2021 Mayor’s Evening for the Arts raises over $775,000 for Toronto Arts Foundation
TORONTO- November 15, 2021 - Last night, artists, politicians, community and business leaders and Mayor John Tory gathered together to celebrate the arts and raise funds for Toronto Arts Foundation initiatives at our annual Mayor’s Evening for the Arts. This year, despite the economic challenges of the pandemic, the event raised over $775,000.
Attended by more than 500 people, this was the second year that our annual fundraising event took place online. Hosted on the digital platform Remo, the event offered guests the opportunity to network with each other, enjoy speeches and outstanding performances. Featured artists included Luke Reece & Jennifer Alicia, Carlos Delgado, Opera Atelier, Midori Marsh, Charlotte Moore, and Lemon Bucket Orkestra. The Evening was hosted by comedians Colin Mochrie and Debra McGrath.
Funds raised provide critical support for Arts in the Parks, a free program that brings arts events to neighbourhoods across Toronto. In addition, donations to the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts are also being directed to our COVID-19 Response Initiatives, including professional development and mentorship opportunities for Toronto’s artists.
“It is heartening to see business leaders, politicians and other community members come together to support the arts in Toronto,” said Claire Hopkinson, Director & CEO, Toronto Arts Foundation and Toronto Arts Council. “Our artists have helped us immensely during the pandemic and will continue to play a crucial role in a post-pandemic future in the recovery and revival of our city. Your support to the arts is extremely important at this juncture as we begin our journey towards recovery and revival.”
“I thank you so profoundly, all of you who are such supporters of the arts," said Mayor John Tory speaking to the guests. "Arts has been such an important part of getting us through the pandemic. It’s an important part of our economy, and it’s going to be an important part of our recovery, getting us back to the stage where we’re thriving as a city.”
We are extremely thankful to our donors, supporters and partners for ensuring the success of the event. We want to thank our guests, patrons and particularly Mayor John Tory for his championship of Toronto Arts Foundation and all our initiatives.
With the help of our partners we will continue to design and provide innovative programs that support our artists and ensure widespread access to the arts in our city.
Toronto Arts Foundation and our supporters share a clear vision for Toronto – a vibrant and creative city where every neighbourhood is enriched by the transformative benefits of the arts. We hope our initiatives, research and awards inspire you to make a contribution.
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About Toronto Arts Foundation
Toronto Arts Foundation is a charitable organization that sparks creative connections, spotlights artistic excellence, and supports vibrant cultural growth throughout our diverse city through private-sector investment. To learn more or to make a donation, visit torontoartsfoundation.org.
Contact information:
For more information about the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts, please contact Haroon Khalid, Associate Communications Manager, at haroon@torontoarts.org or 416-392-6802 x 207.