Keep A Child Alive's Black Ball Redux at the Apollo

Following the cancellation of Keep a Child Alive’s Black Ball due to Hurricane Sandy, the Keep a Child Alive and Empire teams were faced with the challenge of planning an alternate event before yearend. Though the format and venue for the rescheduled event would change slightly, the rescheduled event would need to capture the same essence, vitality and spirit of the legendary benefit event - uniting celebrity with philanthropy to raise awareness and urgently needed funds for children and families affected by HIV in Africa and India.

In the words of Keep a Child Alive co-founder, Alicia Keys: “Hurricane Sandy taught us all that, when disaster strikes, people don’t turn away, they turn it up.” In that spirit, Empire Entertainment, the producer of the Black Ball since 2004, and the Keep a Child Alive team worked quickly to create the “Black Ball Redux”, a once-in-a-lifetime fundraising event that would take place just one month later at Harlem’s world famous Apollo Theater. The Black Ball Redux, emceed by Whoopi Goldberg, honored the incomparable Oprah Winfrey and Grammy Award-winning Beninoise singer-songwriter and activist Angélique Kidjo for their philanthropic contributions in Africa and worldwide.With performances by Alicia Keys, Angélique Kidjo, Bonnie Raitt, Jennifer Hudson and Brittany Howard of the band Alabama Shakes, the Black Ball Redux evoked the dynamism of Modern Africa, paying tribute to the empowerment of women – the heartbeat, soul and backbone of the AIDS movement - and the promise of an AIDS-free Africa.Prior to the commencement of the program, more than 650 guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvre’s designed by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, served by Creative Edge Parties with wine and spirits generously donated by Sherry-Lehmann Wine & Spirits.

Next was an inspirational program honoring Angélique Kidjo for her relentless work for social change, and Oprah Winfrey, for her lifelong dedication to humanity. Andrea Fiuczynski, President of Christie’s Los Angeles, and emcee, Whoopi Goldberg, worked together onstage for a live auction of incredible once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Among the evening’s generous donations was that of Stewart Rahr who contributed $1 million to Keep a Child Alive. Mr. Rahr, listed as #298 on the Forbes 400, donated through The Stewart J. Rahr Foundation, who gives generously to support medical issues, education and healthcare.Then the amazing concert program began on the legendary Apollo stage with Angélique Kidjo who opened with her high-energy song “Afrika” and a duet with Keys on “Djin Djin,” rousing all guests to their feet. Jennifer Hudson, with her powerhouse voice, tore the house down with “Save Me” and “Angel.” Alicia Keys then joined the legendary Bonnie Raitt for a beautiful duet of “I Can’t Make you Love Me,” which prompted a standing ovation. Alabama Shakes lead singer, Brittany Howard then joined Raitt for a soulful bluesy rendition of “Wrap it Up.”Keys then took the stage and performed several songs from her newly released album, “New Day,” including “Girl on Fire,” “Not Even the King,” and “Brand New Me.”

Keep a Child Alive’s Black Ball Redux raised over $2.1 million to provide lifesaving HIV treatment, care and support to children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. Since 2004, the Black Ball has generated over $18 million for Keep a Child Alive.

Empire Entertainment once again served as overall event producer for the Black Ball Redux and managed aspects of the event including site selection, logistics, catering, décor, talent coordination, technical production, security and onsite management.

To get involved as a sponsor, donor, partner or supporter, please contact Empire Entertainment or visit www.keepachildalive.org