Event Overview
As a result of October’s Hurricane Sandy, the ninth annual Keep a Child Alive’s (KCA) Black Ball was cancelled – giving way to Black Ball REDUX, a once-in-lifetime fundraising event. Rescheduled for December 6, 2012, Black Ball REDUX was inspired by the iconic Black Ball gala – bringing celebrities & philanthropy together; raising funds for the children & families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa & India. Gracing Harlem’s Apollo Theater, the legendary event was emceed by Whoopi Goldberg & featured musical collaborations by KCA Co-Founder Alicia Keys, with artists Jennifer Hudson, Angelique Kidjo, Bonnie Raitt, and Alabama Shakes singer Brittany Howard.
Paying special tribute to the empowerment of women, KCA honored philanthropist Oprah Winfrey & singer/activist Angelique Kidjo, for their outstanding humanitarian efforts worldwide. Focused on the promise of an AIDS-free Africa, Black Ball REDUX raised over $2.9 million.
Objective
To partner with Empire Entertainment & provide them with technical supervision – overseeing the stage, lighting, audio, and video during the show.
Scope of Responsibilities
- Advanced pre-production coordination, along with managing the stage’s design, install, and all corresponding elements during the evening’s program.
- Applied knowledge acquired while supporting Black Ball in years past, to seamlessly relocate the event from NYC’s Hammerstein Ballroom, to Harlem’s Apollo Theater.
- Intently worked with Empire Entertainment & the venue staff, to accommodate last minute alterations & to guarantee the event remained on schedule.
Since 2004, the Black Ball has generated over $18 million for KCA – click here to learn more about this organization & how to further support their cause.
Press
CBS News, “Alicia Keys raises $2.9M at gala, honors Oprah Winfrey”
Huffington Post, “Alicia Keys’ Black Ball Raises $2.9 Million, Honors Oprah Winfrey”
Keep a Child Alive’s Blog, “The Black Ball Redux!”
USA Today, “Alicia Keys’ Black Redux set to honor Oprah”
It’s always an honor to contribute to projects that give back – thank you to Empire Entertainment & Keep a Child Alive for inviting us to support this transformative event once again.
