President Trump announced that the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, recently renamed the Trump Kennedy Center, will close for approximately two years to undergo extensive renovations and rebuilding.
The closure is scheduled to begin on July 4, 2026, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary, enabling simultaneous construction of what Trump described as a “new and spectacular entertainment complex.” Trump stated that this decision, informed by highly respected experts, would transform the “tired, broken, and dilapidated” center into a world-class hub for the arts, music, and entertainment. He emphasized that a full, temporary shutdown would yield faster, higher-quality results than partial closures.
Financing for the project is reportedly completed and fully in place, though details on the funding sources were not elaborated. The announcement comes amid ongoing controversies, including a flood of performer cancellations following the center’s board vote to add Trump’s name last year. The plan remains subject to approval by the Kennedy Center’s board, which consists of Trump’s handpicked members.
This move reflects Trump’s broader efforts to oversee and revitalize the institution during his second administration, despite backlash from the arts community.
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