"Donald Trump has made the Kennedy Center one of his pet projects since beginning his second term in January 2025; he purged the board of trustees, installed himself as chairman, and backed new bylaws, paving the way for new "non-woke" programming and a fresh, legally dubious rebrand as "The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.""
"Numerous artists have responded to Trump's takeover of the Kennedy Center by canceling scheduled appearances at the venue. Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, who was set to host the 2026 Washington National Opera Gala, said the Kennedy Center "no longer represents the apolitical place for free artistic expression it was founded to be." So far, more than 10 artists have pulled out of their Kennedy Center engagements, and more are sure to follow. Below, you can find an updated list of those cancelations."
Donald Trump assumed control of the Kennedy Center after beginning his second term in January 2025, purging the board, installing himself as chairman, and backing new bylaws that enable "non-woke" programming and a contested rebrand. He inserted himself into the Kennedy Center Honors by hand-selecting honorees and emceeing the ceremony. Numerous artists canceled scheduled appearances in response, including major productions and long-standing performers. Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz said the Kennedy Center "no longer represents the apolitical place for free artistic expression it was founded to be." Kennedy Center leadership has sought damages in at least one cancellation and reports more than ten withdrawals.
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