"Into the pale stone wall of the Kennedy Center, above its elegant terrace on the edge of the Potomac river, are carved bold and idealistic sentiments. This country cannot afford to be materially rich and spiritually poor. To further the appreciation of culture among all the people, to increase respect for the creative individual, to widen participation by all the processes and fulfillments of art this is one of the fascinating challenges of these days."
"The Kennedy Centre, in short, was designed to be bipartisan, a place of gathering for Democrats and Republicans alike, a proud showcase of the best of America's dance, opera and music. For 50 years it carefully trod that line, its board balanced by members of Congress from both sides of the political divide. But it turns out it can take just months to unravel half a century of high-minded purpose."
Bold, idealistic inscriptions on the Kennedy Center emphasize broad cultural appreciation, respect for creative individuals, and widespread participation in the arts. The building’s creation began under Dwight D Eisenhower, was named for John F Kennedy after his assassination, and opened in 1971 with Leonard Bernstein and Alvin Ailey during Richard Nixon’s presidency. The center was established as a bipartisan national performing-arts showcase with a board balanced by members of Congress. Political intervention in recent months replaced experienced leadership with Richard Grenell, provoked trustee changes, and prompted public reaction such as the booing of vice-president JD Vance at a concert.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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