Overview
- The WNO board approved a resolution to seek an early, amicable end to its affiliation, resume as an independent nonprofit, reduce its spring season and shift performances to other Washington venues.
- Kennedy Center officials framed the separation as necessary due to a financially challenging relationship, with President Richard Grenell calling the opera’s exclusive arrangement costly and limiting.
- Opera leaders told reporters the move follows a drop in attendance and donor contributions during Trump’s second term, along with artists refusing to appear since the center added his name.
- The company said the center’s requirement that productions be fully funded in advance is incompatible with opera economics, noting the elimination of support previously provided to resident companies.
- Fallout continues across the institution, as Rep. Joyce Beatty pursues a lawsuit over the renaming, prominent artists cancel engagements, and National Symphony Orchestra members voice growing anxiety ahead of new labor talks.