Artists Cancel Performances at the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center is concluding the year with multiple artists canceling their scheduled performances following President Donald Trump’s name being added to the venue. The president of the institution has accused the performers of making politically motivated decisions.

Artist Withdrawals

The Cookers, a jazz supergroup with nearly two decades of collaboration, announced their withdrawal from “A Jazz New Year’s Eve” on their website, stating that the decision was made rapidly and expressing sympathy for those who had planned to attend.

Other Artist Actions

Doug Varone and Dancers, a New York-based dance company, shared on Instagram that they would be pulling out of an April performance, declaring they could no longer participate in what they described as a once-great institution.

Context of Cancellations

These cancellations follow musician Chuck Redd’s cancellation of a Christmas Eve performance last week. They arrive amidst declining ticket sales for the venue and a significant drop of about 35% in viewership for the recent Kennedy Center Honors broadcast, despite Trump’s prediction of increased interest.

Tensions and Responses

These announcements contribute to a turbulent schedule for one of the most significant performing arts venues in the U.S. This year has been marked by tension, following Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center board. Earlier protests included cancelations from performers like Issa Rae and the producers of “Hamilton.”

Statements from Members

The Cookers did not mention the venue’s renaming or Trump, but stated they want to ensure future performances celebrate the music and all involved. Saxophonist Billy Harper voiced his objections to the venue on social media, emphasizing a commitment to African American culture.

Responses from Leadership

Richard Grenell, appointed by Trump to lead the Kennedy Center, suggested that the cancellations were political in nature. He claimed that the institution was receiving interest from artists willing to perform regardless of political views. There has been no word on potential legal action against the artists who canceled.

Ongoing Performances

Not all artists are withdrawing, as bluegrass musician Randy Barrett expressed his desire for more music and art in a polarized society, stating he respects the cancelations but believes art can unite people.

Legal Implications

In 1964, Congress designated the Kennedy Center as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, meaning that any attempts to change its name would require congressional approval. Current laws also prohibit the trustees from renaming the center or placing another person’s name on its exterior.

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Contributions to this report were made by Associated Press writers Steven Sloan and Hillel Italie.