Workers at the Kennedy Center led the largest demonstration yet against Donald Trump’s effort to close and remake the Washington performing arts institution, as speculation grew over whether the building could ultimately be demolished.
The crowd gathered behind security barriers around the centre, surrounding the concrete pavilion and spreading across 25th Street and a nearby grass lawn. The rally on Friday night drew artists, local politicians and supporters of the institution.
Among those taking part was the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC, which had previously performed at the Kennedy Center. Lynda Carter, the actress who played Wonder Woman, and Robert White, an at-large member of the District of Columbia Council, also attended and addressed demonstrators.
Mr White told the crowd: “There is no way, no how, that while I am standing, and while you people are standing, that he is going to take this building or take this city. So I plan that I will keep fighting, I will keep screaming, and I will throw some punches if need be.” His remarks were met with cheers.
Concerns about the future of the building intensified after photojournalists captured images through the windows of Air Force One showing Mr Trump examining a large poster board. It appeared to feature a rendering of a construction site beneath the words: “Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED.”
The images have been added to a lawsuit filed over the centre’s fate. During Mr Trump’s stewardship, which has lasted less than a year and a half, the institution has experienced sharply falling ticket sales and the departure of performers.
The Kennedy Center was temporarily closed this week after officials said a large section of plaster fell from the ceiling, citing safety concerns. Organisers had previously staged protests against Mr Trump’s takeover, but said Friday night’s turnout was the biggest rally so far in support of the performing arts institution.
