On June 11, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended Les Misérables at the Kennedy Center — his first visit since reshaping its leadership and programming. The audience’s reaction mirrored the musical’s own clash between power and protest: applause, cheers, and loud boos as the couple appeared in the presidential box.
“I’ve seen it many times, it’s one of my favorites,” Trump said, smiling at the mixed crowd.
Intermission brought heightened tension. Some shouted support while others jeered. Chants of “U.S.A.” met waves of boos, and Trump responded with his trademark three-pump fist. Reports described the overall mood as deeply divided — part celebration, part confrontation.
Behind the scenes, some Les Mis cast members reportedly chose to skip the performance, objecting to the presidential attendance. Adding to the evening’s symbolism, drag performers were spotted in seats donated by ticket-holders critical of Trump’s earlier vow to remove “woke” shows from the Center’s lineup.