Overview
- Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz withdrew from hosting the Washington National Opera Gala on May 16, saying the venue no longer reflects an apolitical home for free artistic expression.
- Brooklyn trumpeter Wayne Tucker canceled his Jan. 22 show, joining Chuck Redd, Doug Varone and Dancers, and The Cookers in pulling out after the board added President Donald Trump’s name to the memorial.
- Interim president Richard Grenell threatened to seek $1 million in damages from canceling artists, calling the moves political stunts and signaling plans to pursue claims after the holidays.
- A federal lawsuit contests the renaming as unlawful, arguing only Congress can change the memorial’s name, with reporting noting federal law bars adding another person’s name to the building’s exterior.
- Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse’s investigation alleges cronyism and multimillion-dollar losses, citing an estimated $5,038,444 shortfall tied to FIFA exclusivity and preferential deals, accusations Grenell rejects.