Gala of the Monaco Red Cross

History of the Monaco Red Cross Ball
In 1948, the young Prince Rainier III of Monaco presided over the first Monaco Red Cross Gala, which had recently been created by Prince Louis II of Monaco. The aim was of course to raise funds for the organisation's work, faithful to the spirit of the great humanist Henry Dunant. That year, the star of the evening was none other than Maurice Chevalier, but every year's event was a hugely prestigious occasion, with highlights including a fashion show presented by Christian Dior in 1952 or Zizi Jeanmaire in 1953.

Presidency of Princess Grace
Ten years after the Monaco Red Cross Gala was created, the event gained a new President in the shape of Princess Grace of Monaco herself. Under her patronage, the Gala hosted such prestigious names as Ella Fitzgerald (1959), Sammy Davis Jr. (1961), Charles Trenet (1962), Sacha Distel (1963), Gilbert Bécaud (1968), Charles Aznavour (1970) and Shirley Bassey (1971).

The ultimate charity event
This fabulous evening allows the Monaco Red Cross to express its gratitude to its generous donors, and to pay tribute to the work made possible by the donations, which finance the organisation's local and international activities.

Chic ambiance, iconic event
The glamorous gala evening begins with the traditional prize draw, followed by a sumptuous summer dinner, after which H.S.H. Prince Albert II opens the ball, and soon the dance floor of the legendary Salle de Etoiles is full. This year, the Monaco Red Cross is very proud to host John Legend, one of the most talented and versatile artists of his generation. The evening will be compered by Michel Drucker and Karin Viard.

Later, the traditional firework display will light up the skies over Monaco, providing a fitting end to a glittering Ball…
For more information, visit the official website of the Monaco Red Cross.

See all the videos from the Gala of the Monaco Red Cross!