Kennedy Center, on brink of bankruptcy, could close as soon as Tuesday

Published September 14, 2026 9:07am ET | Updated September 14, 2026 9:07am ET




The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts could shut its doors as early as Tuesday, according to an internal memo that revealed a deepening financial crisis and framed the physical state of the main building as endangering lives.

The 57-page assessment documents, obtained by the Washington Post and distributed prior to a special board meeting Tuesday, warns the Kennedy Center is approaching “certain financial collapse” and lay out options for keeping the institution afloat. The center is facing an approximately $23 million deficit as revenue has fallen and expenses continue to strain available cash.

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