Once a year, the leaders of industry, education and government from North Carolina and Japan congregate for a relationship & knowledge sharing session. This year the conference was held in North Carolina and I was fortunate enough to be able to photograph their initial gathering at the Research triangle Foundation and a very exclusive dinner held at the North Carolina Museum of Art.
The welcoming event, held at the Research Triangle Foundation in RTP welcomed all the participants and everyone was treated to a short presentation by Governor Mike Easley. Immediately following the reception, a dinner was held for the VIP’s at the Art Museum in downtown Raleigh. After dinner, the VIP’s were treated to an incredible short theatrical presentation by 3 very talented Broadway performers. Dressed as “living statues” in all white, these three incredibly talented performers sang 5-6 operatic songs in fluent italian. I’ve never seen anything like it and while I love the photos, it just doesn’t do the mood justice.
Overall, the event was absolutely gorgeous and even though I don’t have much experience in overseas diplomatic relations, it was easy to see the bridges being built and relationships founded between everyone invited.
Here’s a few shots of the evening!
