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New Dance Director Faces Controversy Amid Union Claims

8/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen Nakagawa has been appointed as the new Director of Dance Programming at the Kennedy Center.
Nakagawa, a former dancer with The Washington Ballet, aims to inspire audiences and promote dance.
His predecessor, Jane Raleigh, claims her dismissal was in retaliation for supporting a union campaign.
The Kennedy Center is pursuing increased funding from Congress in light of these developments.

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Story summary

Stephen Nakagawa has been appointed as the new Director of Dance Programming at the Kennedy Center.
Nakagawa, a former dancer with The Washington Ballet, aims to inspire audiences and promote dance.
His predecessor, Jane Raleigh, claims her dismissal was in retaliation for supporting a union campaign.
The Kennedy Center is pursuing increased funding from Congress in light of these developments.