Two performers who have served time in prison will have a captive audience when they take part in a new West Midlands project called Go To Jail.
It involves the pair staying in a replica prison cell built to government regulations. It has been developed by Stoke-based arts organisation Rideout which specialises in arts projects that engage the public in debate about the form and function of imprisonment.
Rideout's Saul Hewish, who co-developed the project, said, “unless you've actually served time at Her Majesty's pleasure it's hard to imagine what life is really like for those incarcerated in our overcrowded prisons. Go To Jail allows people to see the reality and hear real stories from those who've served sentences.”
Those visiting can either watch the prisoners through a window or go in the cell to chat to them. Before leaving, visitors can give their views on the prisoners’ sentences and say whether prisoners should be entitled to privileges.
Go To Jail will be open at the Library of Birmingham from Tuesday 1 March until Saturday 12 March between 11AM and 4PM. It then moves to the Shop Front Theatre, Coventry from Tuesday until Saturday, 26 to 30 April. Admission is free.