Issa Rae Cancels Kennedy Center Show in Response to Trump's Leadership Changes
Issa Rae has canceled her March 16 show at the Kennedy Center, citing concerns over the institution's values following President Trump's takeover as chairman of the board.
Issa Rae is canceling her sold-out show at the Kennedy Center as the fallout for the Washington institution deepens after President Trump named himself chairman of its board.
"Thank you so much for selling out the Kennedy Center for 'An Evening With [Me,]' Rae wrote in a message to her D.C. Fam in a Thursday Instagram Story post.
"Unfortunately, due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I've decided to cancel my appearance at this venue," the Emmy-nominated "Insecure" actor said.
"All tickets will be refunded. Thank you so much for understanding and I hope to see you soon," Rae told her more than 4 million Instagram followers.
Rae nixing her appearance, originally scheduled for March 16, is the first instance of a high-profile event canceled in the wake of Trump's dramatic overhaul of the Kennedy Center.
Last week, the president announced he was replacing several members of the performing arts institution's board of trustees and was designating himself as its chairman. He later described the Kennedy Center as too "woke."
"We took over the Kennedy Center. We didn't like what they were showing," Trump said.
On Wednesday, the newly picked board filled with allies of the commander in chief elected Trump as its chair.
Several stars serving in various roles at the Kennedy Center -- including Ben Folds, Shonda Rhimes and Renée Fleming -- announced they were leaving after Trump's move.
