The 2024 IDA Gala of the Stars, hosted at the iconic Beverly Hilton, brought together the dance industry’s finest for an extraordinary night of celebration, philanthropy, and inspiration. This inaugural event, directed by Amy Tinkham with Nancy O’Meara as Associate Director, and co-produced by Adrian Ruiz (President of IDA), Noah Lands (Executive Producer), and Jessalynn Siwa (Director of Philanthropic Initiatives), marked a significant moment for both the Industry Dance Awards (IDA) and Dancers Against Cancer (DAC).
The night began with a dazzling opening performance by JoJo Siwa, whose ICON performers graciously donated their time to support the DAC mission. JoJo set the tone for the evening with a heartfelt reminder of the importance of supporting dancers, educators, and families affected by cancer. The atmosphere was electric as Maks Chmerkovskiy took the stage to host, welcoming industry legends and dance enthusiasts alike to this unforgettable celebration.
One of the evening’s standout moments was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the legendary Liza Minnelli, presented by her close friend and choreographer, BP Major. Honored for her unparalleled contributions to the entertainment industry, Liza was recognized for her incredible career that has spanned decades. From her Oscar-winning role in Cabaret to her numerous achievements across film, stage, and music, Liza remains a beacon of talent, resilience, and inspiration. Her tribute performance brought the room to its feet in celebration of her legacy.
Paula Abdul, another icon in the world of dance and entertainment, was honored with the Paula Abdul Legacy Award. Presented by her tour dancers, this award recognized Paula’s transformative role in shaping the modern landscape of dance and choreography. From her time as a Laker Girl to choreographing for stars like Janet Jackson and becoming a beloved television judge, Paula’s journey has inspired countless dancers worldwide.
As the night progressed, more trailblazers were honored for their contributions to the dance community. Jamal Sims, a visionary choreographer and director, received the Trailblazer Award for his groundbreaking work in film, television, and stage, with a special tribute delivered by Adam Shankman. Kyle Hanagami, a renowned choreographer known for his innovative style and fearless approach to dance, was presented with the Vanguard Award by Tabitha Dumo. Both Jamal and Kyle’s achievements continue to inspire the next generation of dancers, pushing the boundaries of creativity and inclusivity.
The event also served as a platform to share the inspiring stories of this year’s DAC Hope Recipients: Emilia Isaacs, Ellie Jordan, Alivia Natter, and Elliette Long. Each of these incredible individuals exemplified strength, resilience, and courage in their battles against cancer. The emotional moments of recognition, led by Michelle Soutier, brought the entire room together, highlighting the core mission of Dancers Against Cancer—providing hope and financial assistance to those in need.
Among the standout performances of the evening was a breathtaking solo by Autumn Miller, who moved the audience with her grace and passion. The gala closed with a spectacular finale by the Launch Program at Brea Space, choreographed by Krista Miller, leaving attendees in awe of the incredible talent and heart that defines the dance community.
With the collective efforts of everyone involved, the 2024 IDA Gala of the Stars successfully raised $588,000 for Dancers Against Cancer. The funds will go directly to supporting dancers, choreographers, and their families affected by cancer, making a real difference in their lives.
Special thanks go out to all the honorees, donors, sponsors, and attendees who made this event possible. Your contributions ensure that DAC continues its mission, offering hope and financial relief to those in our dance family battling cancer. Together, we celebrated not just the art of dance, but the power of community, resilience, and generosity.
As we look forward to 2025, we remain committed to growing our support for the dance industry and providing hope to those in need. Thank you for being part of this journey.
