National Theatre (historic performing-arts landmark)

Founded in 1835, the National Theatre is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States and has occupied several successive buildings on its Pennsylvania Avenue site. The theater has hosted plays, operas, political events, and touring productions since the 19th century, and the present structure reflects early-20th-century reconstruction and later restorations following multiple fires. The venue remains an active performing-arts facility and a registered historic site in downtown Washington.