From campus to curtain: Gallaudet students intern with A Strange Loop

This summer, three Gallaudet students are diving deep into the vibrant, dynamic world of professional theatre as interns with A Strange Loop, a co-production by Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) and Deaf Austin Theatre (DAT). This groundbreaking musical — with its fearless exploration of the Black, queer, and overweight experience — runs in Washington, D.C., from July 23 to August 10 at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, then continues in Austin, Texas, at the Long Center for the Performing Arts.

August Bird (Class of 2026), Courtney Bronson (Class of 2025), and Danyeal Davis (Class of 2025) — Theatre Arts majors at Gallaudet University — are using this internship as a chance to step beyond the classroom to explore the ins and outs of professional theatre.

August, the prop master for A Strange Loop, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously stage managed and led props for several Gallaudet Theatre productions, including Autocorrect Thinks I’m Dead and Meat Expectations.

“My role in this internship has been very similar to what I’ve done with Gallaudet Theatre,” August said. “Gallaudet prepared me well for working in the real world, but every company functions differently. It’s been great meeting so many different theatre professionals and working on a show that centers the story of a queer person. It’s amazing being in the room with so many queer artists.”

Through this internship, Danyeal and Courtney are gaining hands-on experience in various backstage roles—from managing costumes and assisting electricians to supporting the stage management team—all while learning how collaboration drives a production forward.

For Courtney, who has primarily worked onstage until now, stepping behind the scenes has been a whole new adventure. “It’s been fabulous working with everyone,” she said. “Each person brings so much pizzazz to the table and gives me uniquely different insights into the theatre industry. The connections I’m building through this opportunity are something I’ll always be grateful for.”

The connections aren’t just about networking. This production has a strong sense of community. Everyone—actors, interns, the creative team, stage management, and even the interpreters—have seen each other in raw moments, from emotional breakthroughs in character work to goofy vocal warmups.

Danyeal is also expanding her backstage skills. “I’ve learned a lot about backstage work and costumes through this internship,” they said. “It’s taught me to think outside the box and stay quick on my feet during the show. The learning never stops—there’s always something new.”

There’s always something new to learn—like marking out the set on the floor with tape, keeping track of where actors move, organizing scores and scripts, or helping manage props and costumes.

This internship gives August, Courtney, and Danyeal firsthand experience in how complex and collaborative theatre truly is. They’re gaining experience working across departments, especially with the stage management team. Under the guidance of stage manager Sarah Poole and assistant stage managers Jason Eastman and Katie Lloyd, the interns are developing skills in managing cues, tracking details, and staying organized.

As the interns gain a better understanding of the backstage process, they’re also seeing how innovation and leadership shape the production from the top down. At the forefront is director and choreographer Alexandria Wailes, whose vision guides the process and the team. Director of Artistic Sign Language Kailyn Aaron-Lozano, G-’20 & G-’21, also plays a crucial role, helping shape the visual storytelling of the piece.

This kind of hands-on learning is only possible because of the production’s openness to collaboration and mentorship. Interning with this production has given students the chance to build connections across departments — such as learning from the costume designer, working with the electrician, or coordinating with the stage managers. The fast-paced environment challenges the interns to speak up for themselves and ask questions whenever they need clarification or more support in learning a new skill. Each student is beginning to find their niche: Danyeal gravitates toward electrics, Courtney explores costume design, and August grows more adept in the role of props master. These moments of discovery are shaping how they see their future in theatre.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit:

• VOCA – A Strange Loop
• DAT – A Strange Loop

This internship would not have been possible without the unwavering support and guidance of Gallaudet University Theatre and Dance professors Ethan Sinnott, Annie Wiegand, E-’99, and Monique “MoMo” Holt. If you’re interested in learning more about the program, visit Gallaudet University Theatre and Dance or follow them on Instagram.