Kennedy Center Ordered to Pay Legal Fees Over Canceled Concert

Legal Ruling on Kennedy Center’s Lawsuit

A superior court judge in Washington, D.C., has mandated the Kennedy Center to pay over $250,000 to jazz musician Chuck Redd. Redd, a vibraphonist and drummer, had canceled his annual Christmas Eve concert at the center in December after President Trump’s name was added to the arts center’s facade.

The Kennedy Center had initially threatened Redd with a $1 million lawsuit for breach of contract. However, Judge Tanya M. Jones Bosier dismissed the center’s claim in June, citing the district’s anti-SLAPP statute, which is designed to protect public interest speech. The recent ruling requires the center to pay Redd $252,479.70 covering attorney fees and other legal expenses.

Statement from Parties Involved

The Kennedy Center plans to appeal the decision. Redd’s attorney, Lisa J. Banks, stated the ruling was appropriate. Banks emphasized that no citizen should be burdened by politically motivated lawsuits.

Changes at Kennedy Center After Court’s Decision

The center removed President Trump’s name from its facade in June following a federal court order. Despite these changes, Trump remains chairman after replacing the prior president and board members with allies.

The Kennedy Center’s future programming is uncertain as most activities remain paused. Trump had announced plans to close the center for two years of renovations starting July 5. However, a Federal District Court in Washington has requested updates from the center’s administration about construction and public access.

Upcoming Board Meeting and Lack of Updates

The board is scheduled to meet this month to decide on future actions. However, there has been concern among Democratic board members, such as Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, about not receiving updated information.

NPR reached out to Sen. Whitehouse for comments, but there was no immediate reply.