Kennedy Center Programming Chief Resigns After Mere Days in Role
The newly-appointed head of artistic programming at the Kennedy Center has stepped down after just five days, amid ongoing political turmoil surrounding the historic institution. Kevin Couch, who was announced as the senior vice president of artistic programming in mid-January, confirmed his resignation to The Washington Post on Wednesday, though he declined to provide further comment on his abrupt departure.
Swift Exit Follows Controversial Renaming and Takeover
Couch's quick exit comes as the Kennedy Center grapples with significant upheaval following former President Donald Trump's takeover last year. Trump-appointed board members voted in December to rename the centre the Trump-Kennedy Center, a move that has sparked legal challenges and widespread criticism. Scholars argue that such a name change requires congressional approval, as Congress originally named the centre by statute as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy.
Democrats in Congress have taken action to reverse the decision. Representative Joyce Beatty of Ohio filed a lawsuit in December, arguing the board exceeded its statutory authority. Meanwhile, Representative Chellie Pingree of Maine introduced legislation to remove Trump's name from the centre, garnering support from over seventy lawmakers.
Artist Boycotts and Programming Cancellations Mount
The political controversy has led to a wave of cancellations from prominent artists. Prize-winning composer Philip Glass recently withdrew his scheduled June performance, stating that the centre's current values conflict with the message of his Symphony No. 15, which portrays Abraham Lincoln. Glass's decision reflects a broader trend of artists distancing themselves from the institution under its new leadership.
Despite these cancellations, the centre is proceeding with a premiere of the controversial documentary Melania on Thursday. The film, which focuses on former First Lady Melania Trump, is predicted to have a poor opening weekend at the box office, with estimates suggesting earnings of only $1 to $5 million against Amazon's reported $75 billion acquisition and promotion costs.
Institutional Response and Ongoing Fallout
Roma Daravi, the centre's vice president of public relations, emphasised that politics should have no place in the arts, criticising those calling for boycotts. However, the centre's recent actions, including the swift alteration of building signage to reflect the new name, have intensified the debate over its direction and governance.
The Kennedy Center did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding Couch's resignation, leaving questions unanswered about the future of its artistic programming. As the institution navigates this period of transition, the clash between political influence and artistic integrity continues to define its public perception and operational challenges.
