Every day is opening night.

I rushed to DC on Friday after securing a last-minute invitation to the White House-presentation of The Eyes of the World: From D-Day to VE Day, historian John Monsky’s dazzling symphonic epic about WWII. I just couldn’t resist experiencing one last dose of state-sanctioned culture before it all turns to four (God willing) years of monster truck rallies and golf tournaments.

It turned out to be a night of history, harmony, and haunting beauty in the East Room, as an audience of dignitaries, staffers, military personnel, and President Biden himself sat transfixed before Monsky’s expertly calibrated combination of stirring archival footage, Broadway vocals, symphonic scoring, and narration. Hosted by an ageless Katie Couric, draped in a bright red cape and gold pumps, the performance featured Broadway heavyweights like Shereen Ahmed, Kate Rockwell, Daniel Yearwood and Nicholas Rodriguez.

POTUS, who’s seen a lifetime of memorable performances in the East Room since his days as a young senator, gave what might be the ultimate review: “This is the most impressive performance I’ve ever seen in this room.” John Monsky did for the East Room what Judy Garland did for The Palace!

The President also used the occasion to celebrate veterans and tout his administration’s legislative victories for those who served, including the landmark PACT Act, which expands healthcare for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits, and historic funding increases for the VA. “They stormed the beaches, and we owe them everything,” Biden said, before turning the spotlight back on the performers who had stormed the stage.

After the event, I made my way to the Hay-Adams for a late dinner—and who should I run into at the bar but Peggy Noonan, sipping a cocktail nearly as purple as her prose. “What’s the matter, Peggy, couldn’t score an invitation to the East Room?” I needled her. “Don’t fret — townspeople like yourself can stream the whole glorious thing on PBS.com.”

She assured me any look of consternation I was reading on her face had more to do with the incoming administration than the outgoing. “Really?” I shot back. “Wait until you hear what paper you write for.”

Tidbits from around town…

Spotted Janeane Garofolo walking across the Manhattan Bridge at a healthy clip.

Caught John Turturro congratulating legendary auctioneer Lydia Fenet after she managed to surpass the $200,000 fundraising goal at the New York Cares Gala.

Overheard designer Rachel Antonoff earnestly exclaiming, “My compliments to the chef!” after digging into the apricot cake at Red Hook hotspot Cafe Kestrel.

As always, a toast of something sparkling to you and yours!

Kisses,,”