Trump Supporter Reacts to Kennedy Center Boycott Furor

Donald Trump’s influence on the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has sparked significant controversy. Notable artists, such as Béla Fleck and Stephen Schwartz, have opted to withdraw from performances due to perceived political bias associated with the venue’s current management.

Influential Artists Withdraw from Kennedy Center

On social media, Grammy-winning bluegrass musician Béla Fleck announced his decision to pull out of three shows with the National Symphony Orchestra. This cancellation is part of the “American Mosaic” series scheduled for February. Fleck cited the increasing political atmosphere of the venue as a primary reason, stating, “Performing there has become charged and political, at an institution where the focus should be on the music.”

Richard Grenell’s Response

Richard Grenell, a Trump supporter and head of the Kennedy Center, reacted strongly to Fleck’s withdrawal. He accused the artist of capitulating to a “woke mob” that pressures performers to adopt a political stance. Grenell emphasized that the Kennedy Center should remain an apolitical venue, welcoming artists from all political backgrounds.

• Grenell’s quotes included: “You just made it political and caved to the woke mob…”
• He stated the center seeks performers who love entertaining without political undertones.

Further Withdrawal of Talent

Fleck is not alone in his decision. Stephen Schwartz, known for composing “Wicked,” also decided against performing. He announced he would not participate in an upcoming Washington National Opera gala due to the venue’s ideological shift. Schwartz, a founding member of the Kennedy Center in 1971, stated that the institution no longer provides a space for free artistic expression.

Confirmation from Washington National Opera

The Washington National Opera confirmed Schwartz’s earlier agreement to host the gala. Francesca Zambello, the WNO’s artistic director, expressed respect for Schwartz’s personal decision to withdraw from the event.

Impact of Name Change

The controversy traces back to a vote on December 18, where the Kennedy Center’s board decided to attach Donald Trump’s name to the venue, igniting backlash from numerous artists. Since this decision, more than ten performers have withdrawn from scheduled shows, including Fleck and Schwartz.

Additional Withdrawals

• Chuck Redd canceled his Christmas Eve performance.
• The Cookers declined to perform on New Year’s Eve, a tradition for over 15 years.
• Comedian Issa Rae and musician Kristy Lee also withdrew from scheduled performances.

Many artists echoed sentiments of integrity over financial gain. Kristy Lee mentioned that while canceling shows affects her income, preserving her principles was paramount.

Conclusion

As the backlash continues, the Kennedy Center’s identity remains at a crossroads. The recent withdrawals highlight a growing tension between political affiliations and artistic freedom, shaping the venue’s future in a divided cultural climate.