The recently discovered head of the Kennedy Center defended the federally funded agency's decision to perform drag queens, including shows targeting minors.
Deborah Lutter was ousted this month as chairman of the John F. Kennedy Arts for Performing Arts Center in Washington, DC on Monday, and she said she “had taken all the things into consideration” by NPR regarding the firing.
At one point in the interview, she was asked about President Trump's recent criticism of the Kennedy Center's decision to program a drug show aimed at audiences under the age of 18.
Rutter argued that inclusion is important in the arts.
“I think we're welcome at the Kennedy Center so we're going to tell you that more people are taking part in the performance today,” she said.
“That's my concern. I'm just trying to really open the door and make sure the Kennedy Center is not only welcoming everyone, but also see themselves and hear their stories on our stage. How can we maintain what they have done?”
Last season, Kennedy Center programmed several drag queen productions.
According to the center's marketing materials, there was “Dragtastic Dressup” among the show.
“Dixie's Tupperware Party” starred Drag Queen Dixie Longte (see Phallic Erection) and ran at the Center's Family Theater in May and June.
The Kennedy Center receives federal funds in line with the throttle of approximately $40-$50 million each year. It also relies on private donations and ticket revenues to cover operating expenses.
President Trump has vowed to shake up the Kennedy Center in his new role as chairman of the organization.
“Last year, the Kennedy Center featured a drug show that was specifically targeted at our youth. Our whole country. For the Kennedy Center, the best hasn't come yet!”
Trump recently removed the board member appointed by Joe Biden and named it Richard Grenell's envoy to serve as interim executive director of the organization that will take over from President Deborah Rutter.
