Second annual event hosted by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation attracts slew of celebrities and raises much-needed cash to tackle environmental problems
The second edition of the Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean took place last week, as stars and celebrities from Hollywood and beyond gathered at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo. The glittering event was held under the patronage of HSH Prince Albert II and organized by Milutin Gatsby, the global financing chairman of the Foundation.
It coincided with the opening day of the Monaco Yacht Show and must be regarded as an unmitigated success, raising a staggering €21 million towards global initiatives aimed at safeguarding our seas and oceans. Attendees to the extravaganza were treated to a red carpet reception, a three-course dinner cooked by a Michelin-starred chef and a live concert featuring performances from Gloria Gaynor, Nile Rogers and others.
Among the list of stars in attendance at the Gala were Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry, making their first public appearance as a couple on the red carpet. Other big names included actor Adrien Brody, model Alessandra Ambrosio, politician Ségolène Royal, dance music duo Madcon and, of course, the royal couple themselves, Prince Albert II and his stunning wife Charlene.
One star conspicuous by her absence was the queen of pop, Madonna. Madonna had initially announced her participation as event chair earlier this year, only to withdraw from the trip at the last hour. Fortunately, the “experiences” auctioned off in her name still fetched handsome prices; a horseback ride with the singer in Portugal raised €450,000, a photo shoot with her taken by Steven Klein sold for €400,000 and an opportunity to be present at the recording of her latest album went for €300,000.
Other big-name prizes included a chance to surf with world champion Kelly Slater, golf with film star Andy Garcia and attend the Monaco Grand Prix with none other than Prince Albert II himself. In total, the extravagant auction raised €21 million, which will be used by the Foundation to further eight priority initiatives. These initiatives are comprised of:
- Conserving those marine species at risk of extinction
- Developing the Mediterranean Trust Fund for Marine Protected Areas
- Expanding Marine Protected Areas at the North and South Pole
- Favouring sustainable yachting practices
- Fighting against plastic pollution
- Mitigating the acidification of our oceans
- Promoting environmental education
- Supporting innovative schemes to protect against threats to marine environments
With the second incarnation of the Gala even more successful than the first, the Foundation hopes that it will now be well-equipped to continue its invaluable work in promoting the sustainability of our oceans for generations to come.