An event with a whirlwind of theater-like performances coupled with well-written, witty dialogue was last hosted by Common Ground nearly two years ago. This year, students at St. Paul Academy and Summit School will be treated to another round of monologues exploring diversity in race, religion, culture and more at school.

Junior Kathryn Schmechel, co-president of Common Ground, has fond memories of the last round of monologues. Their success among the student body played a major part in the group’s decision to continue the tradition onto this year.

“Common Ground decided to do monologues this year because we all remembered the impact the performance had on us two years ago. I personally loved the monologues, and still remember them as an impactful and powerful part of my ninth grade year,” she said.

Any student that wants to participate, even if they aren’t in Common Ground is more than welcome.

Common Ground wants to “encourage a spirit of inclusivity and diversity of experience [this year]… anyone in the school who is interested in honoring these themes [is invited] to participate,” Schmechel said.

The monologues will focus on experiences with race.

“We are focusing on the idea behind students having more to their background than might meet the eye,” Schmechel said.

Schmechel is also doing a monologue this year, and she hopes to “send a message about my personal experience with my own race and identity.”

The date for the presentation of these monologues is yet to be determined, but Common Ground hopes that the monologues will help initiate important discussions within the school.

“[We hope that] the student body reacts positively and thoughtfully, and that we can all come together to encourage having a better understanding of one another,” Schmechel said.