Duke Ellington and Pearl Bailey were among the prominent performers who headlined the theatre during its mid-20th-century heyday.
The venue was originally designed by architect Reginald Geare, who also designed the nearby Knickerbocker Theatre.
During the 1940s, the Lincoln Theatre functioned as the center of Washington's 'Black Broadway,' competing with the Howard Theatre for top-tier talent.
The lobby features original terrazzo flooring and intricate plaster moldings restored to their 1920s aesthetic.
Following the 1968 riots in Washington, the theatre fell into a period of decline and closure before its eventual revitalization.
The theatre is physically connected to the Lincoln Colonnade, which historically served as a ballroom for social gatherings.
The restoration project in the 1990s was part of a broader city effort to revitalize the U Street economic corridor.
The Lincoln Theatre is a historic 1,225-seat performing arts venue located in the U Street Corridor of Washington, D.C. Originally opened in 1922, it served as a cultural hub for the city's African American community during the era of segregation. The building underwent a multi-million dollar restoration in the 1990s to preserve its Neoclassical and Art Deco features. It currently hosts a diverse calendar of live music, comedy acts, theater performances, and community events. The interior retains its classic proscenium stage and tiered balcony seating. It is managed by I.M.P., the same organization that operates the 9:30 Club and The Anthem. The venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The restored exterior marquee sign at night when illuminated against the U Street skyline.
Check the digital marquee for updated show times, as doors typically open an hour before the performance begins.
Utilize the U Street corridor's many restaurants for dinner before a show, as the venue does not serve full meals.
Arrive early to view the historic photographic displays located in the lobby area.
Do not wait until the night of the performance to buy tickets, as popular acts frequently sell out in advance.
Casual to smart-casual attire; standard theater behavior of remaining seated during performances and avoiding recording devices.
