Firebird

Dance Theatre of Harlem returns to Washington Performing Arts with a bold revival of “Firebird,” the company’s signature reimagining of the classic Russian folk tale. Originally created in 1982 by choreographer John Taras and set to Igor Stravinsky’s iconic 1945 score, this production transports the story to a lush Caribbean island, thanks to Geoffrey Holder’s vivid costume and set designs. The performance is accompanied by a recording of the UNCSA Symphony Orchestra conducted by Mark A. Norman. This Washington, D.C. engagement marks the latest chapter in a five-decade partnership between Washington Performing Arts and Dance Theatre of Harlem. The program will also include additional dynamic works to be announced.

When: Friday, September 25, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Showtimes: Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: Individual ticket prices are not listed. Tickets may be purchased through the official Washington Performing Arts website. Group reservations for ten or more seats are available by calling the Patron Services office at (202) 785-9727.

Lineup: Choreography by John Taras. Music by Igor Stravinsky (1945 version), performed by the UNCSA Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Mark A. Norman. Original costume and set design by Geoffrey Holder. Costume execution by Grace Costumes, Inc.; costume recreation executed and supervised by Katy A. Freeman, Leo Holder, and Vernon Ross. Costume execution for the Firebird and the Princess of Unreal Beauty by John Kristiansen. Lighting design by Clifton Taylor. Performed by the Dance Theatre of Harlem company. Additional works on the program are to be announced.

Run time: Not specified.

Ages: Not specified.

Venue: The National Theatre, Washington, D.C.

Note: This performance is designated as a Dallas Morse Coors Legacy Performance. Support for the production is provided by Jody and John Arnhold, the Virginia Arts Festival, and the Thomas S. Kenan Institute for the Arts, among others. Patrons interested in championing the event may join the Host Committee for exclusive experiences. The 2026 engagement is part of a collaboration between Washington Performing Arts and Dance Theatre of Harlem that began in 1973.