President Obama And First Lady Michelle Obama Set To Speak At SXSW

Add these names to the list of emerging artists and musicians: President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama are set to speak at this year’s South by Southwest festival in Austin, Tex. President Obama will appear March 11 as part of a Keynote Conversation at SXSW Interactive, while the First Lady will deliver the opening keynote at SXSW Music on March 16.

SXSW FESTIVAL WITH PRESIDENT OBAMA AND MICHELLE OBAMA

The visit from the President and his First Lady will mark the first time in 30 years that a current President and First Lady have spoken.

The President will be interviewed byTexas Tribune editor-in-chief Evan Smith for a discussion about civic engagement in the 21st century. The duo will also discuss the effects of the changing climate and take questions from a panel.

“I can’t imagine a better way to celebrate our event’s 30th birthday than to welcome both the president and first lady to SXSW,” SXSW Co-founder Roland Swenson said in a statement. “As each new generation comes up at SXSW they look for ways they can be of service, and it’s important to reflect and support that message. President and Mrs. Obama’s visit here will inspire attendees to that purpose.”

Smith tweeted the announcement: “Now it can be told: I will interview @barackobama at @sxsw on Friday 3/11”

The First Lady will head the SXSW music portion to talk about her Let Girls Learn initiative. She will also be in town to catch catch from Charli XCX, Thee Oh Sees, Kacey Musgraves, Mercury Rev and hundreds more.