The late John Denver once said, "Music does bring people together. People everywhere are the same in heart and spirit."  The Hope in Harmony benefit concert embodies the same spirit for one challenging goal — how to raise money and awareness for children. 

Both Emmy award winning comedian Louie Anderson, and Grammy award winning singer Natalie Cole will be performing Nov. 20 at the Memorial Auditorium.  Anderson will be performing his comedy act before Cole takes the stage. Cole will also be performing with local Sacramento musicians. 

"Natalie Cole will be performing with Sacramento trumpeter Larry Lunetta and other members of the local musical theatre scene," said Jolanie Collins, marketing volunteer for Hope Productions. 

Hope Production Foundations is a nonprofit organization founded by Sacramento business leaders which supports children's charities that focus on education, at-risk youth, wellness, advocacy, youth development and illness/research.

"Hope started in 2008," Collins said. "Its mission provides [free] business development, training and financial support to existing nonprofit organizations that may need an extra hand in helping to raise funds and awareness." 

Nonprofit organizations can apply for this fundraising, marketing resources and training on their website, said Collins.   

Since Hope Production's inception, seven nonprofit organizations have been chosen, said Collins.  Three charities benefiting from the concert Friday evening are KidsFirst, Roberts Family Development Center and Special Olympics of Northern California. 

Corporate partners and sponsors are privy to the exclusive VIP pre-concert reception with appetizers prepared by Paragary's Restaurant group followed by dinner within the Memorial Auditorium. 

"There will be live music and nine wineries at the pre-party event," said Ancelle Contreras, Director of Corporate Alliance and Communications. "There will be a three-course meal, an auction and a special program that will highlight all of the charities involved." 

After the sit-down dinner and concert, there is a planned after-party at Spataro Restaurant and Bar, Contreras added.   

But even non-VIPs can feel special.  All ticket proceeds are supporting local nonprofit children's charities for this musical and comedic event, said Contreras.

 "It is a collaboration bringing the nonprofits together," Contreras said. "By all working together we become all strong as one." 

Hope in Harmony begins at 9 p.m on Friday Nov. 20 at Sacramento's Memorial Auditorium. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. 

All tickets are 50 percent tax deductible and cost between $50 - 150. Tickets can be purchased by going here. 

VIP and corporate tables of 10 are available starting at $5,000 or $500 per seat. Special hotel room rates are available at the Hyatt Regency and Sheraton Grand. 

Please contact Hope Productions at (916) 782-4673 for any questions, or visit their website. 

Photos courtesy Hope Productions.