President Donald Trump has announced a controversial plan to close the Kennedy Center in Washington for a two-year period, with renovations scheduled to commence in July. This decision comes amid significant backlash from performers and arts groups who have opposed Trump's recent interventions at the storied venue since his return to the White House.
Trump's Social Media Announcement Sparks Controversy
In a social media post on Sunday, Trump revealed his intention to shutter the Kennedy Center for construction work, describing the move as essential to transform what he called a "tired, broken, and dilapidated" facility into a "World Class Bastion of Arts, Music, and Entertainment." He emphasised that the proposal is based on input from "Highly Respected Experts," though neither Trump nor Kennedy Center President Ric Grenell, a close ally, have provided concrete evidence to substantiate claims about the building's structural or financial disrepair.
Backlash from Performers and Arts Groups
The announcement follows a wave of cancellations by leading performers and organisations, who have withdrawn from the Kennedy Center in protest against Trump's changes. Notably, composer Philip Glass recently pulled his Symphony No. 15 "Lincoln," stating that the centre's current values are in "direct conflict" with the piece's message. Additionally, the Washington National Opera announced last month that it will move performances away from the venue, marking another high-profile departure.
Trump's proposal, which he says is subject to approval by the Kennedy Center's board—a body he chairs and has stocked with hand-picked allies—was made just days after the premiere of "Melania," a documentary about the first lady shown at the centre. The sudden decision is expected to ignite further blowback, as it upends a popular cultural institution that has served as a public showcase for the arts since its opening in 1971.
Historical Context and Broader Implications
The Kennedy Center, originally established as a national cultural centre and renamed in 1964 as a "living memorial" to President John F. Kennedy, is one of many Washington landmarks Trump has sought to imprint with his legacy during his second term. His efforts include demolishing the East Wing of the White House, launching a $400 million ballroom project, and pursuing plans for a triumphal arch near the Lincoln Memorial, alongside initiatives at Washington Dulles International Airport.
Opposition to Trump's involvement has been vocal, with members of Congress and some Kennedy family members criticising his move to add his name to the building. Kerry Kennedy, a niece of John F. Kennedy, even threatened to remove Trump's name with a pickax once his term ends. The head of artistic programming for the centre also left his post abruptly last week, adding to the turmoil.
A spokesperson for the Kennedy Center did not immediately respond to requests for comment, leaving many questions unanswered about the practicalities and funding of the proposed renovations. As the situation unfolds, the closure threatens to disrupt the National Symphony Orchestra and other year-round arts programmes, highlighting the ongoing tensions between political influence and cultural preservation in the nation's capital.
