Executive Summary
- At least ten 'Les Misérables' cast members are boycotting a Kennedy Center performance on June 11 due to Donald Trump's attendance.
- Richard Grenell, the Trump-appointed head of the Kennedy Center, criticized the boycotting actors, suggesting they might face professional repercussions.
- The boycott reflects broader concerns about Trump's influence on the Kennedy Center, including staff changes, canceled performances, and perceived political interference in the arts.
Event Overview
A controversy has erupted at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., as cast members from the touring production of 'Les Misérables' have chosen to boycott an upcoming performance scheduled for June 11. This decision stems from the anticipated presence of Donald Trump, who is hosting a fundraising event for the Kennedy Center on the same night. The boycott highlights a growing unease among artists and staff regarding Trump's influence over the Kennedy Center, particularly after his appointment of Richard Grenell as president and his reshaping of the board.
Media Coverage Comparison
| Source | Key Angle / Focus | Unique Details Mentioned | Tone |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Guardian | Cast members' boycott and Grenell's response | Trump used Les Misérables music at campaign rallies, co-creators decried this use. Trump wants to eliminate 'drag shows' and 'woke' content. | Neutral, factual reporting with a slight emphasis on the artistic community's concerns. |
| The Washington Post | Fundraiser, boycott, and staff concerns | VIP tickets costing up to $2 million are being sold for the performance. Staff members were laid off. Artists protest Trump's takeover, not Republicans. | Critical, highlighting the potential negative impact of Trump's involvement on the Kennedy Center. |
| Deadline | Grenell's criticism of boycotting actors and Lin-Manuel Miranda | Grenell suggested a 'Black List' of intolerant artists. Hamilton's producers canceled a 2026 engagement. Grenell criticized American Idol for hiring Lin-Manuel Miranda. | Focuses on Grenell's perspective and actions, portraying the conflict between the Kennedy Center leadership and some artists. |
| The Times | Grenell's response and broader culture wars | Trump elected chair after firing Biden appointees. Trump vowed there would be 'no more drag shows or other anti-American' performances. Gala is expected to raise large sums. | Neutral, emphasizing the political and cultural context surrounding the boycott and the changes at the Kennedy Center. |
Key Details & Data Points
- What: Cast members of 'Les Misérables' are boycotting a performance at the Kennedy Center due to Donald Trump's attendance and his influence on the institution.
- Who: Key individuals include Donald Trump, Richard Grenell (Kennedy Center President), cast members of 'Les Misérables,' Deborah Rutter (former Kennedy Center president), Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jeffrey Seller, Issa Rae, and Shonda Rhimes.
- When: The boycott is planned for the June 11 performance. Trump took over the Kennedy Center earlier in 2025. The Hamilton performance was canceled in March 2025.
- Where: The events are taking place at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
Key Statistics:
- Key statistic 1: $2 million (cost of VIP tickets including box seats and a photo with Trump)
- Key statistic 2: 10+ (number of Les Misérables cast members boycotting the performance)
- Key statistic 3: $257 million (House committee approved budget allocation for the Kennedy Center after Trump's criticism)
Analysis & Context
The 'Les Misérables' cast boycott underscores the growing tension between the arts community and the Trump administration. Trump's takeover of the Kennedy Center, marked by personnel changes and altered programming priorities, has sparked widespread concern among artists and staff. Grenell's strong response to the boycott, including the suggestion of a 'Black List,' raises questions about artistic freedom and political influence. The incident reflects a broader cultural divide and highlights the challenges faced by arts organizations navigating political landscapes.
Notable Quotes
Any performer who isn’t professional enough to perform for patrons of all backgrounds, regardless of political affiliation, won’t be welcomed.
The Kennedy Center wants to be a place where people of all political stripes sit next to each other and never ask who someone voted for but instead enjoys a performance together.
The recent purge by the Trump administration of both professional staff and performing arts events at or originally produced by the Kennedy Center flies in the face of everything this national centre represents.
Conclusion
The boycott by 'Les Misérables' cast members represents a significant moment in the ongoing debate surrounding political influence in the arts. The future of the Kennedy Center under Trump's leadership remains uncertain, with potential implications for artistic freedom and programming. The conflict underscores the challenges arts organizations face in navigating politically charged environments and maintaining their commitment to inclusivity and artistic expression.
Disclaimer: This article was generated by an AI system that synthesizes information from multiple news sources. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and objectivity, reporting nuances, potential biases, or errors from original sources may be reflected. The information presented here is for informational purposes and should be verified with primary sources, especially for critical decisions.
