Cannes: Clinton to Amfar gala; Vanity Fair forgoes its dinner "given economic situation"

By R. Kinsey Lowe

As the movie business holds its own at the global box office amid a fragile world economy, one gala promises to keep putting on the glitz -- for a very worthy cause -- at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival. AIDS org Amfar is proceeding full steam ahead with a "bigger and better than ever" benefit bash at filmdom's premier European festival.

Separately, a Conde Nast representative confirmed to Hollywood Wiretap that Vanity Fair has "decided to forgo" its usual dinner at Cannes "given the economic situation."

Former President Bill Clinton is slated to speak at Cannes' annual "Cinema Against AIDS" affair, and singer Annie Lennox is set to perform at the May 21 gala, which this year is moving to the ultra-posh Hotel Du Cap, according to the American Foundation for AIDS research.

Gala will be chaired by Harvey Weinstein, Donatella Versace, Bruce Weber and Amfar Chairman Kenneth Cole along with Sharon Stone, Michelle Yeoh, Carine Roitfeld, Michael Litvak and Vincent Roberti.

Event presenters are Bold Films, The Weinstein Co.(whose Quentin Tarantino movie "Inglourious Basterds" will unspool at the festival), and indie financing and acquisition company Palisades Tartan.

Amfar's annual Cannes bash has been a significant fundraiser for AIDS research, education and related activities worldwide. Last year's gala and auction raised more than $10 million, the organization said.

Past performers at the event include Sir Elton John, Mary J Blige, Kylie Minogue, Robin Williams, Natalie Cole, Liza Minnelli, Sheryl Crow, Ringo Starr, Macy Gray, Milla Jovovich, and Lionel Ritchie. Previous event chairs have included Elizabeth Taylor, who was instrumental in founding Amfar, as well as Madonna and Demi Moore.

Hewlett-Packard and Chopard have signed on as co-sponsors.