A staggering 11,000-plus crowd packed the Kennedy Center, shattering attendance records despite fierce liberal pushback.
According to Breitbart, the “EARTH to SPACE: Arts Breaking the Sky” fireworks show in March marked a historic triumph for the venue, now thriving under President Donald Trump’s leadership with a fresh focus on apolitical programming.
This unprecedented turnout, reported solely by the Daily Caller, underscored the Center’s renewed appeal to everyday Americans seeking unifying cultural experiences.
In February, Trump took the helm as chairman, stepping in after the departure of chair David Rubenstein. The dismissal of President Deborah Rutter paved the way for Richard Grenell, a trusted Trump aide and former ambassador to Germany, to serve as interim president.
These changes sparked outrage among liberals, who questioned whether Trump valued the arts enough to steward a cultural landmark like the Kennedy Center.
Several high-profile artists, including renowned soprano Renée Fleming, publicly distanced themselves from the Kennedy Center in response to the leadership overhaul.
Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeffrey Seller, key figures behind Hamilton, canceled a planned production at the venue, citing Trump’s influence as their reason.
“This latest action by Trump means it’s not the Kennedy Center as we knew it,” Miranda stated, signaling his refusal to engage with the restructured institution.
Despite the backlash, the March fireworks spectacular drew an extraordinary crowd, with 76% of the 11,000 attendees experiencing the Kennedy Center for the first time.
The event, free to the public with tickets distributed on a first-come, first-served basis via the Center’s website, welcomed a diverse array of visitors eager for a memorable evening.
“Trump took away our national arts center for all of us,” Seller claimed, echoing the sentiments of those opposed to the Center’s new direction.
Attendees marveled at the fireworks from the Kennedy Center’s 360-degree rooftop terrace and the picturesque riverwalk along the Potomac River, creating a festive atmosphere.
The first 800 guests enjoyed a special VIP opportunity, using cAITM, an innovative AI interface designed by artist Cai Guo-Qiang, to personally launch a firework into the night sky. “It was wonderful to have so many new visitors at the Kennedy Center for Cai Guo-Qiang’s firework showcase,” said Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations, celebrating the event’s success.
Daravi expressed enthusiasm for what lies ahead, stating, “We look forward to their return for more wonderful programming soon.” The Kennedy Center’s pivot away from politically charged events has resonated, attracting thousands who might have otherwise stayed away. “Everyone is welcome here!” Daravi affirmed, reinforcing the venue’s commitment to fostering shared cultural moments for all Americans.