Engaged Theatre Residencies

Robin Lynn Smith, the Artistic Director at Freehold Theatre, created an extraordinary program in 2003.  The Engaged Theatre program tours theatrical performances and workshops to culturally under-served populations.  Additionally, Freehold facilitates an annual residency at three separate Washington Corrections facilities, in which we enable the participants to write, direct, rehearse, and perform their own show in a five-month period. Residencies guide participants through the creation of an original performance based on an exploration of the archetypal hero’s journey. Participants invite their peers, friends and family to watch thier performance at the culmination of the residency.

During the weeks of generative work, the participants of the three residencies will be guided through many writing exercises and in the process tell their stories, create new stories and write their own poetry. The writings are compiled into a bound book and these are given to the inmates, their families and Freehold supporters who are interested in this project.

Washington Corrections Center for Women
Teaching Artists: Robin Lynn Smith, Beverly Ann Thompson, Dickey Nessenger
Volunteers: Joy Easley, Zoe Fitzgerald, Jessica Robinson, Xan Scott, Nathania tenWolde, Orion Baker

Monroe Correctional Complex for Men
Teaching Artists: Daemond Arrindell, Carter Rodriquez, George L. Lewis

Echo Glen Children’s Detention Center
Teaching Artists: Beverly Ann Thompson, Daemond Arrindell, Carter Rodriquez