It’s been all about the wall for almost two weeks, but might we suggest a curtain? Theaters across Washington are offering shutdown discounts for federal employees seeking a distraction from the real-world drama through plays and musicals.
Signature Theatre
Furloughed? Cheer up with a special presentation of Signature Theatre’s Judy Garland cabaret exclusively for federal-government employees, both military and civilian. Spanning Garland’s entire career, the show includes her famous numbers such as “Get Happy” and “Over the Rainbow.” You’ll have to flash your badge to pick up tickets, and for guests over 21, they include a beer or a glass of wine (or a non-alcoholic drink for those under 21). Four per federal employee. January 23, 8:30 PM. $25.
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
Using the code SHUTDOWN, federal employees can get a 15-percent discount on tickets to Woolly Mammoth’s run of BLKS, poet/playwright Aziza Barnes’s newest work. The play chronicles an outrageous, sometimes hilarious day in the life of four millennial black women. Show your federal ID when you pick up your tickets. Show: February 4 through March 3. Regular price: $20-$41; with discount: $17-$34.85.
Shakespeare Theatre Company
Escape furlough fears with quick banter and adult humor at The Panties, the Partner and the Profit, a trio of plays spanning a family’s three generations, written by David Ives. Federal employees can grab tickets for 50 percent off with the code SHUTDOWN18. Show: January 3 through January 6. Regular price: $44-$125; with discount: $22-$62.50.
National Geographic at AMC Georgetown
Missing the thrill of seeing your direct deposit hit? Experience a kind of similar rush watching free climber Alex Honnold take on all 3,200 feet of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park in Free Solo. Federal workers can get can receive up to two ticket vouchers to the per ID to screenings of the movie in IMAX on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday along with a voucher for popcorn and soda. Tuesday January 15, Wednesday January 16, Thursday January 17, at 1pm. Free.
This post has been updated with an additional promotion.
Daniella Byck joined Washingtonian in 2022. She was previously with Outside Magazine and lives in Northeast DC.
