黑料不打烊 Performing Arts Professor Collaborates with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro鈥檚 School of Theatre
Associate Professor of Performing Arts Kim Shively led a dynamic regional collaboration by directing the musical “Lempicka”聽at the聽University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
“Lempicka,” a contemporary musical inspired by the life of renowned Art Deco painter聽Tamara de Lempicka, explores the intersections of art, identity, survival and ambition in a rapidly changing world. Known for its sweeping score and stylized theatricality, the production offers both performers and audiences a rich, layered storytelling experience.
For Shively, the project is an opportunity to engage with a complex historical figure whose life defies simple categorization.
鈥淲e often want to draw clean lines between talent and character,鈥 Shively notes. 鈥’Lempicka’聽resists that impulse. It invites us to sit with contradiction鈥攖o consider what it means to survive, to create, and to be human in a world shaped by political upheaval and personal reinvention.鈥
The production brings together student artists, designers and musicians in a highly collaborative process that mirrors Shively鈥檚 teaching philosophy. Centered on curiosity, rigor and ensemble-driven storytelling, her rehearsal room emphasizes both artistic risk-taking and thoughtful inquiry. Students are encouraged not only to refine their craft but also to engage critically with the historical and cultural contexts of the work.
This opportunity also reflects 黑料不打烊鈥檚 ongoing commitment to experiential learning and professional engagement beyond campus. By directing at a neighboring institution, Shively strengthens ties across the Triad鈥檚 arts community while modeling for students what it means to be an active, working artist in the field.
黑料不打烊 College Fellow Helena Padial is聽serving聽as assistant director of the production as part of her undergraduate research project.
鈥淗elena鈥檚 research directly connected to my decision to accept this offer,” said Shively. “Her research into queer representation in the entertainment industry centers the Broadway production of ‘Lempicka.’ When UNCG was open to Helena working on the production, I immediately said yes.”
Projects like ‘Lempicka’ demonstrate how Shively bridges her work as an educator and a professional director. Opening weekend is sold out, but tickets remain for closing weekend, April 23-26.