GWG Opening Celebration

On July 18 the 1998 Goodwill Games kicks off with the Opening Celebration at the World Financial Center Plaza in Battery Park in New York City.  Highlighting the natural synergy of sports, entertainment and culture, the evening will offer top entertainment from a variety today's hottest musical talent, from top 40 to Broadway showstoppers.

The 1998 Goodwill Games Athletes, such as Michael Johnson, Jackee Joyner-Kersee and Aleksandr Popov will take part in a special presentation honoring the children of the Goodwill Games. Lead by acclaimed musical director Frank Wildhorne, the evening will include performances by Natalie Cole and Ray Charles, Brandy, Hootie and the Blow Fish and Jewel. Broadway's best will be out with Linda Eder, Davis Gaines and Carl Anderson performing with a
world-class orchestra, as well as a pageant of children's performances.  This talented group will embody New York's Cultural diversity, recount the history of Broadway and showcase children, the focus of the Goodwill Games.

Tickets for the Goodwill Games Opening Celebration are on sale now for $40.  Call Ticketmaster at 212/307-7171, or visit the Madison Square box office or any Ticketmaster outlet in the New York tri-state area. Tickets are general admission. Doors open at 6:00pm and the show begins at 8:00 pm, rain or shine.