Faculty Spotlights

This episode of WDIY's Influence Unplugged: Celebrating Black Legacy features Kashi Johnson, theatre professor, director, and artist, sharing how her journey from studying computer science to pursuing theatre transformed her understanding of what's possible. From the importance of representation in the arts to bringing underrepresented stories, including her new work "The House That Will Not Stand," Johnson explores the role theatre can play in deepening understanding, connection, and community.

Lehigh Theatre champions academic diversity through student-led productions and class opportunities.

When theatregoers see a set designed by Lehigh associate professor of theatre Will Lowry, they’re seeing the result of a creative journey.

In the early hours of May 13, 1862, Robert Smalls and a crew composed of fellow slaves, stole a cotton steamer in Charleston, SC, picked up family members at a rendezvous point, then navigated their way through the harbor. Once clear of the harbor and outside of Confederate waters, he had his crew surrendered his ship to the blockading Union fleet. Smalls would later go on to serve five terms in the US House of Representatives. His amazing life was depicted in an October world premiere production of Finding Freedom, The Journey of Robert Smalls, at the Gaillard Center in Charleston, with media design by Joseph Amodei.