- Trump attended Les Misérables at the Kennedy Center amid protests over his drag show ban.
- Some performers criticized his cultural policies and leadership changes.
- The event saw tight security with street closures and screenings.
President Trump has attended the opening show of ‘Les Miserables’ at the John F. Kennedy Center in D.C. on Wednesday night.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that his presence at the centre attracted both his supporters and some of the cast members planned to walk off the stage in protest.
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In his reaction, the US President said, “I couldn’t care less. Honestly, I couldn’t. All I do is run the country well.”
One such performer is Vagenesis, whose real name is Anderson Wells, told NPR she “couldn’t deny” speaking out.
Vagenesis said she’s protesting in response to the president’s pledge to put a stop to drag shows at the center.
She said, “Theater is supposed to be a place of community, a place of storytelling, a place of celebration, joy, catharsis and it should be open and available to all.”
Trump after announcing new leadership at the center in February, said on social media that there would be “NO MORE DRAG SHOWS, OR OTHER ANTI-AMERICAN PROPAGANDA.”
He has also sharply criticised past programming at the center, saying, “The programming was out of control with rampant political propaganda, [diversity, equity and inclusion] and inappropriate shows.”
As part of the shakeup, Trump fired President Deborah Rutter, board chair David Rubenstein and board members who had been appointed by President Joe Biden.
He also gave several people in his circle board seats, including second lady Usha Vance and Attorney General Pam Bondi. The revamped board then elected Trump chair. Since then, some performers have canceled their shows due to the leadership changes, and the Capital Pride Alliance moved several of its Pride month events from the venue.
Meanwhile, the Kennedy Center was not immediately available for comment.
Many streets were blocked off by several law enforcement agencies, such as the Secret Service and U.S. Park Police. A drone hovered over the Kennedy Center as the show rolled on.
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There was also a large police presence inside. All patrons and vehicles were subjected to security screens. K-9 units were also on patrol. Closer to showtime, only ticket holders were allowed in the building.
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