Background

Background 

 
Center Stage^SM tours:

• provide opportunities for international performing artists to engage with diverse communities, including youth, throughout the U.S.
• offer Americans the chance to grow in understanding and appreciation of other nations
• provide for deeper engagement for both Americans and visiting artists, who will return home with direct experiences to share in their own communities

Center Stage^SM  received over 200 nominations of performing arts ensembles from Haiti, Indonesia, Mali, Pakistan, Senegal, Syria, and Turkey.  From there, an advisory committee helped to select ensembles from Haiti, Indonesia, and Pakistan.

Nomination & Selection Process

Nominations were submitted on November 1, 2010, from presenters, artists and their representatives, U.S. embassy personnel, regional arts organizations, state arts agencies, and individuals in the U.S. and abroad knowledgeable about performing arts ensembles in the identified countries. 

Artist selections were recommended by a panel of artistic advisors with knowledge of the performing arts and culture in these specific countries.  Final selections were made by NEFA, in consultation with Lisa Booth Management, Inc., with approval from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. In addition to the criteria listed above, other factors influencing selection included artist availability, size of ensemble, artistic discipline, mix and diversity of programming, and other logistical issues.

Artist Selection Criteria

• Demonstrate high artistic quality and accomplishment.
• Have an interest in engaging with U.S. communities, including youth, through public and in-school performances, workshops, discussions, artist-to-artist exchanges, and community gatherings.
• Are comprised of three to nine ensemble members (artists and staff).
• Have previous touring experience but have not traveled to the U.S. or have rarely been seen in the U.S.
• Have an ability to communicate electronically via email and/or Skype, and a working knowledge of English and/or access to translators.  (Interpreters will be provided as needed on tour.)