In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the National Cultural Center Act signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and the reopening of the renovated theater named in his honor, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts opens its 38th season with Prelude 2008: Arts Across America, over 35 days of performances, August 30-October 5, 2008, highlighting the diversity of the United States. This multidisciplinary program enlists talents from every region and state in our nation-American masters, bearers of tradition, and young innovators developing their craft.