[Archived] City of Alexandria and Opera Singer Krista McClellan Clouse Reach Resolution

For Immediate Release: March 29, 2019

The City of Alexandria and Krista McClellan Clouse, a professional opera singer, have amicably resolved a lawsuit brought by Ms. Clouse stemming from her September 2016 arrest under the City’s Noise Control Code while performing in Old Town’s Central Business District. Ms. Clouse was represented by the law firm of Kirkland & Ellis LLP.    

Ms. Clouse is an award-winning international opera singer who has performed professionally all over the world. A native of Alexandria, she has been performing publicly in Old Town for many years and is a valued member of Alexandria’s vibrant public arts community.

“I am proud to call Alexandria home,” said Ms. Clouse. “I appreciate all that the City of Alexandria and its law enforcement do to promote a safe environment in Old Town where the public arts can thrive. I hope that my experience can help promote the constitutional rights of street performers and inspire others to participate in Alexandria’s historic arts community.”

Street performers have enriched the culture and spirit of Old Town Alexandria for hundreds of years, and continue to delight residents and visitors from all over the world. The City of Alexandria is a strong supporter of the arts and the City celebrates the longstanding role that street performers have played in the Alexandria community.    

City staff is undertaking a comprehensive review of the City’s noise ordinance and will recommend any necessary changes to the City Council.   

For media inquiries, contact Melissa Riddy, Senior Communications Officer, at melissa.riddy@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3961.