During my years of practise within the criminal justice system, I have witnessed how theatre offers significant benefits for rehabilitation and personal development. Theatre aids individuals to explore emotions, develop empathy, and engage in constructive self-expression. This creative outlet fosters critical thinking, self-esteem, and communication skills, essential for reintegration into society. Theatre can also be therapeutic, helping to process experiences and emotions in a controlled, safe environment. By encouraging collaboration and teamwork, theatre builds a sense of community and responsibility among participants, improving mental health, helping to overcome addictions, and ultimately, reducing the risk of reoffending. This approach not only benefits the individuals involved, but also contributes to a safer and more understanding society.
This extremely rewarding line of work has taken me to deliver workshops, devise and direct plays with offenders and ex-offenders, within a variety of settings, including prisons like HMP Thameside, HMP Portland, HMP Guys Marsh and HMP Dovegate. I have also worked with ex-offenders in collaboration with organisations such as Clean Break, Synergy Theatre Project, Unlock Drama and Shaw Trust.