Kennedy Center starting layoffs ahead of planned closure

The Kennedy Center has begun laying off staff in preparation for a planned two-year closure, according to an announcement by Executive Director Matt Floca. The cuts are part of broader operational changes the performing arts institution says are necessary to address current financial or operational realities. A prolonged closure would suspend performances and programming at one of the nation's most prominent cultural venues. The layoffs represent a significant contraction for the center's workforce ahead of the facility's temporary shutdown. Details on the scope of the reductions and timeline for the closure were not provided in the announcement.