Stephen Schwartz, the songwriter known for musicals such as "Godspell," "Pippin," and "Wicked," has stated he will not participate in a program spotlighting him at the Kennedy Center on May 16, 2026.
Schwartz communicated via email that he believes the Kennedy Center "no longer represents the apolitical place for free artistic expression it was founded to be" and that he would not attend on principle. He indicated he had been invited by director Francesca Zambello for a Washington National Opera event but had not received updates since February 2025, leading him to assume its cancellation.
Kennedy Center's Response
Roma Daravi, Vice President of Public Relations at the Kennedy Center, issued a statement asserting that Schwartz "was never discussed nor confirmed and never had a contract by current Trump Kennedy Center leadership." Daravi also quoted Schwartz's own statement regarding the lack of updates and assumption of cancellation.
Website Discrepancies and Removal
Despite Daravi's statement, the Kennedy Center's website continued to advertise Schwartz's appearance, including his photo and a link for ticket purchases. All references to Schwartz were subsequently removed from the Kennedy Center's site by Thursday afternoon.
Broader Context
Schwartz's decision follows withdrawals by other artists from appearances at the venue. These withdrawals occurred after the board, which includes members appointed during the Trump administration, voted to add the current president’s name to the institution.
Schwartz has a historical connection to the Kennedy Center, having co-written "Mass," the program that opened the center in 1971, alongside Leonard Bernstein.
The Kennedy Center's current programming for 2026 primarily features orchestral attractions, institutional offerings, children's programming, a recurring comedy show, and touring musicals. Renee Fleming and Tyrese are among the few notable individual artists currently listed on the schedule.
Recent Work and Commentary
Schwartz is shortlisted in the Oscars' best original song competition for two new songs, "The Girl in the Bubble" and "No Place Like Home," written for the movie musical "Wicked: For Good."
In a recent interview, Schwartz discussed "No Place Like Home," stating it addresses the experience of living in a country undergoing change and an individual's role in such a context. He referenced both the United States and international examples like Hungary in his commentary on the song's themes.