Drama Erupts as Donald Trump Attends Les Misérables

On June 11, just days before his 79th birthday, former President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, attended a performance of Les Misérables at the Kennedy Center. The visit marked Trump’s first appearance at the venue since his controversial removal of much of its leadership and his criticism of what he called its “woke” programming.

The event was not without drama. Several cast members reportedly boycotted the performance in protest of Trump’s attendance, while some audience members donated their tickets to drag performers to draw attention to an ongoing drag ban at the venue.

Trump’s presence sparked a range of reactions during the show. Audience members alternated between cheers, boos, and chants. At one point, a woman stood and shouted accusations, calling him a “convicted felon” and a “rapist,” while others joined in with profanities. Trump responded by raising his fist in the air, mirroring a gesture he has made at past contentious events.

The symbolism of Trump watching a musical centered on revolution and resistance against authoritarianism did not go unnoticed. Many on social media pointed out the irony, especially in light of Trump’s past actions, including deploying federal forces to suppress protests during his presidency. Reactions online ranged from sharp criticism to outright mockery.