The John F. Kennedy Center, one of the United States' most renowned cultural institutions and led by Richard Grenell, will close for two years due to a major reconstruction and renovation project.
The news was announced by US President Donald Trump, emphasizing that this step will turn the center into a "world institution of art, music and entertainment."
The project is expected to begin on July 4, 2026 and is estimated to cost around $200 million, reports sigh.
According to the American leader, the reconstruction will include improving existing structures, using preserved materials such as steel and marble, and modernizing other parts of the building.
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He added that the complete closure will facilitate the work and speed up the process compared to reconstruction during normal operations.
The decision has prompted strong reactions from artists, cultural associations and the Kennedy family. Some artists have canceled their performances, while there has been criticism that Congress was not consulted in advance.
Lawmakers and cultural experts have expressed concern that the closure could have major consequences for the center's artistic programs and historical heritage.
Despite criticism, Trump has defended the decision, emphasizing that the Kennedy Center will emerge from the project improved and with international standards, offering a larger and more modern space for the public and artists. /Telegraph/
