Betty Siegel

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (Kennedy Center) is the United States' National Cultural Center, located in Washington, D.C. Named in 1964 as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy, it opened on September 8, 1971. The center showcases a wide range of performance arts, including theater, dance, opera, and both classical and modern music. As a public–private partnership, the Kennedy Center’s activities extend beyond performances to include educational, social impact, and accessibility initiatives. It serves as the home of the Washington National Opera, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the Office of Access/VSA. At the Office of Accessibility and VSA, we are dedicated to expanding access to the arts for people with disabilities. Our mission is to create opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage in, learn through, and participate in the arts. To ensure the arts are accessible to everyone—from children to older adults—we work to make Kennedy Center performances and facilities inclusive for all audiences. We provide resources, programs, and opportunities for educators, cultural administrators, and emerging as well as professional artists with disabilities. The Kennedy Center also hosts an international community of practice, including the annual Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD), which convenes over 950 professionals focused on accessibility in cultural spaces and experiences. Additionally, we support pre-K–12 arts education and provide pathways for individuals with disabilities to pursue creative careers.