Performing Shakespeare in a Wisconsin prison, incarcerated actors gain therapeutic benefits

What is it about?

This article provides a brief history of 27 years of theatre practice in a Wisconsin prison, with a focus on The Shakespeare Prison Project (2004 - present). The author, and lead facilitator of this work, explains how incarcerated actors create a "community of practice" dedicated to personal growth, community-building, and social change, Detailed stories from the actors' journals show how these goals are addressed in moment-to-moment interactions throughout the process. The author concludes by reflecting on new directions for the evolution of the project.

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Photo by mostafa meraji on Unsplash

Photo by mostafa meraji on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This is an important update on a well-known prison theatre program. New stories are shared, and for the first time, the author makes explicit connections to drama therapy.

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