Beyonce Among Stars Who Headlined Miami Children's Hospital Diamond Ball

October 5, 2008 5:36 p.m. EST

Miami, FL (CNS) - Beyonce Knowles, disco legend Gloria Gaynor and the "King of Motown" Smokey Robinson were among the stars who came out in support of the Miami Children's Hospital Diamond Ball & Private Concert at the American Airlines Arena on Saturday. Knowles was inducted into the International Pediatric Hall of Fame for her efforts in Hurricane Katrina relief and evacuees in the Houston area.

But the answer to what brought the celebrities out to the event was unanimous: the children. "Whenever I'm asked to help out for the children, I'm really pleased to do it. If I am available and I can get myself there, it's my pleasure," said Gaynor, who also performed her dance classics "I Will Survive" and "Never Can Say Goodbye" as well as newer material.

Carlos Ponce, the Puerto Rican actor and singer who's appeared in spanish soap operas such as "Dame Chocolate" (Give Me Chocolate) was also on h and to emcee the event. Ponce, who has 4 kids of his own, had a deeper connection with Miami Children's Hospital. "I've taken my own kids to the hospital and they've been very well taken care of," he said.

Among the performers was 7-year old piano-playing prodigy Ethan Bortnick, who has performed with the likes of Nelly Furtado and Sheryl Crow and also has appeared on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "Oprah". Tonight, he was playing alongside the stars, including on Gaynor's "I Will Survive."

Knowles, who looked ravishing in a floor-length red dress, took the stage to accept the award but did not perform. She looked on as Bortnick, whose brother was treated at Miami Childen's Hospital for heart defect, dedicated a musical number to the pop star.