The fifth annual Backstage Ball will be 7-11 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Hotel Kirkwood in Des Moines.

The Backstage Ball is an annual fundraiser for the Des Moines Music Coalition [DMMC].

The DMMC is a non-profit organization founded in 2006, whose mission is to gain a stronger, more diverse music scene in the Great Des Moines area. The DMMC focuses on: promoting live music, advocacy for musicians and the Central Iowa music industry, helping with music education and working with local music venues, community organizations and any music related programming.

The main reason for this fundraiser is to help raise money for the DMMC and also to be a music community awards ceremony honoring organizations and volunteers of the DMMC and in the community.

“We have a great committee of volunteers … and people have been really supportive,” said Chris Ford, program manager for the DMCC and co-founder of Maximum Ames Records.

This years Backstage Ball is a Mardi Gras themed event with Mardi Gras themed drinks, food, decorations and music. Other than the awards ceremony, there will also be a silent auction and live music from Party Gras Central Jazz Band, a classic New Orleans styled jazz band. Jay Byers, CEO of the Great Des Moines Partnership and local musician, will also emcee the event.

“We have a pretty ambitious goal to raise $30,000,” Ford said.

Tickets for the Backstage Ball are on sale for $75 at Midwestix.  All proceeds and money raised at the Backstage Ball will go to support the DMMC.