Jack Antonoff’s 11th Annual Ally Coalition Talent Show Brings Trey Anastasio, Florence Welch, Hayley Williams and More Together for “Lopin’ Along Thru the Cosmos”

On Monday evening, the Big Apple’s Jack H. Skirball Center for the Performing Arts saw an influx of artists taking part in Jack Antonoff’s 11th annual Talent Show in support of The Ally Coalition, which supports equity for LGBTQ+ youth and their communities. On deck and taking part in the musical aspects of the concert event was year-two participant Phish’s Trey Anastasio, along with other performers, including Florence Welch, Hayley Williams (Paramore), and more.

The concert began with a cold open featuring Antonoff’s stripped-down, acoustic delivery of Bleachers tunes, followed by opening words from Claud, who filled in for Antonoff’s fashion designer sister, Rachel, notably absent from the event due to illness. Antonoff’s father, Rick, was also not included, catching a bug and remaining away from the masses, in pursuit of his own wellness. 

After the hosts kicked things off, the musical torch was passed to Jack’s fun. bandmate, Andrew Dost, who performed two tracks backed by the Bleachers. Holiday fun was had during the four-part vocal group Claud, Samia, Hank, and Annie DeRusso’s delivery of “Jesus Fucking Christmas,” and another song from celloist Kelsey Lu. Breaking up the night’s music sections, comedians took the stage next, including Chris Laker, Chris Fleming, and longtime event participant Mike Birbiglia. 

Keeping with the family appeal, Antonoff’s mother, Shira, gave thanks to the audience, in a rare public appearance, before her son and his Bleachers band took over. During the onset of their main musical performance, Antonoff welcomed his sister-in-law, Rainey Qualley, for a Christmas tune.

Anastasio stepped out and accompanied Bleachers on guitar, adding to their song “New Morning,” and a cover of “That Summer Feeling,” with added help from guests Samia, DiRusso, and Claud. Williams took the stage and delivered two songs off her new solo endeavor, Ego Death at the Bachelorette Party, “Kill Me” and “Good Ol’ Days.” 

For the night’s final moves, Florence Welch, with aid from Williams, Samia, DiRusso, Zegler, and Claud, performed her classic, “Dog Days Are Over,” before bringing out another guest, Anastasio, who carried Judee Sill’s “Lopin’ Along Thru The Cosmos.” Fan videos were shared online following the event. Watch below. 

The Ally Coalition was founded in 2013 by Jack and Rachel Antonoff as a commitment to bettering the lives and conditions of LGBTQ+ youth. According to the official website, the charity  “raises awareness of the systemic inequalities facing the LGBTQ population and activates prominent members of the creative community and their fan bases to engage with these issues in meaningful and impactful ways.” 

Donate to the Ally Coalition here.