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Kennedy Center President Criticizes Jazz Artist for Cancelling Holiday Concert

KVIA•Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 7:20 AM•CNN Newsource

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Richard Grenell, president of the Kennedy Center, has publicly criticized jazz musician Chuck Redd for canceling his annual Christmas concert in response to the center's recent name change honoring Donald Trump. Grenell's letter to Redd emphasized that the artist's decision reflects intolerance and could result in significant financial repercussions for the nonprofit institution. The name change has sparked outrage among the Kennedy family and lawmakers, leading to questions about the board's authority to make such a decision. This season, ticket sales for popular events like 'The Nutcracker' have plummeted, with only 10,000 tickets sold compared to 15,000 in previous years, resulting in a projected revenue shortfall of $500,000.

Key Details: • Redd canceled the concert after the Kennedy Center's board voted to change its name to honor Trump. • The Kennedy Center is seeking $1 million in damages from Redd for the cancellation. • This year's 'The Nutcracker' sold 10,000 tickets, significantly lower than previous years. • The center has issued five times more free tickets this year compared to the last four years.

trump kennedy-center cancellation jazz arts

People & Organizations

Chuck ReddKennedy CenterRichard GrenellWashingtonKennedy Center

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