Dancers Against Cancer will hold its annual Gala of the Stars on October 21 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, with a star-studded list of honorees making it one of the organization’s biggest events yet.
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the evening will open with a performance by Debbie Gibson, who will also be honored with the Advocate Award for her dedication to supporting the dance community.
This year’s Dancers Against Cancer Gala of the Stars is shaping up to be one of its most memorable yet, with an impressive list of honorees and performances.
Among the evening’s highlights, Derek Hough will receive the Innovator Award, while Julie McDonald will be honored with the Trailblazer Award, presented by Kenny Ortega and Tony Selznick. Christopher Scott is set to take home the Film Choreographer of the Year award, with Jamal Sims presenting. Robbie Blue will be named Role Model of the Year, and Ben Vereen will be celebrated with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Mandy Moore will be recognized for her stage work as Live Performance Choreographer of the Year, presented by Skylar Astin, while Kaeli Ware will receive the Witch Legacy Award, presented by Allison Holker.
The gala will also feature a DAC Icons performance choreographed by JoJo Siwa to spotlight young dancers. Maks Chmerkovskiy, known for his long-running role on Dancing With the Stars, will host the evening.
The centerpiece of the night will be Janet Jackson, who will be presented with the prestigious Icon Award by Liza Minnelli—marking Minnelli’s first major public appearance since the 2022 Academy Awards.
Dancers Against Cancer praised Jackson for her “unmatched influence on music, dance, and culture, as well as her continued advocacy for compassion, empowerment, and artistic excellence.”
“Janet Jackson represents everything this award stands for — strength, innovation, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to artistic integrity,” said Adrian Ruiz, president of Gala of the Stars and Dancers Against Cancer. “Her influence transcends generations. Honoring her at this year’s Gala not only celebrates her legacy but also her lasting impact on the dance community and the power of using art for good.”
Noah Lands, the event’s CEO and executive producer, added, “Janet’s artistry has inspired millions, including countless dancers who found their voice through movement because of her. This award pays tribute to a true visionary whose work embodies the soul of performance and the heart of philanthropy.”
Dancers Against Cancer continues its mission of offering financial aid, resources, and support to dancers, choreographers, and their families impacted by cancer.
