Summary
The Washington National Opera is leaving the Trump Kennedy Center due to financial struggles and artistic differences following President Donald Trump's control of the venue. The opera's board decided to end their long-time partnership with the center and become an independent nonprofit organization. Changes at the center, including a policy shift favoring profitable productions, have affected the opera's operations.
Key Facts
- The Washington National Opera has been at the Kennedy Center for over 50 years.
- President Trump renamed the Kennedy Center and appointed Richard Grenell as executive director.
- The opera's board voted to leave due to financial issues and artistic disagreements.
- Recent boycotts and artist cancellations have affected the center's events.
- Grenell has implemented policies for productions to be financially self-sustaining.
- Negotiations are ongoing concerning the opera’s $30 million endowment.
- New venues in Washington for the opera have been identified, but no leases are signed yet.
