The Discovery Theatre is part of the Smithsonian Institution located in the historic Arts and Industries Building in Washington, D.C. The theatre is a popular children?s institution offering more than 400 performances of 25 different programs representing a full spectrum of topics and forms. Various productions each season include classic stories for children, American history and culture, original dramas, and folk tales from all over the world, performed through puppetry, storytelling, dancing, musical, opera, mimes and other innovative theatre techniques. All performances are excellent educational entertainment for children, as well as a venue for children to explore their creative side and spark interest.

What started as the Smithsonian Puppet Theatre performing in a room in the National Museum of American History in 1964, has since broadened its reach in presenting the heritage and cultural arts. The theatre was rechristened as Discovery Theatre after moving to its present location in 1979. From only using puppets and storytelling in their productions, the theatre began to include other traditional arts such as acoustic music from around the globe, commedia clowning and retelling of classical Greek and Roman fables and myths. All these are performed in a manner of a festival or street performance. To this day, such performance techniques are still adopted as well as other new creative ways.

In 2006, the Discovery Theatre along with the education departments of the nation's top museums started the Meet The Museum program which aims to engage young people by introducing themes and topics through a 20-30 minute theatre performance. The main event of the program is the gallery visit to objects, artifacts or artwork on that theme.

Discovery Theater is the premiere source in celebrating the rich diversity of the nation and the world, tapping into the vast resources of the Smithsonian Institution. All performances are open to public and advance reservations may be arranged for school groups, youth organizations, and families with children.