Frequently Asked Questions

About our professional theatre and performances

Q: It's my first time, what should I wear? What should I expect?

A: A lot of people coming to Imagination Stage for the first time have a lot of questions. We created a "first visit guide" which you can find at "First Visit" . Overall, you can wear what you would wear to go to the movies (shirt and shoes required). Fancy dress is NOT required.

Q: Is food allowed in the theatre?

A: No, food is not allowed in the theatre, however we have a café and lobby where you can consume a meal or a snack before or after a performance. During intermission we have carts with modestly priced snacks available to eat, as well.

Q: How do I know if my child will like a show?

A: Most children love theatre - they are natural performers and likewise enjoy watching live actors on stage. Our shows are sometimes based on books your child may already know or you can read to him or her before attending. Sometimes our shows are original works designed for young audiences. If you are unsure about the show, just call our box office to discuss the material and how best to prepare your family to enjoy the show.

Q: What if my 2 year old gets scared and starts to cry?

A: The Lerner Family Theatre is equipped with a sound proof room where you can take an upset child so that s/he may settle down. Inside the room you can continue to watch the show while note disturbing your neighbors.

Q: Do you have a enewsletter or mailing list where I can find out what's happening?

A: Yes, please sign up here for our monthly enewsletter.

Q: Where do you find your actors for performances?

Most of our actors are professionals working in the DC area. Sometimes we have artists come to work with us from NYC. We find our actors through an extensive audition process in the late winter/early spring of each year. More information about auditions can be found on our Jobs & Auditions page.

Q: What is the difference between the Lerner Theatre and StoryTheatre?

For the most part, the Lerner Theatre houses performances produced by Imagination Stage designed for children 4 years and older. StoryTheatre is our signature program for 2 - 4 year olds. The performances are diverse with an emphasis on exposing children to global artistic experiences. Performances are typically held in the Christopher and Dana Reeve Theatre, a smaller theatre best suited to this type of performance (note: larger musical events in StoryTheatre may be held in the Lerner Theatre due to technical needs of performers)

About our classes and camps

Q: Do you have scholarships?

A: Yes, we do have scholarships based on need. For application information, please contact David Markey, Director of Education, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Q: What if I just want to try a class?

A: You can audit a class for two weeks before committing to a full registration. You must complete the registration form and indicate that you would like to audit. Only two weeks of tuition will be charged. If you decide to enroll, the registration will be processed completely.

Q: Do you have a enewsletter or mailing list where I can find out what's happening?

A: Yes, please sign up here for our monthly enewsletter.

About our facility

Q: Where is your building located?

A: 4908 Auburn Ave, Bethesda, MD (just south of the NIH Campus)

Q: Where can I park?

A: We are attached to a public parking garage. There is free parking on the weekends.

Q: How can I get there driving/public transit/etc?

A: We are an easy walk or Bethesda Trolley ride from the Bethesda Metro (red line). Imagination Stage is easy to reach, tucked between Old Georgetown Rd. and Wisconsin Ave. Click here for Directions.

Q: Do you have other locations?

A: Currently there is only one Imagination Stage, however, we do run our summer camps at additional locations (Charles E Smith Jewish Day School, Sidwell Friends School, NW DC, Sienna School, American University and Montgomery College)

Q: Is your facility available for rental?

A: Yes it is, but with very limited availability due to our own programming. For more information click here or contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it