Washington National Opera returns to Lisner Auditorium as it parts ways with Kennedy Center
The Washington National Opera is relocating spring performances from the Kennedy Center to Lisner Auditorium at George Washington University and other D.C.-area venues due to financial constraints tied to Kennedy Center leadership changes; donations surged after the split, the company plans a full 2026–27 season announcement (including West Side Story and the gala), and tickets go on sale Jan. 23.