*Emmy-winning actress Issa Rae has canceled her sold-out show at the Kennedy Center following a major leadership shakeup.
“Unfortunately, due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I’ve decided to cancel my appearance at this venue,” the actress said in the post, noting that refunds would be issued for those who bought tickets.
The move comes after President Trump fired board members and installed himself as chairman last week, prompting backlash from the arts community. Critics have pointed out that the new board lacks any African American members and consists entirely of Trump allies, many of whom have no experience in the arts.
Per Showbiz 411, the new Trustees are: Brian D. Ballard, Dana Blumberg, Pamela Bondi, Mary Helen Bowers, Hannah F. Buchan, Robert Castellani, Elaine Chao, Pamella Roland DeVos, Patricia Duggan, John Falconetti, Emilia May Fanjul, Jennifer Fischer, Lynette Friess, Sergio Gor, Pamela Gross, Lee Greenwood, Kate Adamson Haselwood, Michele Kessler, Mindy Levine, Allison Lutnick, Douglas Manchester, Catherine B. Reynolds, Denise Saul, Dan Scavino, President Donald J. Trump, Usha Vance, Susie Wiles, Andrea Wynn, Paolo Zampolli.
The changes have sparked outrage among artists and supporters of the institution, with many calling it a tragic moment for the arts.
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Several prominent figures have resigned in protest, including opera star Renée Fleming, TV producer Shonda Rhimes, and attorney Bob Barnett. Musician Ben Folds also stepped down from his role with the National Symphony Orchestra.
“Given developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic advisor to the NSO,” Folds wrote in an Instagram post Wednesday. “Not for me.”
Trump’s leadership signals a shift away from what he calls “woke culture,” raising concerns about the future direction of the Kennedy Center’s programming.
Meantime, Trump referred to himself in the third person when announcing the Kennedy Center shakeup on Truth Social. His post read: “President Donald J. Trump was just unanimously elected Chairman of the Board of the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The President stated, “It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees. We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!”
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