Trump's Kennedy Center Overhaul Sparks Controversy at 'Les Misérables' Performance

President Donald Trump's recent leadership overhaul at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has ignited significant debate within the arts community, culminating in a polarized reception during his attendance at a "Les Misérables" performance on June 11, 2025.

In February 2025, President Trump dismissed the existing Board of Trustees at the Kennedy Center, including longtime chair David Rubenstein, and appointed a new board that elected him as chairman. He also appointed Richard Grenell as interim executive director. These actions, coupled with criticisms of the center's previous programming, particularly drag and LGBTQ+ performances, have led to significant backlash from artists and patrons alike.

Established in 1971, the Kennedy Center serves as the United States' national cultural hub, hosting over 2,000 performances annually. Historically, the Board of Trustees has been a bipartisan body, with members appointed by the President of the United States.

In February 2025, President Trump announced the termination of multiple board members, including Chairman David Rubenstein, citing a desire to align the center's vision with his administration's cultural objectives. He appointed new trustees, including political allies such as Usha Vance, Dan Scavino, and Sergio Gor. The newly constituted board elected President Trump as its chairman, and Richard Grenell, a longtime confidant of President Trump, was named interim executive director.

Under the new leadership, the Kennedy Center underwent several policy and programming shifts. President Trump criticized the center's past programming, particularly drag shows and LGBTQ+ performances, labeling them as "anti-American propaganda." The center canceled the national tour of the children's musical "Finn," citing financial reasons. However, this move was perceived by many as an attack on free speech and accessibility to the arts. Prominent figures such as Shonda Rhimes, Renée Fleming, and Ben Folds resigned from their positions. Additionally, productions like "Hamilton" canceled scheduled performances at the center.

On June 11, 2025, President Trump attended a performance of "Les Misérables" at the Kennedy Center, marking his first visit since assuming the role of chairman. His presence elicited a mixed reaction from the audience, with both cheers and boos. Demonstrations occurred outside the venue, including protests by drag queens opposing the administration's policies. The event raised over $10 million in donations, with some attendees paying up to $2 million for exclusive access.

The changes have led to a divide within the arts community, with some artists and patrons supporting the new direction, while others view it as an encroachment on artistic freedom. The administration's stance has been perceived as a direct attack on LGBTQ+ representation in the arts, leading to protests and alternative performances by affected groups. While the "Les Misérables" event was a financial success, overall subscription revenue at the Kennedy Center has reportedly declined sharply, with theater subscriptions down 82%.

President Trump's overhaul of the Kennedy Center's leadership and programming has sparked significant cultural and political tensions, reflecting broader debates about artistic freedom, representation, and the role of politics in cultural institutions.