Second language studies on Korean language have noticeably increased over the last decade due to the development of Korean education in the U.S. Despite the fact that the majority of Korean classes are enrolled in by Korean heritage learners, the growth of non-heritage learners is also a noticeable trend. Most of the studies available have focused on the acquisition of either Korean heritage learners or on the acquisition of Korean as a second language.

Hong Kong-based intercultural theater specialist Danny Yung, winner of numerous international awards and founder of the performance group Zuni Icosahedron, will visit the University of Pittsburgh on September 20-22, 2010 accompanied by rising Chinese kunqu opera star Xiao Xiangping. They will present a public lecture on Chinese opera and intercultural theater on the evening of Wednesday, September 22, 8-10 p.m. in the Graduate School of Public Health Auditorium in Parran Hall, with clips of performances that Yung has directed worldwide.

The main theme of this presentation is to consider the meaning of spaces defined by gilded folding screens.

A gilded folding screen is a screen for which gold is used as the background, and on which in many cases flowers and/or birds with seasonal landscape are depicted. It was regarded as an important gift and export from Japan to China and Korea; although the form of the folding screen itself originated in China, the gold background was unique to Japan.

Chinese opera performance workshop with Xiao Xiangping in the Charity Randall Theater on the Pitt campus - free but registration required. To register, e-mail Dr. Katherine Carlitz at kcarlitz@pitt.edu. Include your name, school or professional affiliation, and a phone number and e-mail address where you can be reached. Non-theater students are also welcome.

The Mathew B. Ridgway Center for International Security Studies at Pitt, in conjunction with the Asian Studies Center and the U.S. Army War College, will host a two-day conference on Sept. 16 and 17 entitled 'Violent Armed Groups: A Global Challenge.' This conference will explore the challenges posed by violent armed groups to security and stability in many parts of the world. While some of these challenges seem to be in areas peripheral to U.S. interests, others involve strategic areas, while yet others raise questions about the security of the global commons.

Medicine Buddha Puja

HEINZ CHAPEL

TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 7:00 P.M.

You are welcome to submit dedications for health and healing.

Lama Chopa Celebration

CHATHAM UNIVERSITY

CAMPBELL MEMORIAL CHAPEL

SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 4:00 P.M.

Presented by the Nationality Room Committee and Pittsburg's Indian Community.

Assemble at 11:30 a.m. on Bigelow Boulevard in front of the Cathedral of Learning. Celebration will include a parade around the Cathedral and a flag hoisting, followed by music, dance, food, and more!