Oscar-winning composer Stephen Schwartz has withdrawn from a planned Kennedy Center gala, protesting its politicization under Donald Trump's influence. This follows a wave of artist cancellations after the venue's board added Trump's name to its title, a move sparking legal and cultural backlash.
Acclaimed composer Stephen Schwartz, known for 'Wicked,' 'Godspell,' and 'Pippin,' announced on January 1, 2026, that he would not participate in the Washington National Opera Gala on May 16, 2026, at the Kennedy Center. In an email to Newsday, the 77-year-old cited the venue's shift since Trump's 2025 overhaul, including MAGA appointments and his self-naming as chairman. "It no longer represents the apolitical place for free artistic expression it was founded to be," Schwartz wrote. "There’s no way I would set foot in it now."
Schwartz had been invited by director Francesca Zambello last year but received no follow-up since February 2025. He assumed the event was canceled and reiterated he would not join if it proceeds under current leadership.
Kennedy Center VP of public relations Roma Daravi refuted claims, stating, "Stephen Schwartz was never discussed nor confirmed and never had a contract by current Trump Kennedy Center leadership." She highlighted Schwartz's own mention of no follow-up, deeming reports of his involvement false.
Schwartz's decision continues a string of pullouts since the December 2025 renaming to the "Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts," which faces legal challenges requiring congressional approval. Prior cancellations include Issa Rae, Rhiannon Giddens, the 'Hamilton' team, Shonda Rhimes, Ben Folds, and Renée Fleming from roles; performances by Chuck Redd, The Cookers, Wayne Tucker, and Doug Varone and Dancers; plus low viewership for the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors hosted by Trump. Interim director Richard Grenell has threatened lawsuits against boycotters.