Kennedy Center Cancellations: Hamilton, Issa Rae, Philip Glass Impacted

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. has faced significant turmoil, particularly following changes initiated by President Trump during his second term. The center has been impacted by over two dozen cancellations, with prominent artists withdrawing their performances, citing political reasons.

Kennedy Center Cancellations: Key Events and Figures

Numerous artists and organizations have expressed their denial to perform at the Kennedy Center due to the perceived politicization of the venue. Key cancellations include:

• Philip Glass: The composer pulled his Symphony No. 15, citing a conflict with the center’s values.
• The Washington National Opera: Moved its spring season to George Washington University after 70 years at the Kennedy Center.
• Béla Fleck: The musician withdrew from a performance, criticizing the venue’s political shift.
• Stephen Schwartz: The “Wicked” composer opted out of hosting a gala, calling the center’s environment ideological.
• Renée Fleming: The soprano canceled performances and resigned as artistic adviser, expressing disapproval of Trump’s leadership.
• Hamilton: The highly acclaimed musical withdrew after changes in leadership and power dynamics at the center made participation untenable.
• Issa Rae: The comedian canceled a show, feeling that the center no longer upheld its mission to celebrate diverse artists.

Additional Cancellations and Statements

Several other notable figures and groups also canceled performances, reflecting a broader sentiment against the center’s current leadership:

• Doug Varone and Dancers: Abruptly pulled out of scheduled performances, hoping for the center’s reputation to improve in the future.
• Magpie: The folk duo initiated a “Restoration Roadshow” to counterbalance the center’s political statements.
• The Cookers: Canceled their New Year’s Eve show, expressing disappointment with the center’s shift in identity.
• Kristy Lee: Canceled a performance, emphasizing the need for cultural spaces to remain free from political influence.
• Wayne Tucker: The jazz trumpeter stated that performing at the Kennedy Center contradicted his goals as a musician.

As the 2026 season approaches, the impact of these cancellations poses a looming question about the future identity of the Kennedy Center amid political and artistic tensions. The alignment of the center’s values with those of its community and artists remains under scrutiny.