Shear Madness
Apr. 27 - Oct. 4, 2026
Try to catch the killer at this hilarious whodunit where the clues change at every performance, and you never see the same show twice!
What’s On
The Kennedy Center strives to make its performances and facilities accessible to all. See our Upcoming Accessible Performances.
What’s On Now
-
-
National Symphony Orchestra
Puccini: 3 One-Act Operas – Il trittico
Apr. 29 - May 1, 2026
Step into a world of passion, tragedy, and deception with Puccini’s Il trittico, a trio of one-act operas led by world-renowned opera conductor Gianandrea Noseda. Suor Angelica plunges into the depths of sacrifice behind convent walls. Il tabarro unveils a shadowy tale of love and betrayal along the Seine. Gianni Schicchi turns deception into delight in a sharp-witted comedy of intrigue. Three stories, three distinct worlds—one unforgettable evening of Opera in Concert.
-
Christylez Bacon and Friends
Sat. May 2, 2026
Progressive hip hop artist and multi-instrumentalist Christylez Bacon expands kids’ imaginations with the help of friends from world music traditions.
-
Tony Hinchcliffe
Sat. May 2, 2026
Tony Hinchcliffe, one of the top roasters in the world and the mastermind behind the Kill Tony podcast, brings his razor-sharp wit to the Concert Hall stage.
-
National Symphony Orchestra
Hisaishi conducts Hisaishi
May 14 - 16, 2026
Joe Hisaishi is renowned for his fantastical scores to Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli films—along with his sensitive symphonic and solo works. In this program, Hisaishi conducts the world premiere of his Concerto for Orchestra and the latest concert version of music from The Boy and the Heron. Please note: this concert is presented without film.
-
Doodle POP
May 16 - 17, 2026
All ages will delight in this playful show’s stunning interactive projections, live whiteboard drawings, and abundance of theatrical imagination.
Carousel Controls
-
Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy
Free Admission 10 a.m. to Midnight
This major permanent exhibit in the massive roof-level Atrium will explore Kennedy’s appreciation and promotion of the arts and why the Kennedy Center came to be the living memorial to him and his ideals.
-
Sound Health Network
Dance for Parkinson’s Disease
Oct. 20, 2025 - Jun. 22, 2026
Join local Dance for Parkinson’s Disease certified instructor Lucy Bowen for free classes where participants are empowered to explore movement and music in ways that are refreshing, enjoyable, stimulating and creative.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person)
Millennium Stage Talks:
Ashley Davis and Kevin O’LearyMon. Apr. 27, 2026
Ashley Davis, joined by entrepreneur and investor Kevin O’Leary, launches The Power Pivot—an evening centered on leadership, discipline, and the decisive moments that shape influence and long-term success.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
Chamber Music from the U.S. Air Force Band
Thu. Apr. 30, 2026
Through world-class musical presentations and ceremonies, the United States Air Force Band uses music to bridge cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences to advance international relationships and inspire positive and long-lasting impressions of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
NSO Youth Fellows
Fri. May 1, 2026
Students from the National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellowship Program perform chamber music on the Millennium Stage.
-
The REACH
Moonshot Studio
Open Sat. and Sun. 11am - 4:30pm, except scheduled closures as noted.
Moonshot Studio at the REACH celebrates creativity and the artist in everyone through hands-on art-making. The recommended age is 5 years old and above. Stop by anytime from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on (most) Saturdays & Sundays to explore our projects.
Carousel Controls
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
NSO Youth Fellows
Fri. May 1, 2026
Students from the National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellowship Program perform chamber music on the Millennium Stage.
-
Christylez Bacon and Friends
Sat. May 2, 2026
Progressive hip hop artist and multi-instrumentalist Christylez Bacon expands kids’ imaginations with the help of friends from world music traditions.
-
Doodle POP
May 16 - 17, 2026
All ages will delight in this playful show’s stunning interactive projections, live whiteboard drawings, and abundance of theatrical imagination.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
NSO Youth Fellows
Fri. May 29, 2026
Students from the National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellowship Program perform chamber music on the Millennium Stage.
-
International School of Music Honors Concert
Sat. May 30, 2026
Join outstanding students and chamber ensembles from the International School of Music for an inspiring evening of music at the Trump Kennedy Center's Terrace Theater. This special performance features a vibrant program of solo and chamber works, showcasing a wide range of musical styles from the Baroque era to contemporary compositions. Audiences of all ages are invited to experience the passion, creativity, and artistry of the next generation of musicians.
-
Studio Saturdays: Block Printing
Sat. Jun. 13, 2026
For kids ages 8–14 and their adults: Design and carve your own stamp! Learn the basics of block printing and bring your one-of-a-kind ideas to life.
Carousel Controls
-
Sound Health Network
Dance for Parkinson’s Disease
Oct. 20, 2025 - Jun. 22, 2026
Join local Dance for Parkinson’s Disease certified instructor Lucy Bowen for free classes where participants are empowered to explore movement and music in ways that are refreshing, enjoyable, stimulating and creative.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person)
Millennium Stage Talks:
Ashley Davis and Kevin O’LearyMon. Apr. 27, 2026
Ashley Davis, joined by entrepreneur and investor Kevin O’Leary, launches The Power Pivot—an evening centered on leadership, discipline, and the decisive moments that shape influence and long-term success.
-
Shear Madness
Apr. 27 - Oct. 4, 2026
Try to catch the killer at this hilarious whodunit where the clues change at every performance, and you never see the same show twice!
-
National Symphony Orchestra
Puccini: 3 One-Act Operas – Il trittico
Apr. 29 - May 1, 2026
Step into a world of passion, tragedy, and deception with Puccini’s Il trittico, a trio of one-act operas led by world-renowned opera conductor Gianandrea Noseda. Suor Angelica plunges into the depths of sacrifice behind convent walls. Il tabarro unveils a shadowy tale of love and betrayal along the Seine. Gianni Schicchi turns deception into delight in a sharp-witted comedy of intrigue. Three stories, three distinct worlds—one unforgettable evening of Opera in Concert.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
Chamber Music from the U.S. Air Force Band
Thu. Apr. 30, 2026
Through world-class musical presentations and ceremonies, the United States Air Force Band uses music to bridge cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences to advance international relationships and inspire positive and long-lasting impressions of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
NSO Youth Fellows
Fri. May 1, 2026
Students from the National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellowship Program perform chamber music on the Millennium Stage.
-
The REACH
Moonshot Studio
Open Sat. and Sun. 11am - 4:30pm, except scheduled closures as noted.
Moonshot Studio at the REACH celebrates creativity and the artist in everyone through hands-on art-making. The recommended age is 5 years old and above. Stop by anytime from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on (most) Saturdays & Sundays to explore our projects.
Carousel Controls
Millennium Stage
See what’s coming and watch recent performances of our free in-person and livestreamed series.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person)
Millennium Stage Talks:
Ashley Davis and Kevin O’LearyMon. Apr. 27, 2026
Ashley Davis, joined by entrepreneur and investor Kevin O’Leary, launches The Power Pivot—an evening centered on leadership, discipline, and the decisive moments that shape influence and long-term success.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
Chamber Music from the U.S. Air Force Band
Thu. Apr. 30, 2026
Through world-class musical presentations and ceremonies, the United States Air Force Band uses music to bridge cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences to advance international relationships and inspire positive and long-lasting impressions of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.
-
Millennium Stage (In-Person and Livestream)
NSO Youth Fellows
Fri. May 1, 2026
Students from the National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellowship Program perform chamber music on the Millennium Stage.
Carousel Controls
Broadcast & Streaming
The Kennedy Center Honors
Watch Highlights From The Show
Celebrate this year's Honorees: country music icon George Strait, legendary rock band KISS (Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, Ace Frehley), Tony-award winning stage and screen star Michael Crawford, Grammy-winning disco pioneer Gloria Gaynor, and blockbuster film powerhouse and Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone.
Plus: Browse our video gallery of hundreds of past highlights.
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
Celebrate the 27th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Discover this year’s honoree and explore unforgettable moments—performances, tributes, and interviews—from past celebrations.
NEXT at the Kennedy Center Top Artists. Full Concerts.
Cynthia Erivo, Robert Glasper, Sara Bareilles, The Roots, Snarky Puppy, and more give electrifying performances and share the stories behind their songs and careers.
Explore By Genre
Welcome to Center magazine!
Our patron magazine features in-depth articles on the world of the performing arts, interviews with leading creators, and a bimonthly performance calendar.
Welcome to Center magazine!
Our patron magazine features in-depth articles on the world of the performing arts, interviews with leading creators, and a bimonthly performance calendar.
For Your Visit
Here are some ways to ease and enhance your Kennedy Center experience.
Walk Through Our Exhibit: JFK Art & Ideals
Find a Digital Program for Your Event
Special Programs and Info
Discount Program MyTix
Get special pricing if you're 18-30 years old, an elementary through undergraduate student, or an active duty member of the armed services.
Group Sales
Enjoy special advantages when booking group sales such as ticket discounts up to 50%, reduced fees, priority access to seats, payment plans, and more!
Accessible Performances
Explore our listings of audio-described, captioned, sign-language interpreted, and sensory-friendly events.