City of Hope will present Jay Marcianochairman and CEO of AEG Presents, with prestige Spirit of Life Award at a gala on October 22 headlined by acclaimed singer-songwriter Elton John.
City of Hope is one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States and a leading research center for diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. THE Spirit of Life The Gala, organized by City of Hope's Music, Film and Entertainment Industry (MFEI) volunteer and fundraising team, will be held at the historic Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in downtown Los Angeles. Marciano is the 51st executive to be honored during the annual event, which recognizes individuals for their longtime philanthropic and humanitarian efforts. In addition to managing some of your biggest tours in history—Taylor Swift's “Eras tour” and Elton John's “Farewell Yellow Brick Road”—Marciano focuses on mobilizing the industry to accelerate cancer research in the City of Hope so that more people around the world can benefit from her findings.
In addition to Giannis' performance, attendees will experience a curated menu by the chef Evan Funkemaster of the old techniques of handmade pasta and an unprecedented act by a magician and intellectual David Blaine — both experiences promise to complete an evening of magic. Comedian, actor, musician and writer Fred Armisen will participate in the event.
“I am honored to receive The Spirit of Life Award from the City of Hope and to be able to contribute awareness and resources to accelerate her important work to eradicate cancer and improve the lives of so many,” said Marciano. “I am also humbled and grateful that Elton John, a true superstar in every way, has agreed to lend his immense talents to this event with a performance that is sure to inspire support for a cause that sadly touches so many lives.”
John's historic, final tour saw the music icon play 330 shows around the world to more than 6.25 million fans in the UK, Europe, North America and Australia. The US leg of the tour concluded with three sold-out shows at Dodger Stadium. The concert was broadcast live on Disney+ in every territory the channel carries, a world first. He later headlined Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage in June 2023, the final UK show before the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour concludes in July 2023, marking the end of over 50 years on the road. Now, the stage is set for another very special performance at the Spirit of Life Gala.
“Jay is more than a colleague. he's a dear friend,” John said. “It is a pleasure to lend my support to him as he receives the Spirit of Life honor, especially given City of Hope's supportive care that provides dignity for people facing cancer, along with his unparalleled research into other life-threatening diseases . Their important work has led to advances in the field that have thankfully allowed so many people to live beautiful, long lives. Everyone should have that opportunity, and I'm honored to play a role in City of Hope's work toward that goal.”
Founded more than a century ago to serve people who had trouble accessing high-quality, effective cancer treatment, City of Hope combines comprehensive, compassionate care with big dreams realized through groundbreaking scientific research.
“Our longtime supporters in the entertainment industry help us achieve our most important goal: saving lives,” he said. Robert StoneCEO of City of Hope and Helen and Morgan Chu Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair. “Thank you, Jay, and our partners for helping us ensure that people with cancer, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or geography, have equitable access to the most advanced cancer treatments available.”
In its 50-plus year history, MFEI has raised over $150 million to benefit City of Hope's research and care programs.
“The music industry has the power to unite millions of people for a cause, and when that cause is cancer research, the impact can be transformative,” he said. Kristin J. Bertellhead of philanthropy at City of Hope. “Jay's support will raise awareness, raise critical funds and inspire hope for millions of cancer patients and their families. It's not just for entertainment. it's about saving lives through the power of philanthropy,” Bertell continued.
“The City of Hope MFEI Board cannot thank Jay Marciano and his entire team enough for all they do to help fight these horrible diseases,” he said. Evan Lambergpresident of Universal Music Publishing Group. “There is not a single person I meet who has not, in some way, directly or indirectly, been affected by cancer. City of Hope continues its fight against cancer around the clock and wants to continue to improve the quality of people's lives.”
MFEI's Spirit of Life Gala will conclude an annual fundraising initiative that will also include auctions and a dinner series to benefit City of Hope. You can find tickets and sponsorship information here.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/pro/city-of-hope-gala-jay-marciano-honored-elton-john-performing/
