Virtual Gala in support of Canada’s largest LGBTQ2S community centre

Join Elton John, Barenaked Ladies, k.d. lang, and Buffy Sainte-Marie for a starry Virtual Gala in support of The 519, Canada’s largest LGBTQ2S community centre

Legendary talents will come together on October 25 for a Virtual Annual Gala in support of Toronto-based The 519 and its essential services for LGBTQ2S communities.

The 519, Canada’s largest and most prominent LGBTQ2S centre and service provider, is going virtual with its Annual Gala this year. The Toronto-based community centre’s largest fundraising night will bring together leading Canadian and American talent for a variety show in support of LGBTQ2S communities.

The evening will be marked by remarkable musical performances by artists from across the genres of Broadway, Blues, Pop, Jazz, and Rock including: John Alcorn, Alan Cumming, Molly Johnson, k.d. lang, Patti LuPone, Billy Newton-Davis, Louise Pitre, Carole Pope, Jackie Richardson, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Lorraine Segato, Theo Tams, and Ben Vereen. Many of these artists have performed at previous editions of the Gala, and are graciously returning to support the cause. Additionally, many celebrity guests will make surprise appearances during the virtual do.

The 16th edition of this signature event is being organized by The 519’s Honorary Patron, Salah J. Bachir. The Gala helps raise critical funds for The 519’s year-round programs and services. The registered charity relies heavily on funds raised through such events and other philanthropy initiatives. “COVID-19 has been extremely difficult for everyone, particularly for our communities, and now is the time to help,” Salah shares.

Through COVID-19, The 519 continues to respond to the most urgent and emerging needs of its communities. And like many other organizations, they have lost significant sources of revenue due to the pandemic and are facing serious financial pressures. Maura Lawless, Executive Director of The 519, says, “The cancellation of the Green Space Festival due to COVID-19 resulted in a significant loss of operating revenue. The Virtual Annual Gala is an opportunity to support The 519 and its essential programs and services for the most marginalized members of our LGBTQ2S communities.”

This year’s gala will be more inclusive than ever since we won’t be confined to the space limitations of The 519 ballroom. “Everyone is welcome, and can pay what they can to attend the event,” reminds Bachir.

The Gala will be streamed on Sunday, October 25, at 7:30pm (EST).

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/769097003882839
Tickets: bit.ly/519virtualgala