US President Donald Trump received a mix of boos and cheers as he arrived in a tuxedo at the Kennedy Center for the opening night of "Les Misérables" in Washington.
It was his first visit to the venue since becoming president again and came as he works to reshape the institution in his own way.
While Trump and Melania stood above the audience, the muffled boos were mixed with people shouting, "USA! USA! USA!"
"We want to bring it back, and we want to bring it back better than ever," Trump said while walking the red carpet with first lady Melania Trump.
The MAGA chief has shown a particular fondness for "Les Misérables," which he has described as one of his favourite musicals. The song "Do You Hear the People Sing?" from the show has been played at some of his past events.
The evening had a strong GOP presence. Several Trump allies were seen at the event, including Kennedy Center interim head Ric Grenell, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Vice President JD Vance with his wife Usha.
Despite the buzz, some seats in the balcony and orchestra sections were noticeably empty. Reports suggested that some "Les Misérables" cast members may have boycotted the performance, reports the Washington Post. Trump responded to the possibility by saying, "I couldn't care less."
Trump's visit comes as part of a larger move to assert control over the Kennedy Center. Since his return to the White House in January, he has fired the long-time director and board, replacing them with his allies and naming himself chairman. His appointees include Fox News hosts and close aides like Susie Wiles and Maria Bartiromo.
This has not gone down well with everyone. Some performers and patrons have pulled out of events, including shows like "Hamilton." Arts consultants like Ben Folds and Renée Fleming have resigned. Subscriptions have reportedly fallen since the leadership change.
Trump has also taken broader steps to cut funding for arts. He has proposed removing the National Endowment for the Arts and the Humanities and targeted the Smithsonian museums. "Some very inappropriate shows," including what he called a "Marxist anti-police performance" and "lesbian-only Shakespeare," were among his criticisms.
The Kennedy Center was founded in 1971 and named after President John F Kennedy.
US President Trump, first lady Melania attend musical show in Kennedy Centre
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