For decades, the Kennedy Center has been a symbol of artistic freedom and representation in the performing arts.
Since its 1971 opening, honoring President John F. Kennedy, the center has hosted global talent in dance, theater, and music. Traditionally, it has enjoyed bipartisan support as a partially federally funded institution, with no sitting president serving as its chairman—until now.
President Donald Trump was elected chairman by a board that excluded 18 Democratic appointees, whom he removed after announcing plans to reshape the center’s programming. He stated his intention to eliminate “woke” elements.
This move led Jeffrey Seller, producer of “Hamilton,” to cancel the musical’s planned run through 2026. Seller criticized Trump’s “purge” of staff and events, stating it contradicts the center’s mission to foster artistic freedom.
Artists like Issa Rae, Shonda Rhimes, and Ben Folds have also resigned or canceled events. Performances, including the children’s musical “Finn,” have been canceled. “Hamilton’s” withdrawal, however, stands out as a high-profile protest directly citing Trump’s changes.
Deborah Rutter, the former Kennedy Center president replaced by Trump confidant Richard Grenell, aimed to make the center representative of all Americans. While she didn’t predict the impact of Trump’s leadership, she emphasized the importance of a safe and welcoming environment for artists.
A Rich History
The concept for a national cultural center originated with Republican President Dwight Eisenhower in the 1950s, who sought to establish an American arts center similar to those in Europe.
In 1958, Eisenhower signed the National Cultural Center Act, marking the government’s first financial support for an arts-dedicated structure.
President Kennedy continued this effort, viewing performing arts as vital to the nation. After his 1963 assassination, the center was renamed the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. As a living memorial, it receives partial government funding for maintenance but relies on private donations and ticket sales for programming.
President Lyndon B. Johnson broke ground in 1964. The resulting Edward Durell Stone-designed structure stands on the Potomac River.
Kennedy’s granddaughter, Rose Kennedy Schlossberg, described it as a place for new art, ideas, and community. Michelle Mulitz, whose family supported the center, emphasized its role in fostering artistic engagement.
As both an artist and observer, Mulitz is cautiously optimistic about the center’s future under the new administration.
Artistic Expression
The center’s 1971 opening featured Leonard Bernstein’s “Mass,” a production considered controversial at the time.
For decades, the Kennedy Center has hosted diverse performances, including ballet, opera, theater, and dance, and is home to the National Symphony Orchestra.
It is renowned for the Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing lifelong artistic achievements. Past presidents have often attended, setting aside politics for the event. This changed during Trump’s first term, when he declined to attend.
Throughout its history, the center has hosted festivals celebrating global art, such as the 2009 “Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.”
Under Rutter’s leadership, the center prioritized inclusivity, appointing a VP for social impact, establishing a hip-hop program, and welcoming international artists.
Rutter emphasized artists’ role as a “mirror to society” and the importance of upholding freedom of expression.
