Meryl Streep, Neil Diamond, Yo-Yo Ma among this year's recipients
(AP) - It was glitz DC-style at the Kennedy Center last night, which saw five artists honored during this year's gala: Meryl Streep, Neil Diamond, Yo-Yo Ma, Sonny Rollins, and Barbara Cook. The Washington Post reports that the red carpet was a jumble of politicians (Newt Gingrich and wife Callista) and celebrities (Streep wore Elie Saab). This year's recipients sat with the first couple in the balcony (orchestra seats went for $5,500 a pop). Quips abounded, with director Mike Nichols saying Streep "could handle any part thrown at her, except maybe Gidget." After a video montage of her career was screened, Robert De Niro observed, "Looking at those great moments over the years, I realize ... I was amazing in Deer Hunter." More»