In response to requests from U.S. diplomatic embassies, the Cultural Programs Division recruits American Cultural Specialists to work at cultural institutions abroad for residencies of ten days to six weeks. They conduct workshops and master classes, present seminars, or deliver lecture, as required. The specialists also may direct an American theater production or conduct American musical scores with local orchestras.
Performances are possible if workshops and master classes are a major part of the schedule.
The American Cultural Specialist program enables Americans to develop lasting relationships with specific culutral institutions abroad, through intensive interaction with foreign counterparts over an extended period. Functioning as more than a performer or traditional teacher, specialists are expected to impart a combination of pratical and theoretical expertise in their fields. This program, developed in close cooperation with a U.S. embassy and the host-country cultural institution, is designed to introduce counterparts to American artistic techniques and cultural values. Cultural Specialists are selected upon receipt of requests from U.S. embassies abroad. Each request is judged on its relevance to the embassies' overall objectives.