‘Hamilton’ Cancels 2026 Kennedy Center Run Over Trump-Led Leadership Changes
Producers cite the politicization of the Kennedy Center under Trump's revised board as the reason for withdrawing the planned performances.
- The producers of 'Hamilton' have canceled the musical's 2026 performances at the Kennedy Center, citing concerns over the venue's new leadership under Trump-appointed board members.
- Lin-Manuel Miranda and producer Jeffrey Seller stated that the Kennedy Center's current direction does not align with the original vision of the national arts institution.
- Trump's administration appointed Ric Grenell as interim executive director, who has defended the changes as part of a plan to bring more 'commonsense art' to the venue.
- Critics of the decision, including Bill Maher, argue that the arts community's response reflects an exclusionary attitude that alienates politically diverse audiences.
- This marks the second time 'Hamilton' has intersected with political controversy, following the cast's public address to then-Vice President-elect Mike Pence in 2016.