Symphony at Salk’s 26th annual event on Aug. 20 raised more than $1.1 million for the Salk Institute’s research in the fields of aging, cancer, neuroscience, immunology, climate change, and more, as researchers work to build a healthier and more resilient world. This concert under the stars featured an unforgettable performance by the San Diego Symphony and Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award-winner Ben Platt in the Salk Institute’s iconic Courtyard amidst Louis Kahn’s masterwork of modern architecture.

Platt is an actor, singer and songwriter, who at the age of 23 became the youngest solo recipient of the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for the coming-of-age musical “Dear Evan Hansen.” He has also appeared in the film “Pitch Perfect” and is currently starring in the comedy-drama series “The Politician,” for which he was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy.

As has become tradition, the artwork of Françoise Gilot was displayed on the entryway gates. Gilot, Jonas Salk’s wife, recently turned 100 years old. She has served as Honorary Chair of Symphony at Salk each year since its inauguration in 1996.

The Institute is grateful to the more than 400 Salk community members and supporters who attended Symphony at Salk, representing leaders in science, philanthropy, government, media and industry. Top sponsors included: Joan and Irwin Jacobs, Karen and Don Cohn, Daniel and Martina Lewis, BioMed Realty, Dr. Frederik Paulsen/Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Rita and Brian Kaspar, and Mary Jane Salk.