Trump hits out at ‘lesbian-only Shakespeare’ in latest bizarre rant as he criticises Kennedy Center

President Trump has (inaccurately) lashed out at the idea of “lesbian-only Shakespeare” in comments regarding the Kennedy Center’s programming.

In February, the President took over the historic Kennedy Center. He fired the previous board and placed loyalists in charge as well as taking the role of chairman.

Previously, he’s attacked the centre for being “woke,” and accused it of hosting drag shows “specifically targeting our youth”. He has continued in that vein more recently.

While announcing the Center’s new programme on Monday (19 May) he said it was previously full of “rampant political propaganda.” He also mentioned one of his favourite topics (DEI, which stands for diversity, equity and inclusion) as well as what he called “inappropriate shows.”

He listed LGBTQ+ productions such as “lesbian-only Shakespeare” as examples and quizzed, “Who thinks of these ideas, really?”

Trump was likely referring to & Juliet: a musical by Schitt’s Creek writer David West Read, which puts a spin on the tale of the classic Shakespeare character “as Juliet ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love – her way.” It was performed at the Kennedy Center between December 17, 2024 and January 5, 2025.

“Lesbian-only Shakespeare” isn’t an accurate description of the nuanced production, but it does explore themes of fluid sexuality and the idea that love is not limited by gender, much to the chagrin of right-wingers.

But that’s not all.

While the famous quote is ‘Hypocrisy, thy name is you,’ we’d argue it should be changed to ‘Hypocrisy, thy name is Trump’ after he announced the new programme.

Among the shows set to be hosted at the historic and esteemed center are Mrs Doubtfire, Moulin Rouge, and Chicago.

The first focuses entirely on a man who does drag so he can see his children. The second features LGBTQ+ characters and themes (and is a queer favourite). And Chicago hints that things are “not always as they appear,” in regard to the character of reporter Mary Sunshine.

So, if drag shows are supposedly an example of “rampant political propaganda” and “inappropriate” for children, why are at least three shows featuring drag now going ahead?

In the wake of Trump’s earlier attacks on the arts centre, productions and performers have cancelled scheduled appearances. Among them was the popular musical Hamilton as well as actor/producer Issa Rae.

WorldPride, which is taking place in Washington DC in June, has also relocated events due to take place at the venue.