In a significant development for Washington DC's cultural landscape, the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will cease all entertainment events for a two-year period starting this July. The announcement came directly from former President Donald Trump via a post on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, marking a pivotal moment for the world-renowned institution.
A Major Renovation Plan Unveiled
Trump revealed that the Kennedy Center will halt its entertainment operations from 4th July onwards, with renovations scheduled to commence immediately. This decision follows a year-long review process during which Trump evaluated options between a complete closure and reopening or maintaining partial operations during the reconstruction phase.
In his social media statement, Trump declared: "Based on these findings, and totally subject to Board approval, I have determined that the fastest way to bring The Trump Kennedy Center to the highest level of Success, Beauty, and Grandeur, is to cease Entertainment Operations for an approximately two year period of time, with a scheduled Grand Reopening that will rival and surpass anything that has taken place with respect to such a Facility before."
Turmoil and Transformation
The Kennedy Center has experienced considerable upheaval since Trump initiated a leadership overhaul in February 2025, when he assumed the role of chair following a board restructuring. The venue, which traditionally hosts more than 2,000 events annually according to its official records, has witnessed a dramatic decline in programming and attendance in recent months.
Ticket sales have reached their lowest point in years, with a Washington Post analysis revealing that during a critical period from September to October last year, 43% of tickets for typical productions remained unsold. This downturn coincides with numerous high-profile cancellations from artists and performers who have withdrawn from scheduled events in response to the institution's new direction.
Artistic Exodus and Institutional Changes
The cultural community has responded strongly to Trump's involvement with the Kennedy Center. Notable figures including Hamilton producer Jeffrey Seller have publicly withdrawn their participation, with Seller stating in March that "our show simply cannot, in conscience, participate and be a part of this new culture that is being imposed on the Kennedy Center."
Other prominent artists who have cancelled performances include:
- Actor and producer Issa Rae
- Grammy-winning musician Rhiannon Giddens
- Musician Peter Wolf
- Rock band Low Cut Connie
Furthermore, several key figures have resigned from their positions, including television producer Shonda Rhimes from the board of trustees, and artistic advisers soprano Renée Fleming and musician Ben Folds. In a significant institutional change, the Washington National Opera announced in January that it would relocate its performances after more than four decades at the venue.
Controversial Rebranding Efforts
Adding to the controversy, Trump's newly appointed board of trustees voted in December to rename the institution the "Trump-Kennedy Center." However, this proposed change faces legal hurdles, as federal legislation designates the venue as the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, established as a living memorial to the former president. Any permanent name alteration would require congressional approval according to established understanding.
Trump had previously outlined his vision for the center in February, stating: "We're going to make sure that it's good and it's not going to be woke. There's no more woke in this country." This statement reflects the philosophical shift that has accompanied the administrative changes at one of America's most prestigious cultural institutions.
The two-year closure represents one of the most substantial interruptions in the Kennedy Center's history, with the renovation period intended to transform the facility ahead of what Trump promises will be a grand reopening surpassing previous standards. The cultural implications of this extended shutdown will undoubtedly reverberate throughout Washington DC's arts community and beyond.
