State Department cancels Andrew W.K.'s party-promoting trip to Bahrain

UPDATE: In heartbreaking news for party lovers everywhere, the State Department of Party Poopers has canceled Andrew W.K.'s trip to Bahrain, saying that the musician had never officially been designated a "cultural ambassador." A State Department spokesperson told Brokelyn that “the program was canceled because it did not meet the standards of the State Department.”

The rep said that embassies often invite artists to perform or participate in cultural exchange activities, but that the State Department had decided not to approve W.K.'s trip to Bahrain.

Andrew is pretty heartbroken himself:

ORIGINAL POST: Who says international relations has to be stuffy? Andrew W.K., the musician best known for a bloody-faced 2001 album cover and a commitment to partying hard, will represent the United States in an official capacity as a "cultural ambassador" to the Middle East. Andrew W.K.'s website explains the mission:

The US Department of State in partnership with the US Embassy in Manama, Bahrain, has invited Andrew to visit the Middle East to promote partying and positive power. In the tradition of the American Jazz Ambassadors who traveled the world in the mid 20th century as examples of American culture and spirit, Andrew has been invited by the State Department to travel to the Middle Eastern country of Bahrain and share his music and partying with the people there. Andrew will begin his journey sometime in December, 2012 and will visit elementary schools, the University of Bahrain, music venues, and more, all while promoting partying and world peace.

Here's what Andrew had to say about the appointment:

This is a tremendous invitation. I'm very thankful to the Department of State for giving me the opportunity to visit a place I've never been before. I feel very privileged and humbled by the chance to represent the United States of America and show the good people of Bahrain the power of positive partying. I can hardly wait for this adventure!

Andrew W.K., a fearless crusader for partying and good times, confirmed his appointment via Twitter and reasserted his commitment to world peace.

For a taste of Bahrain's impending good times, here's Andrew delivering a motivational speech to bronies at a My Little Pony convention in Ohio in October.

Good luck, Bahrain.

[Pitchfork]