Gala of the Stars — the marquee fundraiser put on by Dancers Against Cancer — has reeled in two big ones for its upcoming event.
Janet Jackson will receive an icon award presented to her by none other than Liza Minnelli. The outing will mark Minnelli’s first major public appearance since the Academy Awards in 2022, not counting her surprise turn as a special guest at a taping for the season finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race earlier this year.
The gala will take place at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. on Oct. 21. The icon honor is being presented to Jackson for her “unmatched influence on music, dance and culture, as well as her continued advocacy for compassion, empowerment and artistic excellence,” per the organization.
“Janet Jackson represents everything this award stands for — strength, innovation, compassion and an unwavering commitment to artistic integrity,” said Adrian Ruiz, president of the Gala of the Stars and Dancers Against Cancer. “Her influence transcends generations. Honoring her at this year’s Gala not only celebrates her legacy but also her enduring impact on the dance community and the power of using art for good.”
Added Noah Lands, CEO and executive producer of the gala and Dancers Against Cancer: “Janet’s artistry has inspired millions including countless dancers who found their voice through movement because of her. This award is a tribute to a true visionary whose work embodies the soul of performance and the heart of philanthropy.”
As previously announced, the gala will be hosted by Dancing With the Stars veteran Maks Chmerkovskiy. The event program features a special performance of young dancers named the DAC Icons choreographed by JoJo Siwa, and an opening performance by advocate award honoree Debbie Gibson. Anita Mann will be named philanthropist of the year, an honor presented by Jeff Thacker, while Derek Hough will take home an innovator award for his contributions to dance. Additional honorees: Julie McDonald with a trailblazer honor presented by Kenny Ortega and Tony Selznick; Christopher Scott will be named film choreographer of the year presented by Jamal Sims; Robbie Blue will be feted as role model; Ben Vereen will be honored with a lifetime achievement award; Mandy Moore will be named live performance choreographer of the year presented by Skyler Astin; and the tWitch Legacy Award will be presented to Kaeli Ware by Allison Holker.
Dancers Against Cancer is a nonprofit that provides financial assistance, support and resources to dancers, choreographers and their families affected by cancer. Tickets are now on sale.
A promo for Gala of the Stars benefiting Dancers Against Cancer, produced by KAR Productions. The creative team includes executive producer and CEO Noah Lands, president and producer Adrian Ruiz with direction by Nancy O’Meara, and public relations by Christy-Anne Lopez in partnership with Wackermann & Partners and Tentpole Group.
Courtesy of Dancers Against Cancer
