Multiple Les Misérables Cast Members Plan Boycott of Trump Kennedy Center Appearance

President Donald Trump's appointment as chairman of the Kennedy Center's board and subsequent reshaping of the institution with MAGA allies has sparked significant backlash from performers and artists. At least 10 to 12 cast members of the musical Les Misérables are boycotting a June 11 performance that Trump will attend and use as a fundraiser, protesting his political takeover and the center's shift away from what they see as inclusive, 'woke' content. Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell condemned the boycott, labeling the performers "vapid and intolerant" and asserting that the center aims to be an apolitical venue welcoming audiences of all political affiliations. Meanwhile, unofficial MAGA spokesperson Scott Jennings criticized the boycotting performers as "too fragile to show up for work" and accused them of prioritizing personal political agendas over professionalism. Trump’s takeover included purging board members and pledging to end awards for what he called "radical left lunatics," further polarizing the arts community. This turmoil reflects broader cultural conflicts over political influence in national institutions and artistic expression.