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Overlooking the Potomac River next to the Watergate complex, this simple white marble box created by Edward Durrell Stone, was opened in 1971. The building largely made up of gifts donated by other countries. It is cloaked in a hugely impressive 3700 tons of white Carrara marble, which was donated by Italy. The 192m long Grand Foyer sparkles magnificently with the light of 18 Orrefors crystal chandeliers, reflecting off 60ft high mirrors. The chandeliers were generously given by the Swedish while the mirrors were offered by Belgium. A bust of J.F.K., designed by Robert Berks, overlooks the theatre. The lobby, which is known as the Hall of States, is decorated with state flags arranged in order of entrance into the Union. Evening performances take place at one end of the hall which houses the Millennium Stage. The center also boasts two stage theatres, a theatre lab, a movie theatre and the Performing Arts Library of the Library of Congress. These can either be viewed during a tour or a performance. It is certainly worth a visit to the John F. Kennedy Center and tours are free between 10am and 1pm. You can also catch a free performance at the Millennium Stage at 6pm daily. It is advised to phone in advance to find out what performances are planned. |