(NewsNation) — President Donald Trump is set to visit the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday to announce this year’s honorees and reveal plans for upcoming renovations.
“GREAT Nominees for the TRUMP/KENNEDY CENTER, whoops, I mean, KENNEDY CENTER, AWARDS,” Trump said on social media.
The president, who did not attend performances at the center during his first term, fired the center’s board of trustees and the previous chair before appointing himself as a replacement.
Trump’s late-night announcement took staff by surprise, NPR reported, and it’s not clear whether Trump will stick to the tradition of nominating living artists, having previously floated names like Elvis Presley.
In his social media post, Trump also referred to physical changes at the center, touting a “top level of luxury and glamour.” He did not share any details, though he has shown a distinct style preference in previous renovations.
During his time in the White House, Trump has focused on bringing his own aesthetic to the historic building, embellishing decor with gold and announcing plans to build a Mar-a-Lago-like ballroom in the area currently used to house the first lady’s staff.
Trump has also steered the performing arts center toward more conservative-leaning content, including Christian-focused shows.
Since he took over, ticket sales have dropped, and some shows, including the Broadway hit “Hamilton,” have pulled out of previously planned engagements.
