Kennedy Center Board Votes to Close Venue for Renovations

The board of the Kennedy Center voted on September 15, 2026, to close the performing arts center immediately for renovations due to its financial and structural issues. The decision follows a federal judge's rejection of the board's attempt to add former President Donald Trump's name to the building's facade, which the board claims is necessary to avoid bankruptcy. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that renovations would not commence until his name was added. He mentioned that $17 million raised by him has been allocated to support the center, which received $250 million in appropriations from Congress last year. The board cited a partial ceiling collapse in the Grand Foyer as a reason for the immediate closure. A construction consultant and the center's director deemed the main building unsafe for occupancy. This marks the third time since February that the board has voted for a two-year closure for renovations. Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex-officio board member, has challenged the closure in court, arguing that due diligence was not followed. The board's attorneys indicated that legal actions have hindered necessary repairs. Trump participated in the board meeting virtually, criticizing Beatty and the judge involved in the case. The board is expected to request the judge to lift the block on the center's closure, while Beatty's legal team plans to oppose this request. The Kennedy Center also stated it is in a dire financial position and may face bankruptcy if not supported by Trump's fundraising efforts. A previous resolution to rename parts of the center to honor Trump was not voted on during this meeting, as the board focused on the closure issue. A U.S. District Judge previously ruled that adding Trump's name to the facade was illegal without Congressional approval, expressing skepticism about the board's claims regarding fundraising.