The producers of Hamilton have announced the cancellation of the musical’s 2026 performances at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. According to the musical’s producers, the decision is in response to recent changes at the arts institution following President Donald J. Trump‘s takeover of its board of trustees.
Jeffrey Seller, one of the musical’s producers, released a statement explaining the rationale behind the cancellation. “Our show simply cannot, in good conscience, participate and be a part of this new culture that is being imposed on the Kennedy Center,” Seller stated. Hamilton, created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, was initially scheduled to run at the Kennedy Center from March 3 to April 26, 2026. The cancellation occurred before tickets were available for purchase.
The Kennedy Center has undergone notable changes since President Trump became chairman of its board last month. Richard Grenell was named interim president in one of Trump’s first moves, replacing Deborah Rutter. Subsequently, Grenell moved to fire several Kennedy Center executives whose salaries totaled approximately $2.4 million.
Notably, several celebrities affiliated with the Kennedy Center exited their roles after Trump assumed control. Shonda Rhimes, a key figure in television and former Kennedy Center treasurer, immediately left her position. Performing and recording artist Ben Folds, who served as an artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra, also decided to leave. Additionally, Renee Fleming, an opera singer, exited her role as an artistic advisor at large.
Trump appointed all current board members after removing several appointees from the previous Biden government.