LA28 Unveils Star-Studded Lineup for Paralympic Handover Celebration
The Los Angeles 2028 Organizing Committee (LA28) has announced an impressive roster of performers and athletes set to participate in the LA28 Paralympic Handover celebration during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Closing Ceremony on September 8. This event marks a significant milestone as Los Angeles prepares to host its first-ever Paralympic Games in 2028.
Highlighting Paralympians and Adaptive Athletes
The celebration will feature several prominent Paralympians and adaptive athletes, including:
– Samantha Bosco: Team USA Para-cyclist and two-time bronze medalist
– Ezra Frech: Two-time Para track and field athlete
– Jamal Hill: Para-swimmer and bronze medalist
Additionally, the event will showcase adaptive skaters who have made significant contributions to wheelchair motocross (WCMX) and adaptive skateboarding, such as Oscar Loreto Jr., Kanya Sesser, and Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham.
Diverse Artistic Performances
The handover celebration will blend sports with arts and music, featuring performances by:
– Ali Stroker: Tony Award-winning actress and Broadway star
– Anderson .Paak: Eight-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist
– Matthew Whitaker: Acclaimed jazz pianist
– Gaelynn Lea: Violinist and Broadway composer
– Garnett Silver-Hall: Rapper, songwriter, and athlete
Venue and Broadcast Details
The event will begin with Ali Stroker singing the U.S. national anthem live at the Stade de France during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Closing Ceremony. The celebration will then transition to showcase Los Angeles, with performances set against the iconic backdrop of Venice Beach.
Viewers can watch the Closing Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, including the LA28 Paralympic Handover, live on September 8 at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on CNBC and Peacock.
Commitment to Inclusivity
LA28 has partnered with Making Space and Making Space Media to ensure inclusive hiring practices and provide mentorship opportunities for disabled talent throughout the production process. This collaboration underscores LA28’s commitment to furthering the Paralympic Movement and creating a truly inclusive event.
As Los Angeles prepares to host its first Paralympic Games, this handover celebration represents a significant step in raising awareness and excitement for adaptive sports and the broader Paralympic Movement.