Washington's premier performing arts venue will close for 24 months to undergo a $257 million overhaul following a vote by its board of trustees. Protesters formed a human chain outside the facility on Sept. 19 after the decision, which occurs alongside a legal battle over whether President Donald Trump can add his name to the building's facade.

Judge Christopher Cooper ordered the administration to provide 30 days' notice before making any extensive physical changes, including demolition, after images emerged of Trump reviewing plans to tear down the structure. The closure follows the layoff of about 12 employees on Sept. 18 and reports of structural deterioration that Trump described as posing untenable risks to safety.