Stephen Colbert participated in a conversation with renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma at Harvard University’s Sanders Theatre on Thursday as part of the Office of the Arts’ “Learning from Performers” series. Prior to the event, members of the Harvard Graduate Students Union, who have been conducting a strike seeking improved wages and workplace protections, publicly requested that Colbert and Ma cancel, postpone, or relocate the appearance in solidarity with workers.
The pair proceeded with the scheduled event as planned, and dozens of Harvard workers established a protest presence outside the venue. Approximately 40 minutes into what was intended to be a 90-minute discussion, a fire alarm activated and attendees were evacuated from the theatre. The cause of the alarm has not been determined.
Following the incident, the union released a statement clarifying its non-involvement with the fire alarm activation, noting that members outside were relieved to learn no one inside faced danger. Fiona Coffey, director of the Office of the Arts, issued an apology for the event’s conclusion, expressing gratitude for the preparation efforts and regret over the disappointing outcome.
The union had previously highlighted Colbert’s support for workers during the 2023 Hollywood strikes, including his co-founding of the podcast Strike Force Five alongside other late night hosts to provide financial assistance to affected production staff and writers. The incident represents a notable moment in ongoing labor negotiations at the university.
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