Initiative Description:
This program is presented as part of the Korean Performing Arts Initiative, a vibrant series dedicated to showcasing the dynamic range and rich heritage of Korean performing arts. Through concerts, theatrical productions, masterclasses, and interdisciplinary collaborations, the Initiative brings both traditional and contemporary Korean artistic expressions to diverse audiences at the University of Michigan and beyond.
At the heart of the Initiative is the philosophy of "Pan." Drawing inspiration from the traditional Korean concept of "판 (pan)"—a lively, fluid, and participatory stage—PANx reimagines the relationship between artist and audience, making each event an interactive and transformative experience. With a focus on extension, expansion, and crossing, Pan breaks down boundaries between genres, disciplines, and traditions. Ultimately, it aspires to create a sense of harmony—한마당 (“hanmadang,” meaning a big, open, borderless space)—where diverse perspectives and voices come together, opening new ground for experimentation, shared storytelling, and cultural innovation in the performing arts.
We are grateful to the Arts Initiative, the School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and the Center for World Performance Studies at the University of Michigan for making this event possible through their generous support and collaboration.
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Past and upcoming KPAI events:
Past
Upcoming
- Nov 22, 2025: Nonan: A Sonic Collage of Korean Traditions and European Classics
- Feb 11, 2026: Sangjaru
- March 24, 2026: Lecture-recital by Moon-sook Park and Matt Thompson
- March, 2026: Jazz Interpretation of Han Kang's Literary Works by Lisa Sung
- April 2026 : Live Korean music performance on the Diag by Sunhong Kim and Hilary Finchum-Sung
- Date TBD: Music composition and performance using AI technology by Julie Zhu
