Trump closes the Kennedy Center for two years to rebuild it after the wave of cancellations and the boycott of artists

The president detailed through a message published in Truth Social that the theater complex will suspend its activities as of July 4, 2026, the date on which the 250 years of the independence of the United States will be commemorated.

Last year, the Trump Administration took control of the board of directors of the Kennedy Center, founded in 1971 and named in honor of the former president. John F. Kennedyassassinated in 1963. Last December, the White House announced a name change for the complex, which was officially called “Trump-Kennedy Center.”

A gesture rejected by artists and companies, who have canceled many performances. The National Opera and Philip Glass, to name two cases, broke with the cultural center after Trump added his name to it, something that has also been criticized by Kennedy’s family.

“I have determined that the Trump-Kennedy Center, if temporarily closed for construction, revitalization and complete reconstruction, can, without a doubt, be the best performing arts center of its kind in the entire world“, promised the president. In addition, he assured that in 2028 there will be “a grand reopening that will rival and surpass any other previously carried out with respect to this type of facilities.”

Trump was at the Kennedy Center last Thursday, when he accompanied the first lady, Melania Trump, to the presentation of a documentary about her life. The Republican also visited it on December 5, when the building hosted the draw for the 2026 World Cup, of which the United States is one of the host countries.

At the head of the institution, Trump has ordered delete the content woke (progressive) of its programming and has promised a thorough renovation of the building, including the installation of new seats. In his message he assured that the closure must be approved by the board and added that he already has the financing, although without offering details.

The president also appointed himself presenter of the 2025 Kennedy Center Awards gala, which was presented, among others, to Sylvester Stallone, Gloria Gaynor and the group Kiss.

The takeover of the institution is one of the changes that Trump has promoted in the American capital to leave his personal mark. The president has ordered an extensive remodeling of the White House, which includes the construction of a grand ballroom after the demolition of the East Wing of the mansion, and also plans to erect a triumphal arch at one of the entrances to Washington.