We believe live theatre and the arts are a crucial part of a rich and vibrant culture. Through your tax-deductible donation, you can help contribute to that rich culture and help us write the next chapter in The DAW Theatre’s history.
Located in Tappahannock’s historic district, The DAW Theatre opened in 1939 and quickly became a cultural hub, offering films, live performances, and community events.
Nestled in the heart of Tappahannock’s historic Prince Street, The DAW Theatre has stood as a cultural cornerstone since its grand opening in February 1939. Named after its founders—E.M. Doar, H.S. Atkinson, and R.B. Wallace—this 500-seat Art Deco gem once drew crowds from across the Tidewater region, offering not just the latest films, but a vibrant mix of live performances and community events.
A brief History of The DAW Theatre & The DAW Foundation
The DAW has remained a hollow shell of steel and concrete...until now!
The DAW Theatre is a fully certified 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that will provide Essex County and surrounding areas a professional theatre and preserves its historic building.
We believe live theatre and the arts are a crucial part of a rich and vibrant culture. Through your tax-deductible donation, you can help contribute to that rich culture and help us write the next chapter in The DAW Theatre’s history.
Help Us Light Up the Stage Again
We’re not just restoring a 1930s-era theatre — we’re reigniting the cultural heartbeat of Tappahannock, the Middle Peninsula, and the Northern Neck.
This is more than a renovation.
It’s a revival.
We’re creating a space where lifetime memories will be made — where children will take their first bows, where families will gather for unforgettable performances, and where our community will come together to celebrate the arts. We’re opening doors — for local businesses, for downtown Tappahannock, and for the next generation of artists and dreamers. With your support, we’re cultivating a love for the arts that will echo for generations.
Join us. Be part of the story. Help us bring The DAW back to its former glory.
Help Us Preserve the Legacy of The DAW Theatre!
Over the years, many cherished photos and artifacts of The DAW Theatre have been lost due to various circumstances. We're reaching out to our community to help us rebuild this visual history. If you have any old photos or memorabilia of The DAW Theatre, please consider sharing them with us. Every image helps keep the spirit of the theatre alive for future generations.
Contact us if you have any photos you would like to share with The DAW!
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.