One of the most visited sites in the nationÍs capital, FordÍs Theatre reopened its doors in 1968, more than a hundred years after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Operated through a partnership between FordÍs Theatre Society and the National Park Service, FordÍs Theatre is the premier destination in the nationÍs capital to explore and celebrate Abraham LincolnÍs ideals and leadership principles: courage, integrity, equality and creative expression. The mission of FordÍs Theatre Society is to celebrate the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and explore the American experience through theatre and education. Since the arrival of Director Paul R. Tetreault, critics and the theatregoing public have recognized FordÍs for the superior quality of its artistic programming, with works from the Tony-nominated Come From Away" and nationally acclaimed "Big River "_ to the world premieres of "Meet John Doe,"_ "The Heavens Are Hung In Black,"_ "Liberty Smith,"_ "Necessary Sacrifices,"_ "The Widow Lincoln"_ and "The Guard."_ For its accomplishments, the organization was honored in 2008 with the National Medal of Arts.