Kennedy Center May Close Over Deficit as Trump Rescue Plan Emerges

Kennedy Center officials warn that the institution could be unable to meet payroll and routine maintenance costs within weeks because of an estimated $23 million deficit, reduced revenue and donor support, and major staffing and programming cuts. They are urging trustees to close the main building as soon as Tuesday because of safety risks, including ceiling plaster that fell during a storm and widespread corrosion in exterior panels, while the Reach expansion and some off-site programming could remain open. A proposed rescue plan says President Donald Trump has offered to raise funds and oversee renovations but may require public recognition, including one of 10 possible facade inscriptions and a proposed Trump Kennedy Center Fund. The proposals come despite a federal judge’s ruling that only Congress can change the institution’s name and ordering Trump’s name removed. The board is expected to vote on closure and financial measures at a special meeting amid artist cancellations, declining ticket sales and continuing legal and political opposition, including from Rep. Joyce Beatty.