Trump’s First Visit to Kennedy Center as Chair: What It Means for the Arts Scene

On Monday, President Trump visited the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to chair his first board meeting since revamping its leadership. He expressed concerns about the center’s “tremendous disrepair” and criticized the recent expansion, "The Reach," suggesting it might need closures due to lack of windows. Trump emphasized plans to enhance artistic programming, particularly favoring Broadway hits, and mentioned that notable productions, like Hamilton, have withdrawn in protest of his presidency. He remarked, “I was never a big fan.” Additionally, he highlighted the costs associated with staging events, noting a $30,000 fee to move a piano for a performance by Lee Greenwood. The Kennedy Center, established in 1971, remains a significant cultural institution amid ongoing controversies.