LOS ANGELES, September 16, 2008 – Disney artists Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato brought a sold-out audience to their feet at the Gibson Amphitheater for Concert for Hope, a special event benefiting cancer research and treatment programs at City of Hope. Hosted by Almost Amy (the recording group featuring Mark Ballas and Derek Hough from ABC-TV's "Dancing with the Stars"), the event raised $1.2 million through ticket sales and a ticket auction, while Jonas Brothers and their Change for the Children Foundation pledged an additional $250,000 to City of Hope.
“We are grateful to Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato and their fans for their support of City of Hope and our lifesaving mission,” said Michael A. Friedman, M.D., president and chief executive officer, City of Hope. “Their extraordinary efforts will ensure medical advances continue and that we quickly bring new treatments to patients who need them.”
The concert continues Disney and Cyrus’ support of City of Hope. Last year, Miley Cyrus donated $1 from every ticket sold during her highly successful “Best of Both Worlds” concert tour to cancer research at City of Hope. The concert series raised more than $1 million.
“The Walt Disney Company has a long-standing history of helping to improve the lives of thousands of young patients and families. It is a privilege to support City of Hope in their lifesaving cancer research efforts,” said Bob Cavallo, Chairman, Disney Music Group and event co-chair.
"I am deeply grateful to Miley Cyrus, Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato, as well as our hosts Mark Ballas and Derek Hough, for generously donating their time and talent to give visibility to this worthy cause," said Gary Marsh, President, Entertainment, Disney Channels Worldwide, and event co-chair.
The American Cancer Society estimates that 1,437,180 people will be diagnosed with cancer in 2008, and more than 10,700 of these people will be children under the age of 15. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, the highest designation bestowed by the National Cancer Institute, City of Hope has achieved numerous scientific breakthroughs and pioneered many lifesaving procedures that have impacted treatment worldwide.
Inspired by the humanitarian principles of City of Hope, and motivated by the institution’s commitment to innovative medical research and quality patient care, a group of key industry executives founded the Music and Entertainment Industry chapter in 1973. In 36 years of dedicated efforts, the chapter has grown to include all the major music labels such as Universal Music Group, Disney Music Group and Warner Bros. The industry has raised more than $70 million through benefits, promotions and partnerships to support ongoing programs at City of Hope. For more information about City of Hope's Music and Entertainment Industry, please call 800-544-3541, ext. 26540, or visit www.cityofhope.org/music.
About Miley Cyrus
The multitalented Miley Cyrus has captivated kids and families on Disney Channel's smash hit comedy series "Hannah Montana," the hugely popular TV series for kids age 6-14. Her triple platinum Hannah Montana soundtrack became the first ever TV soundtrack to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200. In 2007, the 15-year old followed that record with a two-disc set, Hannah Montana 2 / Meet Miley Cyrus, which also entered the Billboard 200 at No. 1 and has since earned triple-platinum status. Cyrus became the youngest artist to have two No. 1 hits in less than a year.
In late January, Cyrus completed a 70-date sold out concert tour and by early February had the No. 1 film in the country with the Walt Disney Pictures 3-D release, “Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert.” Her album "Breakout" on Hollywood Records debuted at #1 in August. Walt Disney Studios' "Hannah Montana: The Movie" will be in theatres in spring 2009 and production has resumed on the "Hannah Montana" TV series.
About Jonas Brothers
Jonas Brothers have experienced a meteoric rise as a pop culture phenomenon in the past year. Their new CD, “A Little Bit Longer” is the third highest selling debut of 2008 and is approaching double platinum status in a matter of weeks. Their Disney Channel Original Movie, “Camp Rock,” landed the high non-sequel ratings premiere in Disney Channel history. Jonas Brothers recently completed their headline sold out “Burnin’ Up” tour, selling out concert dates in record time, including 3 nights at NY’s famed Madison Square Garden.
On the horizon, Jonas Brothers begin production on their Disney TV Series JONAS, and just wrapped filming their 3-D concert movie to be released by Walt Disney Studios in February or 2009. This fall, Jonas Brothers will release their first book, published by Hyperion.
About Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato has experienced a whirlwind year as well. Demi virtually became a household name after the premiere of “Camp Rock.” She recently wrapped filming “Princess Protection Program” with her best friend Selena Gomez, and started production on her upcoming Disney Channel Original series. Her debut album, “Don’t Forget,” will be released September 23 on Hollywood Records, and features the hit song, “Get Back.”
About Almost Amy
Almost Amy features Mark Ballas and Derek Hough from the hit ABC show “Dancing with the Stars.” Mark is the reigning champion of “Dancing with the Stars” having won the last season with Olympic gold medalist skater Kristi Yamaguchi. Almost Amy are currently recording their debut album in Los Angeles.