About this Event
Seating begins 6pm ~ Showtime 7pm-9pm ~ $10 ADV/$15 DOS ~ All Ages*
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The first Dead Ladies Show KC back in January was so great, we’re doing it again next month! An all-new set of deceased dames with inspiring legacies, presented by three equally amazing live ladies.
On Wednesday, April 29, join us from 7–9pm at The Ship (1221 Union Ave, Kansas City, MO 64101), in the Big Room this time, for an evening of living, laughing, loving, and libations—with a little learning thrown in. All held together by fearless emcee and your #1 fan, Molly O. Kemper.
We’ll hear about three groundbreaking Ladies of yore: a Black film producer, an Indian feminist writer, and a fashion entrepreneur whose life spanned more than a century. More info below!
THE LADIES
MARIA P. WILLIAMS (1866–1932) was a teacher, newspaper publisher and editor, political activist, and entrepreneur based in Kansas City, and is best known for being credited as the first Black woman to produce a film. As a Republican at the turn of the century, Williams was an organizer and speaker, advocating for causes like Black rights, women’s rights, suffrage, crime prevention, education, and entrepreneurship. Alongside her husband, she co-founded the Western Film Producing Company and Booking Exchange. Williams’ 1923 film The Flames of Wrath starred an entirely Black cast, making it one of the first films produced entirely by Black filmmakers.
BEGUM ROKEYA (1880–1932) was a forgotten feminist of pre-Independence India who dared to imagine a world turned upside down. Born in today’s Bangladesh, she defied tradition, taught herself languages and science, and penned essays and stories — including the daring feminist sci‑fi Sultana’s Dream. She founded girls’ schools, hosted salons, and challenged skeptics with sharp wit and fearless ideas. Rokeya’s life shows that brains, courage, and a little mischief can move mountains.
NELLY DON (Nell Donnelly Reed) (1889–1991) was an American fashion entrepreneur who founded the Nelly Don dress company in Kansas City in 1916. Frustrated by unflattering and poorly made house dresses, she began sewing practical, stylish garments for women. Her designs quickly grew in popularity and Nelly Don was one of the largest dress manufacturers in the United States during the 1920s–1940s. She employed thousands of workers and was known for progressive labor practices, including fair wages and good working conditions. In addition to creating the brand that helped redefine everyday fashion for American women, Nelly survived a kidnapping attempt in 1931 that became a national news story!
THE PRESENTERS
Sarah Biegelsen is a Special Collections Librarian and Archivist at the Kansas City Public Library. She has a Bachelor's and Master's in History and has been a dedicated Public Historian for over a decade.
Dr. Hephzibah Dutt is a scholar-artist, former theater professor, and acting coach, and the founder of Curious Nomad Coaching and Creative Solutions. A Third-Culture Kid who has lived in India, Oman, and the UAE, Hephzibah now calls Kansas City home. She firmly believes the best conversations involve good cake, cocktails, and a little K-drama.
Anna Sutton is a Kansas City local who enjoys rich conversation with friends, delightful novels and long runs. She lives with her husband and 6 children in a historic landmark home and has recently been delving deep into Kansas City's fascinating history.
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If you’re new here: The Dead Ladies Show began in Berlin and has since gone international, celebrating remarkable Ladies (F/NB) of the past through live storytelling. Each show features three presenters who dig into the lives of bold, brilliant, and sometimes scandalous Ladies who deserve to be remembered and toasted. Think history class with better lighting, a fully-stocked bar, and—exclusively in Kansas City—a full kitchen. Your evening plans? Sorted.
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A NOTE ABOUT SEATING:
All seating is first come, first served. Please plan to arrive early for the best tables.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Ship, 1221 Union Avenue, Kansas City, United States
USD 8.00 to USD 15.00
