Sophie Thomas has been covering culture and style for many years. She lives in Southern California.
January 1 , 2026
Washington, DC -- In a New Year’s Eve celebration that blended politics, performance, and showmanship, the newly renamed Trump-Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosted a festive puppet show that drew an enthusiastic--albeit tiny--audience despite ongoing controversy surrounding the venue’s rebranding earlier this year.
The performance, titled Strings of Liberty, featured a mix of oversized puppets, patriotic music, and playful slapstick that lasted just under an hour. The event concluded with a countdown to midnight and a burst of confetti over the Grand Foyer.
Speaking to reporters after midnight, President Trump said, “People are saying it was the best puppet show ever. No one has ever seen puppets like that. They were even better than the Muppets.”
The president’s comment drew mixed reactions online. Critics argued that the rebranding and increased political involvement have driven away major artists and cultural institutions. Over two dozen performers and orchestras previously scheduled for the 2026 season have pulled out in recent months, citing concerns over the center’s artistic independence.
The house was largely empty, with several families and out-of-town visitors among in attendence. “We came for the fun, not the politics,” said Laura Benton, a teacher from Boise. “The kids loved it, and honestly, it felt like Washington was smiling for once.”
Cultural analysts say the Trump-Kennedy Center will likely face continued scrutiny as it navigates its dual identity—part national arts institution, part political lightning rod. But for at least one evening, the focus was on marionettes, music, and midnight celebration.
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