NEW YORK (AP) — Renée Fleming has stepped back from two performances at the Kennedy Center this May. This decision follows a string of cancellations by various artists since President Trump replaced the center’s leadership and announced plans to rename it the Trump Kennedy Center.
Fleming was slated to perform with conductor James Gaffigan and the National Symphony Orchestra. This isn’t her first move, as she resigned as “Artistic Advisor at Large” last year due to the departure of key figures at the center. The Kennedy Center cited a “scheduling conflict” for her latest withdrawal, but many see it as a reflection of ongoing tensions.
The Washington National Opera also recently severed ties with the Kennedy Center, marking the end of a 52-year relationship. Other artists like Lin-Manuel Miranda and Issa Rae have also canceled events there, highlighting a broader dissatisfaction with the current cultural climate as described by critics of “woke” culture.
In light of these changes, Vocal Arts DC has announced new venues for their events after pulling three concerts from the Kennedy Center. Upcoming performances featuring tenor Benjamin Bernheim and pianist Carrie-Ann Matheson are now scheduled for George Washington University.
As the arts community responds to these shifts, a significant conversation about the intersection of politics and culture is emerging. This situation serves as a reminder of how political decisions can ripple through the creative landscape, affecting not just artists, but also audiences.
For more on this topic, you can view the full details on the Kennedy Center’s website.
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Donald Trump, Renee Fleming, Issa Rae, James Gaffigan, Classical music, General news, Send to Apple News, Politics, Lin Manuel Miranda, Entertainment, David M. Rubenstein, Celebrity, George Washington, Washington news, Bela Fleck
