Trump and First Lady Attend Opening Night of ‘Chicago’ at Kennedy Center Ahead of Renovation Closure
Washington, April 2, 2026 — President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended the opening night of the acclaimed Broadway musical Chicago at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Tuesday evening.
The event marked one of the final major performances at the iconic venue before its planned two-year closure for extensive renovations, set to begin in July 2026. The Trumps were seated in the presidential box and received a mostly warm reception from the audience, drawing applause as they greeted the crowd, though some mixed reactions were also noted.
The national touring production of Chicago is currently running at the Kennedy Center through April 5. The evening provided a moment of cultural engagement amid the center’s transition, as the Trump-appointed board has approved a major revitalization project expected to enhance the facility’s infrastructure and grandeur.
President Trump has described the upcoming renovations as an opportunity to elevate the Kennedy Center to new heights with “high quality” construction. The closure will temporarily halt performances following Independence Day celebrations in July, with a grand reopening planned after the two-year period.
This appearance comes as the venue, often referred to in recent months as the Trump Kennedy Center following board decisions, prepares for significant changes while continuing to host notable productions in its final weeks of operation.