This is just unfair and cruel.
Several performers have canceled scheduled appearances at Washington’s famed John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts following the White House’s decision to add President Donald Trump’s name to the historic performing arts institution.
The decision has sparked controversy in the arts community, with critics accusing performers of politicizing a venue long viewed as a national cultural landmark rather than a partisan space.
One of the most notable withdrawals came from The Cookers, a long-running jazz ensemble that had been scheduled to perform two New Year’s Eve shows at the Kennedy Center’s Terrace Theater. The group confirmed earlier this week that it would no longer appear.
In a public statement, the musicians cited concerns about artistic expression and the atmosphere surrounding the venue. Drummer Billy Hart later told The New York Times that the name change influenced the group’s decision.
Another cancellation followed shortly after, when Doug Varone and Dancers announced the New York–based dance company would no longer participate in performances originally planned for April.
The White House declined to issue an immediate response when contacted by Fox News Digital.
Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell responded by placing the cancellations in broader context, pointing out that the departing artists were selected under prior leadership.
Grenell said the previous administration of the Kennedy Center focused heavily on politically aligned performers rather than artists willing to perform for audiences across the ideological spectrum. He emphasized that the arts should remain accessible to all Americans, regardless of political beliefs.
The cancellations come shortly after the Kennedy Center’s board voted unanimously on December 18 to rename the institution the “Trump–Kennedy Center.” In addition to the official renaming, President Trump’s name was added to the building’s exterior signage, and the center’s website was updated accordingly.
Other performers have also withdrawn in recent weeks. Veteran jazz musician Chuck Redd announced earlier this month that he canceled a planned Christmas Eve concert after seeing the updated name displayed both online and on the building, according to remarks reported by the Associated Press.
Earlier this year, President Trump removed the Kennedy Center’s previous leadership and now serves as chair of its board. Current trustees include Second Lady Usha Vance, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino.
Supporters of the changes argue that the backlash reflects continued political hostility toward President Trump rather than a genuine concern for the arts. They maintain that national cultural institutions should unite Americans, not exclude them based on ideology.
