Nebraska Public Media events highlighted the power of storytelling to preserve history and inspire creativity through community-focused cultural experiences.
Nebraska Stories Highlights Community and Cultural Resilience
A free preview screening of Rescuing Japanese Hall, part of our local series Nebraska Stories, drew 164 guests to the historic Midwest Theater in Scottsbluff on May 6.
It highlighted the grassroots efforts of Nebraskans of Japanese heritage to save the historic Japanese Hall – culminating in its relocation to the Legacy of the Plains Museum. It also explored the enduring legacy of Fr. Hiram Kano, a Japanese immigrant whose dedicated service to Nebraska still resonates today.
Attendees took part in a panel and shared reflections about the program’s impact, including Senator John and Rita Stinner who said, “What a triumph! The remarkable strength, pride and history of the Japanese Americans was captured perfectly in Rescuing Japanese Hall, offering a glimpse into all that is Western Nebraska.”
This event demonstrates how public media connects storytelling, history and community partnerships to celebrate Nebraska’s rich cultural tapestry
Nebraska Audiences Engage with Art, Technology and Lifelong Learning
Nebraska Public Media partnered with The Joslyn in Omaha and Sheldon Museum of Art in Lincoln to create two innovative public events – attended by more than 800 people – exploring the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci and how artificial intelligence is impacting the future of art.
In Omaha, a discussion highlighted da Vinci’s enduring influence and the evolution of technology in art. In Lincoln, audiences experienced a live radio theater production co-created by members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute using generative AI, guided by artists from the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts – all based at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
The events sparked curiosity, creativity and lifelong learning that tied into the Ken Burns, Sarah Burns and David McMahon film Leonardo da Vinci.
This story comes from our 2024–2025 Annual Report, showcasing highlights from that fiscal year. Read the full report here.