The Festival Kick‐Off at the Hobby Center will be a celebration of Brazilian music and culture with performances by Sergio Mendes and Casa Samba. 

Grammy Award winner Sergio Mendes remains the most internationally successful Brazilian artist of all time, having taken numerous albums and singles, such as "Brasil 66," "Mas Que Nada" and "The Look of Love," to the top of the pop charts. Opening the evening in support of Sergio Mendes will be Casa Samba, a New Orleans‐based, authentic Brazilian Escola de Samba (samba school), presenting guests with an exciting Brazilian Carnival and folk arts experience.

Underwriters for the Festival Kick‐Off will enjoy a top‐shelf experience beginning with the exclusive Chairman's Reception held in the Hobby Center Founder's Club prior to the evening's performance. After the concert, donors will be offered the opportunity to meet and greet performers and enjoy a Brazilian afterparty in the Grand Lobby of the Hobby Center with refreshments.