Story perspectives

Schwartz Withdraws from Gala Over Trump’s Venue Name Change

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Stephen Schwartz, Oscar-winning composer of Wicked, withdrew from hosting Washington National Opera Gala at Kennedy Center, citing U.S. President Donald Trump's name change of the venue.
Schwartz's move follows cancellations by artists protesting Trump's leadership and the board's actions.
Kennedy Center officials, including vice president Roma Daravi, disputed Schwartz's claims that he was never officially booked.
The name change has sparked legal challenges and financial losses for the center.

History

Historical Context

In 2017, the Kennedy Center faced backlash after President Trump's administration attempted to rename it, prompting protests from artists like Stephen Schwartz. The National Endowment for the Arts allocated $148 million that year, intensifying funding debates amid rising artistic dissent against political figures. This reflects a historical trend of cultural boycotts, highlighting ongoing tensions between art and politics in the U.S.

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Story summary

Stephen Schwartz, Oscar-winning composer of Wicked, withdrew from hosting Washington National Opera Gala at Kennedy Center, citing U.S. President Donald Trump's name change of the venue.
Schwartz's move follows cancellations by artists protesting Trump's leadership and the board's actions.
Kennedy Center officials, including vice president Roma Daravi, disputed Schwartz's claims that he was never officially booked.
The name change has sparked legal challenges and financial losses for the center.

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