WASHINGTON (TNND) — The board of directors of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts voted Monday to close the Washington cultural landmark for two years following this summer’s July 4 celebrations, citing the need for extensive repairs to the facility.
President Donald Trump, who currently serves as chairman of the Kennedy Center’s board, said the closure would allow improvements that keep the venue among the world’s top performing arts institutions. Speaking to reporters at the White House ahead of the meeting, Trump said the work would ensure the center “remains the finest performing arts facility of its kind anywhere in the world.”
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 16: Richard Grenell, outgoing President of The Kennedy Center Board of Trustees, (L) sits with Matt Floca who will replace him as they listen to U.S. President Donald Trump speak during a lunch with the Trump Kennedy Center Board Members in the East Room of the White House on March 16, 2026 in Washington, DC. President Trump convened the board of trustees of the Trump Kennedy Center to vote on a proposal to close the institution for two years of major renovations. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
The decision comes after months of change at the institution during Trump’s second term. The arts complex has seen a wave of resignations, artist cancellations and leadership changes since the administration replaced much of the center’s leadership and reshaped its board of trustees.
Alongside the closure vote, the board named Matt Floca as the Kennedy Center’s new chief executive officer and executive director. Floca replaces Richard Grenell, a longtime Trump ally who oversaw major changes at the institution during his tenure.
Trump praised Grenell for his service and wished Floca success as he takes over leadership of the center.
According to the Kennedy Center, the board’s vote to shut down the venue was unanimous. Rep. Joyce Beatty, an Ohio Democrat who serves as an ex officio member of the board, attended the meeting but did not cast a vote.
Beatty had filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent the Trump administration from excluding her from the meeting. Over the weekend, a federal judge ruled she could participate in the meeting but did not require the board to grant her voting rights. The meeting itself was held at the White House.
After returning to office last year, Trump removed the center’s previous leadership and installed a new board that ultimately named him chairman.
The changes have sparked backlash within the arts community. Several artists withdrew from scheduled appearances at the center, and some advisers stepped down from their roles.
Floca most recently served as the Kennedy Center’s vice president of operations. He joined the organization in January 2024 and previously held facilities and sustainability leadership roles with the District of Columbia government.
This report includes information from The Associated Press.
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