The Kennedy Center will present “The Promise of US: Our Nation at 250”  as part of its 2026 programming.

“America has long been seen as a country that drives art forward, from generation to generation,” said Deborah F. Rutter, Kennedy Center President, in an official press statement. “We also recognize that our nation’s 250-year-old artistic identity is complex—embracing both individualism and the collective ‘We The People.’ Our intention with this thematic programming is to capture what the future holds for American culture. At its core, The Promise of US is a call to participate—we invite artists, audiences, and communities alike to join in creating performances, convenings, new works, and conversations across the country.”

As part of the programming, audiences will experience “A Song for US,” a brand new choral work commissioned by the center as well as “Sounds of US,” a series featuring 10 wide-ranging artists. Also part of this showcase is “Songs for Tomorrow,” an online song-writing competition for emerging composers and songwriters.

Additionally, the Kennedy Center will present “Stories of US” and “Future of US,” including the “American the Fearless” Festival. Also on the slate will be a cycle of new works from Washington National Opera and the return of “Hamilton.”