At the golden edge of dusk, the Keegan Theatre’s red-brick façade glows warmly against a clear Washington, D.C. sky. Located at 1742 Church Street NW in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, this former church building has been transformed into one of the city’s most beloved intimate performing arts venues. With light spilling softly from its symmetrical arched windows and entryway, the building invites visitors in with the promise of storytelling, creativity, and community.
Originally built in 1905 as the Mount Vernon United Methodist Church, this structure has seen the neighborhood around it evolve dramatically over the past century. Its dignified Romanesque design—with rounded-arch windows, decorative brickwork, and modest stone trim—retains the gravitas of its ecclesiastical origins while now embracing a lively new purpose as a theater.
Posters flank the entrance announcing upcoming performances, while the LGBTQ+ pride flag waves proudly above the doorway, signaling the venue’s inclusive spirit. The modern glass expansion to the left harmonizes gracefully with the original architecture, showcasing how adaptive reuse can balance heritage with growth.
This image captures more than just a theater; it reflects the soul of a city that values art, diversity, and historic preservation. It’s a moment of stillness before the lights go down and the curtain rises.
Architectural Survey Appendix (Historic Documentation Format):
Name: Keegan Theatre (formerly Mount Vernon United Methodist Church)
Address: 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, D.C.
Date of Construction: 1905
Style: Romanesque Revival
Architectural Features: Red brick façade, arched windows with fanlights, decorative stone keystones, symmetrical elevation, modern glass addition
Building Material: Brick masonry with stone accents
Number of Stories: 2
Historic Integrity: Well preserved with sensitive modern addition
Current Use: Theater / Performing Arts Venue
Contributing Structure: Yes (within the Dupont Circle Historic District)
