NCJ Number
75780
Journal
Drama Review Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1976) Pages: 31-42
Date Published
1976
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Four prison theater programs are described and their effects on inmates highlighted.
Abstract
In the New Jersey correctional system, the Cell Block Theatre's Crucial Bridge-Gap Therapy project is a full-time, 4-month, ex-inmate program which aims to change the attitudes of persons with histories of criminal activity. Participants in the program's New York studios receive a weekly stipend and instruction in dance therapy, speech, the use of video equipment, and the technical aspects of theater. Since many offenders already exhibit spontaneous reactions, the acting workshops focus on teaching them to hesitate and to articulate verbally what they mean and feel. Each improvisation contains a conflict that cannot be resolved through the use of violence, calling the police, or walking away. The Theatre for the Forgotten, which works in the New York City area, conducts workshops and provides plays for inmates. Professional performers develop variety routines from material submitted by offenders in writing workshops. Program staff believe that participation in play production has a beneficial effect on inmates' sense of self-worth and on their interpersonal relations, while also providing an opportunity for the release of tension. The Street Theatre operates in the New York State correctional system. Inmate workshops meet for 10 to 12 hours per week and mount productions after 16 weeks. A professional repertory company has developed out of one such workshop. Finally, the Guthrie Theatre in Minnesota aims to set up ongoing workshops in acting, playwriting, and the technical aspects of theater. Participants are available for touring productions. Such programs have resulted in greatly reduced recidivism rates and prison rule infractions. Photographs are included. A reference list is not provided.