Arts

President Trump has announced plans to close the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., starting in July for two years of extensive renovations. The move, aimed at creating the world's finest performing arts facility, has raised questions about funding, impacts on staff and performers, and preservation of cultural artifacts. Arts leaders and Kennedy's grandson have expressed concerns over the abrupt decision.

January 26, 2026 Ti AI ṣe iroyin

A new two-hander play, The Opera Singer, has opened at the Baxter Studio in Cape Town, pitting a renowned opera diva against a struggling journalist in a battle of wits. Written and directed by Janna Ramos-Violante, the production draws inspiration from Maria Callas and explores the personal costs of artistic greatness. Starring Fiona Ramsay and Owain Rhys Davies, it runs until 7 February 2026 before transferring to Johannesburg.

Renowned Colombian painter Beatriz González died in Bogotá at 94 on Friday, January 9. Her son, Daniel Ripoll, confirmed the news of the artist and historian's passing. González was a key figure in contemporary Colombian art, noted for her work on the armed conflict and popular culture.

January 05, 2026 Ti AI ṣe iroyin

Seoul's art scene in 2026 promises a crowded calendar featuring Korean masters and internationally active contemporary artists. New institutions and returning biennales will anchor the year, while exhibitions explore queer art through the city's histories and spotlight overlooked female trailblazers.

Spain's Ministry of Culture will raise its funding for the Círculo de Bellas Artes in Madrid to 300,000 euros in 2026, countering sharp cuts from the regional government. The move aims to preserve the century-old institution's operations amid what the national government describes as economic strangulation. The decision was announced at the entity's board meeting.

December 09, 2025 Ti AI ṣe iroyin

Addis Ababa's National Theatre has raised ticket prices and hall rental fees for the first time in years to combat declining audiences. The changes, implemented internally two months prior, were formally approved by the Council of Ministers on November 29, 2025. Entrance fees have increased from 80 birr to 200 birr.