City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Gala will take place this fall in Los Angeles
City of Hope, 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 illnesses, has announced that its Music, Film and Entertainment Industry (MFEI) volunteer and fundraising group’s Spirit of Life Gala will include a headlining performance by Elton John.
Taking place on October 22nd at the historic Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in downtown Los Angeles, the 51st annual affair will present Jay Marciano, chairman and CEO of AEG Presents, with City of Hope’s prestigious Spirit of Life Award. Marciano will be recognized for his longtime philanthropic and humanitarian efforts.
“I am honored to be receiving The Spirit of Life Award from City of Hope and to be able to contribute to raising awareness and funds to speed its important work of eradicating cancer and improving lives for so many,” Marciano states. “I am also humbled and grateful that Elton John, a true superstar in every regard, has agreed to lend his immeasurable talents to this event with a performance that’s sure to inspire support for a cause that unfortunately touches so many lives. And if that weren’t enough, having David Blaine, Evan Funke, and Fred Armisen contribute to such an extraordinary evening is beyond my wildest dreams.”
A prominent figure in the live entertainment and music industry and widely known for his work leading one of the world’s largest live event companies that have recently produced two of the most significant music tours in history — Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road — Marciano is focused on galvanizing the industry to accelerate cancer research at City of Hope so that more people around the world may benefit from its findings.
John’s historic, final tour saw the musical icon play 330 shows worldwide to over 6.25 million fans across the UK, Europe, North America and Australia. The US leg of the tour concluded with three sell-out shows at Dodger Stadium. The concert was live-streamed on Disney + in every territory the channel broadcasts in, a global first. He later headlined Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage in June 2023, the final UK show before the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour concluded in July 2023, marking the end of more than 50 years on the road. Now, the stage has been set for another very special performance at the Spirit of Life Gala.
“Jay is more than a colleague; he is a dear friend,” John says. “It is my pleasure to lend my support to him as he receives the Spirit of Life honor, especially given City of Hope’s dignity-giving supportive care for people who face cancer, along with its unmatched research for other life-threatening illnesses. Their important work has led to advancements in the field that have fortunately enabled so many people to live beautiful, long lives. Everyone should have that opportunity, and I’m honored to play a part in City of Hope’s work towards that goal.”
Founded more than a century ago to serve people who had trouble accessing high-quality, effective cancer treatment, City of Hope combines inclusive, compassionate care with big dreams realized through breakthrough scientific research.
In its 50-plus-year history, MFEI raised over $150 million to benefit City of Hope research and care programs.
In addition to the performance by John, attendees will experience a curated menu by chef Evan Funke, a master of the old-world techniques of handmade pasta, and an unprecedented act by magician and mentalist David Blaine — both experiences promise to round out an evening of magic. Comedian, actor, musician and writer Fred Armisen will emcee the event.
MFEI’s Spirit of Life Gala will conclude a year-long fundraising initiative which will also include auctions and a dinner series to benefit City of Hope.
