Issa Rae, Ben Folds and Shonda Rhimes among those who chose not to associate with the institution and president

Summary

Donald Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center has led to backlash, with several artists canceling performances or resigning from positions.

Trump replaced the board with loyalists, fired center president Deborah Rutter, and installed himself as chair.

Issa Rae canceled a sold-out show, Reneé Fleming resigned as artistic adviser, and Shonda Rhimes stepped down as treasurer. Ben Folds also left his role with the National Symphony Orchestra.

Trump justified the takeover by criticizing past performances as “woke,” despite admitting he hadn’t seen any.

  • @TheDemonBuer
    59•6 days ago

    Donald Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center has led to backlash, with several artists canceling performances or resigning from positions.

    I don’t blame them. I often think of resigning from being an American, these days.

  • @disguy_ovahea
    36•6 days ago

    Really looking forward to the NSO’s rendition of YMCA conducted by Kid Rock

    • @[email protected]
      6•6 days ago

      Look, the awfulness of this whole entire situation aside - I would unironically enjoy the shit out of that rendition.

  • Flying Squid
    12•6 days ago

    This is somewhat off-topic, but…

    Ben Folds also left his role with the National Symphony Orchestra.

    What?

    • CH3DD4R_G0B-L1NEnglish
      5•6 days ago

      It gets me real pissed off and makes me wanna say fuck, just like John Bon Jovi did.