House Lawmakers Question Kennedy Center for Hosting National Ballet of China

‘Art is a political instrument in [China], used for the purpose of disseminating propaganda abroad,’ the lawmakers said.

Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) chair Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.) speaks during a press conference discussing the implications of the Safeguarding National Security Bill (Article 23 legislation) at the House Triangle near the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on March 22, 2024. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

WASHINGTON—Two House Republicans are questioning the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts regarding its decision to host the National Ballet of China, saying the dance company is part of communist China’s “political machinery,” according to a letter provided to The Epoch Times.

Reps. Chris Smith (R-N.J.) and John Moolenaar (R-Mich.) sent a letter to the Kennedy Center’s Chairman David Rubenstein and President Deborah Rutter on Jan. 24. The letter states that the performing arts center receives annual congressional appropriations, including $44 million for fiscal year 2024, to ensure its function as a public building.