Grand Performances Gears Up For 2019 With Annual Fall Fundraiser. 10/6

Global architecture firm that designed a number of LA landmarks, GENSLER, named the 2018 Civic/Arts Honoree

Grand Performances, the longest-running presenter of high-quality free programs in downtown Los Angeles, officially culminates its 32nd summer season at California Plaza with a fall fundraiser on October 6, 2018. The annual fundraiser will honor Gensler, an integrated architecture and design firm, as its 2018 Civic/Arts Honoree celebrating the future of Grand Performances while paying homage to its home at California Plaza.

The Grand Performances' evening will be hosted by the charismatic award-winning journalist Sharon Tay and talented artist/performer, Robert Lopez, better known by his stage name El Vez. Musical experiences around the Plaza include sing-a-longs, a water percussionist, and medleys ranging from fanfares to funk. It will also feature a cocktail reception, Explore L.A. culinary delights by The Omni Hotel, and a silent and live auction.

The Shine with Us summer season brought together communities and celebrated diversity through free performances covering world beat, pop, Latinx, Indigenous US, and classical, among others. The programs ranged from funk to family fun, from rock opera and spoken word to sing-alongs. Additionally, the 2018 Shine with Us summer season marked Mari Riddle's first year anniversary as executive director of Grand Performances.

"It is an honor to lead an organization that for 32 years has been a national leader in its field and an innovator respected for its commitment to serving the arts, artists and community," said Mari Riddle, Executive Director, Grand Performances. "Celebrating diversity through local performers and world music is important now more than ever and I look forward to announcing exciting future plans for Grand Performances during this year's fundraising event."

For more information on how to attend the evening filled with beats, eats, brass, bubbles, and boats, and sponsorship information, please call (213) 687-2491, email development@grandperformances.org or visit http://www.grandperformances.org/fallfundraiser.

Event sponsors include CBS2/KCAL9, City National Bank, Omni Hotel, US Bank, United Airlines, The Glusker Family, Sandra Gutierrez, and Safarian Choi Bolstad LLP.

ABOUT GENSLER: Gensler is a global architecture, design, and planning firm with an office in the heart of downtown LA. They have designed important landmarks in Los Angeles and beyond such as LACMA and the new Banc of California Stadium. In 2000, Gensler earned the Architecture Firm Award from the American Institute of Architects. Grand Performances recognizes Gensler for its commitment to downtown Los Angeles, support of the arts, and innovative designs for indoor and outdoor spaces at our home venue, California Plaza.

ABOUT GRAND PERFORMANCES: Celebrating its 32nd year, Grand Performances aims to inspire community, celebrate diversity, and unite Los Angeles through free access to global performing arts. Grand Performances presents high-quality music, dance, theater, and more during the summer at the breathtaking California Plaza in the heart of Downtown as well as at other venues throughout the year, including the Los Angeles World Airport. Follow @GrandPerformances on Facebook, @GrandPerfs on Twitter and Instagram and our YouTube Channel at youtube.com/grandperformances. For more information visit www.Grandperformances.org