The Lao Heritage Foundation(LHF) hosted a presentation of Lao culture at the Cultural Center of the International Finance Corporation, on March 30, 2006, in Washington D.C.
A collaboration of the young and old generations of overseas Laotians from all over the world, particularly from the United States and France, this presentation is a showcase of many treasures of Laos through an exhibition of arts, crafts, unique textile designs and patterns, classical dance performances, music and the exquisite art of gold-thread embroidery on the costumes for the former royal Lao families.
The highlights of the event were the exhibition
of a private collection of Prince Nitthakhong Somsanith’s arts and crafts including paintings and drawings, and the exquisite fashion show of the gold-thread embroidered costumes of the royal families and the diverse costumes of many different tribes of Laos.
In a comment to VOA after the exhibition, Prince Nitthakhong Somsanith says, “I am very honored to have this opportunity to share this beautiful and unique Laotian culture to the world at the international level. I am very pleased with the result after seeing many people came to an event. What I am most concerned about is how to start preserving this culture for the next generations, and it has to be done now.”
Laos’ ambassador to the United States, H.E. Phanthong Phommahaxay, gave the opening remark, in which he encouraged all Laotians, be it overseas Laotians or Laotians residing inside the country, to treasure the richness and uniqueness of the Lao culture for the next generations to come and witness its beauty.
Mrs. Niphasone Souphom, president of the Lao Heritage Foundation and also chairperson of the event says, “This event will showcase the collaborative efforts of Laotian-Americans, young and old, to preserve their culture.”
Listen to our report for more details.
For an additional information please visit http://www.laoheritagefoundation.org