“GIFT OF LIGHT” FROM MACY’S TO BENEFIT LADY LIBERTY’s 125TH ANNIVERSARY
Song to highlight Macy’s Fireworks on October 28th
New York, NY (October 18, 2011)—The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc. announced today that in celebration of the Statue of Liberty’s upcoming 125th Anniversary on October 28th, Macy’s has committed the proceeds from the sale of its newly recorded song “Gift of Light” to benefit the Foundation’s non-profit mission for projects at Liberty and Ellis Islands, working in partnership with the National Park Service.
With music by Grammy- winning composer Doug Katsaros and words by Emmy-winning lyricist William Schermerhorn, “Gift of Light” was first recorded by Ann Hampton Callaway and The Broadway Inspirational Voices as a highlight of the 2004 Macy's 4th of July Fireworks score.
In honor of the anniversary of Lady Liberty's dedication 125 years ago in 1886, the song has been expanded and recorded specifically as a special feature of the musical accompaniment for the Macy's Fireworks display which will be the grand finale of the upcoming October 28th festivities on Liberty Island.
This new version, in English and French, celebrates the Statue as a gift of friendship from France to America, and features Tony Award winning actress Anika Noni Rose and cabaret artist Gay Marshall.
The “Gift of Light” single is available on iTunes with proceeds to benefit The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc.
For more information on the work of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, please visit www.ellisisland.org.
The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc.
The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1982 to raise funds for and oversee the historic restorations of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, working in partnership with the National Park Service/U.S. Department of the Interior. Its endowment has funded over 200 projects at the islands.
Macy’s
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Macy's stores and macys.com offer distinctive assortments, including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy's is known for such epic events as Macy's 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy’s helps strengthen
communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of our customers. For Macy’s media materials, images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at www.macys.com/pressroom.
The Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island
The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, designated as a National Monument in 1924 and restored for her centennial on July 4, 1986.