The Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation is hosting their annual fundraiser, the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner. This event is a celebration of Archbishop Tutu and his legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. Guests can expect stand-up comedians, an auction, and the launch of Tutu bracelets, with all proceeds going towards the Foundation’s initiatives for justice and peace on a global level. Attendees will experience an evening of mirth intertwined with charity and entertainment converging with altruism, all while embracing the spirit of ubuntu.
What is the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner?
The “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner is an annual fundraiser presented by the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. This event pays homage to Archbishop Tutu and his legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. The event features stand-up comedians, an auction, and the launch of the Foundation’s Tutu bracelets. All proceeds from the auction and event go towards the Foundation’s initiatives for justice and peace on a global level.
An Evening of Humour and Benevolence
The Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation (DLTLF) is gearing up to present its esteemed second yearly fundraiser. This remarkable event is set to adorn Cape Town City Hall with a blend of laughter, elegance, and generous acts of kindness. The event, christened “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner, is slated for 13th July 2024. This distinctive occasion pays homage to Archbishop Tutu, lovingly known as the ‘Arch’, and his enduring legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. Within the stately confines of the prominent Cape Town City Hall, attendees will experience an evening where mirth intertwines with charity, and entertainment converges with altruism.
The gala aims to maintain and promote the moral compass and values espoused by Archbishop Tutu and Mrs. Leah Tutu. The attendees comprise an impressive roll call of 160 luminaries, including ambassadors, corporate leaders, civil society icons, and passionate backers of the Foundation. The vibrant Mel Jones, a seasoned performer, will grace the night as the host. Her comedic prowess will be augmented by the stand-up acts of renowned comedians Marc Lottering and Nik Rabinowitz, ensuring that laughter reverberates throughout the magnificent hall.
Celebrating with an Auction
The event’s central attraction will be an auction, meticulously planned and executed by experienced auctioneer, Philip Powell. Attendees will be given the opportunity to bid on a selection of artworks, collectibles, and unique experiences. All proceeds from the auction will be directed towards DLTLF’s meaningful projects and initiatives. These programs are committed to the advancement of justice and peace on a global level, encapsulating the essence of ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’.
Janet Jobson, CEO of the DLTLF, brilliantly encapsulates the character of the function, stating, “Laughs for the Arch is an evening of comedy celebrating Archbishop Tutu’s unique sense of humour”. Indeed, the Archbishop’s laughter was contagious and served as a fundamental aspect of his leadership approach. His self-effacing sense of humour, paired with his knack for transforming anger and despair into constructive action, made him a cherished figure.
Launching of Tutu Bracelets
Adding a deeper resonance to the event, the Gala Auction and Dinner will also witness the debut of the Foundation’s Tutu bracelets. These bespoke, unisex bracelets are the result of a collaboration with Relate, and signify solidarity and support for the DLTLF’s efforts. The bracelets serve as more than just symbols; they are instruments of empowerment. Seniors, refugees, and township youth craft the bracelets, providing them with an economic lifeline while contributing to charitable initiatives.
Jobson expounds on the significance of the event within the current global paradigm, stating, “We are currently in a time of growing apathy, major global crises, increasing conflict, frightening climate change and stubborn inequality. Now more than ever we miss Desmond Tutu’s voice of moral clarity, of courage and of joy! The Arch used to say that ‘the tidal wave of change is made up of a million ripples’.” As such, the event is positioned as a trigger for positive transformation, an appeal to embody the spirit of the Arch and his legacy of hope, justice, peace, and healing.
Embracing the Spirit of Ubuntu
Tickets for this exceptional event are valued at R1 000, with tables of ten available for R10 000. The DLTLF warmly invites all who wish to partake in this unique celebration of humour, goodwill, and unity. For further details and to support the Foundation’s mission, visit the DLTLF website. As we approach this event, let’s adopt the essence of ubuntu, and remember, in the words of the Arch, “I am because we are”.
1. What is the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner?
The “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner is an annual fundraiser presented by the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. This event pays homage to Archbishop Tutu and his legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. The event features stand-up comedians, an auction, and the launch of the Foundation’s Tutu bracelets. All proceeds from the auction and event go towards the Foundation’s initiatives for justice and peace on a global level.
2. What can attendees expect at the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner?
Attendees can expect stand-up comedians, an auction, and the launch of the Foundation’s Tutu bracelets. The event is a celebration of Archbishop Tutu and his legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. Guests will experience an evening of mirth intertwined with charity and entertainment converging with altruism, all while embracing the spirit of ubuntu.
3. Who will be performing at the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner?
Renowned comedians Marc Lottering and Nik Rabinowitz will be performing at the event, along with host Mel Jones.
4. What is the significance of the Tutu bracelets being launched at the event?
The Tutu bracelets signify solidarity and support for the DLTLF’s efforts towards justice and peace on a global level. They are handcrafted by seniors, refugees, and township youth, providing them with an economic lifeline while contributing to charitable initiatives.
5. How much are tickets for the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner?
Tickets for the event are valued at R1 000, with tables of ten available for R10 000.
6. What is the purpose of the fundraiser?
The purpose of the fundraiser is to support the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation’s initiatives for justice and peace on a global level, while paying homage to Archbishop Tutu and his legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. The event aims to maintain and promote the moral compass and values espoused by the Archbishop and Mrs. Leah Tutu, and to trigger positive transformation in a time of growing apathy, major global crises, increasing conflict, frightening climate change, and stubborn inequality.
