Since 2019, The National Theatre Foundation has partnered with Children’s National Hospital to host live and virtual performing arts experiences for young patients and their families through The National Theatre’s Community Stages. We provided the joy of the performing arts to Children’s National during the COVID-19 pandemic through filmed workshops that featured local artists such as Alex and Olmsted and hip-hop organization Words, Beats & Life, and supported magician Michael Chamberlain’s work at a special appearance by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden. Words, Beats & Life has remained a valuable partner as we have returned in-person programming in the Costco Wholesale Atrium and the Healing Garden.
More than providing entertainment, your artists help us create sacred spaces—moments of release, reflection, and restoration through the power of the arts. We are proud to call The National Theatre Foundation and your artists our partners.
Dana Morgan, Performance Coordinator at Children’s National Hospital
Sunflower Music Festival
Every year, the Sunflower Music Festival brings together patients, parents, and staff for a day of joyful music in the hospital’s Costco Wholesale Main Atrium and Healing Garden. We’ve co-presented this special occasion since 2025, drawing on our network to bring in artists of all genres: hip-hop, pop, rock, Latin, funk, and much more. Check out a few highlights from the 2026 edition below!
Community Stage Connections is made possible in part by the generous support of
The Washington Children’s Foundation.