Artists Withdraw from Kennedy Center Shows After Trump’s Name Added

Following the recent renaming of the Kennedy Center, a growing number of artists are withdrawing from performances at the esteemed venue. The latest group to cancel is the jazz ensemble known as The Cookers, who pulled out of a New Year’s Eve concert. Their decision aligns with a broader backlash against the addition of President Donald Trump’s name to the center.

Background of the Kennedy Center Controversy

Earlier this month, the Kennedy Center, formerly known as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, officially changed its name to the Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts. This decision followed Trump’s appointment of himself as chairman after dismissing the previous board earlier this year.

Previous Artist Responses

The change has triggered significant backlash among artists. In spring 2023, notable performers, such as Issa Rae and the producers of Hamilton, canceled engagements in protest. Musicians Ben Folds and Renée Fleming also stepped back from their advisory roles when the political climate shifted under Trump’s leadership.

Current Cancellations and Statements

• The Cookers announced their decision on their website, citing the urgency and the potential disappointment for ticket holders.
• One of the band’s saxophonists, Billy Harper, made a statement reflecting on the implications of the name change. He emphasized that the current board and its leadership represent values he stands against, particularly regarding racism and the preservation of African American music and culture.
• Folk singer Kristy Lee also withdrew from a performance scheduled for January, citing a loss of integrity as her reason.
• The New York City dance company Doug Varone and Dancers canceled their April performance, deeming the name change as unacceptable.

Official Responses and Future Implications

Richard Grenell, a Trump ally who now leads the Kennedy Center, suggested that the cancellations reflect the previous leadership’s bias. He claimed that many “real artists” are eager to perform irrespective of political affiliations. Grenell also threatened legal action against performers, such as Chuck Redd, who cited the renaming in their decision to withdraw.

Historically, the Kennedy Center was designated as a memorial for President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963, and any changes to its name may require congressional approval. Legal experts have indicated that the law prohibits altering the center’s status as a memorial to anyone other than Kennedy.

Conclusion

As the situation unfolds, the artistic community remains divided, with many expressing dissent towards the renamed Kennedy Center. The ramifications of these artist withdrawals could impact future programming and the center’s reputation. The desire for integrity in artistic expression continues to drive decisions in the wake of controversial developments.