Some artists scheduled to perform at The Kennedy Center are reconsidering their appearances following a recent decision by the venue’s board to add President Trump’s name to the historic performing arts complex.
According to NOTUS, at least one musician has confirmed they are actively canceling an upcoming show, while others have expressed frustration, concern, or reluctance about returning in the future as the storied institution undergoes rapid leadership and branding changes.
A spokesperson for singer-songwriter Kristy Lee, who was scheduled to perform Jan. 14 on the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, told NOTUS that “we are in the process of canceling her scheduled performance.”
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Other performers told the outlet they were conflicted about what the name change represents for a venue long regarded as a nonpartisan national memorial to the arts.
“I feel really badly for performers, not just for performers but for the people who work there,” one artist scheduled to appear at the center said anonymously, citing concerns about professional repercussions. “Kennedy Center is supposed to be a memorial, focusing on being nonpartisan. A place where people, it doesn’t matter what party they believe in, should be performing and experiencing the arts together regardless of what their party is. And it has not become that.”
The performer added, “It’s no longer a focus on the arts, and it’s very sad. And I know a lot of the people that I perform with are very sad.”
Another artist who still plans to honor their scheduled date said they do not associate the building with Trump, describing the name change as a “stain” on the institution, even as they stopped short of canceling.
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One musician told NOTUS they felt financially established acts could more easily take a stand, while smaller performers faced tougher choices.
“Hamilton could afford to pull out,” the artist said. “It’s easy to stand on your principles when you have money in the bank.”
The White House announced the board’s vote last week, part of a broader shakeup at the Kennedy Center that has included leadership changes and staff departures. Trump was elected chair of the board earlier this year after several board members were removed, and longtime president Deborah Rutter was ousted in February.
The move has also sparked debate among lawmakers. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and several Democrats issued a statement arguing that changing the center’s name would require congressional approval, while Rep. Joyce Beatty said her microphone was muted when she attempted to vote against the change during a board meeting and that the vote was not unanimous.
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Reaction online has been similarly divided. On X, designer Christopher Webbwrote, “Wow‼️ The Kennedy Center already started slapping Donald Trump’s name on the building without congressional approval. The narcissism is unreal with this man, and the willingness of so many to bend to his every whim is pathetic.”
Responses ranged from anger and disappointment to support for the decision. Some commenters questioned the speed at which the new signage appeared, while others applauded the move, with one writing, “Awesome!” and another adding, “WooHoo Winning…”
Despite the controversy, not all artists are walking away. Some performers told NOTUS they still intend to appear, hoping continued programming will preserve the center’s artistic mission during a turbulent period.
“The center is the nation’s cultural center, and it is for everybody,” comedian and independent producer Rola Z said in a statement. “As a comedian and show producer, my calling is to bring laughter to the community. Through bespoke shows, I strive to bring audacious perspectives and to showcase unique talent. Artists thrive in times of controversy, and we have a commitment to speak up when others shy away.”
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