Good morning, Lawrence.

Theatre Lawrence opens its 2026 season with Pirates!

The Penzance Musical—a New Orleans-set musical comedy—beginning Sept. 11 at 4660 Bauer Farm Drive; it runs Sept. 11-13 and Sept. 17-20 with a free post-show talkback after the Sept. 13 matinee.

KU is hosting its second annual Falling into AI Summit from Sept.

22-24 with leaders from Google, Amazon, and Apple discussing AI's role in teaching, healthcare, and research at the Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center. Community members can register online for keynote talks, breakout sessions and lab tours.

KU doctoral candidate Abisola Akínsìkù published an article Friday, Aug.

28 examining Nollywood films—such as Aníkúlápó—that show growing female empowerment while still reflecting deep-rooted patriarchal stereotypes in Nigeria.

The KU School of Architecture & Design will host seven leading artists as part of its Fall 2026 Design Professional Lecture Series, which runs from Sept.

3 to Dec. 3 at 3140 Wescoe Hall. The free lectures offer design insights for students and the public.

On Aug. 23 at the Burge Union, the University Honors Program held its 70th (anniversary) convocation by awarding two faculty members and a student for notable contributions; program director Sarah Crawford-Parker highlighted a long tradition and the opportunities available for first-year honors students.

After using a donated ping pong table during the FIFA World Cup, the Algerian national soccer team signed it at their hotel in Lawrence.

The table is now permanently displayed at East Lawrence Recreation Center — a keepsake of their visit.