Hiner, Johnson Receive New Minowa Players Scholarships

Decorah Vikings win, City Council votes, New Referenda on the ballot — we're the one telling Decorah's story. Donate now. DECORAH — New Minowa Players (NMP) has announced its 2026 scholarship recipients: Mikayla Hiner and Caleb Johnson. Both recently graduated from Decorah High School and plan to attend Luther College in the fall. Since 1990, New Minowa Players Community Theatre has awarded scholarships to area graduating high school and homeschooled students planning to attend an accredited college or vocational school. Selection criteria include previous involvement in theater and an intent to continue that involvement in the future. Hiner has performed in many NMP productions since fifth grade. She was recognized for outstanding achievement in a principal role by the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards for her performance as Roxie Hart in "Chicago: Teen Edition" with Decorah High School. Among other music, speech and theater awards, she received Best Supporting Actor in a Musical from the Iowa Community Theatre Association in March for her role as Edith in NMP's "The Pirates of Penzance." She will appear in NMP's upcoming production of "Into the Woods" as Little Red Riding Hood and plans to participate in future Luther College productions. Johnson has been involved with NMP since middle school, as well as music, speech and theater at Decorah High School. Most recently, he performed in last summer's "The Pirates of Penzance." He plans to pursue theater and music opportunities at Luther and hopes to continue participating in NMP productions. Johnson and Hiner both performed at the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards showcase May 28 after Decorah High School's "Chicago: Teen Edition" received Outstanding Musical Production and Outstanding Achievement for an Ensemble. Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.