Discover the life and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln in a highly entertaining and educational experience
Plan an indelible field trip that is anchored by an award-winning performance, allowing students to connect classroom learning objectives with firsthand educational experiences. At Ford’s Theatre, students will explore the life and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln, as well as defining moments in our nation’s early history, through dynamic lesson plans and an exciting performance.
Ford’s Theatre Educational Resources
Before your trip, introduce Ford’s Theatre downloadable resources, including lesson plans, teachers’ guides and student activities into your classroom curriculum. Here’s a look at some of what we offer that pair perfectly with a live performance of 1776:
- Tailored Student Activities, including “Reactions to Lincoln’s Assassination” and “Civil War Washington Through the Eyes of Mary Henry,” encourage groups to explore history through dynamic online programs that cover early American history, civics topics and social studies.
- Reconstruction Lesson Plans prompt students to explore pivotal moments in history through thought-provoking questions that delve into topics such as the necessity of the 14th Amendment and the debate over emancipation.
- Narrative Writing Workshops engage learners through written lessons that utilize narrative resources, such as primary source memoirs, as mentor texts to create their own writing and gain a deeper understanding of historical events.
- Arts Integrated Lesson Plan: Incorporate the show into your curriculum with our prepared lesson plan!
- Free Teacher Preview: If you are a teacher in the Washington, D.C. metro area, you are invited to attend a free preview of the show, which includes a workshop, complimentary dinner and a chance to see the show before the general public.
- Professional Development Opportunities: Ford’s Theatre also provides a series of professional development opportunities for educators around the United States.
1776
(March 13, 2026 — May 16, 2026)
At the core of this exciting educational experience,1776 ties together classroom learning with a visual representation of history. This popular American musical is an insightful, vibrant and humorous take on our founding fathers’ determination to persuade the 13 colonies to separate from British rule. As members of Philadelphia’s Second Continental Congress struggled to reach a consensus, John Adams, Benjamin Franklinand Thomas Jefferson advocated for independence from the monarchy, and the ensuing debates laid the groundwork for our country. As we explore this historical moment through the evolving identity of America today, this robust, Tony Award-winning musical boldly brings our country’s beginnings to blazing life. Based on the letters and memoirs of America’s founding fathers, the musical showcases quick-witted dialogue and a playful music score that enhances the theatrical exploration of the principles and determination that influenced the birth of America.
Schedule & Showtimes
The 2026 schedule for 1776 performances can be found on the Ford’s Theatre Calendar. Their showtimes offer flexibility and ample time to explore and experience the theatre before or after the performance, and a streamlined ticket-purchasing process.
Student Matinees
Ford’s Theatre proudly offers weekday Student Matinees along with accompanying lesson plans for in-depth connections to history and theatre arts. Limited free tickets are available for groups from Washington, D.C. area public schools, Title I schools and those that have 40% or more students eligible for FARMS.
Groups of 10 or more outside the D.C. Metro area can book tickets at a discounted price through the Ford’s Theatre group sales team or reserve them through their online group sales office.
Little Shop of Horrors
FAQs
1.) What’s the best pricing & availability?
Prices range from $34 to $77 based on the performance. We recommend reaching out to our Group Sales team to discuss what performance and seating options best suit your budget and agenda.
2.) How big can my group be?
We have groups that join us from around the world, ranging from 10 to over 200 people. The historic theatre can hold 650 people, while a Historic Site Visit can accommodate 160 people per entry time.
3.) What does my ticket include?
A ticket to 1776 includes access to the Ford’s Theatre Museum in addition to the performance.
4.) What are pre-andpost-mealoptions for groups?
There are multiple options within walking distance for meals. We recommend Hard Rock Cafe, a family-friendly restaurant that boasts one of the largest collections of music memorabilia and artifacts in the area. Let them know that Ford’s Theatre sent you!
5.) Are there any tie-ins with local attractions and group-friendly activities?
1776 is an excellent addition to a trip to Washington, D.C.! There is no better place to join in the American Experiment than the nation’s capital. Exploring a historical moment through the evolving identity of America today, this robust, award-winning musical boldly brings our country’s beginnings to life. Be sure to visit the monuments of these real-life figures and the museums that share the stories of the United States. Reach out to education@fords.org for more information.
6.) What other offerings are available?
For student groups, we offer our Historic Site Visits from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Sunday, at a group rate of $4.50. We also offer workshops that explore leadership and the life of President Lincoln, which are ideal for students in grades 6 through 11.
