Presented by Shakespeare in Prison and the U-M PCAP Linkage Community
Detroit, July 25, 2023 - Shakespeare in Prison and the University of Michigan’s Prison Creative Arts Project’s Linkage Community are thrilled to announce the upcoming performance In & On Our Own Terms, a powerful collaboration between these two organizations. This event, which will take place on August 19 and 20, will feature artists sharing stories from their own experience that might not typically be part of the broader narrative about mass incarceration. In & On Our Own Terms will not define any artist by the experience of having been incarcerated; rather, it will amplify stories that only these artists can tell—stories that are important to the artists to tell, and an opportunity to use the medium of theatre to share them with the community.
In & On Our Own Terms will feature an array of performance pieces by members of SIP’s and PCAP’s post-release programs, Shakespeare Reclaimed and the Linkage Community. Audiences can expect a diverse range of artistic expressions, including spoken word, monologues, poetry, music, movement, and more. Each artist will illuminate a personal and authentic glimpse into the lived experiences of those impacted by the criminal legal system, offering powerful and nuanced perspectives that challenges preconceived notions.
By amplifying the voices of those directly affected by the criminal legal system, In & On Our Own Terms seeks to break down stereotypes, humanize individuals, and foster empathy and understanding within the community. Through the power of first-person narratives, this event provides an opportunity for audiences to engage with stories that are often marginalized or overlooked. The personal accounts shared on stage offer a profound insight into the realities, struggles, triumphs, and resilience of individuals whose experiences are often silenced.
Attendees of In & On Our Own Terms will not only witness exceptional performances but also play an active role in supporting a community that is often relegated to the margins of society. By attending and engaging with these personal narratives, audiences can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding mass incarceration.
SIP and PCAP are proud to present In & On Our Own Terms as a unique opportunity for artistic expression, dialogue, and community building. This event underscores the power of storytelling and the importance of amplifying voices that are often unheard. By supporting and attending In & On Our Own Terms, the community can join forces in creating a more inclusive and empathetic society.
Performances will take place at Detroit Public Theatre on August 19 at 7:00pm and August 20 at 3:00pm.
This event is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome, at the door, but not expected.
Those who are interested in attending can give event organizers a heads up by visiting https://tinyurl.com/3cw974sb.
Media Contact: Leah Hill, Marketing Manager - Detroit Public Theatre, [email protected], (313) 575-0066
About Shakespeare in Prison: Shakespeare in Prison empowers incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people to reconnect with their humanity and that of others; to reflect on their past, present, and future; and to gain the confidence, self-esteem, and crucial skills they need to heal and positively impact their communities. Through a combination of working on the play and collaborating with each other, the SIP experience aids ensemble members in the positive development of their narrative identities. They discover new ways of defining themselves and moving through the world, as well as goals—personal and professional—that they previously would not have dreamed of. SIP’s alumni are proving this development does not end when they are released from prison. Many are in touch with SIP staff—the same mentors who supported them while they were incarcerated—through our post-release extension, Shakespeare Reclaimed, which provides opportunities for personal and professional development. To learn more about Shakespeare in Prison, please visit https://www.detroitpublictheatre.org/shakespeareinprison.
About The Prison Creative Arts Project: The Prison Creative Arts Project (PCAP) brings together individuals impacted by the justice system with the University of Michigan community for artistic collaboration and growth. Through various programs and initiatives, PCAP aims to create transformative experiences, support personal development, and foster positive change. The Linkage Community is an alliance of artists with lived experiences in prison interested in deepening their craft in spaces of radical acceptance and authentic connections. Through professional development and artistic workshops, a creative peer-support network, and opportunities to exhibit and perform, Linkage connects with community allies to maximize the impact of the arts and the artists.To learn more about PCAP’s Linkage Community, please visit https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/pcap-linkage/.
