Coldplay Performs to Defend Freedom of Expression

Coldplay and Mumford and Sons were among the performers here late Sunday at an Amnesty International concert organized in defense of freedom of expression.

The show marked the first time that the "Secret Policeman's Ball" -- organized by Amnesty International since 1976 -- was held in the United States.

Television comedian John Stewart was among the performers, sharing the stage with a fake Kim Jong-Un, who wanted to dominate the stage at all cost.

U.S. actor Ben Stiller and Briton David Williams had fun comparing the meaning of different English words on both sides of the Atlantic.

Other participants included Russell Brand, Jimmy Carr, Sarah Silverman or Reggie Watts, whose performances were funny and often politically incorrect.

Actor and director Maung Thura Zarganar of Myanmar introduced a serious note to the show, recalling the importance of freedom of expression.

Released from prison in October 2009 after an intervention by Amnesty International, he talked about his 11 years in prison, where he was sent by the local military junta "just for making jokes."

He stressed that his country's fight for democracy and human rights was "far from over" and received a standing ovation from nearly 5,000 spectators attending the event at Radio City Music Hall.

Mumford and Sons sang several of its hits, including "Roll Away Your Stone" and "Little Lion Man," while the inexhaustible Coldplay finished the concert in a flurry of confetti.