Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje and other Toronto artists are banding together for Japan fundraiser

In today’s hype-obsessed mediascape, it’s easy for public attention to bounce from one issue to another. Toronto to Japan, a local collective of artists, musicians, writers, activists and business types, is working to keep Japan’s earthquake-tsunami-nuclear disaster trifecta in the minds of Canadians. Committed to raising support for disaster relief, the collective is hosting Hope Blossoms at the Bell Lightbox on April 21. Organizers promise a showcase of Canadian talent inspired by the tradition of the Japanese variety show. Dedicating their time and support are Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje, Adrienne Clarkson and Bob Wiseman.

All proceeds from the celeb-studded event will be donated to the relief efforts of the Japanese Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders and Second Harvest Japan. Toronto to Japan is entirely volunteer-run, following the basic Japanese principle of ganbaru, which means to do one’s best or to persevere in times of difficulty. That said, we’re interested to see how Clarkson perseveres onstage next to some literary and musical greats.

Toronto to Japan: Hope Blossoms, April 21, 7:30 p.m. $20-$200. Bell Lightbox, 350 King St. W., 416-968-3456, torontotojapan.ca