U.S. Embassy participates in Notte Bianca

Ambassador Kmiec speaks with line dancers	Maltese participants try line dancing

For the first time, the U.S. Embassy participated in Notte Bianca with an “Americana” booth on St. John’s Cavalier Street.   Country music performers Marty Rivers, Marlene and Memphis Tony performed a mixed repertoire of American country music and jazz while dancers added an original touch with traditional line dancing.

A poster exhibit “America 24/7” displayed scenes from life in various U.S. cities.  Books, pamphlets, and American cookies were presented as gifts to the Maltese and international guests who visited the booth and staff from the U.S. Embassy were on hand to answer questions on a number of subjects such as studying at American universities and traveling to the U.S.

U.S. Ambassador Douglas Kmiec and his wife, Carolyn Keenan Kmiec, enjoyed their introduction to the festival in Valletta.  Ambassador Kmiec was impressed by the quality of the cultural activity, the variety of events and the enthusiasm of the participants and enjoyed meeting and talking to those who visited the stand.  The Ambassador said “we often don’t take the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company, and Notte Bianca was for this American observer, a great respite and remarkable fun.”

Commenting on the U.S. Embassy’s participation while visiting the American booth, Ambassador Kmiec said:  “I am proud that the U.S. Embassy is participating in such a prestigious cultural festival in such a uniquely American way.”