UNCSA launches “The Arts & Everything,” a new podcast on the intersection of society and the arts

UNCSA has launched a new podcast, “The Arts & Everything,” exploring the intersection of society and the arts. Hosted by Chancellor Brian Cole, the podcast will examine timely issues through the lens of the arts and its future through in-depth discussions with thought leaders and arts and entertainment industry experts.

The first episode, “The Arts & Empathy,” available now on all major podcast platforms, examines the critical role the arts can play in uniting us during these divisive times. Guests include Tony-nominated actor and UNCSA Drama alumnus Stephen McKinley Henderson (“Dune,” “Fences”) and "social sculptor" Philippa Pham Hughes, whose work draws from the arts and humanities to design spaces for honest conversations across political, social and cultural differences.

From his experience on the timely film “Civil War” to performing the apartheid-era drama “The Island” by Athol Fugard in Dublin during the 1981 Irish hunger strike, Henderson provides striking personal examples of how the arts can bridge divides from his wide-ranging career.

Philippa Pham Hughes discusses her latest project, “Hey, We Need to Talk,” a “social sculpture” at the University of Michigan that features a series of interactive social events encouraging visitors “to engage in honest, courageous, common-sense discussions about civic responsibility and national identity.” She discusses the connections that can occur, even in our polarized society, when people are brought together both as part of and for an artistic experience.

Henderson returned to UNCSA in 2021 as the commencement speaker, charging graduates to “accept your role as alchemists of empathy, sorcerers of empathy, magicians of empathy. Our country needs your service, just as this state and this nation needs this secular monastery, UNCSA, of which you are now honored alumni.”

Henderson went on to say, “There is a great civility to citizens gathering in museums, concert halls, opera houses and theaters. Gathering not knowing what political or religious affiliation the person standing or seated next to them might have – each experiencing creative expression through their own personal lens…. At a live performance, joyous laughter and unexpected tears unite an audience across all divisions.”

His words inspired the inaugural podcast episode theme, which Chancellor Cole further explored in his recent blog post, “The role of art in building unity and understanding in a divided society.” Cole writes that “Art by its nature challenges people. Sometimes it makes us uncomfortable, but that discomfort can spark important conversations and even revelations within ourselves…. This is the incredible power of the arts: to take us beyond ourselves and bring us, in all our beautiful differences, closer together.”

Visit www.uncsa.edu/artsandeverything for future episodes of “The Arts & Everything.”

“The Arts & Everything” is produced in part by UNCSA alumni and faculty, including School of Design and Production alumna Maria Wurttele. Music was composed by School of Music faculty member and Filmmaking alumnus Chris Heckman and performed by André Vasconcelos, Chris Heckman, and School of Music students Miah K. Cardoza and Gabe Lopez. 

“The Arts & Everything” is a production of UNCSA Media, which is supported in part by the Thomas S. Kenan Institute for the Arts.

Stephen McKinley Henderson

Alumnus Stephen McKinley Henderson (B.F.A. ’72) is a Tony-nominated actor known for his powerful performances on stage and screen. Widely regarded for his work in August Wilson’s plays, he has built a celebrated career across theater, film and television. His credits include films like “Dune” and indie favorite “Lady Bird,” as well as the recent series “A Man on the Inside.” In 2024, he was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame.

Philippa Pham Hughes

Philippa Pham Hughes is a social sculptor, educator, speaker and writer whose work in democracy building and civic engagement bridges political, social and cultural divides. Through projects like “Looking for America” and “Hey, We Need to Talk,” she uses art and conversation to foster understanding. She has been featured on CNN, PBS Newshour and in The Washington Post. More at https://www.philippahughes.com/

Brian Cole

Since being named chancellor in 2020, Brian Cole has led UNCSA into its next era as it evolves to meet the demands of a transforming arts and entertainment landscape.  An innovative, experienced and bilingual arts leader, Cole previously served as interim chancellor since August 2019 and as dean of the School of Music since 2016. An accomplished conductor, Cole has led orchestras and operas throughout the United States, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. More at  https://www.uncsa.edu/faculty-staff/brian-cole.aspx

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