Performing New Lives draws together some of the most original and innovative programs in contemporary prison theatre. Leading prison theatre directors and practitioners discuss the prison theatre experience first-hand, and offer valuable insights into its role, function, and implementation. A wide range of prison theatre initiatives are discussed, from long-running, high-profile programs such as Curt Tofteland's "Shakespeare Behind Bars" in LaGrange, Kentucky, to fledgling efforts like Jodi Jinks' "ArtsAloud" project in Austin, Texas. The book offers unique insights into the many dimensions of the prison theatre experience, including: negotiating the rules and restrictions of the prison environment; establishing trust, teaching performance skills and managing crises; building relationships and dealing with conflicts; and negotiating public performances and public perceptions. Excerpts of interviews with inmates, and a conversation between practitioners in the final chapter, reveal the impact that prison theatre programs have on the performers themselves, as well as audience members, and the wider community. Exploring prison theatre processes and theory with insights into how it works in practice, and how to replicate it, this book is essential reading for drama therapists, theatre artists, and prison educators, as well as academics.

When large numbers of people begin to disappear worldwide, the Christian Right assumes that the Divine Rapture is underway. A mysterious man with knee-length locks appears at the New York Stock Exchange, announces that he's Jesus, and hundreds of brokers vanish. Most Christians and the US government are sure he is a terrorist. But from the US prison in Guantanamo to Vatican City, from Huntsville's death row to the catacombs beneath New York City, small groups of people begin to piece together what is actually happening and uncover a truth that will possibly save humanity. What is that truth? Nothing you've ever heard even comes close.