A Night Where Music Met Purpose
On December 12, 2025, the historic Brooklyn Paramount Theater became a powerful meeting ground for artists, advocates, and supporters united by a shared mission. The Children in Conflict Show, a benefit concert presented by Children in Conflict and hosted by John Oliver, transformed the iconic venue into a space of awareness, empathy, and collective action. More than an evening of entertainment, the event stood as a reminder of how culture can mobilize communities in support of children affected by war and displacement.
An Unforgettable Lineup United for Change
The stage welcomed an extraordinary lineup of performers—Common, Natasha Bedingfield, Anthony Ramos, and Mon Rovîa—each bringing their own artistry and voice to the cause. While their musical styles varied, the purpose behind their performances remained constant. Every song contributed to a broader narrative about resilience, humanity, and responsibility, resonating deeply with the audience gathered inside the theater.
The performances were met with heartfelt responses, underscoring how music can act as a universal language—one that connects people across borders and experiences. The night illustrated how artists can use their platforms not only to entertain, but also to inspire compassion and action.
Supporting Children Living Through Conflict
At the core of the evening was the mission of Children in Conflict, an organization dedicated to supporting children whose lives have been disrupted by war and forced displacement. Funds raised during the concert directly supported the organization’s global programs, which focus on access to education, trauma-informed mental-health care, and the creation of safe spaces for children living in unstable environments.
These initiatives go beyond emergency relief. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery, Children in Conflict works to help children rebuild a sense of safety, dignity, and hope—often in circumstances where such stability has been stripped away far too early.
Artists Speaking From the Heart
The emotional impact of the night was echoed by the artists themselves. Natasha Bedingfield described the event as a meaningful and human experience. “The Children in Conflict Show was epic,” she said. “Music has this way of moving people physically and emotionally. In this case, it’s a way of getting people to move beyond just worrying about a very real issue and to literally be moved to help. Children are experiencing things no child should ever face. I was grateful to stand on that stage and share in something that felt honest and human.”
Her words reflected the spirit of the evening—one rooted in empathy and the belief that creative expression can serve as a catalyst for real-world impact.
A Call to the Creative Community
Beyond raising funds, the Children in Conflict Show reinforced an important message to the creative industry. Artists, managers, agents, and cultural leaders were encouraged to recognize their collective influence and to stand with children whose futures remain uncertain due to conflict.
The event demonstrated that advocacy does not exist in isolation. When creative voices come together, awareness can turn into engagement, and engagement into sustained support. This growing partnership between Children in Conflict and the creative community represents a commitment to long-term involvement rather than one-time gestures.
Leadership and Gratitude
Dr. Kim McCall, Executive Director of Children in Conflict, emphasized the importance of the shared effort behind the evening’s success. “Tonight proved just how powerful this community can be,” she said. “When artists use their craft to champion children living through war, it creates real momentum and real hope. We’re so grateful to everyone who showed up and lent their voice—it mattered.”
Her remarks highlighted the collective responsibility carried by everyone involved—from performers and organizers to attendees who chose to support the cause.
More Than a One-Night Event
While the concert itself lasted only a few hours, its message extended far beyond the walls of the Brooklyn Paramount Theater. The Children in Conflict Show marked another step in the organization’s deepening relationship with the arts and cultural sectors, serving as an open invitation for continued collaboration and advocacy.
The evening demonstrated how the arts can transform concern into action and compassion into tangible outcomes—helping to shape a more hopeful future for children living through unimaginable circumstances.
About Children in Conflict
Children in Conflict works with local partner organizations to protect, educate, and support children living through war and displacement. From building safe learning spaces in conflict zones to delivering trauma-informed mental-health programs, the organization’s mission is to give children not just hope, but a future.
For more information, visit here.
Media Inquiries
Dawn Kamerling
The Press House
dawn@thepresshouse.com