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Shakespeare in Prison: affecting health and wellbeing

Emma Marie Heard (based at the School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia)
Allyson Mutch (Senior Lecturer, based at the School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia)
Lisa Fitzgerald (Lecturer, based at the School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia)
Rob Pensalfini (Senior Lecturer, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia)

International Journal of Prisoner Health

ISSN: 1744-9200

Article publication date: 23 September 2013

645

Abstract

Purpose

This research aimed to investigate the impacts of the Queensland Shakespeare Ensemble Prison Project (QSEPP) on the health and wellbeing of participants, specifically with regard to social support.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with prisoners participating in the project to gain insight into perceived sense of support within the QSEPP and across the prison context more broadly.

Findings

The QSEPP encouraged participants to foster a range of support networks through the development of relationships built on trust, respect and shared experiences. Participants also developed communication skills which may assist with establishing and maintaining supportive relationships inside and outside of prison.

Research limitations/implications

This research highlights the inevitable challenges for researchers working within the prison context, including: correctional services’ limitations, time and space restrictions and small sample sizes. This research offers some potentially innovative ways to combat such challenges.

Practical implications

The study highlights the potential of theatre-based interventions in the prison context and their role in fostering social support and enhancing wellbeing.

Social implications

The research explores the potential role theatre may play in improving the health and wellbeing of a disadvantaged and marginalised group, providing skills to enhance access to supportive networks inside and outside prison.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge this is the first research of its kind and provides valuable insights into the role that theatre may play in fostering social support in the prison context.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

We would like to acknowledge the Queensland Shakespeare Ensemble, for their ongoing support, without which this research would not have been possible. We would further like extend our thanks to Curt Tofteland, founder of Shakespeare Behind Bars, for his ongoing support and guidance.

Citation

Marie Heard, E., Mutch, A., Fitzgerald, L. and Pensalfini, R. (2013), "Shakespeare in Prison: affecting health and wellbeing", International Journal of Prisoner Health, Vol. 9 No. 3, pp. 111-123. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPH-03-2013-0013

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2013, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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