In Performance at The White House

In Performance at The White House is a long-standing tradition originating from 1978. Co-produced by the White House, it is a television series broadcast by PBS, specifically designed to offer audiences over the world an exclusive chance to experience an array of celebrated American artists performing live in the illustrious settings of the White House.

The series is characterized by a unique intimacy and historical caché that affords viewers and artists alike. Performances take place in the East Room—harking back to the nascence of live public performances there, when President Thomas Jefferson engaged musicians to play for his guests. Thus, the series manages to beautifully meld past and present, using the backdrop of the White House in a way that intertwines America's rich artistic pedigree with its powerful political stage.

In Performance at the White House has been privileged to showcase the talent of an incredible range of performers from across the spectrum of musical genres. From pop, country, gospel, jazz, blues, theatre, dance to classical music, the series unfolds a colorful mosaic of American artistic production meant to be representative of the entire nation's diverse cultural fabric.

Each episode of In Performance at The House is typically structured around a specific theme, person, or occasion to be celebrated. These thematic episodes serve as tributes to the contributions and legacies of various individual artists, music genres, or important figures in American history. They often include both performances and narrative elements that offer context, background, and enrich the cultural understanding of the showcased artistic works.

The series' first ever show, held on February 11, 1978, was a tribute to Duke Ellington on his 70th birthday. Since then, it has hosted a wide array of established figures in the American performance arts scene, as well as emerging talent. Some of the notable artists and luminaries showcased include B.B. King, Stevie Wonder, Dizzy Gillespie, Billy Joel, Natalie Cole, Lyle Lovett, Alison Krauss, Gloria Estefan, and Smokey Robinson, to name just a few.

In Performance at The White House isn't restricted to musical performances alone. The series also strives to enhance the viewer experience by providing exclusive behind-the-scenes access and interspersing the performances with insightful artist interviews, rehearsals footage, and personal accounts. This variety in presentation sees to it that each episode is as informational as it is entertaining.

Additionally, the series serves to promote music education and appreciation by way of organizing workshops for students. These workshops are conducted by the invited artists, giving young people a unique opportunity to engage with and learn from the professionals in an intimate setting.

In Performance at The White House accomplishes a unique blend of entertainment, education, and cultural enrichment. The enchanting performances, the iconic setting, the historical context, and the diversity of feature, all work together to create an authentic, lively portrayal of American artistry and culture.

Throughout its four decades of telecasting, the series has been recognized for its unique contribution to arts television. It stands as a reminder of the enduring relationship between the arts and the highest levels of government, marking the White House as both a symbol of political power and a cultural institution. In Performance at The White House is more than just an one-of-its-kind performance series—it is a celebration of American art, a tribute to artists, and an admirable endeavor to keep the rich traditions of American music alive for generations to come. In short, it's a testament to the spirit, diversity, and power of American culture.