Pink Martini to Headline Academy’s Governors Ball

Beverly Hills, CA — Pink Martini, the 12-member pop orchestra from Portland, Oregon, will headline the entertainment at the Governors Ball, the celebration following the 80th Academy Awards® presentation on Sunday, February 24, Governors Ball Chair Cheryl Boone Isaacs announced today.

“Pink Martini is reminiscent of a Hollywood musical from the Golden Era,” said Boone Isaacs. “Their global sound will be the perfect accompaniment at this year’s Governors Ball.”

Founded in 1994 by classically trained pianist Thomas Lauderdale and led by vocalist China Forbes, Pink Martini’s multilingual albums – “Sympathique,” “Hang on Little Tomato” and “Hey Eugene!” – have sold nearly two million copies worldwide. The band has toured throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the United States, and has performed alongside numerous symphony orchestras including the Boston Pops, Los Angeles Philharmonic, BBC Orchestra (London) and Orchestre National d’lle de France (Paris).

“We are thrilled to perform at the Governors Ball – the most glamorous party on the most glamorous night of the year,” said Forbes.

Pink Martini will alternate with DJ Jason Bentley in performing for the Ball’s 1,500 guests, which will include Oscar winners and nominees, show presenters and performers and other luminaries.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2007 will be presented on Sunday, February 24, 2008, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and televised live by the ABC Television Network beginning at 5 p.m. PT. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.

Editors: Downloadable images are available at http://photos.oscars.org/