Robert De Niro Warns of Civility Loss at Carnegie Hall Benefit
Robert De Niro delivered a powerful message about civility during a benefit concert at Carnegie Hall. The event took place on a Tuesday evening, where De Niro recited a call for civility originally expressed by Abraham Lincoln. His recitation came through excerpts from Lincoln’s “Lyceum Address,” a profound warning against mob violence from 1838.
Robert De Niro Highlights the Need for Civility
As De Niro stood on stage, he began with an unsteady yet compelling delivery, emphasizing the importance of reason and intelligence in fostering a just society. He quoted Lincoln, stating, “Reason, cold, calculating, unimpassioned reason, must furnish all the materials for our future support and defense.” This historic message resonated with the audience, reflecting concerns of today.
Event Overview: Tibet House US Benefit Concert
The concert marked the 39th annual benefit for Tibet House US, a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultural and educational initiatives. The event featured a range of artists:
- Laurie Anderson
- Elvis Costello
- Maya Hawke
- Allison Russell
While De Niro refrained from addressing current political issues, the context of his speech was unmistakably relevant. The atmosphere at Carnegie Hall subtly reflected contemporary concerns, primarily influenced by President Trump, who has been a source of contention for many artists.
The Impact of Political Climate on the Arts
Philip Glass, co-director of the event, drew inspiration from Lincoln’s address for his Symphony No. 15. Initially slated for a premiere at the Kennedy Center in June, Glass canceled the performance, citing conflicts with the Center’s leadership under Trump’s administration.
As the concert unfolded, numerous artists expressed sentiments against prevailing political tensions, including the war in Iran and issues surrounding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Elvis Costello passionately performed “(What’s So Funny ’Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding,” a song that resonates deeply with current societal challenges.
A Celebration of Diverse Musical Expressions
The benefit concert was a rich tapestry of diverse musical genres and styles. It showcased:
- Folk and protest songs
- Avant-garde compositions
- Beat poetry
- Classic hits, such as the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses” and Paul McCartney’s “Maybe I’m Amazed”
Additionally, the event featured an unfinished song by Christian Lee Hutson and a duet with Maya Hawke, intertwining the personal with the universal theme of music.
Robert Thurman, the co-founder of Tibet House and grandfather to Maya Hawke, commenced the evening with a message of happiness and hope. The concert not only honored artistic expression but also served as a reminder of the vital role civility plays in society today.
