Summary
The Kennedy Center has been renamed to include President Donald Trump's name, leading to some artists canceling their performances. The venue's board, which includes Trump's associates, made this decision, sparking criticism from some artists and political figures. Some musicians cited the name change as their reason for canceling shows at the center.
Key Facts
- The Kennedy Center's board voted to rename the venue to include President Donald Trump's name.
- The Cookers, a jazz band, canceled two shows scheduled on New Year's Eve due to the name change.
- Doug Varone and Dancers also canceled their April performances, citing the name change.
- Richard Grenell, the Kennedy Center's president, criticized the cancellations, attributing them to the previous leadership's political bias.
- New signage with President Trump's name was added to the building.
- Legal scholars debated whether Congress must approve the name change, as the center was established by a 1964 law.
- Some members of John F. Kennedy's family opposed the renaming, arguing it dishonors his legacy.
- Musician Chuck Redd also canceled his annual performance at the center, leading to a demand for damages from the center's management.
