What's happened
On June 11, 2025, President Trump will attend a performance of Les Misérables at the Kennedy Center, marking his first event since taking control of the institution. His leadership has sparked controversy, leading to a boycott by several cast members in protest of his policies and actions.
What's behind the headline?
Overview
Trump's attendance at the Kennedy Center's Les Misérables is emblematic of his controversial leadership style and the cultural tensions it has ignited.
Key Points
- Cultural Impact: The Kennedy Center, a historic venue, has seen a 50% drop in ticket sales since Trump's takeover, indicating a significant backlash from the arts community.
- Boycott: Reports suggest that 10 to 12 cast members will boycott the performance, reflecting deep divisions within the artistic community regarding Trump's policies.
- Political Context: This event coincides with heightened tensions in U.S. politics, particularly regarding Trump's recent military actions in California, which have drawn criticism from state officials.
Implications
The situation at the Kennedy Center illustrates the broader cultural and political divides in the U.S. The backlash against Trump's leadership may continue to affect the arts, as artists and audiences react to perceived intolerance and political agendas in cultural spaces. The outcome of this event could influence future performances and the overall direction of the Kennedy Center under Trump's administration.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Trump's attendance at the Kennedy Center has prompted a boycott from several cast members, with one performer stating, "Theater is supposed to be a place of community... it should be open and available to all." The New York Times highlights that this performance is a culmination of Trump's cultural takeover, noting that his administration's actions have upset many artists. The Independent also reports that Trump's leadership has led to a significant drop in ticket sales, with high-profile performers resigning in protest. This reflects a growing tension between Trump's political actions and the artistic community's values.
How we got here
Trump's takeover of the Kennedy Center began in February 2025 when he appointed himself chairman, dismissing the previous board and replacing it with loyalists. This move has led to significant backlash from artists and a notable decline in ticket sales.
Go deeper
- What are the reactions from the arts community?
- How has ticket sales been affected since Trump's takeover?
- What does this mean for future performances at the Kennedy Center?
Common question
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Why are cast members boycotting Trump's attendance at Les Misérables?
President Trump's recent attendance at the Kennedy Center's performance of Les Misérables has sparked significant controversy, leading to a boycott by several cast members. This event raises questions about the intersection of politics and the arts, and how Trump's leadership is impacting the cultural landscape.
More on these topics
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Les Misérables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, that is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century.
In the English-speaking world, the novel is usually referred to by its original French title.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Washington, D.C., formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington or D.C., is the capital of the United States.
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Richard Allen Grenell is the current United States Ambassador to Germany. He previously served as U.S. spokesman under four ambassadors at the United Nations.