SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- A San Francisco-based performing group that features volunteer LGBTQIA+ musicians and drag performers has had an upcoming appearance at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. abruptly canceled. The International Pride Orchestra (IPO) was scheduled to take part in the Pride Celebration Concert at the Kennedy Center on June 4.
However, earlier this month, President Donald Trump announced via social media post that he would be appointing MAGA loyalist Ric Grenell, who was the first openly gay U.S. cabinet member, as interim executive director of the Kennedy Center. In the post, Trump said that there would be "NO MORE DRAG SHOWS, OR OTHER ANTI-AMERICAN PROPAGANDA" at the center.
No savings expected from nearly 40% of DOGE-canceled contractsTrump went on to name himself chairman of the center and fired several of the board members.
A few days later, IPO received a one-sentence email from the Kennedy Center, informing them, "We are not in a position at this time to advance a contract."
"We were heartbroken when we learned that our concert would no longer be welcome at the Kennedy Center," said Michael Roest, founding artistic director of IPO. "The Kennedy Center has long been a symbol of artistic excellence, inclusivity, and freedom of expression."
"Sadly, to read something like this from the present President of the United States is not surprising, but is in itself profoundly unamerican and therefore disheartening," said IPO board member and conductor Christine Brandes. "His actions further embolden us in our purpose.
The group will instead move its Pride Celebration Concert to the Strathmore Music Center in Bethesda, Maryland on Thursday, June 5.
"The Strathmore Music Center, known for its commitment to diversity and artistic freedom, quickly stepped in to offer IPO a new home for its landmark event," read a statement from the group. "The Pride Celebration Concert will now serve not only as a celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, but as a testament to the enduring power of music to united communities in the face of adversity."
The Pride Celebration Concert, which promises "an unforgettable evening of music, featuring a diverse repertoire that reflects the richness of LGBTQ+ experience," will be hosted by noted San Francisco drag performer, Peaches Christ.
The Kennedy Center has reportedly seen a 50% drop in ticket sales since Trump announced his intention to take it over.
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