    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [February 6, 2006]
    [Page 197]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Dinner Honoring the Dance Theatre of Harlem
    February 6, 2006

        Good evening. Laura and I welcome you to the
    White House for what is going to be a very special evening. One of the
    interesting things about living here is that, on occasion, some of our
    Nation's finest artists come to perform. Nothing like having great
    performers in your living room. [Laughter] And tonight we're looking
    forward to a fantastic performance.
        As we gather during African American History Month, tonight we honor
    the Dance Theatre of Harlem and its unique founder, Arthur
    Mitchell. America is blessed to have people
    like Arthur Mitchell in our midst. So, Arthur, thank you for coming;
    thank you for your care and concern for our Nation's youth; and thank
    you for being dogged in your determination to see that this program
    flourishes. And we're glad to be a part of seeing that the program does
    flourish.
        Since its creation in 1969, the company has set a new standard for
    excellence in dance and has won international acclaim. The Dance Theatre
    of Harlem School has provided thousands of students the opportunity to
    study dance, some of whom we'll see tonight. The Dance Theatre's
    community outreach programs are now bringing arts education to people
    all across America and around the world.
        For almost four decades, the Dance Theatre of Harlem has done a lot
    to enrich countless lives through its brilliant performances and
    educational efforts. And so tonight I offer a toast to the achievements
    and continued success of Arthur Mitchell and
    the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

    Note: The President spoke at 7:56 p.m. in the State Dining Room at the
    White House.