The star-studded Mark Twain Prize for American Humor ceremony was the most notable event at the Washington arts center since the president installed himself as its chairman.

The starry Mark Twain Prize for American Humor ceremony was the most high-profile event held at the venue since the president made himself its chairman.

Conan O’Brien will receive the Mark Twain Prize on Sunday night at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where the backstage drama of the host institution hangs over the celebration.