The world’s most glamorous film stars, society figures and European royalty gathered in Monte-Carlo last week to celebrate the 2020 Monte-Carlo Gala For Planetary Health. The night was filled with old-world elegance as a stream of notable faces glided down the red carpet to enjoy a fundraising evening in aid of the fight against the wide-spread planetary ecological crisis.
Spearheaded by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco himself, the charity aims to highlight the fact that our collective global future is dependent on confronting the environmental crisis head-on by battling illegal logging, plastic pollution and preserving our ecosystem.
The Gala’s signature auction, as always, was an evening highlight was lead by celebrity auctioneer Simon de Pury and helped to raise substantial funds that support the Foundation’s critical and comprehensive portfolio of conservation projects. Items included:
- A private dinner with HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco
- An autographed Schiller water bike with a personal water-biking lesson from HSH Princess Charlene
- A doubles tennis match with the ATP #1 Men’s Singles tennis professional Novak Djokovic, and HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco
- An Aston Martin V8 Vantage “X Pack” (one of 36 in the world)
- A day on the set of Andy Garcia’s next film
- An all-electric limited-edition “Grace” car with HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco’s Royal Crest
- An exclusive, customised Aston Martin DB5 Vantage Junior Edition 1/1
- A six-day Arctic expedition with HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco aboard the Commandant Charcot, a hybrid electric exploration “clean ship-certified” five-star vessel
- A first-time-ever journey to Mount Athos for three nights and 33 guests
- A week onboard the LA DATCHA SeaXplorer 77 yacht for 12 guests and a crew of 25
- A week onboard the SERENITY Super Yacht for up to 28 people
- A week-long private island experience at Calivigny Island for 12 guests
- For lovers of art, offered up were works by street artist Banksy, an oil on canvas from Roberto Matta, and an exceptional oil on wood piece from revolutionary artist Joan Miró.
The gala was hosted by HSH Princess Charlene and Prince Albert II of Monaco as well as the guest-of-honour Sting and Masters of Ceremony; Dame Helen Mirren, Kate Beckinsale and Andy Garcia. In attendance were Johnny Depp, Maisie Williams (Game of Thrones), Sienna Miller (The Loudest Voice, Wander Darkly), Rebel Wilson (Pitch Perfect), Trudie Styler, Naomi Campbell, Alton Mason and fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger rubbing shoulders with many others including global philanthropists, entrepreneurs and industry leaders all of which were treated to a spectacular live performance by Sting and superstar Leona Lewis.
“We gave much thought as to whether to hold this event or not, given the prominence of ongoing concerns and health issues,” stated HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. “However, the commitment of all the individuals involved in protecting our planet and of all of you…led us to make this decision. And we did so because the challenging situation in which we are living best not erase the environmental crisis.
“Our health depends on the health of the environment in which we live. That is why more than ever before we need to continue our efforts and actions to protect our planet for future generations.”
In contrast to last week’s gala, Monaco’s most famous ball, The Rose Ball, was postponed until March 2021; it raises money for the late Princess Grace of Monaco’s charitable foundation and attracts all of the world’s most elegant and recognisable names and faces.