Summary
Several performers and acts have canceled their shows at the Kennedy Center after President Trump took over and renamed the institution. This year, at least 11 acts have withdrawn, including jazz bands and dance companies. Some artists cited disagreement with the renaming and the current leadership's political views as reasons for their cancellations.
Key Facts
- President Trump became the chairman of the Kennedy Center board in February and renamed it to include his name.
- At least 11 acts have pulled out from performances or roles at the Kennedy Center this year.
- The Cookers, a jazz band, and Doug Varone and Dancers canceled their shows this week due to disagreement with the center's leadership.
- The Cookers mentioned America's jazz history and freedom of expression as motivations for their decision.
- Doug Varone and Dancers cited moral reasons for their cancellation, despite financial losses.
- Kennedy Center President Ric Grenell claimed the cancellations were politically motivated by the previous leadership.
- Rep. Joyce Beatty is pursuing a legal challenge to the center's renaming.
- Artist withdrawals also include Chuck Redd, Issa Rae, and Shonda Rhimes, with Redd facing a potential lawsuit over his cancellation.
