June 1, 2008 seemed like any other day, but it was very special in a unique way in Washington D.C. It was a Sunday and many important people were getting together at The National Theater.
It seemed that Broadway came to the nation’s capital for a star-studded gala to bring attention to the newly refurbished Ford’s Theater. The event was attended by many Washington D.C. dignitaries, including President Bush and first lady Laura Bush.
Actor Hal Holbrook, country music singer Trisha Yearwood, Broadway headliner, Clay Aiken and other stars performed songs and spoken word pieces from the musical “The Civil War”.
The musical premiered in Houston in 1998 before opening on Broadway. The story follows the course of the war from many perspectives.
Clay performed the song, Sarah. It was reported by some audience members that his performance was so beautifully presented that there were tears in the eyes of the audience members. The music from “The Civil War” is gospel in style so Clay’s performance was mild and tender and a great contrast to the other songs.
Besides the musical performance, Lincoln Medals were presented to Maya Angelou and Ruby Dee. The Lincoln Medal has been awarded each year since 1981 by the Ford’s Theatre Society. According to the Ford’s Theatre Society,
“the medals are given to individuals who through their body of work, accomplishments or personal attributes, exemplify the lasting legacy and mettle of character embodied by the most beloved president in our nation’s history, President Abraham Lincoln.”
It must have been an emotional night for Clay as he felt the excitement and awe of performing at such a prestigious event.
Congratulations to Clay Aiken for the honor of performing in this exciting and important event. The concert was another benchmark in his admirable career.
Have you ever seen the Ford’s Theatre in Washington DC?
Thank you for all the pictures and the info. I like all the info that you have posted today. I have not been to the Fords Theater . Thank you CANN.
Clay’s performance of “Sarah” brought tears to my eyes, too! I remember when he introduced this song to us, it was on one of his live podcasts some years ago. Thank you, CANN for posting!
What a night that was for Clay and all of his fans. I have been at the Fords Theater when I took a tour of Washington several years ago. Small and beautiful.
Thanks for the story today! I didn’t even know about this!! (2008 was a busy time ^_^ ) I can’t believe how amazing Clay is. Can you imagine even being at that event, let alone *performing*?? He looks so classy, so reverent. (He needs to be in congress!!!!) He never ceases to amaze me. I have been at Ford’s theater, and I’ll tell you, even the photo above makes me shiver. You can just feel the incredible impact that exact spot had on this country’s history.