In a bold and ambitious move, President Donald Trump visited the Kennedy Center on Monday, promising to restore the historic performing arts venue to its former glory. During his visit, Trump announced sweeping changes, including a comprehensive renovation plan, aiming to fix what he described as a poorly designed structure with wasted space and underutilized resources.
Trump, a seasoned real estate developer, criticized the building’s layout, stating, “Vast amounts of space are wasted, and the design concept was very bad.” He added that enormous underground rooms remain unused, calling them a missed opportunity. Trump confirmed he will soon collaborate with Congress, which funds the center, to develop a detailed overhaul plan. “We’ll bring it back. We’ll make it great again,” he declared, hinting at optimizing the space for better performances and a strong future.
The president’s visit comes shortly after a historic shake-up of the Kennedy Center’s leadership. Trump replaced the board’s previous chairman, David Rubenstein, a key donor, as well as long-serving president Deborah F. Rutter. Taking their place are loyal allies like Richard Grenell, now president, and conservative figures such as Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Second Lady Usha Vance, and Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Trump emphasized these changes were essential for creating a “golden age in arts and culture.” He also vowed to eliminate programming he deemed inappropriate, stating there would be no more drag shows or “anti-American propaganda” at the Kennedy Center.
However, not everyone is on board with these changes. The shake-up has caused backlash in the performing arts community, with some high-profile acts, like the producers of "Hamilton," canceling their shows. Jeffrey Seller, "Hamilton’s" producer, accused Trump of injecting politics into a sacred institution, saying, “The Kennedy Center should remain free from political interference.”
In addition to restructuring the board, Trump is pursuing authority to appoint or replace members of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors selection committee, which nominates and celebrates luminaries in entertainment. This committee has historically operated independently of the White House.
Past honorees have included icons like Lucille Ball, Clint Eastwood, and Earth, Wind & Fire. Trump’s involvement could mark a significant shift in how honorees are selected, potentially favoring more conservative-friendly artists.
Adding a personal touch to his visit, Trump revealed that board member Lee Greenwood had planned to perform at the inaugural meeting but canceled due to a labor union’s excessive demand of $30,000 to move a piano. Trump criticized the demand as reflective of broader inefficiencies in the arts world that he plans to address.
Despite the backlash, Trump remains focused on the future. He reassured reporters that new Broadway hits like “Les Miserables,” “Porgy and Bess,” and “Legally Blonde” are still on this year’s schedule. He encouraged visitors to come and see the changes unfold, promising an improved experience. “You’ll see, over time, it’ll improve very greatly, physically. And we’re going to get some very good shows,” he said confidently.
The president’s renovation plans also include improving the infrastructure of the Kennedy Center to better support modern performances. With talks of collaborating with Congress, Trump is determined to ensure that the Kennedy Center remains a national treasure for generations to come.
