The RBC Black Diamond Ball Presents: Before The Ball
The signature event of Black History Month, The 9th Annual RBC Black Diamond Ball, is kicking off this year’s gala with Before The Ball at The Well, 8 Spadina Avenue TONIGHT starting at 7pmEST.
On Friday, February 2nd emerging artists will get the chance to compete in the brand-new showcase, The Vocalist, for a $4,000 cash prize and an opportunity to perform at The RBC Black Diamond Ball on Saturday, February 24th at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. The Vocalist will be hosted by Hollywood Jade from RuPaul’s Drag Queen. Judges are: Artist Manager Tia Gordon, CBC Music producer Randy Chung, The Hook & Company founder Michelle Allman-Esdaille and Dance Music Icon Simone Denny. This electrifying singing competition begins at 8:30 PM.
“We are continuing the tradition of holding workshops and featuring Black businesses through our RBC Black Business Marketplace which will be set up in The Well during all Before The Ball events,” says Shawn Cuffie, Operations Director for ArtXperiential Projects, producers of the Black Diamond Ball. “We’ll also have experts leading masterclasses in music, mental health and entrepreneurship.”
Below is the schedule for workshops, which all begin at 7:00 PM at RBC’s newest branch at The Well on Front.
• February 2nd- Music Workshop
• February 7th- Mental Health Workshop & Entrepreneurship Workshop
• February 9th- The Housing Market and the Future of Black Wealth: Legacy and Transfer
“At RBC, we believe we’re only as strong as the communities around us. Our partnership is about a shared commitment and vision to support and highlight Black businesses, creative arts and mental health – to make a real impact in the community,” says Tyson Jones, Regional Vice-President, Commercial Financial Services at RBC.
The RBC Black Diamond Ball Workshop Experience aims to increase visibility and showcase Black arts, small businesses, and BIPOC/LGBTQIA2S+ communities. The series will promote collaboration, amplify young Black voices in arts and culture, and reflect the diverse voices in the community. The workshops focus on strengthening business owners post-pandemic and supporting emerging artists, offering them opportunities to break through barriers in their sector.
“We will also be announcing this year’s line-up for the Black Diamond Ball – including the headliner,” reveals Cuffie. “As well as big changes that will be happening to our programming this year as we prepare for our celebration next year marking 10 years of the Ball!”
Light refreshments will be served.
SOURCE: FKB Media Solutions
