The Trustees of the National Theatre Corporation (NTC), in Washington,
D.C., are announcing that they have entered into an arrangement with
Chicago-based JAM Theatricals, Ltd. and Philadelphia area-based SMG that
will expand the presentations at the historic National Theatre to
include an annual Broadway series, concerts, leading classical artists
and other attractions. JAM and SMG are combining to provide booking,
advertising, marketing and promotional services, venue management and
operational support for the Theatre.
Located at 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, the National Theatre opened in
1835 and is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the
nation. Over the years, the Theatre has hosted a multitude of memorable
events, including the pre-Broadway presentation of the musicals
Showboat, Hello Dolly! and West Side Story. Many of the world's
greatest performers have graced the National Theatre stage including
Robert Redford, George C. Scott, Will Rogers, Helen Hayes, James Earl
Jones, Eartha Kitt, Sir Laurence Olivier, Chita Rivera, Rita Moreno,
Katherine and Audrey Hepburn and Sting.
Situated just three blocks from the White House, the Theatre has
entertained U.S. Presidents since Andrew Jackson. Winston Churchill
himself once spoke from the National Theatre stage.
“We are truly excited about the future prospects for the National
Theatre with this new management team,” said Sterling Tucker, President
of the NTC Board. “Our discussions with JAM and SMG helped us envision
the potential for increased and diverse programming at the National.”
NTC Executive Director Tom Lee added, “I am personally delighted over
the prospect of bringing a broad variety of artists and attractions to
the National Theatre stage.”
Steve Traxler, President of JAM Theatricals stated, “JAM Theatricals is
happy to have an opportunity to work with NTC and SMG to present
Broadway musicals and plays in the Nation's Capital, and we look forward
to adding to the rich cultural history of this Theatre.” Arny Granat,
JAM's Chairman, added, “Washington is a great city and the National is a
great venue. We want to work with people in the community to encourage
bringing more shows to this historic theatre.”
Bob Papke, SMG's Vice President of Theaters echoed the sentiment,
saying, “SMG looks forward to working with NTC and Jam Theatricals to
bring the very best performers and events to the residents of the Metro
area.”
