The Stars Are Shining At The White House
By: Hope Wilk os, Writer
There is plenty to toast to at the White House these days. While keeping our country safe is a top priority, it is always a pleasant diversion to spend time in the artistic world.
The month of February ended on a high note as the incomparable Mr. Ray Charles was bestowed an honor for talent that goes beyond words. It was time for the “Smithsonian Salutes Ray Charles: A Performance At The White House.” During the day on Wednesday, February 24, 2016, a student workshop, hosted by Michelle Obama, honoring the music of Ray Charles was held. During the evening, an unforgettable performance of Ray Charles hits solidified just why Ray Charles deserved such accolades.
This event was just one in an ongoing series at the White House. The series is “In Performance At The White House.” The event celebrated the iconic singer, songwriter, composer and musician, Ray Charles. The program included performances by Yolanda Adams, Leon Bridges, Andra Day, Anthony Hamilton, Brittany Howard, Demi Lovato, Sam Moore, Jussie Smollett, The Band Perry and Usher with Rickey Minor as executive music director. Knowing that there are many Ray Charles fans out there, the entire event was streamed live at WhiteHouse.gov/live at 7:00 PM (ET). “Smithsonian Salutes Ray Charles: In Performance at the White House” was then broadcast on Friday, February 26, 2016 at 9:00 PM ET on PBS stations nationwide. The program was also simulcast on cable channel TV One.
“Smithsonian Salutes Ray Charles: In Performance at the White House” was the sixteenth such program during President Barack Obama’s administration. From February 2009 to the most recent broadcast in January 2016, these “In Performance at the White House” events have honored the musical genius of Stevie Wonder, Sir Paul McCartney, Burt Bacharach, Hal David and Carole King; celebrated Hispanic musical heritage during Hispanic Heritage Month; marked Black History Month with events featuring the music of Motown, Memphis Soul, the Blues, and from the Civil Rights Movement; explored the rich roots of Gospel and Country music; spotlighted Broadway and the unique spirit of the American musical; and paid tribute to the cultural resonance of art and literature in unique American musical forms.
During the day, over 130 middle school, high school and college students from all over the nation enjoyed “The Musical Legacy of Ray Charles”, a sort of interactive workshop. There were 10 schools and community organizations participating. In the State Dining Room, Robert Santelli, Executive Director of The GRAMMY Museum® in Los Angeles, gave participating students an overview of Ray Charles’ life, musical legacy and his influence and impact on today’s musicians. Featured performers from the evening event will share their experiences and answer student questions about the music and entertainment world.
President Obama summed it up perfectly as he told the guests at the White House over the course of the evening that Ray Charles has influenced generations of musicians. His talent has spanned the ages from R&B, jazz, rock’n’roll, country and soul. Usher’s rendition of ‘Georgia On My Mind’ left his audience in awe. It was a day and an evening that was truly memorable and soulful.
Now, during the month of March as the debates are deciding our next Presidential candidates, the Obamas are welcoming Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire Trudeau to the White House. On the evening of March 10, 2016, a private reception was held to welcome the young royal couple to our country. With over 200 guests attending, there were a number of celebrities on the guest list with roots in Canada. Ryan Reynolds, hailing from Vancouver, attended with wife, Blake Lively, who looked gorgeous wearing a white silk gown. Others included Michael J. Fox, Lorne Michaels, Mike Myers and Sara Bareilles, who performed at the dinner accompanied by the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir.
Representing the relationship between the United States and Canada, a special floral arrangement reminded guests of the beauty of spring. It was designed with orchids, hydrangeas and amaranth, absolutely breathtaking. The meal was a combination of Canadian and American cuisine. There were also many political dignitaries in attendance as well.
One fact is for sure. Both Sasha and Malia Obama will be leaving the White House next year as young ladies. Their attendance at this dinner, and their first at an event of this magnitude and importance, surely confirmed that. Sasha went the trendier, less classic route, choosing a Naeem Khan dress with rich red embroidery and a splash of white lace. She finished the look with a skinny black choker. Malia looked elegant in a champagne colored Naeem Khan gown with a sweetheart neckline and restrained beading across the bust. First Lady Michelle wore a strapless Jason Wu dress and Prime Minister Justin’s wife, Sophie, donned a dress by Canadian designer Lucian Matis.
There is most likely much more in store as President Obama’s year winds down. Who will be visiting the White House next?
