What Happened
On June 11, 2025, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are scheduled to attend the opening night of the musical “Les Misérables” at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. This event marks a significant moment as it is the first performance Trump will attend since he appointed himself chairman of the Kennedy Center’s board earlier in the year. His leadership has been characterized by a controversial overhaul of the board, which included removing members and replacing them with individuals loyal to him. The musical, which has themes of revolution and protest, coincides with ongoing nationwide protests against Trump’s immigration policies and military actions in California.
The performance of “Les Misérables” is not only a cultural event but also serves as a fundraiser for the Kennedy Center. It comes at a time when tensions are high, with some cast members reportedly planning to boycott the performance in response to Trump’s actions and policies. The musical has historically been associated with protest movements globally, with its anthem “Do You Hear the People Sing?” often used in demonstrations advocating for democracy and social justice.
Key Details
- Event Date: June 11, 2025
- Location: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, D.C.
- Attendees: President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other political allies.
- Musical: “Les Misérables,” a Tony Award-winning show known for its themes of revolution and social justice.
- Security Measures: Enhanced security protocols will be in place, with the Kennedy Center closed to non-ticket holders on the night of the performance.
- Controversy: Some cast members have threatened to boycott the performance due to Trump’s recent actions, including his military response to protests in Los Angeles.
Multiple Perspectives
The decision for Trump to attend “Les Misérables” has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters of Trump may view his attendance as a celebration of American culture and an endorsement of the arts, particularly as he has expressed his fondness for the musical. Trump himself has stated, “I love the songs, I love the play,” highlighting his personal connection to the show.
Conversely, critics argue that Trump’s attendance at a musical centered on themes of rebellion and protest is hypocritical, especially given the current political climate marked by widespread dissent against his administration’s policies. California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly criticized Trump’s deployment of military personnel in response to protests, framing it as an attack on democracy. This backdrop of conflict adds layers of complexity to the event, as it juxtaposes the celebratory nature of a theatrical performance with the serious implications of ongoing civil unrest.
Context & Background
The Kennedy Center has long been a symbol of American culture and the arts. Trump’s self-appointment as chairman and subsequent restructuring of the board have raised concerns among artists and cultural figures about the potential politicization of the institution. His leadership style has led to cancellations and withdrawals from performances by various artists who oppose his administration’s policies, including a notable cancellation of a performance by the Gay Men’s Chorus during Pride Month.
“Les Misérables,” originally adapted from Victor Hugo’s novel, has been a powerful narrative about social injustice and the fight against oppression since its debut. Its themes resonate with many contemporary movements advocating for change, making its selection for the opening night under Trump’s leadership particularly poignant. The musical’s history of being embraced by protest movements worldwide further complicates the narrative surrounding Trump’s attendance.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As the event approaches, several uncertainties remain. The extent of the protests surrounding the performance and the potential impact on the event’s atmosphere are unclear. Additionally, it is uncertain how many cast members will follow through with their boycott and what form that protest might take. The political implications of Trump’s attendance, particularly in light of the ongoing protests against his administration’s policies, will likely continue to unfold in the days following the performance.
Furthermore, the long-term effects of Trump’s leadership on the Kennedy Center and the broader cultural landscape in the U.S. remain to be seen. Observers will be watching closely to see how this event influences public perception of both the Kennedy Center and the Trump administration, particularly in the context of the arts and political expression.
