But then, how could you resist? Diagnosed with autism before her second birthday, DiPiazza appeared on the fourth “Night Of Too Many Stars” at New York City’s Beacon Theatre and sang a duet with her idol, Katy Perry, on Perry’s song, “Firework.” Hosted by comedian Jon Stewart, the Saturday, Oct. 13 benefit held to raise money for autism education programs appeared on Comedy Central Oct. 21.
But it was DiPiazza who stole the show. A student at New York City’s Mannes College The New School For Music Preparatory Division where she studies piano and voice, DiPiazza received a standing ovation when her duet with Perry concluded, as many members of the audience, including host Stewart, were moved to tears.
(performance begins at approximately 3:11 in)
“It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever been associated with, said comedian Robert Smigel, who organizes and produces the benefit. “I’ve made a career of all this nonsense – and I’m very proud of it – but it all pales in comparison to what happened Saturday.”
Perry was also taken with the moment, tweeting the day after the performance, “I will never forget last night. It was the most important moment thus far of what I do.”