Jazz Legend Chuck Redd Cancels Christmas Eve Performance Over Kennedy Center Rebranding

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., has become embroiled in controversy after jazz musician Chuck Redd canceled his annual Christmas Eve concert in protest of the venue’s recent rebranding.

Redd, a longtime performer at the center who has hosted the holiday event for years, announced the cancellation shortly before the audience was seated. In a statement, he said: “When I saw the name change on the Kennedy Center website and then hours later on the building, I chose to cancel our concert.”

The rebranding, which added “Trump” to the venue’s official designation, was approved by the center’s board on December 18. The board chair stated the vote was unanimous, though Democratic members disputed that characterization.

Redd’s decision has sparked strong reactions online. Supporters of President Donald Trump criticized Redd for politicizing a holiday tradition, with one X user stating: “You can cancel your show, but all you’ve accomplished is canceling yourself.” Another urged a boycott of Redd’s future performances, claiming the cancellation deprived families of a holiday celebration. A self-described military veteran commented that personal political views should not interfere with professional responsibilities, while some Instagram users praised Redd for acting on principle, with one posting: “Thank you, Mr. Redd. We need more people of principle.”

Redd clarified his objection was specifically to the inclusion of Trump’s name in the performing arts center’s official designation. The controversy coincides with Congress approving $250 million this year for renovations at the Washington complex, a move that occurred under President Trump’s influence and has seen him take an active role in shaping the venue’s direction.