Rhiannon Giddens Cancels Kennedy Center Show, Citing Trump Influence
Following President Trump’s takeover and subsequent politicization of the Kennedy Center, acclaimed singer-musician Rhiannon Giddens canceled her May 2025 performance, relocating it to The Anthem. This decision follows similar cancellations by other artists, including Issa Rae and Louise Penny, protesting the administration’s actions. Giddens cited the shift from a bipartisan institution as her reason for withdrawing. The Kennedy Center, a significant cultural landmark, has historically hosted diverse artists regardless of political affiliation, a tradition disrupted by the current administration.
John Q. Hosedrinker