tony Award-winning musicals and Broadway favorites than ever before. This extraordinary season includes six DC premieres and one beloved Disney classic, bringing the magic of Broadway to the heart of the nation's capital.
For theatre in DC fans looking for world-class entertainment, The National Theatre continues its tradition of hosting the finest Broadway shows in DC with this exceptional new season. Let's explore the remarkable productions coming to one of DC's most prestigious venues:
Hadestown
Opens November 18, 2025Journey to the underworld with "Hadestown," where melody has the power to alter destiny. This groundbreaking production swept the 2019 Tony Awards with eight wins including Best Musical and claimed the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. The creation of celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and innovative director Rachel Chavkin (known for "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812"), "Hadestown" reimagines ancient mythology as a timeless love story that resonates with contemporary audiences while touching on eternal themes of hope, sacrifice, and redemption.
Some Like It Hot
Opens November 25, 2025Step into Prohibition-era Chicago with "Some Like It Hot," where the thrill of forbidden spirits has everyone seeking adventure. This high-energy musical follows two musicians who witness a mob murder and flee for their lives by boarding a cross-country train disguised as members of an all-female band. What begins as a desperate escape transforms into an unexpected journey of self-discovery, featuring show-stopping musical numbers and hilarious complications. The Associated Press hailed it as "glorious, big, high-kicking" entertainment, making it one of the most anticipated Broadway shows in DC this season.
Water for Elephants
Opens December 9, 2025"Water for Elephants" brings the beloved novel to vivid theatrical life, telling the poignant story of Jacob Jankowski, who loses everything during the Great Depression and spontaneously hops aboard a moving train, finding himself in the captivating world of a traveling circus. Through the reflective lens of his older self, we witness how his impulsive decision leads to extraordinary adventures, unexpected romance, and the discovery that life's most magical chapters can begin at any age. This enchanting production combines spectacular circus elements with intimate storytelling, creating a uniquely immersive theatre in DC experience.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
Opens December 19, 2025The holiday season gets a contemporary remix with "The Hip Hop Nutcracker," a brilliant fusion of classical and modern art forms. Under the direction and choreography of Tony and Olivier Award-nominated Jennifer Weber, this innovative production transforms Tchaikovsky's timeless score through the dynamic lens of hip hop dance, creating a fresh holiday tradition for audiences of all ages. The production features a stellar ensemble of twelve elite dancers, accompanied by a DJ, violinist, and hip hop pioneer MC Kurtis Blow, who kicks off each performance with an electrifying opening set. This boundary-breaking show exemplifies the evolving landscape of theater in DC.
Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Opens December 30, 2025The holiday magic continues with this record-breaking Broadway adaptation of a beloved classic. "Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical" brings familiar songs like "You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas" to vivid life on stage. Through Max the Dog's narration, audiences follow the journey of the scheming Grinch as he attempts to steal Christmas from the joyful Whos of Whoville. With spectacular sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss' original illustrations, this production transports audiences into a whimsical world while delivering a powerful message about the true spirit of the holidays. The New York Times declared it "AN EXTRAORDINARY PERFORMANCE! 100 times better than any bedtime story," making it a must-see Broadway show in DC this winter.
Stomp
Opens January 16, 2026Start the new year with the percussive power of "Stomp," an internationally acclaimed phenomenon that transforms everyday objects into extraordinary instruments of rhythm and sound. This unique eight-member ensemble creates spellbinding percussion using matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, and hubcaps, crafting an innovative theatrical experience that defies categorization. Having garnered numerous awards and captivated audiences worldwide, "Stomp" continues to prove why, as the Boston Globe advises, "If you haven't seen STOMP, GO! If you have seen it, take someone and share the pleasure!" This production represents the inventive spirit of plays in DC that push creative boundaries.
Clue
Opens January 27, 2026Mystery and laughter collide in "Clue," a theatrical adaptation of the 1985 Paramount Pictures film and the classic Hasbro board game. When six enigmatic guests gather at Boddy Manor for an unusual dinner party, they become entangled in a web of murder and blackmail that will keep audiences guessing until the final moment. Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or perhaps Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? This clever whodunit delivers suspense and comedy in equal measure, offering DC theater enthusiasts a delightfully unpredictable evening of entertainment where every scene brings new surprises and ingenious twists.
Stereophonic
Opens February 10, 2026The most Tony Award-winning production of the year arrives in DC with "Stereophonic," an intimate look at the creative process and personal dynamics of a rising rock band in 1976. As the group records what could be their breakthrough album, tensions rise and relationships strain under the pressure of impending stardom. Written by David Adjmi, directed by Daniel Aukin, and featuring original music by Arcade Fire's Will Butler, this critically acclaimed play-the most Tony Award-nominated Play of all time-invites audiences to witness the volatile, exhilarating process of artistic creation with unprecedented closeness. "Stereophonic" exemplifies the kind of innovative, thought-provoking theatre in DC that challenges and entertains.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast
Opens March 18, 2026Experience the timeless enchantment of "Disney's Beauty and the Beast," the classic tale of Belle, an independent young woman from a provincial town, and the Beast, a prince trapped in a spell by an enchantress. This beloved musical brings to life the story of transformation, as the Beast must learn to love and be loved before time runs out. With its spectacular costumes, breathtaking sets, and unforgettable songs including "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast," this production continues to captivate audiences of all ages, making it a perfect Broadway show in DC for the entire family to enjoy together.
The Wiz
Opens April 7, 2026"The Wiz" returns triumphantly to the American stage in this all-new tour direct from Broadway. This groundbreaking reimagining of L. Frank Baum's classic tale revolutionized Broadway with its infectious score blending soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk, alongside its powerful story of Dorothy's journey to find her place in a contemporary world. Under the direction of Schele Williams (The Notebook, revival of Disney's Aida), featuring choreography by JaQuel Knight (Beyonce's "Single Ladies," Black Is King), and with additional material by Emmy-nominated writer Amber Ruffin, this dynamic production infuses ballet, jazz, and modern pop to create a uniquely vibrant theatrical experience. The Baltimore Sun raves about its "Powerhouse performances. Stunning choreography. Visionary sets," while the Chicago Sun-Times declares it "An eye-popping and high-intensity revival!" that brings new energy to the yellow brick road.
The Book of Mormon
Opens April 26, 2026Hailed by The New York Times as "the best musical of the century" and described by The Washington Post as "the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals," "The Book of Mormon" arrives at The National Theatre to continue its phenomenal global success. This audacious comedy follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries sent to a remote village in Uganda to spread the Good Word. With nine Tony Awards including Best Musical, this international sensation combines sharp wit, unexpected heart, and irreverent humor to create what Entertainment Weekly calls "Grade A: the funniest musical of all time." This production represents the bold, contemporary side of Broadway shows in DC that push boundaries while delivering unforgettable entertainment.
The Great Gatsby
Opens May 12, 2026"The Great Gatsby" brings F. Scott Fitzgerald's quintessential American novel to dazzling theatrical life in this Tony Award-winning new musical. Step into the opulent world of 1920s Long Island, where mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby pursues his elusive dream in the form of Daisy Buchanan. Entertainment Weekly describes it as a "Broadway extravaganza that explodes with life and energy," as the production captures both the glittering excess and underlying tragedy of the Jazz Age through spectacular choreography, lavish design, and a compelling original score. This adaptation faithfully transmits the novel's powerful exploration of wealth, ambition, and the American Dream, creating a captivating experience for DC theater audiences.
Suffs
Opens June 16, 2026Direct from its acclaimed Broadway run, "Suffs" arrives at The National Theatre to tell the remarkable story of the American women who fought tirelessly for voting rights. Created by Shaina Taub-the first woman to independently win Tony Awards for both Best Book and Best Score in the same season-this groundbreaking musical explores the triumphs and setbacks of a struggle for equality that continues to resonate today. Variety calls it "thrilling, inspiring and dazzlingly entertaining," as the production illuminates both famous and lesser-known figures in the suffrage movement, revealing the personal sacrifice and political genius that eventually secured women's right to vote. Winner of the Outer Critics' Circle Award for Best New Musical, "Suffs" represents the kind of powerful, historically significant theatre in DC that educates as it entertains.
Beetlejuice
Opens July 7, 2026It's showtime in DC as "Beetlejuice" brings its macabre charm and irreverent humor to The National Theatre. Based on Tim Burton's beloved film, this hilarious musical follows Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose life is forever changed when she meets a recently deceased couple and a mischievous demon with a fondness for stripes. Featuring spectacular visual effects, outrageous set design, and a score that Variety calls "SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN," "Beetlejuice" delivers supernatural entertainment with surprising emotional depth, exploring themes of family, grief, and finding joy in life's oddest circumstances. This production showcases the imaginative, boundary-pushing theatre in DC that delights audiences of all ages.
The Notebook
Opens August 18, 2026The 2025-2026 season concludes with "The Notebook," a powerful musical adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' bestselling novel that inspired the iconic film. This moving production chronicles the enduring love story of Allie and Noah, who share a lifetime of devotion despite the numerous obstacles that threaten to separate them. Entertainment Weekly describes it as "Full of butterfly-inducing highs and beautiful songs," as the show navigates through different time periods to create a deeply affecting portrait of love's ability to transcend class differences, family opposition, and even the ravages of time. This emotionally resonant production offers DC theater audiences a fitting finale to an extraordinary season of Broadway entertainment.
Experience the Best of Broadway in DC
This remarkable lineup represents an unprecedented opportunity for theatre lovers in the Washington DC area to experience some of Broadway's most celebrated productions right in their own backyard. From Tony Award-winning musicals to beloved classics reimagined, the 2025-2026 season at The National Theatre promises unforgettable theatrical experiences for audiences of all ages and interests.
For complete information on these and other Broadway shows in DC, including ticket availability, performance schedules, and ticket discounts, be sure to visit our comprehensive Broadway In DC page. There you'll find everything you need to plan your perfect theatre experience in the nation's capital.