èßäAV

Explore by Genre

èßäAVis the nation’s busiest performing arts center, hosting approximately 2,000 events each year for audiences of over 2 million. Since 1971, we have been bringing the world to Washington with magnificent performances of music, dance, theater, and more. See what's on stage and reserve your seats!

Classical Music

From the National Symphony Orchestra to Fortas Chamber Music, traditional to 20th Century, experience the brilliance, emotion and vitality of great classical works.

Comedy

With stand-up stars, sketch comedy, podcasts, improv, music, and more, our lineup serves up hilarity in all of its shapes and sizes.

Dance

Welcome to the nexus of dance… where physical and mystical forces collide, power and poise come to a point, profound connections are made, bodies make impact, and gravity meets grace. 

Performances for Young Audiences

Ignite your imagination with exciting theater, music, and dance performances. There’s something for little and big kids alike, from world premieres found nowhere else to intriguing international works.

Sesame Street muppet Abby Cadabby against a pink purple background

Hip Hop

Celebrate hip hop’s role as a catalyst for innovation, exploration, and transformation with a dynamic mix of performances, humanities events, film screenings, workshops and interactive experiences.

Three men watch a dancer against a graffiti wall.

International

Experience acclaimed art and artistry in music, theater, dance and more -- curated from around the world.

Angelique Kidjo smiling with red wrap and yellow background

Jazz

From seasoned jazz veterans to the hottest up-and-comers, come to where jazz is just the way you like it—in venues ranging from the intimate Terrace Theater to the cabaret setting of the KC Jazz Club.

Opera

The Washington National Opera is now one of the nation’s leading opera companies and plays to standing room audiences in the Kennedy Center. Join us for world-class traditional and modern works.

chorus at picnic dancing in celebration clothes in Porgy and Bess

Popular Music

See today’s top stars, relive iconic works and experience trending innovators in performance on our intimate and grand stages.

black and white photo of Maxwell walking in the street

Theater

Tony Award–winning triumphs. American musical classics. Powerful dramas. Thrilling new productions. They’re all here, from Broadway’s blockbusters to spectacular revivals produced by the Kennedy Center.

Explore Theater

Vocal/Choral Music

From acclaimed vocalists to rising stars, èßäAVbrings the best voices from around the world to a stage near you.

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èßäAVstory telling through the experiences shared at our events.

Accessible Performances

èßäAVstrives to make its performances and facilities accessible to all our patrons. Explore the upcoming accessible performances and immerse your senses.