Judge Dismisses Kennedy Center Lawsuit Against Musician Chuck Redd Over Performance Cancellation
A D.C. Superior Court judge has dismissed a breach of contract lawsuit filed by the Kennedy Center against musician Chuck Redd. The lawsuit was initiated after Redd canceled a Christmas Eve performance at the venue, protesting President Trump's influence over the Kennedy Center. The dismissal was granted under Washington's Anti-SLAPP laws, which aim to prevent lawsuits that suppress free speech on public interest matters. Redd, known for his work with jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie, had been a regular performer at the Kennedy Center's holiday 'Jazz Jams' since 2006. He canceled his performance following the decision by the Trump-appointed board to add the president's name to the venue. Redd's legal team argued that he was not contractually obligated to perform, as he had not signed the provided contract. The court's decision was seen as a victory for Redd, who expressed satisfaction with the ruling.