WHAT: Illusionist David Copperfield will attempt to “find the missing 15th star”
during an event at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American
History. It precedes a naturalization ceremony in partnership with U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services for 15 candidates for American
citizenship.
WHEN: Friday, June 14; 11 a.m.
Note: Video of the Star-Spangled Banner Illusion will be available
by 1 p.m.
There is no recording or photography during the illusion. Video and
photography permitted during the naturalization ceremony.
WHERE: National Museum of American History
Constitution Avenue, between 12th and 14th streets N.W.
WHO: David Copperfield, Illusionist
David J. Skorton, Secretary, Smithsonian Institution
Anthea M. Hartig, Elizabeth MacMillan Director, National Museum
of American History
Mark Koumans, deputy director, USCIS
On Flag Day, June 14, in a one-of-a-kind specially created illusion, David Copperfield will attempt to “find the missing 15th star” during an event centered on the 205-year-old flag located at the heart of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. It precedes a ceremony in which 14 candidates for naturalization will take their Oaths of Allegiance and receive their American citizenship. Joining in welcoming the new citizens will be Skorton, Hartig, Koumans and Copperfield.
Following the Naturalization Ceremony, Smithsonian and USCIS leaders and 14 newly naturalized American citizens will join the Cardinal Shehan School Student Choir from Baltimore as they perform the National Anthem in the museum’s Flag Hall for the American public. The National Museum of American History is home to the Star-Spangled Banner, the flag Francis Scott Key saw flying over Baltimore’s Fort McHenry in 1814 when he penned the words that would become the national anthem.
Note: Media must RSVP by emailing Laura Duff at duffl@si.edu.
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