The
Kennedy Center
has canceled a June performance of ”
Legally Blonde
“The Musical” and terminated members of the social-impact team.
“Legal Blonde,” adapted from the 2001 book and movie with the same title, follows the journey of an enthusiastic sorority member attending Harvard Law School. It received seven Tony Award nominations during its initial Broadway production in 2007.
Executive Producer Jeffrey Finn seemed to carefully navigate the center’s emerging political atmosphere.
a statement to Playbill
President Donald Trump was elected as the chairman of the arts venue in February and
pledged to root out
apparent awareness from its creations.
Finn’s comment did not offer much insight into the circumstances and reasons behind the cancellation.
I regret to share that the forthcoming Broadway Center Stage production of
Legally Blonde
is being rescheduled to a later date,” Finn stated in the announcement. “Just to clarify, this isn’t a cancellation by the Kennedy Center nor is it because of anyone associated with the production. Broadway Center Stage remains committed to presenting top-notch performances for our dedicated audience, along with the talented Broadway creators, performers, staff, and fantastic Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra musicians. I am genuinely looking forward to bringing this dynamic show to stage soon.
Matt DiCarlo, the show’s director, expressed his devastation over the matter in an Instagram Story, stating that he was “heartbroken.” He also conveyed his gratitude to Finn for managing this highly complex issue with immense compassion and consideration.
reached out to DiCarlo, Finn, and a representative from the Kennedy Center named Roma Daravi for their input.
“Hamilton,” another Broadway giant,
withdrew from its scheduled performance at the Kennedy Center
Earlier this month, protests arose against Trump for removing board members and assuming the role of chairman.
“Given the recent changes in the Kennedy Center’s philosophy and board leadership, it has become impractical for a show like Hamilton to both celebrate and receive celebration there nowadays,” stated creator Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Other productions have also
been canceled
and a leader of one youth opera program
left bare in a demonstration clip
, resulting in their termination.
The Washington Post reported
.
