Renée Fleming Resigns from the Kennedy Center, Takes Up New Role at Wolf Trap

During her tenure before Trump's takeover of the Kennedy Center, Fleming said that she "treasured the bipartisan support for this institution as a beacon of America at our best"

The renowned soprano Renée Fleming has announced her resignation from the role of Artistic Advisor at Large to the Kennedy Center. Issa Rae, Ben Folds, and Shonda Rhimes are among the other high-profile figures who have cut ties with the Center after it was announced that President Trump had fired members of the board, installed himself as Chair, and appointed Ric Grenell as Interim Executive Director.

In a statement, Fleming praised the work of outgoing Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter, describing her as "a tireless, creative leader."

Subsequently, Fleming announced that she will serve as Artist Development Advisor for a three-year term at Wolf Trap Opera (WTO). Each year, WTO selects some of America's finest young singers to take part in a summer residency offering significant career development and performing experiences.

The next three years will see Fleming launch a series of initiatives that reflect her commitment to developing emerging artists, and she will also take part in teaching them.

"Wolf Trap Opera has long been a launching pad for some of opera’s brightest stars," said Lee Anne Myslewski, Vice President of Opera and Classical Programming. "This season we are honored to have Renée Fleming join the program and help shape the future of opera at Wolf Trap alongside a season set to highlight the exceptional talent within our summer artists in residence."

"I’ve treasured the bipartisan support for this institution as a beacon of America at our best," Fleming said of her time at the Kennedy Center. "I hope the Kennedy Center continues to flourish and serve the passionate and diverse audience in our nation’s capital and across the country."

"One of the most rewarding things about opera and classical music is the tradition of each generation nurturing the next group of rising artists," she added of her new role at Wolf Trap. "I am delighted to be expanding my mentorship of young singers with a new role with Wolf Trap Opera.

"Each summer, the WTO program attracts some of the most gifted young vocalists in the world, and I am looking forward helping these phenomenally talented singers grow and develop their artistry."