Human rights organization Amnesty International is bringing The Secret Policeman’s Ball, a celebration of free speech featuring music and comedy, to the U.S. for the first time.
Organizers said Wednesday that the event would take place at Radio City Music Hall on March 4 and feature performances by Coldplay, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, Mumford and Sons, Russell Brand, Reggie Watts and others.
“The Secret Policeman’s Ball has a long and hilariously off-color history of using comic genius to fight for free speech and human rights around the world,” said Lily Sobhani, executive producer of the ball. “We are thrilled that the leading lights of comedy and music are coming together to bring the Secret Policeman’s Ball to the United States for the first time.”
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“I used to think humor was a luxury, but at the last election Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert taught me it was a necessity,” said comedian John Cleese. “The Secret Policeman’s Ball was – and is – a coming together of the very best comedy talent of any generation to celebrate their art, remind audiences how important free speech is, and highlight just how much vital work Amnesty International does to protect it. I implore you to support it.”
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Ticket sales for the event start later this month. The organization is believed to be looking at a possible TV deal for the event, but didn’t immediately announce a TV partner.
Source: The Sacremento Bee and The Hollywood Reporter.
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Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert to Perform at “The Secret Policeman's Ball” New York.