Donald Trump Orders Two-Year Closure of Kennedy Center for Renovation Work

President Donald Trump confirmed Sunday that he will close Washington’s Kennedy institution performing arts institution for two years beginning in July for construction, his latest step to overhaul the historic venue since returning to the White House.

Donald Trump Announces Renovation Plan Amid Performer Cancellations

Trump’s announcement on social media comes after a slew of cancellations by major performers and groups since the president deposed the previous administration and affixed his name to the building. Trump didn’t address the recent cancellations in his post.

Donald Trump Says Decision Awaits Kennedy Center Board Approval

His plan, unveiled just days after the premiere of “Melania,” a documentary about the first lady, was shown at the center, he added, was subject to approval by the Kennedy Center’s board, which has been packed with his handpicked loyalists. The center’s board of trustees is chaired by Trump.

Trump tweeted, “This necessary decision, based on input from many Highly Respected Specialists, will take a tired, broken, and dilapidated Center, one that has been in bad condition, both financially and structurally, for a long time, and turn it into a World Class Bastion of Arts, Music, and Entertainment.”

Neither Trump nor Kennedy Center President Ric Grenell, a Trump loyalist, have offered proof to support their allegations that the structure is in disrepair.

The surprise move is certain to cause backlash as Trump overturns the popular site, which began as a national cultural center but was renamed as a “living memorial” to President John F. Kennedy in 1964, following the murdered president’s death. It opened in 1971 and is available year-round as a public arts venue, including the National Symphony Orchestra.

The Kennedy Center is one of many Washington sites that Trump has attempted to personalize during his second term. He demolished the White House’s East Wing and initiated a large $400 million ballroom project, is avidly pursuing the construction of a triumphal bridge across Arlington Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial, and has plans for Washington Dulles International Airport.

Donald Trump Sparks Exodus of Major Performing Arts Groups

Leading performing arts groups have withdrawn from performances, most recently composer Philip Glass, who announced his intention to withdraw his Symphony No. 15 “Lincoln” because he stated that the principles of the center today are in “direct conflict” with the message of the piece.

Last month, the Washington National Opera announced that it will relocate concerts away from the Kennedy Center, marking another high-profile departure since Trump’s takeover of the US capital’s premier performing arts center.

The center’s chief of artistic programs abruptly resigned last week, less than two weeks after taking the position.

A Kennedy Center spokesman did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment.

Trump faced strong criticism from members of Congress and some Kennedy family members when he announced his plan to rename the building, which would include his name on the main façade.

Kerry Kennedy, John F Kennedy’s niece, stated in a social media post at the time that she will remove Trump’s name herself with a pickaxe when his tenure expires.