Each question brought forth an anecdote about identity. The stories ranged from senior Sam Carlson’s experiences with expectations for his hairstyle to junior Isabella LaBlanc’s struggles with Native American stereotypes.

“I thought it would be scary [to share my monologue in front of everyone], but it was nice. Hopefully it will make people think more before they talk,” Common Ground member senior Ellis Evans said.

In the end, Common Ground‘s performance at an Upper School assembly on April 15 received a standing ovation. The performance was initially created last winter for eighth grade students to help them transition into the Upper School. The group had presented to faculty, too, and a positive reception had brought them to a bigger audience. The monologues were written and performed with the help of Penumbra Theatre Company. “[They] were a guiding force for us. They basically helped edit our pieces and organize the presentation,” Evans said.

“It’s really a chance for Common Ground, a kind of unknown group, to try to put its name on the map and show the purpose of the group and the things that we want to accomplish together,” Common Ground member senior Jared Mosher said.