| |
|
Violinist
Isaac Stern chats with the Kennedys after his program
in 1962. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library
Although guest artists had been entertaining at
the White House for more than a century, President
and Mrs. John F. Kennedy made the White House a
true showcase for the performing arts and their
creativity and dedication provided a model for succeeding
administrations to the present day. By inviting
the media to White House cultural events, they placed
a spotlight on the White House and demonstrated
that the Executive Mansion could indeed be an influence
in encouraging public acceptance of the arts. Reflecting
Jacqueline Kennedy’s assertion that she wanted
"only the best," America’s finest
performing arts organizations were featured: The
Metropolitan Opera Studio, Jerome Robbins Ballet,
American Ballet Theater, American Shakespeare Festival,
New York City Center Light Opera Company and many
others. When Lyndon Johnson became president upon
John Kennedy’s tragic death in 1963, many White
House performances comprised such a large cast that
they were held outdoors on a special stage or indoors
in the East Room on a portable stage donated by
the Harkness Ballet in 1965. Elise
Kirk, Musical Highlights from the White House,
135-145.
|
