Media: https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTcyYTQ4YTRmdm44Mmo5dmJqYnk5ZDBmc2w0NWgxaXFndzQ4ZG12eGpzcjltOGQ5eSZlcD12MV9naWZzX3NlYXJjaCZjdD1n/t7HD1sVXgGAzqAendK/giphy.gifTitle: Drag Performers Protest Trump’s Attendance at ‘Les Mis’: A Battle of Artistic Freedom vs Political Control
In an unprecedented move, a group of drag performers has decided to protest President Trump’s attendance at the opening performance of Les Misérables at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. This decision comes after some attendees who no longer wanted their tickets due to Trump taking over the performing arts center, donated them to Qommittee – a network of drag performers, fans and allies.
This protest is not just about one performance or even one president; it’s about the very essence of artistic freedom in America. President Trump has made it clear that he wants to put an end to drag shows at the center, calling them “anti-American propaganda.” This statement goes against the core values of theater – a place where stories are told, communities come together and people celebrate their differences.
The historical context here is crucial. The Kennedy Center has always been known for its diverse programming that reflects America’s rich cultural tapestry. However, under Trump’s leadership, there have been significant changes in the center’s direction with a focus on more conservative shows and removing any form of political or social activism from their lineup.
The potential implications of this protest are far-reaching. If successful, it could set a precedent for future protests against politicians attending performances they disagree with politically. It also highlights the importance of artistic freedom in an era where politics seems to be encroaching upon every aspect of our lives.
From my perspective, I believe that this protest is significant because it stands up for what theater should represent – a space where everyone’s voice can be heard and celebrated without fear or censorship. It sends out a strong message against political interference in art and culture. While we may not agree with every form of artistic expression, we must remember that freedom of speech and creative liberty are fundamental rights that cannot be compromised for any reason.
In conclusion, the drag performers’ protest at ‘Les Mis’ is more than just a reaction to Trump’s attendance; it’s a battle cry for preserving artistic freedom in America. It serves as a reminder that art should never be used as a tool of political propaganda or control but rather as an avenue for self-expression and community building.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/06/11/nx-s1-5429801/trump-les-miserables-kennedy-center-drag-performers) #drag
Check out my AI projects on Hugging Face, join our community on Discord, and explore my services at GhostAI!