Katy Perry performs at White House dinner

Katy Perry entertained guests at a dinner at The White House in Washington, D.C. on Thursday (31Jul14) to celebrate the 46th anniversary of the Special Olympics.

The Dark Horse hitmaker performed several of her songs in front of members of the sports organisation, which trains children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Ahead of her set, President Barack Obama said, "I love Katy Perry. She is just a wonderful person... I've just met her mom and now I know why she is such a wonderful person, but I just want everybody to know she is on tour right now and so, for her to take time out to do this, is really special and we really want to say thank you to her for doing this."

Perry shared her excitement on Instagram.com, writing, "What an incredibly beautiful evening being invited to sing at the White House... tonight to celebrate these incredibly inspiring men & women. I see them beyond their obstacles. I hope you can join me."

Stevie Wonder and tennis ace Andy Roddick and his actress wife Brooklyn Decker also attended the gala.