A surprise list of top performers will honor the group Sunday night in a show attended by President Barack Obama.
The honors recognize individuals who helped define American culture through the arts, part of a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy.
Some big names are in D.C. for the event. They gathered Saturday night for a dinner hosted by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Guests included Matthew Morrison from the hit TV show "Glee," Meryl Streep, Martin Scorsese and Jon Stewart.
Journalist Barbara Walters turned heads, arriving as actor Frank Langella's date.







