Overview
- Stephen Schwartz said he will not host the Washington National Opera Gala, calling the venue no longer an apolitical space for free artistic expression.
- The Kennedy Center’s spokesperson said Schwartz was never confirmed by current leadership, though event listings identified him as the gala’s host with tickets on sale.
- New cancellations continue, including Brooklyn musician Wayne Tucker’s Jan. 22 show, following earlier pullouts by The Cookers, Doug Varone and Dancers, and Chuck Redd.
- Interim president Richard Grenell threatened to seek $1 million in damages from Redd over his Christmas Eve cancellation, labeling the move a political stunt.
- Legal and political scrutiny is mounting, with Rep. Joyce Beatty’s lawsuit arguing only Congress can change the memorial’s name and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse alleging financial mismanagement, as ratings and ticket sales slump.