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WETA
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
To: Julie Mason
From: Dewey Blanton
Date: 13 Nov. '98
Re: "In Performance at the White House" / Rosie O'Donnell
Julie, enclosed is the information we provided the Rosie O'Donnell show regarding
"In Performance at the White House," in preparation for Mrs. Clinton's
forthcoming appearance. Some cogent points:
The Savion Glover program on dance aired in Sept.
The Gospel program with CeCe Winans will air Feb. 3, 1999 at 8 PM on PBS.
A Nov. 30 taping is planned along the theme of American Favorites, with Patti
LuPone and James Naughton confirmed thus far.
Let me know if you need additional information. Thanks for your time and
consideration.
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
WETA
THE NATION'S STATION. THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
For Immediate Release
Contact:
June 2, 1998
Dewey Blanton (703) 998-2875
Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
GRAMMY-WINNER CECE WINANS TO APPEAR IN NEW
"IN PERFORMANCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE" ON PBS
- Hour-Long Special Celebrates Gospel Music and Tradition -
Washington, D.C. - The President and First Lady welcome Grammy-
winning gospel artist CeCe Winans and a variety of other musical guests to a new
"In Performance at the White House," scheduled for broadcast on PBS stations on
Wednesday, February 3, 1999 at 8 p.m. ET (check local listings). The hour-long
program, "The Great American Gospel Tradition," continues the White House
initiative celebrating the new millennium with activities and events that pay
tribute to American culture.
The program, to be taped Wednesday, June 3 before an invited audience on
the South Lawn of the White House, is the second in a series of occasional "In
Performance" specials, offered over the next year on PBS, highlighting American
artists and their music. The series is underwritten by Ameritech and produced by
WETA, Washington, D.C.
"As part of the White House Millennium initiative, we are pleased to bring
this particular performance to public television audiences," notes Phylis Geller,
WETA senior vice president of cultural programming and new media. "The
inspiration and influence of gospel music is a moving example of our nation's
culture and history through song."
"With this tribute to American gospel music, Ameritech maintains its proud
tradition of supporting the arts in performance at the White House," said Richard C.
Notebaert, chairman and chief executive officer of Ameritech. "We look forward to
sharing this unique event with a national audience on public television."
CeCe Winans, who over the past 10 years has received eight Grammy Awards
for her work and is considered one of the leading figures of Gospel music, will host
the performance. Among the songs Winans will perform include "Oh Happy Day,"
"I'll Fly Away," "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" and "Everlasting Love."
-more-
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
"In Performance at the White House" - Page 2
Winans will be joined on stage by the Morgan State Choir, led by Conductor
Dr. Nathan Carter. The Choir is one of the nation's most prestigious university
choral ensembles, well-known for preserving the heritage of the spiritual. The
group has performed for audiences all over the world.
Other guest artists appearing during the hour show include singer, songwriter
and musician Mickey Mangun, who participated in the inaugural church service for
President Clinton in 1993 and 1997; and Grammy-winning composer and
instrumentalist Phil Driscoll, who has produced albums in nearly every musical
category and appeared on the Merv Griffin, Steve Allen and Ed Sullivan shows.
Driscoll is also the recipient of four of Gospel music's prestigious Dove Awards and
seven Reader's Digest Awards.
The President and Mrs. Clinton ushered in a new season of "In Performance
at the White House" on public television with "A Salute to the Newport Jazz
Festival" (September 12, 1993), followed by "Cabaret" (January 5, 1994), "Aretha
Franklin" (October 12, 1994), "Women of Country" (September 27, 1995), "Linda
Ronstadt & Aaron Neville" (July 3, 1996), and "Gladys Knight" (September 24, 1997).
The next special in the series taped this March, "Savion Glover - Stomp, Slide and
Swing," is slated for broadcast on September 16 at 9 p.m. "In Performance at the
White House" is part of WETA's commitment to broadcast quality programming
that draws on the nation's cultural diversity.
Credits
"In Performance at the White House" is a production of WETA, Washington,
D.C., the third-largest producing station for public television. Funding for the series
is provided by Ameritech. Senior producer is Jackson Frost; WETA executive-in-
charge is Phylis Geller. Sharon Percy Rockefeller is WETA president and CEO.
###
WETA
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
"CeCe Winans, Glorious Gospel: In Performance at the White House"
Bios
Host: CeCe Winans
As one of the leading figures in gospel music for the past 10 years, CeCe Winans has won eight Grammy
Awards for her combination of soulful vocals and uplifting lyrics. Well-recognized for a "gospel swing
beat" style while performing with her brother in the duo, "BeBe and CeCe," Winans decided to embark
on a solo career in 1996. She quickly became known for her ability to blend a wide range of popular
vocal and song styles with spiritual correctness and won her first Grammy for her solo debut album,
"Alone in His Presence." Later Winans was nominated for her duet, "Count on Me," with Whitney
Houston for the movie soundtrack "Waiting to Exhale," a top-ten choice on "Billboard" magazine's
R&B charts. Winans has also received three NAACP Image Awards, nine Dove Awards and five
Stellar Awards. Winans has produced two platinum albums and continues to reach out for wider
audiences with her contemporary style of gospel.
Morgan State University Choir
One of the nation's most prestigious university choral ensembles, the Morgan State University Choir
regularly performs classical, gospel and contemporary popular music worldwide. Conducted by Dr.
Nathan Carter for 26 years, the choir is best known for preserving the heritage of the spiritual. Dr.
Carter, who is credited with bringing the choir to international prominence, is the Morgan State
University chairperson of the Department of Fine Arts, as well as a graduate of the Hampton Institute,
the Julliard School of Music and the Peabody Conservatory of Music. Morgan State has performed with
major American and European orchestras, and has appeared at Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center and
the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and has been featured on National Public Radio and PBS.
Mickey Mangun, Lead Vocal
Singer, songwriter and musician, Mickey Mangun performs internationally as a solo artist, but also sings
regularly with the Pentecostals of Alexandria Choir in Louisiana, where she shares a ministry with
her husband, Anthony Mangun. Mangun is a member of the American Association of Christian
Counselors and the Board of Directors of the Rapides Women's and Children's Hospital. She
participated in the inaugural church service for President Clinton in 1993 and 1997 and has recorded
five solo albums.
Phil Driscoll, Vocals and Trumpet
Although Phil Driscoll has produced albums in nearly every musical category, he has expanded the
boundaries of contemporary gospel with his artistry and improvisational abilities, both vocally and
with his trumpet. His interest in secular music began at the age of three, yet Driscoll has focused on
contemporary Christian music for the past 20 years, winning a Grammy, four Dove Awards and seven
Reader's Digest Awards. Earlier in his career, Driscoll performed on the Merv Griffin, Steve Allen and
Ed Sullivan shows. In the 1970s, Driscoll played piano and trumpet and collaborated with Stephen
Stills, Leon Russell and Joe Cocker. In 1982 Driscoll founded "Mighty Horn Ministries," in Cleveland,
TN and subsequently made more than 250 global appearances. He has also performed at the inaugural
church services for President Clinton in 1993 and 1997, recorded with the London National
Philharmonic Orchestra and launched a television ministry on the Inspiration Network.
###
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
WETA
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
"CeCe Winans, Glorius Gospel:
In Performance at the White House"
American Gospel
Derived from the Old English word godspel,, gospel means good news. Although its
religious roots date back for centuries, blues pianist Thomas A. Dorsey first coined
the term in 1920 for music that expressed evangelical faith and pathos. American
gospel has evolved over time with the confluence of cultural styles, including
southern folk music, Protestant hymns, European elements of worship, African
traditions and spirituals, and the melodic and harmonic patterns of rhythm and
blues. By mid-century, traditional gospel made way for contemporary forms.
Singers criss-crossed between church-bound performance and mainstream secular
music, popularizing the genre without abandoning their messages of hope and
inspiration. Our performers this evening exemplify their own unique beliefs and
styles, ranging from a full, mixed chorus with its multitude of harmonies, to the
clear single tones of CeCe Winans, who sings songs of her faith and humanity.
Relevance of Gospel to the Millennium Series
This millennium evening at the White House showcases the American gospel
tradition. As part of the WETA series, "In Performance at the White House,"
audiences will enjoy several distinctive styles borne of the gospel tradition that
illustrate the synergy of cultures and denominations in the American experience.
Each performance expresses the vibrant, stirring and deeply emotional appeal of
American gospel. The diversity of these featured artists signal the depth and variety
of contemporary and traditional gospel, as well as confirms the present-day
renaissance of the genre.
###
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
WETA
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
In Performance At The White House:
THE GREAT AMERICAN GOSPEL TRADITION
JUNE 3, 1998
HOST: CECE WINANS
PERFORMERS:
CECE WINANS, Lead Vocal
Jamila Jones, Vocals
Tiffany Paimer, Vocals
Cynthia Pasley, Vocals
Chandra Penix, Vocals
Duawne Starling, Vocals
Christopher Willis, Vocals
Kevin Clements/Guitar
Elijah Holt/Drums
Dana Reed/Guitar
Reginald Reid/Keys
Bryant Russell/Bass
Charles Williams/Sax
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY CHOIR
60 Members
with
Backup Musicians
MICKEY MANGUN, Lead Vocal
Deah Adams, Vocals
Cynthia DuBois, Vocals
Ken Burnette, Vocals
Micah Burnette, Vocals
Johnathan Dean, Vocals
Neysha Elliott, Vocals
Tim Freeman, Vocals
Patrick Gaudet, Vocals
Jeff Hennigan, Vocals
Miquell Hennigan, Vocals
Melinda Joiner, Vocals
LaVonna Lopez, Vocals
Rose Mary McKellar, Vocals
Melani Shock, Vocals
James Bell /Drums
Ken Brady/Drums
Kevin Howard/Keyboard II
Aaron Lopez/Keyboard I
James Owen/Bass
John Smith/Guitar
Carl Wheeler/Organ
PHIL DRISCOLL, Vocals & Trumpet
Bill Mason Keyboard
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
WETA
PHOTOCOPY
PRESERVATION
WETA
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
In Performance at the White House: The Singer and the Song "
Song List
James Naughton and Patti LuPone
"Small World"
James Naughton
"State of Arkansas"
Brian Stokes Mitchell
"Something's Coming"
"For All We Know"
"Make Them Hear You"
Jennifer Holliday
Gershwin Medley
"Come Sunday"
"I'm Telling You I'm Not Leaving"
James Naughton
"Folks on the Hill"
"Soul & Inspiration"
Patti LuPone
"Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered"
"As Long as He Needs Me"
"Being Alive"
Finale
"America the Beautiful"
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
WETA
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
Artist Bios
Patti LuPone
An internationally renowned performer, Patti LuPone has won acclaim in film, on stage
and on television. Among her most recent credits are appearances on Broadway in David
Mamet's "The Old Neighborhood," and in the forthcoming film, "The Twenty Four Hour
Woman." She won critical praise and international awards for her work in such legendary
shows as "Evita" (for which she earned a Tony Award for her portrayal of Evita Peron),
"Master Class" (in which she gave powerhouse performances in London and New York as
diva Maria Callas), "Les Miserables" (in which she originated the role of Fantine with the
Royal Shakespeare Company), "Sunset Boulevard," (originating the role of Norma
Desmond for the world premiere in London) and "Anything Goes" (Tony nomination for
Best Actress in a musical). Long a favorite of television audiences, she was recently
nominated for an Emmy for her guest appearance in the comedy "Frasier." Her one-
woman show, "Patti LuPone on Broadway," was a huge success in New York and
continues to play concert halls and theaters across the country.
Jennifer Holliday
Jennifer Holliday is a star re-born. This Broadway diva is a two-time Grammy Award-
winning recording artist whose portrayal of the heroine Effie "Melody" White in the smash
hit musical "Dream Girls" garnered her the 1982 Tony Award for Best Actress and linked
her forever with the song, "And I Am Telling You." Holliday has recorded six solo
albums, her latest being a Best Of collection. Never one to sit still, she is currently
broadening her horizons, taking on the role of Lisa Knowles in Fox TV's "Ally McBeal."
From the Baptist Church deep in the heart of Texas, where her career began, to the bright
lights of Broadway and pop stardom, Jennifer's star is just beginning to shine.
Brian Stokes Mitchell
Brian Stokes Mitchell has put his stamp on one of the great roles in contemporary theater
- that of Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in the smash hit "Ragtime" - and the honors and awards
have followed. His riveting performance earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best
Actor in a Musical, as well as similar nominations from the Outer Critics Circle and Drama
Desk Awards, and the Distinguished Performance Award from the Drama League, its
highest honor. This winter, he will be heard as the singing voice of Jethro in the animated
feature film "The Prince of Egypt." Among his many stage credits are performances in the
Broadway hits "Jelly's Last Jam" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman." Mitchell made his
Carnegie Hall debut this fall, appearing with the San Francisco Symphony for a tribute to
George Gershwin. He performed before the President and Mrs. Clinton at the 1998
"Kennedy Center Honors."
James Naughton
James Naughton's stellar resume includes Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Musical for
both "Chicago" and "City of Angels." He has also contributed his talents to the dramatic
stage, with credits that include "Long Day's Journey Into Night" and "Whose Life Is It
Anyway?" An accomplished film actor, he appeared in such acclaimed features as "The
Good Mother" opposite Diane Keaton, "The Glass Menagerie" with Joanne Woodward and
in "The Paper Chase." He has starred in a number of network television series, including
"Brooklyn Bridge," and "Who's the Boss?" as well as serving as the host of Court TV's
"Greatest Trials of the Century." His solo concert/cabaret act, "James Naughton Live," is
slated for Broadway this season. Naughton will act as master of ceremonies this evening.
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
THE NATION'S STATION. THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
WETA
Ameritech
Ameritech is one of the world's 10 largest and one of the world's most successful
communications companies. It serves millions of customers in 50 states and 40
countries and provides a full range of communications services, including local and
long distance telephone, cellular, paging, security monitoring, cable TV, Internet
services and more. Ameritech has 73,000 employees, 1 million shareowners and
more than $16 billion in annual revenue.
Ameritech customers range from consumers to businesses to other
communications companies. Each customer's needs are met by the company's 15
separate business units.
Ameritech's goal is to become a single source of communications solutions. It is
expanding beyond today's business of local telephone and cellular service, and
advertising into new growth businesses such as monitoring, cable TV and long-
distance.
Ameritech is a leader in wireless communications with 3.2 million cellular
customers and more than 1.5 million paging customers.
Ameritech's wired communications network reaches 20 million customer lines.
This network carries voice, data and video. Last year, Ameritech invested
approximately $2.5 billion to provide customer communication services throughout
the upper Midwest.
Ameritech is currently building a cable TV network and has formed Americast - a
venture with the Walt Disney Company and telecommunications partners - to
create innovative and imaginative video programming and interactive services for
consumers.
Ameritech is one of the largest North American security monitoring companies,
serving 1 million customers throughout North America.
Ameritech now services more than 1.7 million customers with cellular long-
distance services and is moving forward to meet regulatory requirements to enable
the company to offer long distance to telephone customers.
Ameritech's international investments are in Austria, Belgium, Croatia, The Czech
Republic, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway,
Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland. Its European headquarters is in Brussels.
Ameritech's profits have grown at double-digit rates for the past 18 consecutive
quarters before one-time adjustments.
###
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
THE NATION'S STATION. THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
WETA
WETA Washington, D.C.
WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving
Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. It is one of more than 340
television stations that make up the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and the third-
largest producing station for public television.
Founded in 1961, WETA is dedicated to producing and broadcasting
television and radio programs of quality and integrity that recognize and challenge
the intelligence of viewers and listeners, as well as providing program-related
educational materials and outreach activities for both local and national
communities. WETA devotes more than one-third of its television schedule to
children's programming.
This commitment to quality programming has enabled WETA to produce a
number of landmark series: Ken Burns's "The Civil War," "Baseball," "The West,"
"Thomas Jefferson" and "Lewis & Clark: The Journey of The Corps of
Discovery" drew international praise; "The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer" is a staple
for news-hungry audiences; "Washington Week in Review" has provided
insightful commentary and news analysis for more than 30 years; "In Performance
at the White House," hosted by the president and first lady, continues to bring the
best of our nation's talented artists to public television viewers; and performance
specials such as "The Kennedy Center Presents," the "National Memorial Day
Concert" and "A Capitol Fourth" are national treasures shared with viewers from
around the country.
Over the past 36 years, WETA's television and radio programs have received
numerous honors, including several Primetime Emmys, DuPont Columbia
Journalism Awards, Peabody Awards, the New York Festivals Awards and Ohio
State Awards.
Sharon Percy Rockefeller is president and CEO of WETA.
###
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
THE NATION'S STATION, THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
WETA
Press Release
For Immediate Release
Contact:
November 30, 1998
Dewey Blanton (703) 998-2875
AMERICAN SONG'S BRIGHTEST LIGHTS SHINE FOR NEW
"IN PERFORMANCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE" ON PBS
- Stars of Stage, Screen Come Together for "The Singer and the Song " -
Washington, D.C. - The President and First Lady welcome Broadway legends Patti
LuPone, Jennifer Holliday, Brian Stokes Mitchell and James Naughton to a new "In Performance
at the White House: The Singer and the Song to be broadcast on PBS in 1999. Part of the
White House initiative to celebrate the new millennium with activities and events that pay tribute to
American culture, the hour-long program will showcase the richness of American song with the
artists performing selections both expected and unexpected, encompassing their signature tunes
and those songs that inspired them.
The program, to be taped Monday, November 30 before an invited audience in the East
Room of the White House, continues the series of "In Performance at the White House" specials
offered on PBS illuminating the vibrancy of the performing arts in America. Sponsored by
Ameritech, the series is produced by WETA, Washington, D.C.
"It's a perfect recipe," said Sharon Percy Rockefeller, WETA president and CEO. "We
have some of the country's greatest singers, performing some of the greatest music ever written by
American songwriters, in what amounts to America's living room. The integral role the
performing arts play in our society is showcased to great advantage by this series."
Richard C. Notebaert, chairman and chief executive officer of Ameritech, commented,
"With this tribute to American singers and songwriters, Ameritech cements its commitment to this
country's musical heritage, and helps shine a spotlight on what is great and unique about the arts in
America. We look forward to sharing our excitement and our pride with a national audience on
public television."
An internationally renowned performer, working in television and film as well as on stage,
Patti LuPone became a Broadway legend when she created the role of Eva Peron in "Evita."
London audiences had the opportunity to see her originate the roles of Fantine in "Les Miserables"
and Norma Desmond in "Sunset Boulevard." More recent credits include Broadway runs of David
Mamet's "The Old Neighborhood," and Terrence McNally's "Master Class," as well as an Emmy-
nominated guest appearance on "Frasier."
With her roots planted firmly in the Baptist music traditions of Texas, Jennifer Holliday
became an overnight sensation singing "And I Am Telling You," in the original Broadway
production of "Dream Girls," earning herself a Tony Award and instant stardom. A two-time
Grammy Award-winning vocalist, she recently tackled the medium of television, as Lisa Knowles
on the series "Ally McBeal."
-more-
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
"In Performance at the White House" - Page 2
Brian Stokes Mitchell, nominated for a Tony Award for his portrayal of Coalhouse Walker,
Jr. in the smash hit "Ragtime," has starred on Broadway in such milestone productions as "Jelly's
Last Jam" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman." This winter he will be heard as one of the primary
voices - both singing and spoken - in the animated feature film "The Prince of Egypt." Mitchell
recently made his Carnegie Hall debut in a tribute to George Gershwin and performed before the
President and Mrs. Clinton at the 1998 "Kennedy Center Honors."
The career of James Naughton, who will act as master of ceremonies, ranges from
Broadway musicals, with Tony Awards for "Chicago" and "City of Angels," to the dramatic stage,
with "Long Day's Journey Into Night," to film, with appearances in "The Good Mother," and
"The Paper Chase." For network television, he has starred in such series as "Brooklyn Bridge,"
and "Who's the Boss?" His solo concert/cabaret act, "James Naughton Live," is slated for a
Broadway run this season.
The President and Mrs. Clinton ushered in a new era of "In Performance at the White
House" on public television with "A Salute to the Newport Jazz Festival" (September 12, 1993),
followed by "Cabaret" (January 5, 1994), "Aretha Franklin" (October 12, 1994), "Women of
Country" (September 27, 1995), "Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville" (July 3, 1996), "Gladys
Knight" (September 24, 1997), "Savion Glover - Stomp, Slide and Swing" (September 16,
1998), and the upcoming "CeCe Winans, Glorious Gospel" (February 3, 1999, at 8 p.m, check
local listings). "In Performance at the White House" is part of WETA's commitment to broadcast
quality programming that draws on the nation's cultural diversity.
"In Performance at the White House" is a production of WETA, Washington, D.C., the
third-largest producing station in the public broadcasting system. Among the productions of
WETA are "The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer," "Washington Week in Review" and "The Kennedy
Center Presents." For "In Performance at the White House," WETA executive-in-charge is Phylis
Geller; senior producer is Jackson Frost. Sharon Percy Rockefeller is WETA president and CEO.
###
THE NATION'S STATION. THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE
WETA
"In Performance at the White House"
SERIES HISTORY
"In Performance at the White House" is a series of one-hour musical
specials hosted by the President and First Lady from the White House and taped
before an invited audience. There have been a total of 33 televised shows beginning
with President and Mrs. Jimmy Carter in 1978 and continuing with each presidential
administration through 1996. Produced by WETA, Washington D.C., (WNET, New
York co-produced the series from 1981-83), the programs have featured some of the
world's most beloved and renowned artists - from Vladimir Horowitz and
Mikhail Baryshnikov to Linda Ronstadt and Bobby McFerrin. The artists have
appeared on the South Lawn of the White House, in the East Room and in the Rose
Garden. During the Bush administration, the 1989-90 "In Performance at the White
House" series was appropriately built around the theme "The House I Live In," the
title of a song made popular by Frank Sinatra during World War II.
To date the Clinton administration has hosted eight performance specials: "A
Salute to the Newport Jazz Festival," (September 1993) followed by "Cabaret"
(January 1994), "Aretha Franklin" (October 1994), "Women of Country" (September
1995), "Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville (July 1996), "Gladys Knight" (September
1997), "Savion Glover - Stomp, Slide and Swing" (September 1998) and the
forthcoming "CeCe Winans, Glorious Gospel", to air on PBS February 3, 1999 at 8
p.m. ET (check local listings).
###
Public Television 26 & Radio FM 90.9
2775 South Quincy Street
tel 703.998.2600
Serving Greater Washington, D.C.
Arlington, VA 22206
fax 703.998.3401
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
"Savion Glover - Stomp, Slide & Swing: In Performance at the White
House" - Host Savion Glover and his group the NYOT (Not Your Ordinary Tappers)
WETA
(top) strut some new-generation, "stomp-style" tap in an all-new "In Performance at the
WASHINGTON DC
White House." Broadway artists Bebe Neuwirth and Karen Ziemba (bottom) heat up
the stage during a song and dance routine from the hit musical "Chicago" in this hour-
IT ON
PBS
long performance special, taped in the East Room of the White House and premiering
on PBS stations nationwide September 16 at 9 p.m. ET (check local listings). The series
SEE
is underwritten by Ameritech and produced by WETA Washington, D.C.
(photos by Lisa Berg)
"Savion Glover - - Stomp, Slide & Swing: In Performance at the White
WETA
House" - Accompanied by Irish musicians, eight year-old Chloe Mullarkey (left)
WASHINGTON IX
performs a traditional Irish step routine in an all-new "In Performance at the White
House." Lindy hoppers (right) take center stage and show off some 1940s style swing in
this hour-long performance special, taped in the East Room of the White House and
IT ON
PBS
premiering on PBS stations nationwide September 16 at 9 p.m. ET (check local listings).
The series is underwritten by Ameritech and produced by WETA Washington, D.C.
SEE
(photos by Lisa Berg)
Savion Glover - Stomp, Slide & Swing
IN
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Airdate: September 16. 9 p.m.
Contact: Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
SAVION GLOVER AND BEBE NEUWIRTH HEADLINE
NEW "IN PERFORMANCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE" ON PBS
- Hour-Long Special Celebrates American Dance -
President and Mrs. Clinton welcome renowned tap dancer Savion Glover,
award-winning television and Broadway performer Bebe Neuwirth and a variety of
notable dance artists to a new "In Performance at the White House." "Savion
Glover - Stomp, Slide & Swing: In Performance at the White House" airs as an
hour-long PBS special on Wednesday, September 16 at 9 p.m. ET (check local
listings).
Taped before an invited audience March 9 in the East Room, the program
highlights the White House initiative of celebrating the new millennium with a
variety of activities and events that honor the nation's past and imagine its future.
It is the first of two specials to air this season as part of the on-going "In
Performance" series underwritten by Ameritech and produced by WETA
Washington, D.C.
The President and First Lady introduce the evening's featured performances
- the magic of tap, Irish step dancing, the Lindy hop and jazz dancing - as a look
back at the old masters who made audiences laugh, cry and sing for generations, and
a look forward to the new masters who will bring American culture into the next
century. Accompanied by jazz musician greats Keter Betts, Bucky Pizzarelli and
Claude "Fiddler" Williams, program host Glover opens the show with an
extraordinary tap solo. He is then joined on stage by his group the NYOTs (Not
Your Ordinary Tappers) in a rafter-raising, new generation "Stomp" style tap
performance.
Glover welcomes legendary tap dancer, 70 year-old Jimmy Slyde who takes
center stage for a performance of his trademark "slide tap" moves. Then,
Washington D.C. native, eight year-old Cartier Williams joins Glover and Slyde to
perform "The Track," a spectacular dance number that showcases three generations
of individual tap styles and talent.
Next, Donny Golden, (the first American to win major prizes in the All-
World Irish Dance Championship), with dance partner Sinead Lawler and two of
Golden's young students, Joseph Dwyer and Chloe Mullarkey, perform a stunning
rendition of traditional Irish "stepping." Joined by Irish musicians Billy
McComiskey, Mick Moloney, Brendan Mulvihill and Zan McLeod, the steppers
display flurries of darting kicks while keeping time to the rapid beats of traditional
Irish song rhythms.
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"In Performance at the White House" - Page 2
Glover ushers in the swing segment with American Lindy hoppers Tyrone
Cooper, Steve Mitchell, Beverly Moore and Erin Stevens, who lead off with fast-
footed "airborn" jitterbugging - 40's-style leaps, jumps and lifts, ending with a
special rendition of the "national anthem of tap," the Shim-Sham. In the next
segment, Tony Award-winning actress and jazz dancer Bebe Neuwirth brings down
the "House" in a special Bob Fosse tribute. Accompanied by the "one-man, 13-piece
orchestral" talents of pianist Rob Fisher and fellow Broadway actress and dancer
Karen Ziemba, Neuwirth heats up the stage with the choreographed song and dance
routines "I Can't Do It Alone" and "Hot Honey Rag" from the hit Broadway musical
"Chicago." For the finale, all of the artists return to the stage for a rhythmic, rousing
closing performance.
The President and Mrs. Clinton ushered in a new series of "In Performance at
the White House" on public television with "A Salute to the Newport Jazz
Festival," (September 12, 1993) followed by "Cabaret" (January 5, 1994), "Aretha
Franklin" (October 12, 1994), "Women of Country" (September 27, 1995) "Linda
Ronstadt & Aaron Neville" (July 3, 1996), and "Gladys Knight" (September 24, 1997).
On February 3, 1999 PBS will air the second of this season's specials - "The Great
American Gospel Tradition" (w.t.). The series is part of WETA's commitment to
broadcast quality programming that draws on the nation's cultural diversity.
"In Performance at the White House" is a production of WETA Washington,
D.C., the third-largest producing station for public television. Funding for the series
is provided by Ameritech. Senior producer is Jackson Frost; WETA executive-in-
charge is Phylis Geller. Sharon Percy Rockefeller is WETA president and CEO.
###
Savion Glover - - Stomp, Slide & Swing
IN
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Airdate: September 16, 9 p.m.
Contact: Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
Fact Sheet
The President and First Lady welcome renowned tap dancer Savion Glover and
special artists to the East Room of the White House to celebrate vital and original
forms of American dance with performances spanning three generations. Guest
artists appearing include Broadway performers Bebe Neuwirth and Karen
Ziemba; tap dancers Jimmy Slyde, Cartier Williams and the group the NYOTs
(Not Your Ordinary Tappers); Irish dancers Donny Golden, Sinead Lawler,
Joseph Dwyer and Chloe Mullarkey; and American Swing dancers Tyrone
Cooper, Steve Mitchell, Beverly Moore and Erin Stevens.
Airdate/Time:
Wednesday, September 16 at 9 p.m., ET on PBS
(check local listings)
Length:
One Hour
A production of:
WETA Washington, D.C.
Made possible by:
Ameritech
Executive-in-Charge:
Phylis Geller
Senior producer:
Jackson Frost
Publicity contact:
Tracey Clark-Stajka, 703-998-2072
###
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A production of WETA Washington, D.C. Funding provided by
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2775 South Quincy Street
Arlington, VA 22206
Savion Glover - — Stomp, Slide & Swing
IN
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Airdate: September 16, 9 p.m.
Contact: Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
Artist Bios
HOST
Savion Glover
A sparkling performer with a natural gift for tap, Savion Glover began dancing at age four and
eight years later wowed audiences in his Broadway debut in "The Tap Dance Kid." He
returned to Broadway in "Black and Blue" and "Jelly's Last Jam" and won the 1996 Tony
Award for choreography in "Bring in Da' Noise, Bring in Da' Funk." Glover also starred in the
PBS series, "Sesame Street" for five years and appeared in the 1989 movie "Tap" with Sammy
Davis Jr., Gregory Hines and Jimmy Slyde. Known for his rhythmic brilliance, speed and hard-
driving style, Glover has won numerous awards, including the 1996 Drama Desk Award, Outer
Circle Critics Award, two Obie Awards, two Fred Astaire Awards and the 1996 Dance
Magazine Choreographer of the Year. He now performs with his own dance company, Not
Your Ordinary Tappers, inspiring new artists in tap.
HEADLINERS
Donny Golden
As a master and educator of the complex, athletic and highly intense art of Irish step dancing,
Donny Golden received the National Heritage Award in 1995 from President Clinton. Raised in
the Irish neighborhoods of Brooklyn, NY, Golden began dancing as a child and became the first
American medal winner in the All-World Irish Dance Championship. Combining innovation
with tradition, grace with artistry, he is a prominent performer, choreographer and teacher, who
preserves and develops the art for new generations of dancers, including Jean Butler, the original
star of "Riverdance."
Bebe Neuwirth
An accomplished musical theater actress, Bebe Neuwirth starred on Broadway as Velma Kelly
in "Chicago," a role that brought her the Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Circle Critics
Award, Drama League Distinguished Performance and Fred Astaire Award. Along with her
stage credentials, including a second Tony Award for "Sweet Charity," and strong
performances in "A Chorus Line," "Little Men, ""Dancin" and "Damn Yankees." Neuwirth has
also won two Emmy Awards for her role in the long-running television hit, "Cheers."
Jimmy Slyde
Considered a reigning dean of jazz-tap dance and a pioneer who helped define the form, 70
year-old Jimmy Slyde is famous for his lyrical and sophisticated rhythms and slides. As a
young dancer Slyde appeared with Count Basie and Duke Ellington and later performed for
international jazz festivals and for films such as "The Cotton Club," "Round Midnight,"
"Tap" and the show "Black and Blue." Slyde continues to dance regularly in jazz clubs and
festivals throughout the U.S. and mentor young talent, such as Savion Glover.
Karen Ziemba
A Broadway sensation in the musical "Chicago," Karen Ziemba also received a Tony Award
Nomination for "Steel Pier" and won the Drama Desk Award for the off-Broadway hit "And
the World Goes 'Round." Ziemba has also been featured in Broadway performances of "42nd
Street," "A Chorus Line" and "Crazy For You"; PBS's Great Performances of "Sondheim: A
Celebration at Carnegie Hall" and "Ira Gershwin at 100"; and has performed with the New
York City Opera.
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DANCERS
Tyrone Cooper and Beverly Moore
Veteran jazz dancers, Tyrone Cooper and Beverly Moore have performed the Lindy hop
together since 1993. A scholarship student at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts, Moore
has danced with the Lionel Hampton Band. Award-winning dancer Cooper has toured with
Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee in the touring company of "Raisin in the Sun."
Joseph Dwyer
An international competitor, 14-year-old Joseph Dwyer is a student at the Donny Golden
School of Irish Dancing and has danced at Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center and with the
Chieftains and New York Pops.
Sinead Lawler
A winner of numerous Irish dancing awards and former student of Donny Golden, Sinead
Lawler now tours with Cherish the Ladies, an all-female traditional Irish music and dance
ensemble. She has performed with the Chieftains and New York Pops and danced with Golden
for the PBS documentary, "May the Road Rise to Meet You."
Chloe Mullarkey
An eight-year-old student and competitor at the Donny Golden School of Irish Dancing, Chloe
Mullarkey has performed in concerts on PBS and at Carnegie Hall.
Erin Stevens and Steve Mitchell
Two of the world's top Swing instructors and performers, Erin Stevens and Steve Mitchell are
renowned for their expertise in the Lindy hop. Mitchell won a Tony Award for his
choreography in Broadway's "Black and Blue," and Stevens has been a regular on The Family
Channel.
Cartier Williams
At the tender age of eight, Cartier Williams is a tap dance phenomenon who is already a
veteran performer. A scholarship student at The Washington Ballet, Williams has performed on
television, as well as at the Apollo, Warner and Lincoln Theaters; the Smithsonian Institution's
150th Birthday Celebration; and the Kennedy Center, including the Center's televised "25th
Anniversary Gala Celebration."
NOT YOUR ORDINARY TAP DANCERS:
Ayodele Casel
A student in theater at New York University, Ayodele Casel has performed with the American
Tap Dance orchestra, as well as with the NYOT in the televised 1997 "Monday Night Football"
opening.
Omar Edwards
A 13-time winner of "Star Search," Omar Edwards has appeared on Broadway in "Bring in Da'
Noise, Bring in Da' Funk," in the film "Carlito's Way" and on television.
Abron Glover
Having studied tap at Broadway Dance Center, Abron Glover appeared in "Black and Blue" in
Paris and recently rejoined NYOT with his brother Savion.
Jason Samuels
A veteran of "Sesame Street Jam" with Savion Glover, Jason Samuels has performed on
Broadway in "Bring in Da' Noise, Bring in Da' Funk," on television in the "25th Anniversary of
the Kennedy Center" and in commercials.
MUSICIANS
Keter Betts-Bass
Keter Betts toured for 24 years with Ella Fitzgerald, (who considered him her favorite bassist),
as well as with Charlie Byrd. He still performs worldwide and teaches at Howard University.
Billy McComiskey-Accordion
A true virtuoso on the button accordion, Billy McComiskey started playing at age eight in
Brooklyn, N.Y. He has recorded and performed with today's foremost fiddle players and has
played a major role in the revival of Irish music.
Zan McLeod-Guitar
One of the most talented accompanists and arrangers in the world of Irish music, guitarist Zan
McLeod recorded two award-winning albums in the 1980s with his group Touchstone. McLeod
has performed on many other artists' recordings including the Red Clay Ramblers and David
Wilcox. He now lives in the Washington D.C. area and performs with a wide variety of
musicians.
Mick Moloney-Guitar/Vocals
Having absorbed much of his repertoire from traditional musicians as a youth in Ireland, Mick
Moloney has become one of Ireland's finest tenor banjo and mandolin players. Moloney
immigrated to America in 1973 and is considered a major preservationist of Irish traditional
culture.
Brendan Mulvihill-Violin
One of the foremost young Irish fiddle players, Brendan Mulvihill is known both for his
technical virtuosity and inventiveness. Learning as a child from his father, the legendary fiddler
and National Heritage Fellow Martin Mulvihill, Brendan emigrated with his family to the Bronx,
N.Y., in 1965.
John "Bucky" Pizzarelli, Sr.-Guitar
In addition to an active career as staff musician accompanying such band leaders as Skitch
Henderson, Doc Severinson and Mitch Miller, Bucky Pizzarelli has performed at Carnegie Hall
and the Boston Pops and played for 28 albums. He is also a Faculty member emeritus of
William Paterson College in Wayne, N.J.
Claude "Fiddler" Williams-Violin
A living legend of jazz violin, 90-year-old Claude Williams began his career in the early years of
jazz. He started playing with rural string bands and road shows and then performed with such
jazz greats as Charlie Parker, Art Tatum, Nat "King" Cole and Count Basie. Based in Kansas
City, Williams appeared on Broadway in "Black and Blue" and continues to tour worldwide.
###
Savion Glover — Stomp, Slide & Swing
IN PERFORMANCE
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Airdate: September 16, 9 p.m.
Contact: Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
Background Information
"In Performance at the White House" History
"In Performance at the White House" first debuted on PBS as a series of five
recitals by great artists before President and Mrs. Jimmy Carter and their guests
in the East Room of the White House from 1978-79. In 1981, a new series of
seven televised White House performances began in the second year of the
Reagan administration with each concert honoring American composers and
featuring established artists introducing and performing with one or more
young artists. The series continued through the Bush administration, 1989-90,
under the theme "The House I Live In," based on the title of a song made
popular by Frank Sinatra during World War II. These three programs were
broadcast in conjunction with the national holidays - - Independence Day,
Columbus Day and President's Day. This is the seventh "In Performance at the
White House" special during President Clinton's administration. In February
1998, Hillary Rodham Clinton announced the upcoming series as part of the
White House initiative designed to celebrate the new millennium with a wide
variety of activities and events that honor the nation's past and imagine its
future.
Relevance of Dance to the Millennium Series
This millennium evening at the White House showcases American dance
traditions. As part of the WETA series, "In Performance at the White House,"
audiences will enjoy several distinctive dance styles including tap, jazz, Irish
stepping and swing that illustrate the synergy of past and present expressive
cultures in the American experience. Each performance displays the vibrant,
stirring and universal appeal of American dance. The diversity of these
featured artists signals the depth and variety of traditional dance, and confirms
the present-day new masters who will bring American dance into the next
century.
###
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SEET ON PBS
A production of WETA Washington, D.C. Funding provided by
Ameritech
WETA
2775 South Quincy Street
Arlington, VA 22206
Savion Glover — Stomp, Slide & Swing
IN performance
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Airdate: September 16, 9 p.m.
Contact: Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
Ameritech
Ameritech is one of the world's 10 largest and one of the world's most successful
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Ameritech's wired communications network reaches 20 million customer lines.
This network carries voice, data and video. Last year, Ameritech invested
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Its profits have grown at double-digit rates for the past 18 consecutive quarters before
on-time events.
ON
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SEE IT
A production of WETA Washington, D.C. Funding provided by
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WETA
2775 South Quincy Street
Arlington, VA 22206
Savion Glover - Stomp, Slide & Swing
IN
AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Airdate: September 16, 9 p.m.
Contact: Tracey Clark-Stajka (703) 998-2072
WETA Washington, D.C.
WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital,
serving Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. It is one of more than 340
television stations that make up the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and the third-
largest producing station for public television.
Founded in 1961, WETA is dedicated to producing and broadcasting
television and radio programs of quality and integrity that recognize and challenge
the intelligence of viewers and listeners, as well as providing program-related
educational materials and outreach activities for both local and national
communities. WETA devotes more than one-third of its television schedule to
children's programming.
This commitment to quality programming has enabled WETA to produce a
number of landmark series: Ken Burns's "The Civil War," "Baseball," "The West,"
"Thomas Jefferson" and "Lewis & Clark: The Journey of The Corps of
Discovery" drew international praise; "The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer" is a staple
for news-hungry audiences; "Washington Week in Review" has provided
insightful commentary and news analysis for more than 30 years; "In Performance
at the White House," hosted by the president and first lady, continues to bring the
best of our nation's talented artists to public television viewers; and performance
specials such as "The Kennedy Center Presents," the "National Memorial Day
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Sharon Percy Rockefeller is president and CEO of WETA.
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SEET
A production of WETA Washington, D.C. Funding provided by
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2775 South Quincy Street
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