Few theaters have shown as much dedication to modern musical theater as Washington, D.C.’s Signature Theatre. The Signature first became known for its frequent and innovative productions of Stephen Sondheim musicals, going on to produce works by the celebrated “new guard” of musical theater writers that includes such notables as Adam Guettel and Michael John LaChiusa. Most Signature seasons boast a world premiere of a new musical, and productions of cult favorites like Side Show and Hedwig & the Angry Inch are also common.

Aspiring songwriters are supported through programs like the two-week Musical Theatre Institute training program and recently The American Musical Voices Project: The Next Generation gave three promising composers a good chunk of money to develop new full-length musicals that will later be developed at the Signature through readings and performances.

In addition to its commitment to new musicals, Signature has presented revivals of classics such as My Fair Lady, plus acclaimed productions of new non-musical plays.