Kennedy Center to close for 2 years after Trump changes

Trump announced on Feb. 2, 2026, that the Kennedy Center will close for two years starting in July. He said the closure is for extensive renovations. Trump said we are going to make the Kennedy Center GREAT AGAIN.

Trump appointed himself as chairman of a new Kennedy Center board. He also appointed Richard Grenell to lead the center temporarily during the transition. Grenell previously served as acting Director of National Intelligence.

Trump banned drag shows at the Kennedy Center. A week of LGBTQ+ events scheduled for April 2026 was canceled. Board treasurer Shonda Rhimes resigned after Trump changes to programming.

The musical Hamilton announced it would cancel upcoming Kennedy Center shows. The cancellation came after Trump imposed content restrictions. Hamilton had been a signature Kennedy Center production.