President Trump announced on Sunday his intention to shut down the Kennedy Center in Washington for a period of two years starting in July for renovation purposes. The decision, shared on social media, comes amidst a series of recent cancellations at the venue following Trump’s changes to its leadership and branding. Despite previous promises to keep the center open during renovations, both Trump and Kennedy Center president Ric Grenell, a Trump ally, have emphasized the necessity of the closure for comprehensive renovations.
The Kennedy Center, originally established as a national cultural center and later dedicated as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy, has faced backlash from the artistic community with major groups withdrawing from scheduled appearances. Composer Philip Glass notably pulled his Symphony No. 15 Lincoln from the venue, citing conflicting values. The Washington National Opera also announced plans to move performances away from the center in response to Trump’s involvement.
Critics, including Rep. Joyce Beatty, have condemned Trump’s unilateral decision to close the Kennedy Center, highlighting concerns about artistic independence and congressional authority. Beatty emphasized that the remodeling plans do not address the core issue of preserving the venue’s artistic integrity. Since his return to the White House, Trump has pursued various renovation projects across Washington, including the Kennedy Center, reflecting his commitment to reshaping the capital’s landmarks.