The Tivoli Theatre was once one of the most opulent movie palaces in the region. Completed in 1924 at a cost of more than $1 million, it was designed by Thomas W. Lamb, a leading theater architect whose designs included the original Madison Square Garden. The Tivoli was owned by Harry Crandall, who built several area theaters, including the Lincoln and U Street.

At its opening, the Tivoli was dubbed "the Temple of the Arts." The Washington Post hailed it as a "magnificent addition to the real showplace of the District" and said the Tivoli was "an institution of which the entire city of Washington ought to be proud and ought to support."

Since then there has been much debate about what to do with the Tivoli. In 1985, the theater was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1999, the District selected a proposal from DC developer Horning Brothers to renovate the landmark. Horning's plan divided the Tivoli's cavernous interior into four floors to create a mix of offices, retail, and theater. From more than a dozen applicants for the theater space, they selected GALA.

After working closely on the project for four years, GALA and SmithGroup created a state-of-the-art performance space that combines the best of the old with the new. And in January 2005, 81 years after it opened and 29 years after it closed, the Tivoli opened its doors once again to a beautiful and vibrant theater.

Handicap seating may be available.

Please contact us before buying tickets to make arrangements.