Trump to watch ‘Les Miserables’, tale of revolt and oppression
WASHINGTON: It’s a tale of revolutionary fervour, featuring street protesters manning the barricades against a repressive leader. And watching from the audience will be US President Donald Trump.
Trump’s appearance at the opening night of the hit musical “Les Miserables” at the renowned Kennedy Center in Washington on Wednesday night could hardly be more politically charged.
The Republican recently orchestrated a conservative takeover of the famed arts venue, reportedly prompting some “Les Mis” cast members to boycott the show.
But the performance of the show, set against the backdrop of revolutionary 19th century France, also comes as the United States itself faces fresh turbulence.
LOS ANGELES RAIDS
Trump, who will be joined by First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance at the premiere, has recently sent in troops to deal with protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles.
California officials accuse him of “dictatorial” behaviour and of manufacturing a confrontation by deploying thousands of National Guard troops and US Marines. Trump says he will “liberate” Los Angeles from an “invasion” of migrants.
“I think the irony is probably lost on him,” Peter Loge, director of George Washington University’s School of Media, told AFP.
The social injustice portrayed in Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel — coupled with songs such as “Do You Hear the People Sing?” and “I Dreamed a Dream” — has long resonated with audiences around the world.
But billionaire Trump, who had announced his decision to attend “Les Miserables” before the Los Angeles protests erupted, says he too has long been a fan.
The 78-year-old has played songs from the show at his rallies and political events. “I love the songs, I love the play,” Trump told Fox News Digital last week.