The 37th Annual Kennedy Center Honors will celebrate actors Tom Hanks and Lily Tomlin, musicians Sting and Al Green, and ballerina Patricia McBride for "their lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts."
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will honor the five recipients at a gala on Dec. 7. CBS will then broadcast the ceremony on Dec. 30 at 9 p.m.
"The Kennedy Center celebrates five extraordinary individuals who have spent their lives elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world," said Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein. "Al Green's iconic voice stirs our souls in a style that is all his own; Tom Hanks has a versatility that ranks him among the greatest actors of any generation; one of the world's greatest ballerinas, Patricia McBride continues to carry forward her legacy for future generations; Sting's unique voice and memorable songwriting have entertained audiences for decades; and from the days of her early television and theatrical appearances, Lily Tomlin has made us laugh and continues to amaze us with her acting talent and quick wit."
The honorees will receive their medallions at a State Department dinner hosted by Secretary of State John Kerry on the night before the ceremony. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will welcome the esteemed guests to the White House before the gala. The night will conclude with a supper dance in the Grand Foyer of the Kennedy Center.
The Honors recipients are selected by the Executive Committee of the Center's Board of Trustees, as well as recommendations from the general public and an advisory committee including past honorees and Kennedy Center board members.
