In February 2018, SIP extended its mission beyond prison walls with Shakespeare Reclaimed, a post-release extension developed in collaboration with ensemble members. This program provides the mentorship, accountability, and opportunities for personal and professional growth that SIP alums need to succeed as they return to their communities seeking productive activities and employment.

Overwhelmingly, SIP ensemble members talk about the desire to prove that they are a force for good in the world. Through Shakespeare Reclaimed, Shakespeare in Prison staff are pleased to support them in their efforts to become not just contributing members of society, but to make substantial contributions to the culture of their communities and the state.

Participation in Shakespeare Reclaimed is scalable—from simply keeping in touch with SIP staff to carefully designed, structured projects—and individually tailored to align with each participant’s unique circumstances.

Shakespeare Reclaimed offers connections with fellow SIP alumni, as well as with the broader arts and nonprofit communities. SIP alumni have collaborated with SIP staff on a variety of projects, including our groundbreaking book and a series of short films.

Participants in Shakespeare Reclaimed have achieved many successes thus far. These include:

• Full-time employment in a variety of fields (often supported by job references from SIP staff)

• One individual’s founding of a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (a multi-year process supported by intensive mentoring from SIP staff)

• Conference and webinar presentations with SIP staff

• Journeyman partnerships with professional theatres and artists

Our ensemble members talk all the time about the home they’ve found in our circle. We're hoping to welcome everyone home again — but this time on the outside.

"Being able to stay in contact with the facilitators post-release has really been the difference between having to leave the lessons of SIP on the inside—and actually allowing it to come with you and live outside of the facility and become a part of your life." - Shakespeare Reclaimed Participant