First Performance at the Sylvan Theater

Title: First Performance at the Sylvan Theater
Date: 06/02/1917
Description: The first performance at the Sylvan Theatre on the Washington Monument grounds took place on the evening of June 2, 1917. Artist and philanthropist Alice Pike Barney Hemmick founded the theater, believing that Washington needed a nationally supported theater and that an outdoor theater would be a good first step. The performance on opening night consisted of speeches, a rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by the Marine Band, and a play written by Mrs. Hemmick. Over 6,000 people attended the Sylvan Theater first show.
Source: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. View Original.
Coverage: 1890-1919
Event Type: Openings and Dedications; Concert