International Cultural Event to highlight Club's cultural diversity with music, food, dance Nov. 19

An International Cultural Evening featuring energetic dance troups, vibrant musical performances and tasty delicacies from different regions around the world will turn the National Press Club Ballroom into a multi-cultural showcase from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19.

Registration is required. Ticket prices are $35 for the public and $25 for Club members. Early bookings are recommended as the event is expected to sell out.

“This program will highlight our immense cultural diversity and will serve to underscore what we have proudly called the international year at the National Press Club,” said Club President Myron Belkind. “On November 19, the National Press Club will be where international culture happens.”

Guests are encouraged to wear attire representing their countries of origin or regular business dress.

The evening will open as guests arrive with the traditional Indian “tilak” welcome. A henna artist will decorate the hands of guests to symbolize good luck, joy and beauty and a Russian classical violinist will serenade everyone in the lead-up to the formal program.

The cultural performances will feature the time-honored Chinese Lion Dance, traditional Punjabi folk dances, energetic steel drummers from Trinidad and Tobago, a graceful Asian Dance, dynamic Nubian (Egyptian) musicians, the lively South American Bachata Congress and spirited Ethiopian musicians and dancers.

South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool will receive the National Press Club President’s Award to recognize his lifetime of achievements, focusing on how the Club has worked closely with him, starting with the South African Night honoring Nelson Mandela in 2012.

The program will conclude with a reception with international delicacies, such as Malaysian satays, and two crèpe stations with sweet and savory fillings.

South African wines will be served.