Overview

• President Trump hosted the Kennedy Center's new board at the White House, following his February decision to dismiss previous trustees and appoint himself as chair.
• The 2025–2026 season lineup includes Broadway hits like 'Moulin Rouge!' and 'Spamalot,' alongside family-oriented productions such as 'Bluey' and 'Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE.'
• Under interim director Richard Grenell, the Center has shifted away from LGBTQ+ Pride events and drag shows, aligning with Trump's vision of 'traditional values' programming.
• Several artists, including Issa Rae and Rhiannon Giddens, have canceled performances in protest of the ideological shift and perceived politicization of the institution.
• Critics argue the changes represent an unprecedented political intervention in a historically nonpartisan cultural institution, raising concerns about governance and funding stability.