NARCISSISM HAS CONSEQUENCES

 

JOHN F. KENNEDY MEMORIAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

The Washington National Opera is openly discussing the possibility of leaving the Kennedy Center, citing a steep drop in ticket sales and donor confidence since Donald Trump installed himself as chair and reshaped the institution’s leadership. 

According to WNO artistic director Francesca Zambello, roughly 40% of seats are now going unsold compared to pre-takeover numbers, with longtime patrons boycotting the venue outright. Donors, she says, don’t want their money confused with political endorsement and saying the building has been 'tainted.'”

Artists Who Canceled Appearances/Shows: 

Issa Rae: Canceled a sold-out show, citing values infringement. 

Lin-Manuel Miranda/Hamilton: Canceled the musical's run, stating, "We're not going to be a part of it while it is the Trump Kennedy Center". 

Low Cut Connie: Canceled a performance, stating they wouldn't perform until the Center returned to non-partisan programming. 

Peter Wolf: Canceled a book event due to the administration's actions. 

Amanda Rheaume: Canceled her April 5th appearance due to differing politics and values. 

Balún: Canceled a scheduled performance, citing alignment issues with their safety and justice values. 

Sir András Schiff: Canceled all US performances, including at the Kennedy Center, for 2025-2026. 

Christian Tetzlaff: Canceled a US tour. 

 

Artists/Personalities Who Resigned Roles: 

Shonda Rhimes: Resigned as treasurer from the board. 

Ben Folds: Resigned as artistic adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO). 

Renee Fleming: Resigned as an artistic advisor. 

 These cancellations and resignations stem from a broad protest against Donald Trump's takeover and restructuring of the institution, which many artists felt violated the Center's historic mission of fostering art for all.