The Kennedy Center Honors Season 36 Episode 1

Ep 1. 36th Annual Kennedy Centers Honors

  • December 29, 2013
  • 7.2  (38)

The 36th Annual Kennedy Center Honors is a prestigious event that recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to American culture through their work in the arts. This episode features the honorees from the 2013 ceremony, which took place on December 8th of that year. The episode is hosted by Caroline Kennedy, who warmly welcomes the audience and introduces the honorees.

The first honoree is Shirley MacLaine, a beloved actress who has been a staple in Hollywood for over six decades. MacLaine's career highlights are showcased through a series of clips and speeches from her colleagues in the entertainment industry. We learn about her breakthrough role in The Apartment, her Oscar-winning performance in Terms of Endearment, and her prolific stage career. The tribute to MacLaine culminates in a moving performance by Garth Brooks, who sings "The Dance" in her honor.

The second honoree is Billy Joel, a legendary musician who has sold over 150 million albums worldwide. We see Joel's life and career in music unfold through clips of his performances and interviews with his peers. Joel's influence on the music industry is evident as artists like Don Henley, Rufus Wainwright, and Brendon Urie pay tribute to him with heartfelt performances of some of his greatest hits.

The third honoree is Carlos Santana, a virtuoso guitarist who has been making music for over five decades. Santana's unique style, which incorporates Latin rhythms and blues influences, has earned him numerous accolades and a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Fans and fellow musicians praise Santana's technical skill, his commitment to social justice, and his legacy as a musical icon. The tribute to Santana ends with an electrifying performance by Steve Winwood and Derek Trucks, who play a medley of Santana classics.

The fourth honoree is Herbie Hancock, a jazz pianist and composer who has won 14 Grammy Awards throughout his career. Hancock's innovative approach to jazz has pushed the genre in new directions, blending elements of funk, rock, and electronica. The episode showcases Hancock's collaborations with other musicians like Quincy Jones and Miles Davis, as well as his solo work. Fellow jazz musician Wayne Shorter reflects on Hancock's contributions to the music world, and the episode concludes with a stirring performance by Snoop Dogg, who raps over a jazz groove.

The final honoree is Martina Arroyo, an opera singer who has performed on the world's greatest stages and who has dedicated herself to mentoring young singers. Arroyo's peers praise her exquisite voice, her dedication to her craft, and her commitment to diversity in opera. The episode presents clips of Arroyo's performances and speeches by opera luminaries like Placido Domingo and Jessye Norman. The tribute to Arroyo concludes with an emotional performance by Kathleen Battle and Harolyn Blackwell, who sing a duet from Puccini's La Boheme.

In addition to the tributes to the honorees, the 36th Annual Kennedy Center Honors features speeches by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, who pay tribute to the honorees and reflect on their contributions to American culture. The episode is a celebration of the arts and of the individuals who have enriched our lives through their creativity and talent.

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Description
  • First Aired
    December 29, 2013
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.2  (38)