    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 6 (Monday, February 13, 2006)]
    [Page 196]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    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.