Impactful Celebration: The Alexis Project & The Arquette Family Host Tribute

On September 11th, 2024, at Poppy Nightclub, was a one-of-a-kind tribute to Alexis Arquette and fundraiser for The Alexis Project, a program of VIP Community Mental Health Center (VIP). Rosanna and David Arquette were on hand for an incredible night featuring: hostessing by L.A. drag legend, Jackie Beat; The McLarens spinning at the turntable; special performances from Sherry Vine and trans actress Candis Cayne; personal remembrances from Rosanna and David Arquette, Stephen Baldwin, and  Milla Jovovich; delicious hors d’oeuvres and Alexis-inspired cocktails from Poppy; and more!

The red carpet event was media sponsored by Gurus Magazine, with sponsorship support from Pritzker Foster Care Initiative, The Tom Petty Family, and The H.wood Group.

“We are so grateful to the incredible people and organizations that made this fabulous event happen!” said Director of Development and Communications for VIP, Billy Ray Brewton. “Thanks to our sponsors and guests, we were able to raise over $25,000 for the crucial, sometimes life-saving work being done by The Alexis Project. And none of that would be possible without the support of The Arquette Family, who are partners in this endeavor in every sense of the word.”

Notable attendees at the event included: David Arquette (Scream series), Rosanna Arquette (Desperately Seeking Susan), Candis Cayne (Dirty Sexy Money), Milla Jovovich (The Fifth Element), Joely Fisher (Ellen), Frances Fisher (Unforgiven), Barry Shils (Wigstock: The Movie), Michael Des Barres (MacGuyver), Derek Warburton (Gurus), Jackie Beat, Sherry Vine; Stephen Baldwin (Last Exit to Brooklyn); and representatives from Los Angeles Board of Supervisor Lindsey Horvath’s office.

A highlight of the evening was a “Dessert Dash”, with all proceeds benefiting the important work of The Alexis Project. Participating bakeries included: The Abbey We-Ho, Brady’s Bakery, SusieCakes, Winston Pies, Proof Bakery, and Flouring LA. A staple of Pacific Northwest fundraisers, a “Dessert Dash” invites guests to bid on high-end desserts from bakeries in and around Los Angeles County, with all proceeds benefiting The Alexis Project. Participating bakeries included: The Abbey We-Ho, Brady’s Bakeries, SusieCakes, Winston Pies, Proof Bakery, and Flouring LA.

Significantly, following the “Dessert Dash”, were phenomenal performances by Jackie Beat, Sherry Vine, and Candis Cayne. Candis specially performed a tribute piece of her transition song, “Glory Box” by Portishead, in honor of Alexis.

When Alexis Arquette tragically passed away on September 11, 2016, she left behind a legacy of art, activism, and community. A partnership between the Alexis Arquette Family Foundation and VIP Community Mental Health Center, The Alexis Project was formed that same year to honor Alexis’s memory, while also serving the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals across Los Angeles County. Today, The Alexis Project remains steadfast in its commitment to providing comprehensive, integrated care for transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse patients.

Members of The Alexis Project staff and team were on-hand at the event, with founders Dr. Astrid Heger and Dr. Tracey Samko delivering keynote addressed to the rapt Poppy audience. Poppy Nightclub, known for its whimsical and luxurious ambiance, was thethe perfect backdrop for an evening that celebrates the life and legacy of Alexis Arquette. The venue, which blends high fashion with a storybook fantasy setting, is a reflection of Alexis’s vibrant spirit and commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.

Special Quotes from the evening: 

“I know Alexis would be really happy, the fact that the Alexis Project is being celebrated tonight and Alexis is being celebrated is really important. I know Alexis would say something like, “what took you so long?” – David Arquette  

“Beyond this film, and as you’ve heard from others here tonight, Alexis was a trailblazer, not only as an actor but as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Alexis’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and fierce dedication to art. Alexis didn’t just play roles—Alexis transformed them, and through this dedication and commitment, touched countless lives.

Alexis, your light continues to shine, and tonight, we not only celebrate your artistry, your creativity, and your undeniable contribution to cinema, but your heart and spirit… and everything that made you, you. I truly hope that my being here might help show, in some small way, that love and friendship are what can bring us all closer together.” – Stephen Baldwin

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