The Stonewall Gives Back Initiative, in partnership with World of Wonder Productions, announced today that a live-streamed concert event will be held on Thursday, April 23rd at 8pm EST to benefit the LGBTQ+ nightlife industry that has been directly impacted by COVID-19.
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“Stonewall Gives Back!” will be hosted by Michelle Visage and Tyler Oakley, and tons of performers have signed up to be part of the event, including Alan Cumming, Betty Who, Greyson Chance, John Cameron Mitchell, Kim Petras, Kristin Chenoweth, Matt Rogers, MUNA, Nina West, Our Lady J, Peppermint, Todrick Hall, and Troye Sivan. The event will also feature a special performance by Cyndi Lauper.
“In general, LGBTQ bars and nightlife have been decimated due to the mass closures during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Stacy Lentz, CEO of The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative, in an email statement. “These are the original safe spaces for our community, which often makes us feel less alienated and alone. They are a true refuge where we can be ourselves. This industry is now gone and employees of those bars, venues and event spaces are struggling. They rely on tips and gig work and are no longer able to make ends meet. We need this moment to come together as one and help those who keep the LBGTQ nightlife industry thriving.”
“Stonewall Gives Back!” will be streamed live on World of Wonder’s YouTube channel “WOWPresents,” and all proceeds raised during the event will go directly to a fund for LGBTQ+ nightlife professionals.
While COVID-19 has impacted the world, the Stonewall Inn and World of Wonder are happy to help the LGBTQ+ community, as they understand our community is likely to feel isolated and have less access to resources at this time.
“The Stonewall Inn in New York City has, for decades, served as a beacon of hope in the LGBTQ+ community,” said World of Wonder co-founders Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey. “World of Wonder similarly strives to build opportunities and access for the community, while standing beside them and The Stonewall Inn in the struggle for equality. In that same spirit, we are thrilled to partner for this one-night-only concert to offer help and support to the LGBTQ+ community during this difficult time.”
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