Trump Attends Les Misérables Performance Amid Protests
President Donald Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania, attended a showing of Les Misérables at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night.
As the couple arrived, a protest was taking place, with some actors opting out of the performance due to their discomfort regarding Trump’s presence.
In response to rumors about a boycott among actors, Trump expressed his indifference, stating, “I couldn’t care much. All I do is run the country well.” His comments appeared to downplay any significance surrounding the protests.
Trump has previously mentioned that Les Misérables is one of his favorite musicals, according to various reports.
Recently, it was noted that a significant portion of the cast planned to boycott the performance during Trump’s visit. Several actors announced they would not participate in upcoming concerts at the Kennedy Center, suggesting a direct protest against his attendance.
Reports indicate that between 10 to 12 members of the touring cast opted out of the June 11th performance, with both lead actors and ensemble members choosing to sit out, particularly given the president’s involvement in a fundraiser associated with the event.
In the wake of organizational changes at the Kennedy Center, Trump assumed a leadership role after returning to the White House. Notably, his aide, Richard Grenell, was appointed interim president, succeeding David Rubenstein, who resigned amidst a significant restructuring of the federally funded institution.
This shakeup prompted several prominent figures, including soprano Renée Fleming, to sever ties with the Kennedy Center. Other artists like actor Issa Rae and author Louise Penny also canceled their events there.
In a separate incident, singer-songwriter Victoria Clark attended the show previously, wearing a T-shirt that read “Anti-Trump AF” on stage.
Funded by both government support and private donations, the Kennedy Center boasts a large complex featuring concert halls, theaters, and spaces for free performances, drawing millions of visitors each year.
