Kennedy Center Ice Rink Sabotaged, Performance Axed Amid Controversy

The Kennedy Center's outdoor ice rink became the target of a deliberate act on Friday, as officials reported a “toxic chemical” was spread across the surface, leading to the cancellation of a scheduled performance.

Roma Daravi, the center's vice president of public relations, stated, “A targeted attack on the Trump Kennedy Center vandalized and destroyed our outdoor arena, causing severe damage that we unfortunately must cancel [Friday’s] performance, but we are working feverishly to complete repairs so programming can resume tomorrow.”

Authorities are now investigating this incident, which Daravi described as “calculated” and “malicious.” Video footage has been handed over to law enforcement for further examination.

A disturbing image from the scene depicted a dark substance smeared across the ice, accompanied by a gallon-sized milk jug.

The rink was set to host Le Patin Libre, a Montreal-based skating troupe, for a performance that has now been scrapped. Attempts to reach the troupe for comment have been made.

In a controversial claim, Kennedy Center leadership suggested a connection between the attack and the Democratic Party, which has been vocal in its criticism of President Trump’s management and his efforts to rename the center after himself.

Richard Grenell, a prominent figure at the Kennedy Center, expressed on social media, “This is so sad & unnecessary - The Democrats have been calling artists urging them to cancel and attacking the Center non-stop. It’s a calculated campaign. And now they have mentally unstable people taking action - and vandalizing the Center.”

Grenell further stated, “We’ve seen serious death threats and constant harassment. Commonsense Democrats must speak up before this violence takes a life.”

The U.S. Park Police confirmed they are investigating the incident, which was first reported by other media outlets. They noted that an unidentified individual entered the property around 11:54 p.m. Thursday and poured a substance onto the ice. The Major Crimes Unit is currently reviewing security footage.

In a separate incident just a day prior, an unfounded bomb threat led to a temporary evacuation of the Kennedy Center while the Chinese dance troupe Shen Yun was scheduled to perform. That performance ultimately proceeded as planned.

This incident adds to a series of tumultuous events at the national arts complex in Washington, D.C. In December, the center's board—appointed by President Trump—voted to rename it after him. This decision faced backlash from Democratic lawmakers who argued it was illegal without congressional approval, prompting legal action from Rep. Joyce Beatty. Family members of John F. Kennedy also voiced their disapproval.

Since Trump's administration took control of the center, several high-profile artists, including composer Philip Glass and comedian Issa Rae, have canceled their performances.

Earlier this month, President Trump announced plans for a two-year renovation of the center starting in July, further igniting criticism. Rep. Beatty questioned the implications for existing contracts and agreements with employees and artists associated with the center.

Reports indicate that ticket sales have struggled since the Trump administration took office, with the White House asserting that significant maintenance is required to address longstanding issues at the center.