President and First Lady of the United States' United Nations General Assembly Reception

September 2011. New York City, The New York Public Library

Every year, the President and First Lady of the United States host a reception in connection with the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. The event is attended by heads of state from around the world and is a keystone annual event in American diplomacy. This year, the event was held in the iconic New York Public Library. The distinguished guest list, necessity to observe diplomatic protocol in every detail, and extraordinary security precautions imposed by a host of agencies make the project one with many unique challenges. On the night of the event, heads of state, foreign ministers and other high profile guests arrived at the Library in a tightly-choreographed ballet of over 100 individual motorcades. Guests were met at Library entrances by an Honor Cordon representing all of the United States Armed Forces. Once inside, guests moved into a cocktail reception in the McGraw Rotunda and Edna Barnes Salomon Room where their conversations were accompanied by the United States Marine Band’s string ensemble.

President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama met the world leaders and distinguished guests in a receiving line, spending one on one time with each of them. Following the receiving line, guests made their way into the grand Astor Hall where, following, a rousing performance by the Bergen County Cadets marching band, and the standard ruffles & flourishes and “Hail to the Chief” the President and First Lady took the stage in front of a backdrop of American Flags to deliver remarks. Following remarks the President greeted more guests along a rope line and then departed while attendees remained to enjoy dessert and more musical accompaniment by the Marine Band Jazz Ensemble. The event was followed by an after-party for heads of Protocol from many nations featuring music by the Todd Londagin Trio.

Empire Entertainment was proud and honored to serve the United States and our President as producer and production company for this singular event. Photos courtesy of Paul L. Mertikas.