By Allison Rivers
For the sixth year in a row, Perez Hilton will be at SXSW hosting his annual “One Night in Austin” bash – a music showcase with artists curated by the blogger himself. The event will be held Saturday, March 16 and features Charli XCX, Paloma Faith, Stooshe, Brooke Candy, and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis performing at the Austin Music Hall.
More than just an awesome show, the event will also benefit the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and the VH1 Save the Music Foundation. Founded in 1990, GLSEN is dedicated to making school communities a safe place for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. The organization pairs with students, teachers, and policy makers to shine a light on the bullying and harassment problem many LGBT students face everyday and how to make schools a place that values and respects everyone who walks through their doors. One of their main events is the student-led Day of Silence, which will take place on April 19.
The VH1 Save the Music Foundation began in 1997 and is dedicated to restoring music education in America’s public schools, and raising awareness of the importance of music education in children’s lives. Research has shown cause and effect relationships with music education and crucial skills like critical thinking and the ability to work as part of a team. Kids are also more invested in their learning and less likely to drop out of school if music is a part of their education. Since its inception, the organization has donated $49.5 million of musical instruments to schools all over the country, encouraged the existence and growth of music programs in elementary and middle schools, and touched the lives of more than 2 million children.
Hilton’s “One Night…” has previously included such diverse artists as Lady Gaga, Ed Sheeran, Florence + the Machine, Snoop Dogg, and Mary J. Blige, and this year is no different. “I’m thrilled and honored to be returning to SXSW for my 6th Annual “One Night In Austin”!” said Hilton. “We are doing it bigger and better than ever before – and hopefully raising a lot of money for the VH1 Save The Music Foundation and GLSEN. Hope to see you there!”
Doors to the Austin Music Hall open at 4:30pm on March 16, and performances run from 6pm – 2am. Go for the great causes, stay for the great music!