Over the last few days, a handful of disgruntled performers have pulled out of events at the Donald Trump and John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in protest of the venue’s new name. The jazz ensemble The Cookers and the dance company Doug Varone and the Dancers are among those refusing to perform, with Varone claiming his company would forfeit $40,000 for its stance. However, it’s naive to think these groups will not leverage their boycotts for fundraising efforts in the years to come.
The key question now is how Ric Grenell, the center’s president, and its board can navigate a landscape in which many artists are showing a strong aversion to performing. The center has the potential to thrive if it embraces innovative strategies.
First, the center currently lacks an artistic director, which undermines its vision. Each division—opera, symphony, etc.—operates independently, but this should change. Playwright David Mamet would be an excellent choice for this role. He’s a prominent conservative figure who has proven nearly untouchable, even by the most progressive critics. As Mamet himself said, “I don’t care how far left an actor is; for the chance to appear in ‘Glengarry Glen Ross,’ they’d walk over hot coals.” His connections could attract a diverse array of talent, ensuring the center stands out.
Second, the center should shift its focus from primarily classical music and dance to straight plays. The success of Broadway’s non-musical productions in recent years demonstrates significant audience interest. Just consider the current popularity of “Waiting for Godot” with Keanu Reeves. People are drawn to big names, and there are indeed conservative actors ready to take center stage. Producing five major plays a year could significantly increase ticket sales, and these productions tend to be cheaper to stage than musicals.
While musicals remain important, the center ought to delve into musical genres that speak to a broader audience, not just those aligned with liberal views. Country music is an obvious fit, but the rise of diverse styles, including moderate rap, also deserves attention. The center could create a country-themed musical filled with iconic hits or even embrace the untapped potential of a gangster rap musical. The current boycotts should not be viewed as setbacks but as opportunities for genuine creativity.
Amid the dismissive attitudes of certain elite artists toward the center, many talented creators would eagerly pursue performance opportunities. Based on previous experience producing theater in New York City, one of the greatest hurdles was securing affordable venues. The Trump Kennedy Center could become a welcoming space for artists of all backgrounds, potentially uncovering hidden gems of talent in the process. A Trump Kennedy Center Fringe Festival could also emerge from this initiative, energizing the entire artistic community.
The center’s prime location, with its stunning views of the Potomac, offers further opportunities to draw people in. Hosting activities like swing dancing, outdoor concerts, or even a chili cook-off could cultivate a strong local following, transforming it into a vital community resource. The overarching goal should be to make the Trump Kennedy Center a part of everyday life for residents, extending its appeal beyond just the affluent elites.
If the artistic establishment continues to turn its back on the center due to political sentiments, that should be seen as a blessing. Countless artists are eager for a platform that welcomes them without imposing ideological constraints. Achieving success will take time, but with dedication, 2026 could very well mark the year the Trump Kennedy Center truly shines. This goal is not only conceivable but also worth pursuing with determination.
"*" indicates required fields
