Story perspectives

Philip Glass Withdraws Symphony Over Kennedy Center's Values

1/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The composer Philip Glass withdrew Symphony No. 15, "Lincoln," from the Kennedy Center premiere, citing a conflict between the symphony's message and the center's values under U.S. President Donald Trump.
The premiere was scheduled for June 12 and 13, 2026.
The withdrawal follows cancellations by Stephen Schwartz and the Hamilton cast amid controversy over the Kennedy Center's rebranding.

History

Historical Context

The Kennedy Center, established in 1971 as a tribute to John F. Kennedy, faced significant backlash in 2017 due to perceived alignment with President Trump's administration. Artists like Stephen Schwartz withdrew from performances, reflecting tensions between artistic expression and political climate. This incident highlights ongoing challenges for cultural institutions in maintaining their values amid shifting political landscapes, impacting public perception and participation.

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Story summary

The composer Philip Glass withdrew Symphony No. 15, "Lincoln," from the Kennedy Center premiere, citing a conflict between the symphony's message and the center's values under U.S. President Donald Trump.
The premiere was scheduled for June 12 and 13, 2026.
The withdrawal follows cancellations by Stephen Schwartz and the Hamilton cast amid controversy over the Kennedy Center's rebranding.

1 / 2