Theatre Within, the grassroots non-profit behind the Annual John Lennon Tribute charity concert since 1981, will honor music legend Patti Smith as the fourth recipient of the "John Lennon Real Love Award" at its 37th Annual John Lennon Tribute on Friday, December 1 at Symphony Space, NYC. Ms. Smith, who previously appeared in the long-running Tribute at the Beacon Theatre in 2010, will play a set of her favorite John Lennon and Beatles songs that she has chosen specifically for this special performance.
"Patti Smith is one of the truly great and important artists of her generation," said Yoko Ono in a statement. "Patti's music, writing and social activism have inspired millions to care about the world more deeply and love more fully. It's wonderful that Theatre Within is honoring her with this year's John Lennon Real Love Award and that the Annual John Lennon Tribute charity concert continues to flourish."
The Tribute will also feature a multi-artist live performance of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band in its entirety, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the album's release.
The full line-up of musical artists will be announced on John Lennon's birthday, October 9. Previous Tribute performers have included Donovan, Debbie Harry, Jackson Browne, Rosanne Cash, Judy Collins, Steve Earle, Taj Mahal, Raul Malo and the late Ben E. King.
Proceeds from the Tribute will support Theatre Within's ongoing free workshops at Gilda's Club, NYC for children who have lost a parent to cancer, adult cancer survivors, and those undergoing treatment. Workshops include the John Lennon Real Love Project, a songwriting workshop for children and adults, and Imagine Peace, Practice Peace, a meditation workshop.
"Just like John Lennon, Patti Smith holds a special place in the heart of New York," said Tribute co-creator and producer, Joe Raiola. "I can't think of an artist more deserving of being honored with an award in Lennon's name."
Tickets for Theatre Within's 37th Annual John Lennon Tribute will go on sale Friday, September 22 at 1pm and will be available online anytime at LennonTribute.org or by telephone at 212-864-5400, Tuesday - Sunday, 1pm - 6 pm. A limited number of VIP packages are available at LennonTribute.org.
Theatre Within, a 501(c)3 non-profit, relies on contributions from supporters to produce the Tribute. John Lennon and Beatles fans are invited to join "Friends of the Annual John Lennon Tribute" at LennonTribute.org/join-friends. VIP packages are available at LennonTribute.org.
Theatre Within's Annual John Lennon Tribute is produced in association with Music Without Borders. It is the only ongoing John Lennon Tribute concert in North America or Europe that is sanctioned by Yoko Ono.
