Ceiling collapses inside Kennedy Center amid strong storm

Kennedy Center spokeswoman Roma Daravi called the incident another example of the need for the major renovations, which are supported by President Donald Trump and the center’s board.

Published: September 5, 2026 4:35pm

A section of the ceiling inside the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts collapsed Friday evening as severe storms moved through the Washington, D.C., area.

The collapse occurred in the Grand Foyer, a main hallway connecting the Kennedy Center’s three primary performance spaces. Photos showed a large hole in the ceiling and debris scattered across the red carpet.

No one was injured, according to Kennedy Center officials. The main building was closed Friday night, while the Grand Foyer is expected to remain restricted through the weekend as crews assess and repair the damage. 

Kennedy Center spokeswoman Roma Daravi called the incident another example of the need for the major renovations, which are supported by President Donald Trump and the center’s board. 


 

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