Featured Image: Jay Marciano
City of Hope is set to present AEG Presents chief executive Jay Marciano with the Spirit of Life Award at its Music, Film and Entertainment Industry (MFEI) volunteer and fundraising group’s Spirit of Life Gala in October.
The US cancer research and treatment centre, which also leads research around diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses, also announced that the Gala will include a headline performance from Sir Elton John.
Taking place on October 22 at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles, the 51st annual gathering will recognise Marciano for his philanthropic and humanitarian efforts.
Maricano is a prominent figure in the live entertainment and music industry, and has worked on some of the sector’s most iconic tours – including Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Sir Elton’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour.
“I am honoured 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 said.
“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.”
Farewell Yellow Brick Road was Sir Elton’s final tour, which included a headlining performance at UK flagship festival Glastonbury in June last year, followed by the conclusion of the singer’s life on the road in July 2023.
“Jay is more than a colleague; he is a dear friend,” he commented.
“It is my pleasure to lend my support to him as he receives the Spirit of Life honour, 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 honoured to play a part in City of Hope’s work towards that goal.”
Over the last 50 years or more, the MFEI has raised $150m (£116m/€136m) to benefit City of Hope research and care programmes.
“Our longstanding supporters in the entertainment industry are helping us deliver on our most important goal: saving lives,” said Robert Stone, CEO of City of Hope. “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.”
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