Smithsonian Associates Discovery Theater on Tour

Back by popular demand! How Old is a Hero is an inspiring play created for the nation's Museum on the Mall features African American heroes of the twentieth century. Explore the power of youth and meet three courageous heroes who helped shape history during the Civil Rights movement...(read more)

*See Programs for Artist Fees

The Smithsonian Discovery Theater was founded in 1964 as the Smithsonian Puppet Theater, performing in a room in the NMAH on the third floor. In 1979, the theater moved into the historic Arts and Industries Building and was rechristened as Discovery Theater. The theater continued to feature puppets, and began to include other traditional arts such as storytelling, acoustic music from around the globe, mime and commedia clowning; retelling of classical Greek and Roman fables and myths; and ensemble performance in the manner of festival or street performers.

The theater's inclusion as part of the Smithsonian Associates defined its mission as serving primarily the Metropolitan area's children and their teachers and families. By 1995, Discovery Theater had broadened its reach to present the heritage and cultural arts and accessible science and math, reflecting the larger collections and making it a ‘gateway' to the Smithsonian for local children. Its affordable ticket price and community of educational artists, teachers, parents, and children make this a destination in our nation's capital, and the first visit to both a theater and a museum for most area schools' children. In 2004, the Arts and Industries closed its doors to the public to for a renovation. Discovery Theater, with its 300+ annual shows and programs, 50,000 children and adult audience members, then moved into a new boutique performing space designed for them by Sachs Morgan Studios, one of the leading designers of theaters in the country.

*See Programs for Artist Fees