NEW YORK — Robert De Niro, renowned for his iconic roles as gangsters, a taxi driver seeking revenge, and a wary prizefighter, will take on a different role by echoing Abraham Lincoln’s call for civility. The Oscar-winning actor is set to appear Tuesday night at Carnegie Hall during the 39th annual benefit concert for Tibet House US, where he will read excerpts from Lincoln’s early speech warning against mob violence. This event brings together artists including Elvis Costello, Maya Hawke, and Laurie Anderson, with Anderson co-directing alongside composer Philip Glass.
Lincoln’s Lyceum Address Serves as Warning on Democratic Fragility
De Niro’s reading will focus on Abraham Lincoln’s 1838 Lyceum Address, originally delivered in Springfield, Illinois, to a young men’s debating society. The speech cautions about the dangers that mob violence poses to democracy and urges respect for law and order. This historic plea resonates today amid current political tensions and social unrest.
Philip Glass’s Symphony and Controversy Surrounding the Kennedy Center
Lincoln’s words also inspired Philip Glass’s Symphony No. 15, titled Lincoln, which was due to premiere at the Kennedy Center in June. However, Glass canceled the premiere in January following the removal of the center’s leadership by President Donald Trump. Glass stated that the Kennedy Center’s new direction conflicted with the message his symphony conveys.
Robert De Niro has frequently voiced criticism against Trump, who has targeted the Kennedy Center as part of his campaign against what he calls “woke” culture. The board newly appointed by Trump announced plans to rename the venue the Trump Kennedy Center, a proposal requiring congressional approval according to lawmakers and scholars. Additionally, Trump declared that the center would close in July for construction expected to last two years, prompting numerous artists—including Renée Fleming, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Bela Fleck—to withdraw from their scheduled performances.
The Event’s Importance Amid Growing Cultural and Political Clashes
De Niro’s participation in the Tibet House benefit highlights a call for unity and respectful discourse at a time of increasing division. The performance of Lincoln’s caution against violence and the strain on cultural institutions like the Kennedy Center reflect broader concerns about democracy’s resilience in the face of political strife. As the event proceeds, observers will watch how the themes of civility and resistance to mob mentality continue to influence artists and audiences alike.
