Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal Reflect on 25 Years of Tribeca Festival and Bruce Springsteen’s Call to Action: ‘You Have To Oppose This Insanity’
Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal, co-founders of the Tribeca Festival, recently discussed their journey over the past 25 years in De Niro’s Manhattan office. Surrounded by memorabilia from their collaborative projects, including A Bronx Tale and The Good Shepherd, the two reflected on the festival’s impact on the community and the film industry.
A Cultural Revival in Lower Manhattan
The Tribeca Festival was established in response to the emotional and economic turmoil in lower Manhattan following the September 11 attacks. De Niro and Rosenthal aimed to rejuvenate the area, and their vision has transformed the festival into a cornerstone of the global film festival calendar. The inaugural festival in May 2002 featured a surprise concert by David Bowie, which was pivotal in drawing people back to the neighborhood.
Rosenthal emphasized the importance of that first concert, noting the need to create new memories for the community. At the time, the area was still recovering from the aftermath of the attacks, with visible signs of destruction. High-profile attendees, including Whoopi Goldberg and Robin Williams, lined up to participate, showcasing the festival’s significance in restoring hope and unity.
Celebrating Musical Milestones
The upcoming 25th Tribeca Festival, scheduled for June 3-14, will open with a documentary directed by Questlove about Earth, Wind & Fire, followed by a performance from The Roots. De Niro and Rosenthal expressed excitement about the festival’s musical achievements and the diverse lineup of artists this year.
Reflecting on past events, Rosenthal recalled Elton John’s free concert for the 9/11 community during the 2011 festival. The event faced logistical challenges, including unexpected rain and issues with the piano tuner. However, Rosenthal’s quick thinking and hospitality helped ensure the concert went ahead as planned.
Engaging with Iconic Artists
The festival has attracted numerous iconic artists over the years. De Niro mentioned his familiarity with Paul McCartney, noting that he sometimes prefers others to extend invitations to avoid putting pressure on friends. Ariana Grande’s involvement in Focker-In-Law was also highlighted, with De Niro sharing that her contributions were well-received.
In 2022, Taylor Swift screened her short film for “All Too Well” at the festival, which Rosenthal described as a seamless experience due to Swift’s proximity to the venue. However, she recalled a more challenging year in 2017 when logistical issues arose during a performance by Aretha Franklin.
Advocacy and Social Justice
Bruce Springsteen is set to receive the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award at this year’s festival. Rosenthal noted that Springsteen has been an outspoken advocate for various social issues, including immigration policies. De Niro echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of taking a stand against societal injustices.
Both De Niro and Rosenthal acknowledged the challenges of speaking out in today’s climate, but they believe it is essential for artists and individuals to engage in social discourse. De Niro remarked that being passive in the face of injustice is not an option, stating, “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.”
Looking Ahead
As the festival approaches, Rosenthal expressed enthusiasm for the documentary about Noga Erez, which will provide a unique perspective on the Israel-Palestine situation through the lens of an artist. The festival continues to serve as a platform for important conversations and artistic expression.
The Tribeca Festival remains a vital part of New York City’s cultural landscape, celebrating the intersection of film, music, and social advocacy. As reported by www.billboard.com.
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Published on 2026-05-08 19:07:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk