This summer, two Miami University theatre majors get to realize their dreams of the future for free.

Sophomore with a double major in English: creative writing Colton Wolf and sophomore double major with art and architecture history Lexi Mangrum-Prokopiof received the Undergraduate Summer Scholars award for their active research projects. The 9-week, financially-covered program will allow the students to learn through mentorship and working on-the-scene.

Associate professor of theater Dr. Ann Elizabeth Armstrong will advise them both. Mangrum-Prokopiof took her theatre history class beforehand, after which Armstrong reached out to introduce the opportunity to her. Wolf applied for a grant through the Western Program using studies in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

Wolf titled his project “Bridging American Divides: Rural, Working Class and Appalachian Methods in Community-Based Theater” and study multiracial collaborations in making community-based theater.. As a lifetime resident of Appalachia with prior understanding, he wants to draw attention to the working class’ culture and theatre making.. He plans to focus Appalachian and working class communities..

Inspiration struck for Mangrum-Prokopiof when she saw a painting of a female court jester at an exhibition near her home in Denver. Having never considered that possibility before, she pursued knowledge more about women’s evolution in comedy. Besides earning the credit for her Honors experience, Mangrum-Prokopiof said she looks forward to exploring more dramaturgy, curatorialism and theatre planning.

Her stipend will go toward traveling to San Francisco for a performance and design conference. Wolf allocated his to attend theatre workshops and in-person interviews in Appalachia. They both start around June. 

Wolf will most likely turn his research into a word press website to disseminate it to others in Southwest Ohio who want to bring communities together through theatre.  He will create a resource site of methods and examples.. Mangrum-Prokopiof will submit hers as a paper for adjudication and feedback at her conference. 

Until summer comes, the two students cooperate closely with Armstrong who helps them edit their writing and provides sources and support.

“[Armstrong] knew I had a very strong passion for art history,” Mangrum-Prokopiof said. “After we delved into a feminist project in her class, I went up to her and told her I was super interested.”

Armstrong also meets with Wolf biweekly to discuss his efforts.

“She helped me find the ‘why now’ and a connection with Miami because she’s so knowledgeable about Appalachian theater,” Wolf said. “She helped me be a self-representative.”