The Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center The National Cultural Center.

07/30/2026

Comedian and TV host Jay Leno came out to celebrate Bill Maher’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Now streaming exclusively on Netflix.

07/28/2026

A classic, rewritten for one unforgettable night. 🎶

Paul Anka put a special spin on “My Way,” rewriting the iconic song in tribute to Bill Maher as he received the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

07/25/2026

As a child, Damon Keith Williams was known as “the boy with the man’s voice.” His rich and sensuous baritone has moved fans from all generations and across musical styles. Damon has appeared in national stage productions and has opened for some of the biggest names in R&B and jazz. In 2000, his single “Lay With Me,” produced with Damon, James Poyser, and Victor Duplaix of AMG, was released by legendary Kenneth Gamble’s and Leon Huff’s Philadelphia International Records.

Damon has also performed for networking guru George C. Fraser and author/motivational speaker Dr. Emma Fraser-Pendleton’s Who Would Have Thunk It children’s book tour. He has also performed for the NAACP “This Is My Vote” GOTV event to rally support for President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign. As a result, he was hired to perform for the NAACP’s Annual Freedom Fund Gala: “THIS IS MY VOTE” Awards Entertainment and Special Tribute to the late WDAS Radio Legend Joseph “Butterball” Tamburro. In December 2012, Damon performed at “Mr. Philadelphia” Charlie Mack’s wedding and best man Will Smith.

Whether local, regional, national or international, radio, television or social media, Damon has a lot more talent to share with the world. In March of 2013, Damon debuted with Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes at The 500 Club in the Borgota Atlantic City. In April of 2013, Damon joined the touring cast of Zeola Gaye’s My Brother Marvin, the stage play starring Lynn Whitfield, Clifton Powell, Tony Grant, Keith Washington, and Lia Grant.

He was cast as Philly’s own Teddy Pendergrass in the recreation of a concert tour that “Marvin” was to headline. In 2013, Damon Keith Williams placed 1st at Amateur Night at The Apollo. Stay tuned for more from Damon Keith Williams.

07/24/2026

Join singer/songwriter Kanysha as she celebrates the release of her new album Strawberry Sessions! This one-of-a-kind concert fuses R&B, alternative, funk, soul, and inspirational music into an electrifying live experience. With powerful vocals and a high-energy performance, Kanysha offers an evening of bold sound, soulful storytelling, and a celebration of artistry, life, and music.

07/23/2026

Cyrus "Cy" Mackey brings together his wide-ranging experience in African American musical traditions with his band, Kenyatta. This performance celebrates the spirit of unity and social music, leaving the audience with an unforgettable experience.

07/22/2026
07/20/2026

The celebration began the night before. ✨

Guests gathered at the Kennedy Center for the Mark Twain Prize Night Before Dinner to celebrate this year's honoree, Bill Maher, ahead of comedy's biggest night.

07/19/2026

🎬 A sneak peek at Comedy's Biggest Night. The full special premieres Tuesday on Netflix.

Go behind the scenes of the 27th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor as Louis C.K., Whitney Cummings, Matt Friend, Woody Harrelson, Arianna Huffington, Jay Leno, John Mellencamp, Stephen A. Smith, and more celebrate Bill Maher at The Kennedy Center.

A legendary lineup celebrates Bill Maher.Featuring Louis C.K., Whitney Cummings, Matt Friend, Woody Harrelson, Arianna H...
07/19/2026

A legendary lineup celebrates Bill Maher.

Featuring Louis C.K., Whitney Cummings, Matt Friend, Woody Harrelson, Arianna Huffington, Jay Leno, John Mellencamp, Stephen A. Smith, and more, the 27th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor—taped live at The Kennedy Center—begins streaming Tuesday, July 21, on Netflix.

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