Animals Asia’s newest UK Ambassador, Rick Wakeman will perform alongside artist Maria Rud to help end animal cruelty in Asia.

Rick Wakeman of Yes, the legendary progressive rock band that was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, will be performing a one-off show in London this December with all proceeds going to Animals Asia.

Rick, whose pioneering use of electronic keyboards made him an established session man for the likes of David Bowie, T.Rex, Elton John and Cat Stevens, will be joined by Russian artist Maria Rud for a performance that will combine live music with art.

The Over the Moon set will be a blend of classic Rick compositions alongside new songs written especially for the event, with all proceeds going to Animals Asia.

Rick recently became an Animals Asia UK Ambassador – alongside the likes of Peter Egan – after learning of the charity’s work to rescue bears from bile farms and tireless campaigning for the improved welfare of captive animals in Asia.

To date, Animals Asia has rescued more than 600 bears in China and Vietnam, mostly from farms where they suffer repeated extraction for their bile – an ingredient in traditional medicine.

Around 1,000 bears in Vietnam continue to suffer from the trade in medicinal bile. However in July 2017, the Vietnam government signed a historic agreement with Animals Asia to rescue the remaining bears and eradicate the industry once and for all within five years.

Animals Asia Founder and CEO, Jill Robinson MBE said:

"I was thrilled when I heard Rick had agreed to become an Animals Asia Ambassador, as knew he'd be introducing the plight of Asia's moon bears to a whole new audience. But I didn't expect he would so quickly exceed all our expectations and organise this incredible event. 

"The show is going to be absolutely sensational and we are honoured that the proceeds will help save bears from the cruelty of bear bile farming, improve the lives of animals in captivity across Asia and end the scourge of the dog meat trade.

Rick said:

“I like projects that are totally different to the norm, and I’m really looking forward to performing at Queen’s House.

“Maria is a truly gifted artist, and I’ve written some special pieces especially for the show to go alongside some of my classic works. The concept is unique and exciting, and we’re going to be raising money for a great charity along the way.”

Maria Rud, who was born in Moscow and studied fine art, said:

“Rick introduced me to Animals Asia and the moon bears, it is natural that our creative collaboration is in aid of an inspirational cause we strongly support.”

Maria’s lightbox and the final painting of the evening will be auctioned for Animals Asia.

For more information and tickets, visit http://www.soundandvisionlive.com/

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