On Tuesday, December 13, 2011, Ambassador and Mrs. Kenneth Merten hosted the Center Stage program for Haiti at their residence. In 2012 Center Stage, funded by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and private donors, will bring international artists in dance, music and theater from Haiti, Pakistan, and Indonesia to tour the United States.

Haiti has a wealth of talent in the arts and many performers were eager to participate.  Several groups and individuals auditioned in May 2011 and three were chosen to represent Haiti’s culture in the U.S.:

• Ti-Coca and Wanga Neges
• Belo  (Jean Bélony Murat)
• Dance Company Jean Rene Delsoin

All three artists performed at the Ambassador’s Residence at an exciting event attended by Haitian President Martelly and other members of the Haitian and international communities.  Members of the government, artistic community and others greatly enjoyed seeing this cultural link established between the US and Haiti.

Ambassador Merten spoke about how culture connects our two countries and allows our artists to collaborate and exchange ideas.  The artists’ tour of the U.S. will be a unique opportunity for them to engage with various communities and offers Americans the chance to enhance their understanding and appreciation of other nations.  Check our YouTube page for videos of last night’s performances. 

Congratulations to our selected artists and bon voyage!!

Photo: BélO, JRD Dance School, Ti-Coca & Wanga Neges featured with President Michel Martelly, Ambassador Kenneth Merten and Cultural Attaché Regine Rene.