Kennedy Center Halts Public Tours Amid Criticism Over Trump-Era Changes

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts announced a “temporary pause” of its public tour program, effective the Friday following the memo’s release. Tour guides were instructed to stop reporting for duty “until further notice.” The internal memo did not provide a reason for the suspension. When a New York Times reporter contacted Brooks Boeke, director of the volunteer program, Boeke replied, “How did you find out?” and declined further comment.

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The pause follows a New York Times investigation that described what it called President Trump’s “gutting” of the institution. The grand terrace overlooking the Potomac River was reported as filled with “wilting and weedy” flower beds. The Times article also noted that the Trump administration allegedly cut programming, resulting in staff losses of roughly 90 percent, a loss of 100 percent of the paying audience, and the downgrading of the volunteer-recognition gala. Additionally, an effort to rename the center after the president was reportedly halted by the courts.

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Kennedy Center spokesperson P.J. The statement was delivered via email to the Times. No additional comment was provided by center leadership regarding the broader criticisms.

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• Staff reductions: approximately 90 percent of employees lost.

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• Paying audience: reported loss of 100 percent.

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• Physical condition of venues: empty orchestra pit with trash; terrace with wilting, weedy flower beds.

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• “We are conducting a review of campuswide tour routes to ensure they provide the best possible experience for our visitors,” — P.J. Elliott, a Kennedy Center spokesperson

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