NATION STATE!

NATION STATE! is an immersive theater production presented by La Pluma Theatre and performed in the halls of Dupont Underground, running September 2 through September 13, 2026, as the opening show of the venue's fall season. The production invites audiences into the world’s smallest self-declared nation, a country built on the promise of protecting its citizens from an uncertain world. Upon arrival, each audience member receives a passport and must earn the right to cross the border by navigating unexpected rituals, moral dilemmas, and absurd ideological tests. This is a promenade-style, participatory experience, meaning the audience moves through the space and becomes part of the story rather than watching it from a seat.

The piece explores the question of whether a nation can truly keep people safe, using humor, tension, and audience interaction to blur the line between performance and lived experience. Because the show is active and involves walking through Dupont Underground, comfortable footwear is strongly recommended. The production is designed for a mature audience and is suggested for those ages 16 and up.

When: Wednesday, September 2 through Sunday, September 13, 2026, with 10 performances total.

Showtimes: Showtimes vary by date; opening night doors open at 7:00 PM and the show begins at 7:30 PM, followed by a meet-and-greet with the cast.

Tickets: $25 General Admission; $40 Sustainer tickets.

Presented by: La Pluma Theatre.

Run time: Approximately 75 minutes, with no intermission.

Ages: Recommended for ages 16 and older.

Venue: Dupont Underground, 19 Dupont Circle Northwest, Washington, DC 20036.

Note: Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime; this is an active promenade performance moving through Dupont Underground. For directions, accessibility, parking, and venue policies, visit dupontunderground.org/plan-your-visit.