Kalpen Modi, better known as the actor Kal Penn, made headlines when he ditched Hollywood for Washington, but since arriving in the District he’s only been the public face of the White House sporadically.
Tuesday night, however, he appeared at the Kennedy Center to cheer on winners of the Coming Up Taller awards, given to successful community arts programs.
“How am I supposed to follow that?” Modi joked as he took the stage after a performance from the African drum ensemble, “Express Yourself,” which received an award.
Modi said he was there to reiterate the President and first lady’s support for the arts, and gave an anecdote about how arts education in his public school helped him to become a star.
Also on hand: actor Ed Norton, who was spotted happily clapping to the African drumbeats.
