Kennedy Center renews call for Trump-backed shutdown after part of a ceiling collapses

Fallen ceiling debris from a grand foyer at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts may complicate debates over the DC arts center's renovations, potentially leading to its demolition. The portion of the ceiling collapsed on Friday evening after a heavy rainstorm, prompting officials to temporarily shut down the building designed by Edward Durell Stone.

No one was injured by the debris. The incident highlights the urgent need for renovations, according to the Kennedy Center, an argument supported by Trump-aligned board members who have pushed for the building's demolition and redevelopment. The center's vice-president for public relations stated that the collapse was yet another example of the building's need for closure and $250m in renovations.

However, a federal judge has raised doubts about the board's intention to add Trump's name to the building, which was blocked from being legally inscribed on the facade. The board has proposed inscribing "The John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Restored and Renovated By President Donald J Trump" on the façade, with additional inscriptions if the renovation fund reaches $100m and $600m.

Congress has approved $257m for the project, but the administration seeks an additional $500m through private donations. Without Trump's name on the building, administration attorneys argue, the center will deteriorate further and eventually need to be taken down. A recent sculpture removal may strengthen the center's case for a complete overhaul.