LONDON (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Live Nation has announced that they will be working alongside of Princes William and Harry for the Memorial concert to honor their mother's birthday. Their mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, died in an automobile accident in August, 1997.
The concert, planned for July 1st, 2007, at the soon to be re-opened Wembley Stadium, will feature performances by some of the Princes' favorite artists. Some of the acts scheduled to perform include Sir Elton John, Duran Duran, Bryan Ferry, Pharrell Williams, The English National Ballet, Joss Stone and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Madonna and Beyonce have both been mentioned in connection with this event as well, but as of press time, they remain unconfirmed. The full lineup for the concert has yet to be released. "We don't want to name everyone because we want to keep a surprise." said Prince William "The idea is we wanted to get artists that our mother really loved, and then artists that both Harry and I enjoy. So with that you've got a sort of something different, it's not just any old concert."
Live Nation has been tapped to produce the event. In addition, they will be providing television production services for the concert, including a real-time feed to the UK and Europe with feeds for North America and other parts of the world expected, but still under negotiation.
Graham Pullen, VP of Fulfillment and Client Services for Live Nation UK, said in a statement "I am privileged to be chosen to produce such an amazing event on behalf of both Princes. I’ve been lucky enough to have produced large events for Clarence House over a number of years and this will prove to be one of the most exciting."
Paul Latham of Live Nation UK added "It is a great honor to be producing what promises to be the event of the year together with Princes William and Harry. We will endeavor to use our extensive knowledge and expertise to make this a truly memorable occasion for all concerned."
The Princes are using the concert to raise money for some of their mother's favorite charities. She was noted for her advocacy on a wide range of issues, including work on behalf of the homeless, poverty, HIV prevention and efforts to decrease the threat faced by residents in the third world from land mines.
Artists and managers have reportedly been asked to waive their fees in recognition of the charitable focus of the event.
The princes might be taking a chance with their choice of Wembley for the concert. The stadium has been subject to numerous delays and cost overruns during the rebuild and the re-opening date is currently planned for June 2007, leaving a margin of error of no more than 4 weeks at the most. As of yet, no alternative location has been mentioned if Wembley doesn't pan out. – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
