In today's society, it is unfortunately rare to turn on the television without hearing news about violence, crime, war, etc. Whether it's a breaking story on a murder investigation, an accusation of sexual assault or a local robbery down the street; this negativity surrounds us and we can't seem to escape it. Now, imagine being the suspect in these cases. Each and every day, they are reminded of the mistakes they have made and the person they have become throughout the years.
I am here to stress the fact that they are still people just like me and you. Their criminal record, their mistake, their past does not define them.
A theatre company in Los Angeles, California known as the Actor's Gang, took this topic into consideration. They initiated a way to demonstrate that any prisoner, no matter what they are in for, can get through their wicked habits when given the right tools. The funding they received has allowed them to organize a seven week program inside the California prison system, which gives inmates the chance to experience the importance of theatre in everyday life.
This program consists of many workshops that teach soon to be ex-convicts how to properly handle their emotions before being released from prison. The exercises they participate in allow them to express their anger, sadness, and regret in ways that are healthy rather than returning back to old habits. In an lifestyle with complete violence, such as gang affiliation, being tough is the only trait they acquire to survive.
Most people do not realize that under the facade they show, they are experiencing emotions of fear and grief just like anyone else. In fact, being in prison only worsens their "tough guy" act due to having to stay in an environment surrounded by such anger. If they show any sort of fear, they feel as if they become vulnerable in any situation. The makeup and costumes used in this workshop allow prisoners to become a character that remembers more sensitive emotions such as happiness and sadness, and reminds them that it is okay to feel them.
After the Actor's Gang Prison Project began in 2006, the statistics show a huge cut in reoffending rates in the state of California. Not only has this course given these inmates a chance of forgiveness, but has taught them how to properly go about their every day lives after their time behind bars. Their behaviors have changed significantly and their self-esteem has been restored, all through the power of theatre. This program has empowered these ex-convicts and reminded them that their past does not define who they are.
