Kennedy Center Warns of Staffing Cuts During Renovation Closure

President warns of 'skeletal teams' as two-year renovation begins in July

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Kennedy Center's president, Richard Grenell, has warned staff that the performing arts center will face significant staffing cuts and reductions as it prepares to close for a two-year renovation starting in July. Grenell said departments will operate on a 'much smaller scale' with 'skeletal teams' left in place during the closure and construction phase.

Why it matters

The Kennedy Center is a major cultural institution in Washington, D.C. and the planned renovations represent a significant investment. However, the staffing cuts and reduced operations during the closure could impact the center's ability to maintain its programming and operations, raising questions about the long-term effects on the arts community.

The details

In a memo to staff, Grenell said the Kennedy Center will make 'permanent or temporary adjustments for most everyone' as it prepares to close in early July for the renovations. He said department heads will be 'evaluating the needs and making the decisions as to what these skeletal teams left in place during the facility and closure and construction phase will look like.' The Kennedy Center has nearly 2,500 employees according to a 2025 tax filing, but it's unclear how many positions will be affected by the cuts.

  • The Kennedy Center is slated to close in early July 2026 for a two-year renovation.
  • The renovations are expected to be completed by 2028.

The players

Richard Grenell

The president of the Kennedy Center who warned staff about impending staffing cuts and a 'skeletal' workforce during the renovation closure.

Kennedy Center Arts Workers United

A union that represents artists and arts professionals affiliated with the Kennedy Center. They did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Departments will obviously function on a much smaller scale with some units totally reduced or on hold until we begin preparations to reopen in 2028.”

— Richard Grenell, President, Kennedy Center (Associated Press)

“This renovation represents a generational investment in our future. When we reopen, we will do so as a stronger organization — one that honors our legacy while expanding our impact.”

— Richard Grenell, President, Kennedy Center (Associated Press)

What’s next

The Kennedy Center has not provided details on what the planned renovations will entail or how they will impact the center's programming and operations during the closure.

The takeaway

The planned staffing cuts at the Kennedy Center during its two-year renovation closure raise concerns about the long-term impact on the arts community in Washington, D.C. The center's leadership has promised a 'stronger organization' when it reopens, but the details of the renovations and the center's future plans remain unclear.