The Kennedy Center names new artistic director, amid concerns

The Kennedy Center has selected Rick Canny, a talent manager whose past clients include ZZ Top and Tommy Lee, to serve as artistic director. The appointment was announced in an email to senior staff by executive director Matt Floca.

Canny has consulted for the center since 2025 through his company, Favor the Artist. Floca said Canny will advise leadership on artistic plans, ticketing, business practices, programming and sponsorships, while continuing his consulting work.

Staff have raised concerns about Canny’s business practices. NPR reports that publicly available information shows limited experience with the orchestras, dance companies, theater groups and prominent solo performers often presented by the center.

The appointment comes as the Kennedy Center is largely closed to the public, with limited public and educational events planned. The closure is being challenged in federal court, and the prior programming chief left after less than two weeks in January.

The center confirmed the email’s contents but did not comment on the appointment; Canny did not respond to requests for comment. The center’s next steps include continuing limited programming as the court case proceeds.