The takeover of the leadership of the Kennedy Center was likely not on any voters’ bingo cards on November 5, 2024. To our knowledge there had not been any outcry about the performances and direction of the Center nor has the Administration specifically pointed to any. This was a takeover because he could put his name on something else.
A ringmaster is a performer and host who introduces circus acts to the audience. They are also responsible for the overall organization of the show.
Since the Kennedy Center leadership takeover no less than the following has occurred as of this post:
| Who/What | Position | Action | Statement |
| 18 Board Members | Organization Board | Fired | |
| Shonda Rhimes | Board Treasurer | Quit | “If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him.” |
| Ben Folds | Artistic Director | Quit | “Given the developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic advisor to the NSO,” he wrote on social media. “Not for me.” |
| Renee Fleming | Artistic Advisor | Quit | “I’ve treasured the bipartisan support for this institution as a beacon of America at our best,” Fleming said of her time at the Kennedy Center. “I hope the Kennedy Center continues to flourish and serve the passionate and diverse audience in our nation’s capital and across the country.” |
| Issa Rae | Sold Out Event For March 2025 | Canceled By Performer | “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.” |
| Finn | Childrens Musical | Canceled By Board | “Everyone go around the room and share fun facts,” she said in the short clip. “I’ll start. The president of the United States took away my job, and my joy. So… share your fun fact of this oppressive regime.” |
| Low Cut Connie | Rock band | Show Canceled | “I was very excited to perform as part of this wonderful institution’s Social Impact series, which emphasizes community, joy, justice and equity through the arts,” Low Cut Connie founder Adam Weiner wrote on Instagram. “Upon learning that this institution that has run nonpartisan for 54 years is now chaired by President Trump himself and his regime, I decided I will not perform there.” |
| Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington DC | Singing Group | Canceled By Board | “The piece was intended to be a part of the Kennedy Center’s Pride celebration and we were very excited to be collaborating with the NSO as their guest chorus,” the release reads. “We believe in the power of music to educate and uplift, to foster love, understanding, and community, and we regret that this opportunity has been taken away.” |
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