Gateway for Cancer Research (Gateway), a nonprofit dedicated to funding transformational cancer research, raised a record-setting $4.1 million at its annual CURES Gala, “The Greatest Gateway.”The gala theme was inspired by the Oscar-nominated film, “The Greatest Showman,” and featured a star-studded program of entertainment and surprise performances “under the big top.”

The “Greatest Gateway” was presented and sponsored by Richard J Stephenson and Stacie J. Stephenson and drew over 750 guests from across the country. Emceed by actress and comedian Melissa Peterman, the evening began with a Broadway style performance by 11-year old, America’s Got Talent’s youngest finalist and Golden Buzzer winner, Angelica Hale and universal recording artist Fernando Varela.

Jonathan Cullen gave a showstopping performance of a medley from “The Greatest Showman,” alongside Stacey Kay, who sang the Oscar-nominated song “This Is Me.”

The London Essentials, a five-piece acoustic party band serenaded the audience, taking requests as they mingled with guests. The thrills kept coming with live performances by R&B musical legend Brian McKnight, renowned singer and songwriter Pia Toscano, recording artist and composer William Joseph, and international virtuoso violinist Caroline Campbell. Guests crowded the dance floor when the Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra took the stage for a show-stopping, energetic grand finale.

Since its founding in 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research has funded more than 150 patient-focused clinical trials at renowned institutions worldwide. Proceeds from the event will support crucial Phase I and Phase II patient trials across all cancer types, including breast, blood, lung, brain, pancreatic and pediatric cancers.

Click through for an inside look and go HERE & HERE for more photos from the event!