Unforgettable Opening Night: Kennedy Center’s ‘Les Misérables’ Sets the Stage as Trump Walks the Red Carpet, Critiques L.A. Protests

Donald Trump made quite an entrance at the Kennedy Center during the opening night of Les Misérables. He claimed that without his deployment of the National Guard, Los Angeles would be facing severe chaos. Trump described these “radical left lunatics” as organized and dangerous. He mentioned incidents where concrete was being used as a weapon, calling it “pretty bad.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom disagreed with Trump’s actions, stating that they aggravated the situation rather than helping it. This visit marked Trump’s first return to a Kennedy Center performance since he reshaped the board by firing appointees from the previous administration, including the center’s president.

Trump revealed that a fundraiser linked to the Les Miz performance raised a whopping $10 million. He also proposed allocating over $250 million for renovations at the Kennedy Center, emphasizing the need for modernization. “We want to bring it back, and bring it back better than ever,” he said.

During the event, Trump was questioned about various topics, including his thoughts on Elon Musk’s apology. He shrugged it off, saying he hadn’t given it much thought. When asked about cast members planning to boycott the performance due to his attendance, he remarked, “I couldn’t care less.”

Vice President JD Vance, also present, acknowledged the mixed reactions he receives at such events, saying it’s part of being in the spotlight. Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center has led some shows, like Hamilton, to withdraw in protest. Reports suggest that ticket sales have decreased by 36% since the management changes, although the center’s marketing team disputed those figures, claiming the renewal campaign was just starting.

A significant part of the center’s revenue comes from its annual honors event, which CBS has broadcast since 1978. The current contract is set to expire, and discussions for renewal are on the table.

On opening night, drag performers in attendance drew applause from the crowd, highlighting the contrast with Trump’s criticisms of “woke” programming at the center. Videos shared on social media showed a warm reception for them, indicating a divide in the audience’s sentiments.

Overall, Trump’s presence at the Kennedy Center was met with both applause and disapproval, showcasing the divided opinions surrounding his leadership and policies. As the political landscape continues to shift, events like this highlight the cultural and social tensions that often accompany such high-profile figures in public spaces.

For more insights on the Kennedy Center’s evolving role in political narratives, check out The Washington Post.

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Donald Trump,ElectionLine,Kennedy Center,Les Miserables