Upon learning that outlets like CNN and the Washington Post covered the story, he dismissed the weeks-old coverage, saying, “That was a long time ago. Watch what happens.”

Further pressed on what he would say to Democrats hesitant to attend due to President Donald Trump‘s involvement and new leadership of the center, Grenell responded, “I think you should be tolerant.”

The Kennedy Center has been at the center of criticism since Trump took control of it in early 2025, replacing the board with his allies and appointing Grenell as president. This restructuring has led to the cancellation of several performances, including Hamilton.

KENNEDY CENTER EXPANDS BROADWAY AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHOWS IN TRUMP ERA

In May, Broadway star Patti LuPone told the New Yorker that the “Trumpified” Kennedy Center “should get blown up,” a comment that drew sharp criticism from Grenell, who described such remarks as “completely unacceptable” and labeled the far Left as “violent extremists.”

Despite these tensions, the opening night proceeded with a full house. A Kennedy Center spokeswoman emphasized that “the show must go on,” highlighting the institution’s commitment to its mission despite external pressures.