The Washington National Opera will stop performing at the former John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for the first time since 1971, following the venue's controversial name change.
The newly named Trump-Kennedy Center for the Arts confirmed that the "difficult decision" to part ways with the opera is due to a "financially challenging relationship."
"We believe this represents the best path forward for both organizations and enables us to make responsible choices that support the financial stability and long-term future of the Trump Kennedy Center," the center said in a statement shared with USA TODAY on Jan. 9.
Washington National Opera’s board of trustees approved the decision to separate from the center in "amicable early termination of its affiliation agreement," according to the New York Times. The organization will continue operations as a fully independent nonprofit entity.
The American Guild of Musical Artists said it will support its artists at the opera as the board cuts ties with the Kennedy Center.
