WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump’s visit to the Kennedy Center for the opening night of Les Misérables quickly turned into a political spectacle as he was met with boos, chants, and audience backlash, Kossyderrickent has learned.
It was Trump’s first visit to the Kennedy Center since making major changes to its leadership and programs, and the crowd did not hold back.
Mixed Reactions and Viral Boos
A video shared by New York Times reporter Shawn McCreesh showed Trump and Melania entering the theater dressed in formal wear — only to be greeted by cheers, boos, and loud chants.
Toward the end of intermission, one person shouted profanity at Trump, drawing applause from the crowd.
“F*** Trump!” someone yelled, according to reports.
Adding to the tension, several drag queens were also in attendance — seen by many as a direct response to Trump’s complaints that the Kennedy Center had hosted “too many drag shows” in the past.
President Trump and the first lady take their seats at the Kennedy Center.
Reception: mixed. pic.twitter.com/U13GSiohpN— Shawn McCreesh (@ShawnMcCreesh) June 11, 2025
Cast Walkout and Audience Protest
Sources say 10 to 12 performers from the Les Misérables cast refused to perform that night in protest of Trump’s presence.
Meanwhile, Vice President J.D. Vance and wife Usha Vance, who were also in attendance, reportedly faced loud boos — echoing a similar reaction earlier this year at a symphony event.
Trump’s MAGA Entourage
The event saw a strong MAGA presence:
- Vice President J.D. Vance
- Far-right activist Laura Loomer
- Attorney General Pam Bondi
- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
They were all spotted in the crowd, raising eyebrows and tension throughout the theater.
Trump Loves ‘Les Mis’?
Yes, you read that right — Trump is reportedly a big fan of Les Misérables. He’s even played songs from the show at some of his rallies, including “Do You Hear the People Sing?” — an anthem about fighting oppression.
Critics quickly pointed out the irony, comparing the rebellion on stage to recent protests in Los Angeles. California Gov. Gavin Newsom posted online:
“Someone explain the plot to [Trump].”
How Trump Took Over the Kennedy Center
Since returning to office, Trump has restructured the Kennedy Center completely:
- Fired all Biden-era appointees
- Removed longtime president Deborah F. Rutter
- Appointed Richard Grenell as director
- Took full control over programming decisions
This move sparked massive backlash from the arts community. Hamilton canceled its planned performances. Renée Fleming, a top opera star, resigned in protest.
But when asked about the cast protest, Trump brushed it off:
“I couldn’t care less… All I do is run the country well.”