Fundraiser and Performance Draw High Stakes
President Donald Trump attended the opening night of 'Les Misérables' at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. on June 11. The event doubled as a significant fundraiser for the center, with ticket prices reaching up to $2 million for a preview of the musical and a photo opportunity with the president. Trump announced that donors had raised over $10 million for the Kennedy Center, which has faced financial struggles in recent years.
This high-profile appearance marked Trump's first production at the venue since taking over its leadership earlier in 2025. Under interim president Ric Grenell, the center has undergone a conservative overhaul, a move that has stirred debate within the arts community. The choice of 'Les Misérables,' a musical centered on themes of inequality and rebellion, added an ironic layer to the evening given the ongoing protests and boycotts surrounding Trump's involvement.
Cast Boycotts and Protests Highlight Tensions
The president's attendance was met with significant pushback from some members of the 'Les Misérables' cast. At least 10 cast members, including both lead actors and ensemble performers, planned to boycott the performance in protest of Trump's presence and his administration's influence over the Kennedy Center. This boycott reflects broader discontent within the arts community following the leadership shake-up that began in February 2025.
Additionally, drag performers planned to protest outside the venue during the event, responding to Trump's statements about ending drag shows at the center. These actions underscore the growing anti-Trump sentiment among artists and performers, many of whom feel that the recent changes threaten the institution's artistic independence.
Social media posts on X have also captured public frustration, with users pointing out the irony of a $2 million fundraiser for a musical about revolution against despotic rule. While these sentiments are not universal, they highlight a polarized reaction to Trump's involvement in the arts sector.
Leadership Changes and Future Implications
The Kennedy Center's transformation under Trump's administration has been a focal point of controversy. Interim president Ric Grenell has faced criticism for his response to dissenting performers, stating that any artist unwilling to perform for patrons of all backgrounds lacks professionalism. This stance has further fueled tensions among staff and artists at the center.
Financially, the Kennedy Center was reportedly in dire straits before Grenell's appointment, with zero funds in reserve. The $10 million raised during the fundraiser is seen as a step toward revitalization, though critics argue that it comes at the cost of artistic integrity. As Trump aims to 'bring it back better than ever,' as he stated on the red carpet alongside First Lady Melania Trump, the future of the Kennedy Center remains uncertain amid ongoing cultural and political battles.