The Kingston Trio, a legendary American folk and pop music group, has filed a major lawsuit against Los Angeles’ Greek Theatre, the City of Los Angeles, Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and other entities, alleging multiple breaches of contract and violations of the Federal RICO Act. The lawsuit, viewable here, stems from a series of incidents surrounding two concerts in August 2024, which the group claims caused millions of dollars in damages.
According to the complaint, Greek Theatre management, with the approval of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and her appointees to the Commission on Recreation and Parks, awarded exclusive ticketing rights to Ticketmaster in violation of a city mandate prohibiting such arrangements. This action, the group argues, constitutes a RICO conspiracy. Additionally, Ticketmaster’s ordering process—requiring apps and multiple portals—created barriers for senior citizens, who make up 85% of the Trio’s audience. The group contends this violates the California Unruh Act, which prohibits discrimination against the elderly in public accommodations.
The lawsuit also accuses Greek Theatre management of negligence in fulfilling a production agreement to film and deliver professional video and audio of the two concerts. Management allegedly “forgot” to record one full day, resulting in the cancellation of a planned documentary film and double live album, as well as future large-venue concerts. The Kingston Trio is not alone in taking legal action against Ticketmaster; the Federal Trade Commission and seven states have also sued Ticketmaster and its parent company, Live Nation Entertainment, for allegedly coordinating with ticket resellers and engaging in deceptive pricing practices.
The complaint highlights a historical pattern of mismanagement at the Greek Theatre, noting that management contracts have been subject to lawsuits and controversies since 1992, often involving political corruption and improper awarding of exclusive agreements. The Kingston Trio’s lawsuit adds to a growing list of scandals facing Mayor Bass, including criticism over handling of the Palisades Fire, a lawsuit over missing homeless funds, and a class action concerning handicapped access to city facilities. The plaintiffs are demanding a trial by jury on all issues.
