After 30-Year Hiatus, CFDA and Susanne Bartsch Announce The Love Ball III
The third installment of the legendary HIV/AIDS fundraiser returns to NYC this summer.
How else to describe the 1989 and 1991 fundraisers for HIV/AIDS by Susanne Bartsch other than iconic? Decades ago, the Swiss-born event producer shook the world with her legendary fundraisers aptly titled, The Love Ball. Gathering high fashion designers and high profile celebrities in collaboration with the ballroom community, Bartsch put on a damned good show for a damned good cause. This year, the spectacle will see its 30th Anniversary at NYC’s Gotham Hall on June 25th.
The first and second installments of her Love Ball funded over $2.5 million to programs for those affected by HIV/AIDS in the wake of the devastating epidemic. “I created [The Love Ball] to celebrate life, to show support for people living with HIV, and to unite people to fight AIDS,” reminds Bartsch. Committed to its original mission, but this time alongside the Council of Fashion Designers in America and Vogue, Love Ball III will raise funds for the CFDA/Vogue HIV/AIDS Initiative at the New York Community Trust. Further, MAC Cosmetics will also serve as an underwriter, donating a ton to the philanthropic efforts. “While much progress has been made since, the disease continues to disproportionately affect undeserved communities. The fight continues,” she declares.
With six different categories, the ball will gather members of the Ballroom community, notable figures and nightlife icons to compete in a grand prize. Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor, singer, director, composer and playwright, Billy Porter, will turn the role he plays on FX’s Pose into a reality serving as the ball’s Master of Ceremonies.
“Timed to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Stonewall and to celebrate World Pride, the Love Ball is the perfect fundraiser that captures the creative energy of New York City,” says CFDA President and CEO Steven Kolb. Tickets to the event are available here.