Trump and Vance to Attend ‘Les Misérables’ Opening at Kennedy Center Amidst Cast Boycott and Institutional Upheaval

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance are slated to attend the opening night of Les Misérables at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on June 11, 2025. Accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance, their attendance marks a significant moment in the ongoing transformation of the Kennedy Center under the Trump administration.

Institutional Overhaul and Cultural Controversy

In February 2025, President Trump appointed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center’s board, replacing existing members and installing allies, including Richard Grenell as president. This leadership shift aimed to steer the institution away from what Trump described as “woke” programming, emphasizing more traditional and family-friendly performances.

However, these changes have sparked significant backlash. Several high-profile artists, including Issa Rae, Shonda Rhimes, and Ben Folds, resigned from their positions, and productions like Hamilton canceled scheduled performances in protest.

Cast Boycott and Leadership Response

The upcoming performance of Les Misérables has become a focal point of this controversy. Reports indicate that at least 10 cast members plan to boycott the opening night in response to President Trump’s attendance and the broader institutional changes . Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell criticized the boycotting performers, labeling them as “vapid and intolerant” and suggesting that producers should reconsider hiring such artists in the future.

Financial Implications and Public Reception

The leadership overhaul has also impacted the Kennedy Center’s financial health. Subscription sales have reportedly declined by 36% compared to the previous year, and single-ticket sales dropped by 50% in April and May . Despite these challenges, the Les Misérables opening night is sold out, with officials noting that the first two weeks of performances have exceeded $3 million in ticket sales, surpassing typical sales timelines.

Cultural Significance

President Trump’s affinity for Les Misérables is well-documented; he has previously used the musical’s anthem “Do You Hear the People Sing?” at rallies and events . The musical’s themes of revolution and social justice resonate differently across the political spectrum, adding layers of complexity to the current situation.

As the Kennedy Center navigates this period of transformation, the intersection of politics and the arts continues to provoke debate about the role of cultural institutions in reflecting and shaping societal values.