On July 31, KYCC celebrated its 40th anniversary at the 14th Annual Benefit Concert at The Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall.
With support from Title Sponsor Dura Coat Products and Official Sponsor Nissan, the show was a tremendous success, surpassing the goal to raise $350,000 for KYCC programs and services. Nearly 2,000 guests enjoyed the entertainment, which highlighted KYCC’s timeline and themes of Korean heritage, Korean American youth and diversity.
“It is time for us to celebrate 40 years of service,” says KYCC Executive Director Johng Ho Song. “This was all possible because of the numerous sponsors and program supporters whom we have had over the years.”
Emcees Jinah Kim and Leonardo Nam kicked off the first half of the show, featuring Nani Kim, a 27-year-old traditional Korean Pansori singer and the Korean American Youth Symphony, led by longtime KYCC concert conductor Seung Ju Kim. Jiye Angela Bae performed an outstanding piece by Saint-Saens, and Broadway performers Welly and Dina sang “The Prayer,” a Oscar-nominated duet from Quest for Camelot.
After intermission, Randall Park (The Interview, Fresh Off the Boat) and his wife Jae Suh Park opened the second act with an endearing version of “It Had to Be You.” Acts from Kollaboration—singer Peter Chung, MC Jin and Tim Be Told—followed with original performances, and pianist Chloe Flower dedicated her untitled solo to those still living in slavery.
Headliner Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, a 11-time Grammy winner, closed the show with a solo performance and “Change the World,” a beautiful duet with Ms. Flowers.
Special thanks to our show’s premiere sponsors Bank of America, Comerica Bank, US Bank and Wells Fargo.
For more photos from KYCC’s 14th Annual Benefit Concert, please view our Facebook album here.
