A judge in Washington has directed the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to compensate jazz artist Chuck Redd with over $250,000 in legal fees. This decision follows the dismissal of the center’s lawsuit against Redd for breach of contract by Judge Tanya Jones Bosier of the District of Columbia Superior Court.
In 2025, Redd, a renowned American drummer and vibraphonist, withdrew from his long-standing position as host of the center’s annual free Christmas Eve concert. This action was a response to the controversial addition of Donald Trump’s name to the building’s portico. Redd’s attorney, Lisa J. Banks, stated that the lawsuit filed by the Trump Administration was baseless and politically motivated, causing unnecessary expenses and time.
For years, Redd had been a host and performer at the center’s Christmas Eve concerts. However, he opted out of the event last year shortly after Trump’s name was displayed on the building’s facade. In response, the center threatened to sue Redd for withdrawing last minute, citing intolerance and seeking $1 million in damages. The lawsuit was later dismissed by the Washington judge due to the center’s failure to present a valid breach of contract claim.
A federal judge ruled in May that the addition of Trump’s name to the Kennedy Center was unlawful. This ruling was part of an ongoing conflict triggered by Trump’s actions, including the dismissal of key personnel at the center. Since then, several prominent figures in the arts and culture sphere have distanced themselves from the center or canceled appearances.
The Kennedy Center confirmed the removal of Trump’s name from its facade in June, with only “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” visible. The center plans to appeal the court’s decision, while Redd’s lawyers support the judge’s ruling as appropriate. The Kennedy Center, known for hosting over 2,000 events annually and housing the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera, remains embroiled in this legal and public controversy.
