Lincoln Theatre

1215 U Street NW,
Washington, DC 20009

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Lincoln Theatre (Official)

Additional Info

Previously operated by: Crandall Amusement Company

Architects: Reginald W. Geare

Functions: Live Theater, Movies (Film Festivals)

Phone Numbers: Box Office: 202.328.6000
Manager: 202.328.6000

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News About This Theater

Lincoln Theatre

Built in 1921, the Lincoln Theatre is a relic of the days of segregation, when the theatre was used exclusively by black audiences. In its heyday, the theatre featured such legendary talents as Duke Ellington and Fats Waller.

The Lincoln Theatre was eventually converted to a movie theatre, which it remained until 1983, when it was closed.

In 1994, the theatre was purchased and once again converted into a venue for legitimate theatre. Occasional film use continues as it was used for the Reel Affirmations 17th Annual International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in October 2007.

Contributed by Ross Melnick

Recent comments (view all 29 comments)

EcRocker
EcRocker on January 30, 2009 at 3:50 am

You should come down here and see some of these places for your self. The Lincoln restoration looks awesome from the outside. It looks like the past came to life when you see when you see this almost 90 year old gem sparkle.

EcRocker
EcRocker on January 30, 2009 at 4:16 am

SOunds like a plan. Where do you live? Let me know if you do head out this way. Maybe we can find others on CT and have a live CT meet.

EcRocker
EcRocker on March 15, 2009 at 12:49 am

The snow on the ground must have been close to the time Obama called the DC Board of Ed whips for closing the schools. Being raised in NYC Obama was funny but right. In NYC schools would be open unless there was at least a foot or more of snow on the ground.

As to the picture the snow and the wet streets gives it a nice feel.

teecee
teecee on November 13, 2009 at 7:42 pm

Refer to the “mini debate” posted above in June 2005.

The debate is resolved. The linked photo is currently on display in the Smithsonian American History museum as part of the “Picturing the Promise” exhibition. The caption states that the patrons were indeed protesting the treatment of african americans in the movie Gone with the Wind.

JackCoursey
JackCoursey on January 2, 2011 at 12:23 am

Stunningly beautiful both inside and out! Photo from 2009 of the exterior:
Lincoln Theatre

Giles
Giles on December 19, 2011 at 4:18 am

Landmark Theater is renting out the theater and bringing back movies to the Lincoln with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’ starting Wednesday (Dec. 21)

lesbrown0
lesbrown0 on May 1, 2012 at 3:36 am

I’m glad to see the old building still standing. Havn’t stepped inside since 1968.

rivest266
rivest266 on July 1, 2015 at 5:20 pm

2nd screen opened on March 8th, 1977.

DavidZornig
DavidZornig on November 7, 2018 at 4:50 am

1925 postcard added credit Lost Washington, D.C. Facebook page.

fred1
fred1 on February 19, 2020 at 1:40 pm

Saw the Great Artie Lange at the Lincoln.

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