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yesterday

Trump's First Kennedy Center Appearance Elicits Boos, Cheers and $10 Million in Fundraising

His attendance served as a political fundraiser that underscored deep divisions over his conservative overhaul of the center.

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President Donald Trump gestures while he poses for a picture at the presidential box at the Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 17, 2025.
US President Donald Trump (L) and First Lady Melania Trump arrive to attend the opening night of "Les Miserables" at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, on June 11, 2025.
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Overview

  • Trump attended the June 11 opening night of Les Misérables, marking his first show at the Kennedy Center since appointing himself chairman and reshaping its board.
  • The evening’s fundraiser secured over $10 million for the institution, with top donors paying up to $2 million for premium seating and a photo opportunity with the president.
  • Audience response was split as Trump took his seat in the presidential box, drawing loud boos alongside chants of “USA!” and scattered applause.
  • Up to a dozen cast members boycotted the performance in protest of his takeover, and a group of drag performers staged an in-auditorium demonstration against his ban on drag shows.
  • Overall ticket and subscription revenue has plunged since February, with subscription income down 36% and theater subscriptions off more than 80%.