Staff picks

Not sure what show to see? Our team of experts has handpicked a dazzling collection of must-see events, ranging from over-the-top musicals and boundary-pushing dramas to spectacular concerts. Trust our theatre lovers and dive into this curated lineup.

Poster of Chez Joey in Washington DC.

Chez Joey

Kreeger Theater at Arena Stage

Chicago's nightlife sets the stage for Joey Evans, a charismatic performer who quickly discovers that the quickest way to get ahead is to risk it all.

Why we love it: This bold reimagining of the Rodgers and Hart classic now includes even more jazz hits.

Poster of What Became of Us in Arlington.

What Became of Us

Signature Theatre

This heartfelt portrait of siblinghood follows a brother and sister across their lifetimes, detailing how their contrasting immigrant and American-born perspectives shaped their beings.

Why we love it: The show is performed with two casts with different disaporic backgrounds who alternate performances, allowing audiences the rare chance to witness two unique versions of the same story.

Poster of Paranormal Activity in Washington DC.

Paranormal Activity

Harman Hall - Shakespeare Theatre Company

Experience the iconic film franchise up close and personal (if you dare). In this terrifying new story, the protagonists learn the hard way that places aren't haunted, people are.

Why we love it: With groundbreaking technology and unbelievable illusions, you too will be questioning what's real and what's in your head.

Poster of Young John Lewis in Washington DC

Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest

Atlas Performing Arts Center

Focusing on the formative years of the late congressman, this new musical is a powerful biography detailing how the murder of Emmett Till fueled John Lewis to lead the charge for Civil Rights alongside Dr. King.

Why we love it: Mosaic Theatre's Playwright-in-Residence, Psalmayene 24, delivers a script that reminds us we can all make a difference.

Poster of Mother Play: A Play in Five Evictions in Washington DC.

Mother Play: A Play in Five Evictions

Studio Theatre - Mead Theatre

A fiercely protective mother and her two grown children endure five decades and five chaotic moves, desperately trying to redefine "home" while grappling with memory, loyalty, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

Why we love it: This new play is a deeply funny and honest portrait of family.

Poster of Octet in Washington, DC.

Octet

Victor Shargai Theatre at Studio Theatre

From the genius behind The Great Comet, this witty and dissonant a cappella musical locks eight phone-addicted people in a church basement, forcing them to harmonize through their digital compulsions and yearn for real human connection.

Why we love it: Staged in the round, it is sure to be an intimate and exciting theatre experience.

Poster of Crazy Sexy Cool in Washington DC.

Crazy Sexy Cool

Kreeger Theater at Arena Stage

Experience TLC's music like never before! This biographical musical chronicles the (mostly) true story of the iconic trio's rise to fame complete with their signature hits.

Why we love it: TLC members Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins and Rozanda "Chilli" Thomas have been heavily involved in the development process, promising an authentic account of their journey.

Poster of Little Miss Perfect in Washington, DC.

Little Miss Perfect

Olney Theatre Center - Roberts Mainstage

Made popular on TikTok, the iconic song is now part of a full-fledged musical! In this contemporary coming-of-age story, a high school senior tries desperately to balance the pressures of perfection, identity, and her dream scholarship to Howard University.

Why we love it: With music includes a irresistible mix of hip-hop, showtunes, and pop sounds, there's something for everyone.

Poster of The World to Come in Washington.

The World to Come

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

The residents of the SeaBreeze Hebrew Home for the Aging find that battling a looming apocalypse is almost as tricky as battling armored nurses and strange prophecies.

Why we love it: This new play is as hilarious and profound testament to resilience, revealing how friendship and shared humor become the ultimate defense.