The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC will close temporarily for extensive renovation and repair work amid ongoing financial challenges, US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday.
The announcement came hours after a federal judge blocked a renewed effort to place Trump's name on the façade of the performing arts complex, setting up the latest chapter in a legal dispute surrounding the institution's future.
Closure linked to renovation plans
Trump said the closure was necessary to allow for major restoration and modernisation works at the centre's main building.
However, he also tied the project to the outcome of ongoing court proceedings over the naming issue, warning that the renovations would not proceed unless the legal challenge is ultimately overturned.
According to Trump, the board intends to appeal the ruling and continue pursuing the matter through the courts.
Legal battle continues
Writing on Truth Social, Trump said that if appellate courts and, if necessary, the Supreme Court do not reverse the decision, the planned repairs and renovation work would not go ahead.
The dispute centres on efforts to add Trump's name to the exterior of the building, which is named after former US president John F. Kennedy.
The move sparked criticism and prompted a number of performance cancellations earlier this year.
Concerns over the building's condition
Both the administration and the Kennedy Center's governing board have repeatedly argued that the complex requires significant repairs and upgrades.
Located on the banks of the Potomac River, the venue hosts theatre productions, dance performances and concerts and is one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the United States.
Officials have previously highlighted the need for modernisation and infrastructure improvements at the site.
Governance changes drew scrutiny
Shortly after returning to office, Trump removed several members of the Kennedy Center's board and replaced them with allies before assuming the role of board chair himself.
The governance changes attracted criticism from parts of the arts community and intensified debate over the institution's independence.
The latest court ruling and Trump's response are expected to further fuel controversy over the future direction and management of the famed cultural venue.
