Donald Trump’s influence on the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has ignited a cultural clash in Washington.
The venue’s board, now filled with Trump allies, voted last month to rename the institution the Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts. Trump also placed his own choice, Richard Grenell, in charge of the center’s leadership.
That move has been met with an ongoing wave of cancellations from artists and organizations who say the space no longer feels welcoming or neutral.
Grammy‑nominated singer‑songwriter Sonia De Los Santos recently canceled two concerts she was scheduled to give at the center, saying the venue no longer feels like a safe or friendly place for her, her band, or her audience.
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Famous banjoist Béla Fleck also withdrew from three scheduled performances with the National Symphony Orchestra, explaining that the space had become too political for music to be the focus.
Earlier cancellations included popular events like the annual Christmas Eve jazz concert led by Chuck Redd, a tradition that ran for more than 20 years. Redd said he canceled his show after seeing Trump’s name added to the building’s exterior.
Jazz band The Cookers pulled out of their New Year’s Eve performance, and Doug Varone and Dancers said they could not bring their dance shows to a venue they believe has lost its original purpose.
Artists from many genres have taken a stand. Folk singer Kristy Lee, who planned a free show, said she could not perform under the new leadership.
Other high‑profile figures in the arts world have stepped back in different ways. Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz cancelled plans to host a gala at the center, and creative voices like Issa Rae and Ben Folds stepped down from advisory roles earlier in the fall after Trump’s leadership changes.
The fallout has affected major institutions, too. The Washington National Opera, which had been based at the Kennedy Center for more than 50 years, announced it will end its affiliation and operate independently, citing changes in leadership and financial strains tied to the center’s transformation.
Supporters of the name change argue Trump’s leadership has unlocked new funding and rescued the aging building’s infrastructure, including millions in private and federal support.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
