Kennedy Center faces bankruptcy, could close Tuesday, Post reports

Key facts

• The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy.
• The center could close as early as Tuesday.
• Leaders installed by President Donald Trump suggest adding his name to the facade might prevent bankruptcy.
• The Washington Post obtained documents detailing the center's financial situation.
• The center's board previously approved a two-year closure for renovations proposed by President Trump.

Leaders of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts have stated that the institution is on the brink of bankruptcy and could face closure as early as Tuesday, according to a report by The Washington Post. The leaders, who were installed by U.S. President Donald Trump, believe that adding the president's name to the center's facade might be the only viable option to avert imminent and "certain fiscal collapse," the newspaper reported, citing documents it obtained. Previously, in March 2026, the center's board of trustees unanimously voted to approve President Trump's proposal to shut down the arts center for two years to undergo renovations, which were estimated to cost around $200 million. Reuters could not immediately verify the latest report.