Trump Takes Helm at Kennedy Center, Sparks Arts Community Concern

WASHINGTON, D.C. & LOS ANGELES – A recent examination of the arts and culture landscape, published in the Los Angeles Times on February 17, 2025, highlights significant developments at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., and their potential implications, alongside other notable events unfolding in the Los Angeles area.

At the center of the national narrative is a leadership shakeup at the prestigious Kennedy Center. According to the report, President Trump’s newly appointed board members, including chief of staff Susie Wiles and deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino, recently cast votes to install President Trump himself as the institution’s chairman. This move coincided with the dismissal of longtime president Deborah F. Rutter, signaling a notable shift in the center’s direction.

Artist Reactions and Departures

The changes at the Kennedy Center have reportedly prompted reactions from prominent figures within the arts community. The article notes that several high-profile artists and advisors have stepped down from their roles in response to the leadership transition. Among those mentioned are Shonda Rhimes, who resigned as treasurer, Ben Fold, who stepped down as artistic adviser of the National Symphony Orchestra, and Renée Fleming, who departed as an artistic advisor. Additionally, the report cites that artist Issa Rae canceled a sold-out show at the venue following the developments.

Broader Policy Context

The reported actions at the Kennedy Center are viewed by some within the arts community against a backdrop of broader policy initiatives potentially impacting the cultural sector. President Trump has utilized his Truth Social platform to promote a vision of a “Golden Age in Arts and Culture.” Concurrently, the article references executive orders and the reported existence of a DOGE task force said to be targeting programs specifically related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), social justice, female empowerment, and LGBTQ+ rights.

This focus appears to have potential ramifications for programming. The Los Angeles Times article mentions that two shows with explicit LGBTQ+ themes have reportedly been canceled or postponed at the Kennedy Center: the children’s musical “Finn” and the National Symphony Orchestra concert “A Peacock Among Pigeons,” which was scheduled as part of World Pride 2025.

The Local Los Angeles Scene

While national events unfold, the arts and culture landscape in Los Angeles continues to present a diverse array of activities, albeit with its own set of challenges and highlights as reported in the Los Angeles Times piece. The Frieze Los Angeles art fair remains a central focus, drawing visitors to Santa Monica Airport, where it is scheduled to run through February 23.

In the realm of classical music, the acclaimed London Symphony Orchestra is noted for its performances taking place in Costa Mesa, adding an international dimension to the Southern California cultural calendar. Another event highlighted is The Other Art Fair, providing a platform for independent artists.

Local Challenges and Announcements

The report also touches upon local disruptions and future plans. The Getty Villa, a significant cultural institution housing ancient art, has been closed due to the Palisades fire. This closure has unfortunately affected access to the “Ancient Thrace and the Classical World” exhibit.

Looking ahead, the article notes a positive announcement from the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. The outdoor theater space has revealed the theme for its upcoming 2025 season, aptly titled “A Season of Resilience.”

The convergence of national political developments impacting major cultural institutions like the Kennedy Center and the ongoing, evolving local arts scene in areas like Los Angeles underscores the complex interplay between governance, funding, artistic expression, and community engagement in the contemporary cultural landscape.