Corinthia Hotel, London’s newest five-star luxury property, has just hosted an A-list charity gala evening in support of the Gender Rights and Equality Action Trust, the GREAT initiative, with international and UK celebrities.

The guests included Oscar-winning actor Colin Firth and his wife Livia, Chris Evans, Cuba Gooding Jr and Laura Bailey, UK Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and philanthropist Jemima Khan.

Upon arrival, the guests were received at a reception in the hotel’s specialty Mediterranean fish restaurant, Massimo’s, where champagne and canapés, designed by chef patron Massimo Riccioli, were sampled inside the spectacular space. They were then ushered into the hotel’s majestic ballroom and treated to a private performance by Mark Knopfler, who played classics at the sell-out gala.

Following a three-course dinner were two short films, presented by Oscar-winning actress Renée Zellweger, from her trip earlier this year on a GREAT mission.

The highlight was a spectacular auction, featuring one-of-a-kind lots, donated by the stars and GREAT supporters, including Mark Knopfler’s guitar from his evening performance, a role as an extra in the upcoming Bridget Jones 3 film and works by leading artists Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin.

The bidders were spurred on through a video message from GREAT’s patron, Annie Lennox, who urged all to support it and gender equality around the globe. Proceeds from the auction will directly support the GREAT initiative’s goals.

“As one of London’s newest, leading, five-star hotels, we are delighted to open our doors to GREAT and offer them our hospitality on such a significant occasion,” general manager Matthew Dixon said.

Corinthia Hotel London is fast becoming the capital’s hottest luxury destination, having already hosted a number of celebrity events during its pre-opening period this spring.