Very Special Arts (VSA), an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, attracted ahost of Washington luminaries to its annual International Night Gala. From the Van Gogh-esque artwork onthe invitation to the wonderful musical entertainment throughout the evening, the Gala boasted thesuccess of its programs by featuring the talents of some of their very own. Guests feasted on an exoticinternational buffet that offered cuisine from over 50 embassies. And as if that weren’t enough,auctioneer Sam Donaldson sold off an array of fabulous prizes at both a live and silent auction thatincluded a number of dining, art, and travel packages. To raise additional funds, several ambassadors gotinto the spirit by offering to host luncheons or dinners at their residences for International NightSponsors and 12-24 of their guests. Founded in 1974 by Jean Kennedy Smith, VSA offers programs increative writing, dance, drama, music, and the visual arts to help children and adults with disabilitiesdevelop skills, while simultaneously promoting their independence.

Patrons: The Ambassador of Russia and Mrs. Ushakov, the Ambassador of Portugal and Mrs. RochaParis, and the Honorable Jean Kennedy Smith

Honorary Co-Chairs: Mrs. Svetlana Ushakov of the Embassy of Russia, and Mrs. Ana Rocha Parisof the Embassy of Portugal

Location: Embassy of Russia