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For 30 years, the Harvard Foundation has been inviting artists to preside over Cultural Rhythms, a series of student performances celebrating the diversity of Harvard’s student body. To honor her work in television, film, and philanthropy, Cultural Rhythms named Eva Longoria its 2015 Artist of the Year. Although a sudden blizzard cut Longoria’s visit short, the atmosphere inside Sanders Theater on Feb. 21 proved so warm and welcoming that several gracious people were willing to answer this Roving Reporter’s questions.

Robert Rush ’18, audience member

Roving Reporter: Suppose I say to you: I don’t think Eva Longoria is all that attractive. Am I (a) blind or (b) lying?

Robert: I would say (c), you’re lying to yourself. She’s a very beautiful woman. But [it’s] more than her…looks[.] I think that when you’ve accomplished so much, especially…in positions where you’re not really represented [or] usually marginalized—for her to have the influence that she’s had in terms of TV and philanthropy, and [to be] a spokesperson for not only her race but for where she came from…shows a deeper level of beauty.

Abdurezak Shemsu ’18, audience member

RR: Who should be next year’s Artist of the Year?

Abdurezak: A lot of names pop up, but I don’t know what would make them Artist of the Year.

RR: Maybe they just pull names out of a hat?

Abdurezak: They pull names out of a hat? Kevin Hart.

Nworah B. Ayogu ’10, Adams House resident tutor, audience member

RR: Have you been to Cultural Rhythms before?

Nworah: I have—I think six times? Seven.

RR: What’s different this time?

Nworah: The groups are…amazing every year, but there’s just a slightly higher level of energy.… I think even within the groups, they’re that much more diverse. [Mariachi Veritas] was amazing, [like] that [soloist] from Kentucky who switches from Spanish to his thick Kentucky accent in a couple minutes.