Introduction to the Controversy
The Kennedy Center is expected to host a performance of "Les Misérables" with President Donald Trump in attendance. However, the full lineup of performers is not expected to be present. The 78-year-old Trump has sparked outrage over his decision to take over the Kennedy Center, dismissing previous leadership and installing himself as chairman. He has also committed to aligning the center with his ideology.
The Boycott
Due to Trump’s actions, several members of the company are expected to boycott the president’s visit by not performing. The actors have remained silent on social media regarding the Kennedy Center run, but several reports indicate that up to a dozen artists will opt out of the show on Wednesday. "The lineup was given the opportunity not to play the night that Trump will be in the audience, and both lead actors and members of the ensemble are among those who are opting out," CNN reported last month.
The Performance
A representative of the "Les Misérables" company said: "The national tour of ‘Les Misérables’ is looking forward to performing this evening and throughout the commitment in the Kennedy Center for the DC audience, where the United States saw the original production for the first time in 1986." The performance is the opening of the one-month run of the touring production at the historic event location in Washington, DC.
The Kennedy Center’s History
Historically, the Kennedy Center has hosted a variety of productions, ranging from operas to contemporary musicals to symphonies. The institution was opened in 1971 and has served as a showcase for theater, music, and dramatic performances since then. Artists have ranged from the Paul Taylor Dance Company to a joint concert by Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga.
Trump’s Involvement
Weeks after Trump’s return to the Oval Office, he released the Kennedy Center and brought in Maga loyalist Richard Grenell to lead the famous institution for performing arts. Trump also appointed Usha Vance as the center’s chair, along with White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and several hosts of the FOX news channel and other supporters.
Backlash and Consequences
Immediately, several high-profile actors and members, including "Insecure" star Issa Rae, "Grey’s Anatomy" creator Shonda Rhimes, and singer-songwriter Ben Folds, stepped back from their positions and canceled shows. The center has seen a 50% decrease in ticket sales, and a planned concert with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC, was canceled.
Trump’s Plans for the Kennedy Center
"The Kennedy Center is coming back," the president said, claiming: "It was not properly maintained, and we’re taking it back, and we’re going to turn it back into something great." Trump has previously announced his love for "Les Misérables," telling FOX News: "I love the songs; I love the piece. I think it’s great." He has even played the musical’s rebellion anthem, "Do You Hear the People Sing?" at previous events and rallies. The story revolves around the revolution in France and has been a massive hit for decades. Trump has also suggested that "we can expand the scope of the show." For now, "Les Misérables" is set to run in the Kennedy Center until July 13th.
