Attending this year's Ball, I started thinking about the role of ambassadors and diplomats in our society. Whatever their individual projects - political, economic, cultural, educational - they share common goals. Often the primary face of their own countries in a foreign land, they aim to represent them in a way that establishes relationships, strengthens connections and opens doors for interest and communication. When they speak about their cultures, their energy and commitment are clear, and the audience gains a sense of connection to another country and way of life. Diplomats carry a tremendous responsibility to educate the international public about the uniqueness and strengths of their countries, and are often central in resolving international conflicts.

We are living in a time of globalization, but also of increased awareness of the value of each culture's unique contribution to the world. Dancers can play a role in this multicultural experience. Those who tour to other countries become ambassadors for their homelands, just as Olympians do. Also, many ballets pay tribute to international cultural themes. Several come to mind immediately - Nutcracker, Don Quixote and Flames of Paris - but there are many more. Choreographers and dancers in these ballets have the responsibility to portray these different cultures respectfully, and they become ambassadors of a sort.