Round House Theatre - Bethesda This was my first visit to Round House Theatre in Bethesda, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise. As someone who is still a novice when it comes to the many forms of live theatre available in our area, I found the evening entertaining, educational, and thoroughly enjoyable. Round House is a nonprofit theatre company, and my friend--who is much more involved in the local theatre scene--was able to purchase specially priced tickets through a program that made the performance incredibly affordable. It's nice to see organizations finding creative ways to make live theatre accessible. Parking is available in several nearby paid garages, all within a short walk of the theatre. I didn't notice whether street parking was available. The performance we attended was Adrift, presented by Happenstance Theatre. The intimate, in-the-round stage creates an engaging atmosphere, and there really isn't a bad seat in the house. Being so close to the performers made the experience feel much more immersive. One unexpected highlight was chatting with a fellow theatre patron who spent the time before the show working on an intricate handcrafted project that was a work of art in itself. The production was unlike the traditional plays I was expecting, which made it even more enjoyable. The live music was excellent, and the performers had incredible voices that brought the entire production to life. To end the evening, we walked across the street to Andy's Pizza in Bethesda. The lively atmosphere, upstairs seating, and delicious pizza--available by the slice or as a whole pie--made for the perfect post-show meal. Overall, it was a wonderful night out. Great theatre, talented performers, and excellent pizza made for an evening I would happily recommend. read more

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I loved first experience at Round House Theatre to watch Sally & Tom. This Theatre is very clean and has a lot of offer-- Bar and coffee. The staff were so friendly and welcoming. I'll be back. read more

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Have seen several shows here, and am very impressed with this theater! Gorgeous sets and very comfortable seating and lobby. (All the seats have a fantastic view of the stage.) County parking garage directly across from the theater has reasonable rates and is free on Sundays. Get on the mailing list to get discounts to productions - they also have FREE tickets for students! Q by Peter Chang is directly across from the theater, for a nice bite before or after the show. Highly recommend! read more

I stumbled upon this playhouse while scrolling on IG a month ago. Yup, Instagram. This TopDog/ UnderDog play caught my eye. I shared w Hubby, and he was interested. This playhouse was so easy to locate. It's conveniently across the street from an inexpensive public parking garage. Great location, amazing production, kind employees, clean premises, intimate play showroom, great bar w several food & beverage options. I will certainly visit this gem again in the future, and I highly recommend it to others. read more

Round House Theatre - So excited to see this play !! - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

I have an affinity for smaller, more intimate theaters. It allows me to feel more connected to the actors, the story playing out in front of me, as well as the audience. I'm practically kicking myself because I had no idea that Roundhouse even existed, and that it is definitely one of the nicest small venues I've been to. I thoroughly enjoyed the production of "Topdog/Underdog", and I especially appreciated the theater establishing a safe space for POC patrons to experience this production authentically during the 'Blackout' night event which took place on the Juneteenth holiday. Some small but important things to note. First, the theater was exceptionally clean. The elevator. The bar. The bathrooms, the seats and floors underneath. Very well tended. Second, the aforementioned bar. I appreciated being able to arrive early and enjoy a cocktail, a light bite, and a sweet treat before the show. If you are a bourbon drinker like I am, try the "Artistic Proposal", made with bourbon, Drambuie, a splash of lime, and some simple syrup. Third, I appreciated how comfortable the theater was... not too hot, not to cold. I wore a sleeveless top to the show and forgot to bring a jacket, but I was perfectly comfortable during the entire production. Fourth, each of the staff members I encountered was professional, polite and welcoming. That really helped to set the tone for the remainder of the experience. Fifth, there is plenty of parking for a nominal fee. It;'s a little difficult to spot, but as soon as your see the theater, make that very first right turn (before the traffic light). I drove past it the first time because it looked like a loading dock and the counteless "No U-turn" signs in the area made it difficult to get back around. The elevator in the parking garage takes you directly into the theater, which is also extremely convenient. And finally, as I mentioned earlier, this venue provides an intimate theater-going experience that enabled me to feel more connected and engaged with what was playing out on the stage in front of me. The energy was electric and helped to amplify the experience for me. This will certainly not be my last visit to this theater. I only wish that in the show's program included a list of upcoming productions (or at least a QR code that would take us to the current season's schedule) so that I could begin planning the next show I plan to see. It would have been great to do that during intermission, or while waiting for the elevator to return to the parking garage. read more

Round House Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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I had such a wonderful evening watching the production of The Mountaintop at the Round House Theatre. I arrived 45mins before the start of the show and enjoyed pre-show drinks that were crafted especially for the production. This included not only the cocktails being named from themes stemming from the play, but also liquors that were popular during that time period. The theatre is ideally located in central Bethesda and I really enjoyed the intimacy of the actual auditorium itself. The production was amazing and I really look forward to visiting the Round House Theatre again. read more

Round House Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

We saw "Bad Books" at Round House, and it was the first of many plays we'll attend there. There is plenty of parking nearby. The building is clean, comfortable and relaxing. The staff was always positive and helpful. The play itself was rather new, timely and wonderfully cast, staged and directed. It's nice to see a playhouse support new writers. All patrons could see the stage and were close to the actors. The balcony seating also had perfect views. Our only negative were the seats, which we felt were a bit hard. However, the seating layout was special to this particular play, and might not reflect seating at other plays. read more

Who knew that this amazing, intimate theater was so close to my home and that I don't always need to deal with the Kennedy Center drive and parking. We saw The Tempest, directed by Aaron Posner and Teller. It was magical - literally, with a double-bodied Caliban, floating actors, and magic tricks by sorcerer Prospero. The stage sets were clever, with three levels across the back of the stage. The performance can be funny, and it's tender at the end. It's a pretty sophisticated production for such a small theater. There is easy parking nearby. I thought the first act dragged on a little too long (the entire production lasts nearly three hours), but the second act was fabulous. Highly recommend and can't wait to go back. I'm told there are four plays a year! read more

The Round House Theatre is a must see venue to watch a production. It's located in Bethesda, a block away from the Metro station. Parking is conveniently located at a parking garage across the street for a reasonable price. The theater has some of the best theatre seats in the area comfort wise. I saw Topdog/Underdog and I can honestly say this won't be my last time seeing a play at this theatre. Treat yourself! read more

Really appreciated this local, intimate, and modern theater in Bethesda! Love the option of not having to go downtown for theater. We watched the tempest here and was greeted by efficient and nice volunteers. We had first row balcony seats that were great for this show since they production used the upper deck regularly. Bathrooms were clean, even though line got long during intermission, it went quickly because of the number of stalls and small theater audience (compared to Kennedy center or the other local theaters in DC). There was a bar and ample counter seating on both floors. I saw they had some cookies for sale but didn't notice the other items on menu. Parking at Waverly public garage is just right next door and free on weekends. Such a convenient way to watch theater and spend the afternoon! read more

I greatly enjoyed several productions at Bethesda's Round House Theatre in the past. Particularly notable to me was their production of The Tempest! Today I contacted their Box Office to change the date for my tickets for an upcoming performance of their current offering -- Ink. Now I need to rave about their customer service as well as their theatrical performances. Mason, who took my call, was a model of excellent customer service. The whole call took just a few minutes and I ended up with even better seats than I thought I were available based on my online check of their website. read more

We were pleasantly surprised when we walked in for a show a few weeks ago. They've done some serious renovations and it looks great inside!! The staff is friendly and the show was really good as well! read more

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The Round House Theater is my window view during in office lunches. Had it not been for my co-worker sharing the 411 on the current musical run of 'Caroline, Or Change', I'm not sure when I would have visited. Hence, my 1st time here was incredible. Due to the discounted ticket offering 'Pay What You Can' for tickets (I was seated in the Gallery, front row) I thought what a wonderful opportunity to get theatrically acquainted with the RHT. As expected, there was a massive line waiting for the box office to open, which is 1 hour before the performance. The staff provided some chairs, in addition to other seating throughout the lobby & in the small café setting next to the Concession Stand. The theater has a contemporaneous scheme displaying photographs of actors & recognition of donors. Double stars for the entire staff, from the Box Office, Ticker Takers & House Ushers, everyone was welcoming & helpful. The bi-level house offers 400 seats - pretty comfortable to me, that is divided into 6 sections; 3 in the Gallery, 3 in the Orchestra, with limited accessible seating. Sign-interpreted services & listening devices (post performance insight to the apparatuses I noticed on certain individual's head) are available. The stage set up provides an easy view throughout. On the technical aspect, I'm giving an extra hand of applause to the A/V Engineers, as the sound/lights was unblemished & signage of Haze usage was appreciative. Thespian Tidbits - RHT has been nominated for more than 150 awards, winning over 30. They've established lifelong learning & educational programs that serves over 4000 students within their Education Center in Silver Springs & Montgomery County schools. High School students receive free tickets through RHT's Cornerstone program 'Play It Forward'. Various discounts are offered & to name a few; $10 Tuesdays, Member Affiliations & Pay What You Can...obtainable for 2 showings during the 1st week of production, cash only purchases with a 2 ticket per person limit. RHT is one block from the Bethesda Metro - Red Line, parking is available under the theater & in the Chevy Chase Building. Metered & Pay-By-Cell Phone are other parking options near the theater. I thoroughly enjoyed myself as a newcomer to the Round House Theater. Moreover, while watching a deep, intricate & melodic collaboration (based on the Playwright Tony Kushner's early life) of racial intertwine set in the early 1960's. The highly talented (singing was amazing!) & versatile group of actors was a pleasure to see...encore! read more

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This 400 seat theatre which opened in 2002 is an amazing place to see live theatre close in to DC, and just a short walk from the metro too! Round House produces literary adaptations of contemporary works. Last night's performance of Treasure Island was fantastic. It was well acted and well received by the audience. Every one of the comfy seat offers a great view with close proximity of the stage. The small balcony space is nice if that is your thing. Parking is $4 in the lot below the theatre, but you can save a bit of money by parking at one of two metered county lots off Waverly across the street. Parking is FREE in the county lots on Saturday and Sunday. Another cool thing about the Round House Theatre is that they offer classes for students PreK-Adult. See their website for details. read more

Round House Theatre - From their website - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

Saw a production of "The Legend of Georgia McBride" here and it was FABulous, darling! This gem of a theater may be in the 'burbs of D.C. but don't let its seemingly modest locale fool you. This 400-seat theater is celebrating its 40th season, and has racked up over 180 nominations for Helen Hayes awards, winning an impressive 37. This professional establishment epitomizes a true community partner, serving more than 4,000 students through its Education Center, in addition to producing a full season of plays, classics, and musicals annually. read more

Round House Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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This is a GREAT space to see a play. It's on Theater in the round, but the stage clearly has a large curvature to it. Imagine 1/3 of a circle..... There simply aren't any bad seats in this hall! The only drawback is having to pay for parking. Suck it up and go see a play here. You'll love it. read more

Round House Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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This theater, despite having been recently renovated, has seating reminiscent of economy class in an airline. My shoulders were squished throughout the play, as I squirmed and shifted and sought some position I could adopt that would allow my arms enough room to settle at my sides. Honestly, I was truly miserable and I will never return to a see another play there. There are other theaters that have more comfortable seats. Even the movie theaters are better. When you are miserable during the play, there is no point talking about other amenities. read more

The play "I'll Get You Back Again" was described as a story about a female stand-up comic who was raised in the 60s in a rock band. Sounded entertaining. WRONG! Without question the worst play I've ever seen. I think the actors were fine...but the material...the play...was AWFUL!! The first act was 1 hour and 45 minutes long...we weren't sure if the play was over, or if there was an intermission. We had to ask...and were surprised that this break (which we were so happy for) was just the intermission. Didn't matter...we left...along with about a third of the audience. Lots of unnecessary foul language (and I'm not a prude)... just bad on SO many levels! Save your pennies. ..skip this one! read more

Round House Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

If you haven't been, you're truly missing out. This is a first rate theatre that we are so lucky to have. The acting is usually outstanding. You might not like the play, but it's always done well. And, the remodeled theatre is a venue to behold. It is just gorgeous and has top notch acoustics. Not only does around House produce excellent plays in a wonderful venue, it is conscious of giving back to the community. Any student can attend any play free of charge. What a great way to get our young people interested in theater. Do yourself a favor and buy tix to the next play, "Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime". read more

Came here to see the PostSecret Play. Staff members at will call were pleasant enough. As with many theaters, the ambient temperature was chilly. Unfortunately some sound issues percolated through the entire performance, with some high frequency pulses cycling in the background every time the speakers were on. Fixed audience arrangement in raked seating for a thrust stage, though the apron had been broken down and stowed away in favor of additional chairs in front. Plain but attractive, intimate space. read more

Get thee some godddamed culture Yelpers ! A shout out to James L, the resident culture vulture, for his FTR on the sister studio / community theater this place has in Silver Spring. Me and the Honey came to the main theater in Bethesda a week or so ago to see the world premier of the Picture of Dorian Grey. I was expecting the 16th St theater scene - hipsters agogo. Nope. Not in Bethesda, the USA's first NORC ( Naturally Occuring Retirement Community). I am not sure if it was because it was one of the first nights, or it happens all the time, but the place was absolutely chocka with oldsters. The safety announcer said " in the event of an alarm, walk, DO NOT RUN to the nearest fire exit" at which point the honey whispered in my ear: " No danger of that with this crowd" Of course, it could also be the play itself - a blazingly modern rendition of the Oscar Wilde classic. I loved the play - fast paced,edgy, gory. It must also be said the American actors had tremendous British accents. A notice in the Box Office says it all " this play has everything - blood, gore, sex, violence, nudity, adult themes. The play got slammed by the Post - I really enjoyed it and I would recommend it and the theater for three reasons: 1. They specialize in newly commissioned work - they will take a famous novel, give it to a new playwright and tell him to jazz it up and make it modern. 2. They have a fabulous system on the stage for changing the sets - concentric circles move around and jerk the props, the sets and the actors into place with a music box precision that is itself fun to watch. 3. It is a small intimate theater with no bad seats and they offer great deals. Only bad thing I can say is that they do not serve alcohol so smuggle in your hip flask. read more

Although we have been in Washington DC for a while now, this was the first time we went to the Roundhouse Theater, yesterday, to see an amazing play there. Starting with the basics: they have parking right at the theater, an underground garage. It was a cold day so we were happy that we did not have to take our coats into the theater - we left them in the car and walked straight in the underground garage to an elevator that took us to the lobby. Next, the physical facility: A beautiful lobby, great snack bar, plentiful restrooms. Staff and ushers were friendly and helpful. The theater itself is well-banked, excellent sightlines, seats are spacious (!), great acoustics. Finally, the artistic component: the play that we saw, Caroline or Change, was superb. Extremely moving, well acted, great set, fantastic orchestra. And In an added lovely touch, much of the cast and one of the directors came on the stage afterward for a question-and-answer session with the audience. This was very interesting and very gracious of them. In short, the Roundhouse Theater is a wonderful community resource and I urge all DMV residents who like the performing arts to visit!!! read more

After spending way too much time at the theater attending advance screenings, I have a new love and appreciation for theatre. Watching people occasionally stutter and spit as they talk is very refreshing. I came here to see Becky Shaw, and arrived unfashionably late since I failed at timing dinner correctly. The attendant at the will call window already had our tickets in hand as we arrived to pick up our tickets. We also had leftover food with us, and the employees held it for us during the show, and it was nicely displayed on the concession stand countertop as we exited the theatre. Entering and exiting the theatre could not have been easier! The show itself was great as well. read more

Cool, cozy, and quaint place to catch a show for a unique night out. Definitely not the same as a Broadway show but it has a very relaxed (as much as can be in Bethesda) local vibe. We randomly saw "I Love to Eat: Cooking with James Beard" which was a near little single actor show. Short but it seems to go in too many different directions while trying to provide a glimpse into his personality and mind. I'd definitely see another show there and will pay attention to the website going forward. read more

The Round House has a wonderful facility, and stuffy but helpful docents to take your tickets and seat you. However, the last two plays we attended there were shockingly bad. read more

Round House Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

I'm first, yay! I love being first :) This is a really cute little theatre. They have $10 Tuesdays at least once during each show which is pretty awesome. It's mostly a gray haired crowd and my friends and I. But that's okay I don't mind for $10 you really can't beat it. It's only a block or so from the metro. Both shows I've seen there have been good and it's not huge so pretty much any seat in the house is good. read more

A decent theater company out in the Maryland burbs of Bethesda. I've been to a couple of shows here. I struggle to really articulate their niche. They put on shows like Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo which have had success in other places as well as novels that were adapted to the stage like a Prayer for Owen Meanie. The crowd is a bit older than the crowds at other venues across DC (which is already skewed older). They have fairly priced tickets for under 30s and a Tuesday discount as well. Often times shows are relatively empty, which is a shame. My main problem with the theater is the stage set up. The theater is very wide which means that a lot of the seats are almost side views. I think the venue is actually rather large for a theater in DC as well, it feels bigger than Woolly or Studio for sure. All in all a decent place to see a performance if there is one that you want to see here, but not somewhere to search out just because of the space. read more

The theater is nice, cozy, convenient, and affordable. Just saw our first show there ... Wrinkle in Time which is excellent. I'd caution against taking younger children though, even if they meet the recommended age for a show. Wrinkle in Time, for example, is targeted at 6 & up. By most childhood standards, the show is much too intense and dark for kids in K-2. Lost two stars for the marketing. read more

This is a review of MOXIE: A Happenstance Theater Vaudeville. Closes this weekend! Happenstance Theater brings Vaudeville to life in a kaleidoscope of acts ranging from slapstick to novelty dance, with magic, mesmerism, knife-throwing, stilt-walking, and Shakespearean soliloquies in the mix. But they do not stop with recreating a lost experience, as delightful and hilarious as that is; with the lightest touch possible, they illuminate the lives of Vaudeville performers--nomadic, gritty, repetitive yet unpredictable--and the end of an era. The characters age subtly; radio intrudes onto the stage; Vaudeville waves goodbye as the train leaves--on film. MOXIE is a masterpiece! Three cheers, Happenstance Theater! read more

Round House Theatre - MOXIE: A Happenstance Vaudeville, closing July 17! - Performing Arts Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

They put on some really quality productions, and pull in some great actors from the area and abroad. Plus, $10 if you're under 30!

One of the worst plays I've seen in a while! Round House has brought us a number of memorable evenings of theater in recent years, but this was a dud! It's rare that I leave after the first act of a play; I was not alone this time (and the theater audience was notably sparse from the first). The story is confusing -- you can't figure out who the young men are who appear on stage from time to time unless you peek at the program beforehand. Why should we care about any of the characters? Too little is revealed about any of them to engage our hearts or sympathies. What are the themes/issues/problems that the script invites us to confront? The actors try their best to overcome a poor script that begs for an editor to trim and shape it. The set is great but sets support good theater rather than substituting for a good play. Save your money. I have faith that this dog is just a temporary aberration and that the next play in the season will be worth seeing. read more

Fantastic theater!!! Small in size, which makes a perfect intimate setting where you can see and hear the actors perfectly! I saw Miss Bennet and it was fantastic! Incredibly funny and witty and emotional. I loved every part of it! Can't wait to be back at Atlas for more amazing shows!! They have really cheap and sometimes free beer after the show and great discounts on certain days of the week. Another hidden gem in the DC area! read more

Just saw "Seminar" here, by the hilariously caustic playwright/TV and film writer Teresa Rebeck. Very well done on every level. Word of warning: if you're a woman (which I am), I think this is a very challenging play to watch. Rebeck basically throws the women in her play under the bus. But the play will give you lots to think and talk about afterward! read more

High-quality, Metro-accessible, creative risk-taking-- check out Round House! Pick any play and take the chance; you'll be glad you did. read more

Came here to see play called Fetchin', Clay which told story of actor/comedian Steppin Fetchin and Cassius Clay (Muhammed Ali) before his second fight against Sonny Liston. The play was awesome! Very well written and the actors did a terrific job! Must see this play. read more

I assume Master Harold and the Boys is a terrific production, but due to the poor acoustics in the theater I could only catch about 50-75% of the dialog. Folks sitting near me reported the same problem. Apparently Round House doesn't believe in amplification, so unless you're sitting near the stage, be prepared to struggle to hear and understand. May be OK for a musical, but definitely not for a drama. read more

"Handbagged" was superb! Whether you lived through the era of Maggie Thatcher or not, this play is for you. It gives insights into the politics and the perspective of royalty (Queen Elizabeth the second) that broadens and deepens and humanizes the events that occurred. Just 6 actors in this fast-paced play make it well worth a ticket while you can get it (the show we saw was sold out) for this world premiere. We loved it!! read more

I saw The Picture of Dorian Gray at this theatre and it was horrible. I would like to think that the Round House vets the productions at their own theatre. This play is by far the worst I have ever seen in the DC metro area. We aren't even talking about being artistically critical. This play was so badly put together you can't even discuss this play in any serious light. Shame on you Round House. read more

I saw Caroline or Change at the Round House Theatre, and while the play itself was also great, this review is focused on my experience at the theatre itself. The theatre is very easy to get to from DC, and just a few minutes walk from the Bethesda metro. I was grateful for the proximity and the theatre's quick check-in process as the metro was single tracking and I was running to make it to the show on time! I sat in the far left towards the back of the orchestra section and the view was great. I do not think there is a bad seat in the place! I got my $10 Tuesday ticket, which is such an amazing deal. Definitely plan in advance! I was only able to get one ticket, and I've already checked and there are no available tickets at that price for the next show happening in 3 months! Overall the seats were comfortable, the number of bathroom stalls was plentiful (though never enough), and there is a concessions stand with snacks, soft drinks, and wine and beer at reasonable prices ($7-$9 for alcohol). I hope to attend more shows here in the future! read more

Great theater ... Easy parking....comfortable seats - all with perfect views of the stage.