A judge in Washington has directed the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to compensate jazz artist Chuck Redd with over $250,000 US for legal fees. The ruling 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, whose legal name is Charles, withdrew from his long-standing role as the host of the center’s annual free Christmas Eve concert. This decision was a response to the controversial addition of Donald Trump’s name to the building’s white marble portico.
Redd’s attorney, Lisa J. Banks, stated to CBC News that no individual should have to expend resources combating unfounded and politically driven lawsuits instigated by the Trump Administration.
Having hosted and performed at the center’s Christmas Eve concerts for several years, Redd opted out of the event last year after Trump’s name was affixed to the building. Subsequently, the center threatened to sue Redd, asserting that his withdrawal in reaction to the renaming honoring President Trump was intolerant and costly to the nonprofit institution. The center sought $1 million US in damages, labeling it a legal maneuver.
The lawsuit against Redd was ultimately dismissed by the Washington judge due to the center’s failure to present a valid breach of contract claim in accordance with legal records reviewed by CBC News.
In a separate ruling in May, a federal judge determined that the addition of Trump’s name to the Kennedy Center was done unlawfully. This ruling stemmed from a conflict that originated when Trump assumed control of the center, leading to the dismissal of long-time Kennedy Center chair David Rubinstein.
Following these changes, several prominent figures in arts and culture disassociated from the center or canceled scheduled appearances, including figures like Canadian author Louise Penny, Shonda Rhimes, and Issa Rae.
The Kennedy Center confirmed the removal of Trump’s name from the facade in June. The center plans to appeal the court’s decision while Redd’s legal team lauded the judge’s ruling as fitting. The Kennedy Center, as a significant cultural institution, hosts over 2,000 events annually and serves as the official home to the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.