Evaluation Title

Fair!: An evaluation of a Music in Prisons and National Youth Theatre collaboration at HMPYOI Bullwood Hall

Type of evaluation

Data type Qualitative

Evaluation Focus Distinctive contribution of Arts, Impact of arts-based approaches, Participation, Skills development

Key indicators Attitudinal change, Behavioural change, Engagement, ETE - Education Training Employment, Impact on Institution, Relationships with staff

Project outputs Arts-based workshops, Performances

Methodologies Diaries, Focus Groups, Interviews, Observation, Questionnaires

Research limitations Control Groups, Quantitative research

Summary of evaluation

Fair is an evaluation of a collaborative project between Music in Prisons and the National Youth Theatre. The project involved the creation of an original piece of music theatre devised and performed by 19 women. This report summarises the immediate effects of the project and the results of evaluation and tracking over a 24- month period.

It identifies the sequences of curiosity, involvement and acceptance that partiicpants experience through participation in MiP projects.

Project description

In May 2004 an original music theatre production entitled ‘Fair’ was the result of an intensive period of workshops, rehearsals and a production.  Within just three weeks a mixed group of women prisoners and young offenders had signed up for, what was for most, a completely new creative experience. 18 women and young offenders successfully completed an intensive music, drama and dance project, culminating in three performances of an original piece of music theatre. Audience figures exceeded 200, consisting of fellow inmates, family members, prison staff, friends and supporters of ITT and NYT, members of the judiciary and local dignitaries.  

Key Quote

The evidence amassed to date points overwhelmingly to the fact that in introducing inmates to new opportunities there is a demonstrable need to provide an on-going programme of activities at Bullwood Hall in order to capitalise on these new-found skills and personal confidence.


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