Moby
By Kennedi Johnson
When American DJ and musician Moby isn’t on stage, he passionately advocates for the rights of animals. He has adopted a vegan diet, opened the vegan restaurant Little Pine in Los Angeles, and authored the pro-animal-rights book Gristle: From Factory Farms to Food Safety (Thinking Twice About the Meat We Eat). Continuing in his tradition of animal-rights advocacy, Moby will be the main headliner of Circle V, an all-day festival geared towards supporting animal welfare.
On Saturday October 23, Moby will join electronic duo Blaqk Audio and synthpop act Cold Cave performing at Hollywood’s Fonda Theatre. It is Moby’s only scheduled live performance this year. Proceeds from the Goldenvoice-produced festival will benefit international animal protection nonprofit Mercy for Animals.
Together with Mercy for Animals and No Doubt bassist Tony Kanal, Moby cofounded the Circle V festival. “Circle V is the coming together of my life’s work, animal rights, and music,” says Moby. “I couldn’t be more excited about this event and am so proud to be headlining.” In preparation for the festival, Moby and the Void Pacific Choir released the music video, “Please Don’t Leave Me.” The video draws attention to the inhumane treatment of farm animals while in captivity.
The festival will also host a select group of speakers before the musical performances begin. Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn will lead a panel discussion on animal rights. Andersen and Kuhn directed the documentary Cowspiracy, which was executive produced by Leonardo DiCaprio, on the environmental effects of animal agriculture. Mercy for Animals’ president Nathan Runkle, PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk, and ultra-marathoner and author Rich Roll are also set to speak before the musical performances start. In addition to the live music and the speakers, Circle V festival-goers will also be able to enjoy a wide variety of vegan cuisine from some of LA’s favorite vegan food trucks and chefs.
Founded in 1999, Mercy for Animals is dedicated to preventing farm animal cruelty through the promotion of humane food choices and policies. Farm animals are considered to be the most abused and exploited animal group on Earth. In order to protect the animals, the organization has led undercover investigations and animal rights legal initiatives. These successful efforts have resulted in a number policy and social changes in favor of animal welfare.
“Circle V is more than a music festival; it’s a movement,” says Runkle. “By spotlighting vegan food, speakers, and artists, we hope this event inspires and empowers people to take action to make the world a kinder place for animals.” Learn more about Mercy for Animals here.
Grab tickets and read more about the Circle V festival here. Proceeds will go to Mercy for Animals.