A group of musicians and artistic companies has announced the cancellation of scheduled performances at the Kennedy Center, the iconic cultural institution in Washington D.C., in protest of its recent name change to the «Trump-Kennedy Center.»
Changes and Cancellations
The renaming of the cultural center, which now bears the surname of former president and current head of state Donald Trump, has generated backlash among various artists. Those voicing complaints include jazz groups, dance companies, and individual figures from the music world.
Among those who have announced performance cancellations are the jazz supergroup The Cookers and musician Lin-Manuel Miranda. As well as other ensembles and soloists who decided to withdraw their participation as a sign of protest.
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Reactions and Arguments
The controversy intensified when Richard Grenell, chairman of the Kennedy Center, defended the name change and characterized the cancellations as a potential «boycott» motivated by political interests.
In statements on social media, he asserted that «the arts are for everyone» and suggested that the artists canceling their performances were hired by the «previous far-left leadership.»
For their part, members of some groups expressed that they refuse to perform at the venue under a name that. In their view, symbolizes divisive politics and adopts stances that distance the cultural space from its artistic mission.
Scope of the Rejection
The cancellations are not limited to year-end performances but also affect events scheduled for 2026, including dance shows and concerts. This movement has been interpreted by some observers as a response to the institutional identity change. It has sparked debates about artistic autonomy and the politicization of cultural spaces.
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Context and Repercussions
The name change to the «Trump-Kennedy Center» was approved by the board of directors in mid-December. The decision has drawn criticism even from lawmakers and members of the Kennedy family. They point out that the center was created with its original name by law and that any modification of this kind should have congressional approval.
At the same time, the institution has modified part of its programming. Has eliminated eliminating some shows that celebrated specific communities and instead offering events that, according to critics, seem to align with conservative currents.
The cancellation of performances and the controversy surrounding the name change have also impacted ticket sales and the public perception of the center in its cultural activities.
