The possibilities of prison theatre in Malta in the light of applied theatre research

Abstract

In 2012 a group of inmates discovered the power of their voice through When You Hear My Voice, a theatre and literacy project within YOURS1, at Corradino Correctional Facility. Despite the positive effects of this project, to date, these were not thoroughly analysed and no further programmes followed. This study will provide such an analysis and suggest ways in which the positive effects can be amplified in the future. Furthermore it will challenge and interpret the false perception by the general public that this project was not successful. Grounding the observations in theoretical knowledge and combining these with primary research on the local prison and theatre scene, the study will suggest objectives and criteria for success. The study concludes that despite having non-quantifiable criteria for success, a permanent arts programme leading to reformative justice is possible. Solutions on how a programmes s can be established will also be highlighted.