Written by Olivia

Tuesday, November 3

Tuesday, we were unable to hold session due to a WHV cancellation, which we suspect is because of Election Day!

Thursday, November 5

When we arrive on Thursday, we have a packed house! Just like last week, we have a reading spirit. As we are going to begin reading Act 4 tonight, the group sets their sights on trying to finish the script by next Thursday. Before we jump into reading, though, Sophia has one of her last documentary questions. It’s a real moment of centering and reflection for the group. Sophia asks: “What does it mean that 15 years of SIP has come before you?” The group reflects for a moment.

An ensemble member: Inspiring – it gives us hope that it doesn’t end here. 

An ensemble member: It gives me hope… it makes me proud to know something supercedes the negativity. 

An ensemble member: I feel like a trailblazer. I was in the second season, but then I had behaviour issues. When I saw Richard III, I thought – I need to stay out of trouble so I can do this. 

An ensemble member: I think this is something that I think strongly of. When we get out, we’re not supposed to see other felons for a year. So I think this program is great for people who get out so they can connect & find people they understand. For a couple of days of the year they can be together. 

An ensemble member: I think it’s legendary. It might not be something educational that the parole board looks at, but it’s something that brings joy and laughter, which is the best medicine. 

As the ensemble responds, it feels like the new members and myself as a first year facilitator get to understand how meaningful this program has been across time. Then, Sophia asks: “What does it mean that the program will continue after you leave?”

An ensemble member: Promising. The program will stay alive. 

An ensemble member: Passing the torch. I see SIP evolving into something it wasn’t. 

An ensemble member: Helping others get out of their shells. 

An ensemble member: Giving newcomers something to get them through. 

An ensemble member: It’s a reprieve from prison. You get to leave your footprint. 

An ensemble member: Shakespeare is more structured. It helps people read, write, imagine. It gives you an outlet to make you feel so much better. 

An ensemble member: It’s great to know I’m walking on the backs of others. We’ve lost things but we’ve gained things. Like we didn’t used to watch the movies. We’re still building and making it better. 

An ensemble member: Thank you for not giving up on us. 

An ensemble member: The program is only as good as the facilitators. 

After this moment of connection, it’s time to jump into reading. We make it through five scenes! The plot is certainly getting complicated, dense, and twisty. After each scene, we share what we think might be coming next.

Act 4, Scene 1

An ensemble member: I think Gloucester knows something and that’s why he asks Poor Tom to take him as a guide. Take me to the cliff – does he plan to jump? To push him off? His intentions seem eerie. 

Act 4, Scene 2

An ensemble member: They are mad at each other. He’s like – I’ll get you if you weren’t a woman, but I still might cuz you a demon! He is pissed at her. How could you do this to your father?

An ensemble member: Her husband is not privy to her plans. 

An ensemble member: They’re starting up a romance. 

An ensemble member: And what do cheaters always say? “That’s my bro” 

Act 4, Scene 3

An ensemble member: They’re talking about Cordelia’s love for her father. 

An ensemble member: He’s got a soft spot for her – Kent. 

An ensemble member: He won’t see her because he’s ashamed. 

An ensemble member: And he oughta be. He just oughta be. 

Act 4, Scene 4

An ensemble member: So she’s invading to claim her land she didn’t get. But she means well. Does she have ulterior motives? 

An ensemble member: Her sisters don’t know what they’ve gotten themselves into. 

An ensemble member: It’s a win-win. 

Act 4, Scene 5

An ensemble member: Whose side is Oswald on?

As we read, it’s getting exciting that we’re able to make these predictions and feel some of the same mystery and hesitance as the characters. What will these characters’ fates be? How will the play end? These are all questions for next week as we try to reach the last page.