Historic Opera Company Faces Unprecedented Crisis
The Washington National Opera (WNO), a cultural institution that has called the Kennedy Centre home since its 1971 opening, is now contemplating a dramatic departure following what artistic director Francesca Zambello describes as a Donald Trump 'takeover'. The crisis emerged after the president declared himself chair of the prestigious performing arts centre in February, dismissing its bipartisan board and installing his own leadership team.
Financial Collapse and Public Backlash
Ticket sales have plummeted to approximately 40% unsold compared to pre-takeover figures, with Zambello revealing that performances previously operating at 80%-90% capacity now struggle to reach 60% attendance. The artistic director disclosed receiving daily protests from formerly loyal audience members, with some returning shredded season brochures accompanied by messages vowing never to return while Trump remains in power.
Philanthropic support has similarly deteriorated, with donor confidence 'shattered' according to Zambello. 'Many people feel: 'If I give to the Kennedy Centre, I'm supporting Donald Trump,'' she explained, noting that the building has become 'tainted' and 'politicised by the current management'.
Management Clashes and Artistic Concerns
The new leadership, including Trump-appointed president Richard Grenell, has implemented controversial policies including requiring all shows to achieve 'net neutral' status - covering costs entirely through box office returns and donations. Zambello questions the feasibility of this mandate given current circumstances, stating 'We can't present a net-neutral budget without an epic amount of outside funding'.
Management has also questioned the company's commitment to 50% non-white casting and suggested employing 'less expensive artists', despite Zambello's insistence that they already hire emerging talents. While no programming choices have been vetoed, there have been suggestions to produce 'more popular operas' - something Zambello finds puzzling given current productions include The Marriage of Figaro, Aida and West Side Story.
Exploring Alternative Futures
With the affiliation agreement renewed shortly before Trump's takeover, WNO is now investigating alternative Washington DC venues for its October 2026 to May 2027 season. Suitable main-stage opera theatres are scarce, though the Shakespeare Theatre Company's auditoriums might accommodate smaller-scale works.
Despite the turmoil, Zambello emphasises the importance of maintaining dialogue across political divides, noting that second lady Usha Vance remains a supportive WNO board member. However, the cultural damage appears extensive, with a Washington Post analysis confirming the 40% box office decline affects the entire Kennedy Centre programme.
The Kennedy Centre has declined to comment on the developing situation, leaving one of America's premier cultural institutions facing an uncertain future amid unprecedented political controversy.
