Culture in Focus at the EU State of the Arts Night

By Mia Pech

The EU State of the Arts Night took place at the Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall on September 13, demonstrating what can be accomplished when Europeans and Americans work closely together. Even before the event started, the growing walk-up line signaled the night’s excitement. Within the building’s historic halls, European flair and American vibrancy bound together through music, art and lively dialogue.

Presented by the Delegation of the European Union in partnership with the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the event formed part of Washington D.C.’s citywide Art All Night festival, organized by Mayor Muriel Bowser. More than just an evening of entertainment, the State of the Arts Night showcased the cultural ties between Europe and the United States. Guests moved seamlessly between performances and talks, experiencing the full spectrum of the evening.

The evening unfolded across two stages, featuring artists from 11 European countries. Irish guitarist Conor Malone and American co-performer Justin Jordan opened the South Hall Stage with an old traditional Irish song from the 1600s. Soon after, the mood shifted as Lithuanian pianist Dr. Rudolf Budginas and his two American co-performers took the stage. His fusion of classical and jazz elements lit up the hall and drew enthusiastic applause. Later in the night, the spotlight turned to Germany, where theater director Karin Rosnizeck and pianist Samuel Aaron Peters blended storytelling with music. Their performance highlighted the life of Marlene Dietrich, the iconic Berlin-born actress who became a Hollywood legend.

Meanwhile, the West Hall hosted conversations with artists on themes such as building community through music, storytelling and placemaking as well as the role of tradition in today’s evolving world. After that, performances from Greece, Portugal and Poland filled the hall with soulful melodies and rhythms that highlighted the diversity of Europe’s musical traditions.

In addition to music and conversations, the evening also offered European-style foods along with wine and beer in the lounge, where guests could relax and sample treats between performances. Throughout the evening, guests could be heard talking in a variety of languages, reflecting the truly international spirit of the night.

As the evening drew to a close, a lively electro-house dance party ended the night.

Photos below by Mia Pech.

tagsEUEU State of the ArtsEuropean UnionState of the Arts