“American Heart In WW1: A Carnegie Hall Tribute,” blends a sense of modernism with nostalgia. Set for release in time for Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2025, the PBS special, created and narrated by John Monsky, directed by Michael Mayer, and produced by Radical Media, brings to life poignant memories of World War 1.
This ground-breaking tribute was filmed at NYC’s famed Carnegie Hall, and features the 60-piece Orchestra of St. Luke’s, and includes a cast of phenomenal vocalists, including Adam Chanler-Berat, Nicholas Christopher, Micaela Diamond, Gracie McGraw, and Diego Andres Rodriguez. It was conducted by music supervisor and arranger Ian Weinberger.
Scenes of brave men, many of whom enlisted in the war as teens, spoke to the valor and the willingness of young people to risk their lives to assist in the quest for freedom from oppression that the United States’ allies were facing abroad. Through clips and vintage mementos, audiences were taken back to a time when news was seen in black and white footage, and American citizens were willing to stand tall for their country.
The main characters, all of whom have impressive credits, the likes of “Hamilton” “Chess,” and “Evita,” just to name a few, sang with fervor, a series of period numbers which became timeless, classic hits. Utilizing the framework and backdrop of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, the film’s real-life characters include soldier/music pioneer James Reese Europe, a civil rights trailblazer/Harlem Hellfighter; Vera Brittain, a nurse; Charles Whittlesey, a lawyer who leads soldiers trapped under fire during the most significant battle in American history; and pilot Quentin Roosevelt, son of President Theodore Roosevelt, who falls in love with debutante Flora Payne Whitney. Two fictional veterans provide expertise and commentary.
This must-see film will resonate with history buffs, those who are interested in a deeper dive on the significance of minorities who fought valiantly, and anyone who appreciates musicals.
Major funding for this ambitious endeavor was provided by the generous support of Kenneth C. Griffin. It is available on PBS.org, and the PBS.app.
Journalists Dr. Wale Ajibade, Cynthia Horner and Stephanie Woods- McKinney take a selfie at the reception held at Acadia Restaurant.
New York Association of Black Journalists members Cynthia Horner and Stephanie Woods-McKinney attend the screening along with Dr. Wale Idris Ajibade, Executive Director, African Views.
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