The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has been closed to the public since September. This closure comes amid legal battles and financial concerns. A blocked entrance image from October 1 highlights the ongoing situation.
Rick Canny, a talent manager with connections to acts like ZZ Top and Tommy Lee, has been named the new artistic director. His selection follows concerns from staff about his previous consulting practices for the institution.
Appointment Announced
An internal email from Matt Floca, the center’s executive director and chief operating officer, announced Canny’s appointment. The email shared Canny’s future role in advising on various aspects like artistic strategy and ticketing models. Floca became the executive director from a non-arts background, moving up from a facilities role at the center.
Canny has been involved with the center as a consultant since early 2025, contributing to events like the Kennedy Center Honors. He will maintain this consulting role as he transitions to artistic director.
Financial Concerns
The Kennedy Center remains mostly closed, but minimal public and educational programs continue. The decision to close entirely is being challenged in federal court. Recent turmoil included a head of programming who left within weeks of appointment.
The arts community notes that booking performances usually occurs years ahead, adding challenges under current conditions. The center declined to comment on Canny’s new role but confirmed the email’s details.
Consultant Fees Under Scrutiny
Favor the Artist, Canny’s firm, lacks public information about its clientele or history. Critics highlight Canny’s limited experience with programming typical Kennedy Center performances.
An internal memo from March by Sammy Miller, then-senior director of music programming, raised alarms about Canny’s fees. Canny reportedly charged fees exceeding $30,000 in one month alone, including costly travel expenses.
Despite outreach, neither Canny nor Miller offered comments. The Kennedy Center stated Canny’s $30,000 fee details were outdated, however, no further elaboration was provided.
Ongoing Financial Strain
The Kennedy Center asserts financial struggles, claiming looming bankruptcy in public statements. In a recent statement, President Trump cited significant financial losses, though no evidence was presented. Trump also threatens demolition if his name is not prominently displayed on the center’s exterior.
While negotiations continue, the center remains closed for intended large-scale renovations, creating continued uncertainty for the future.
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