Documentary Highlights Theatre's Role in Healing Formerly Incarcerated

Several arts initiatives highlight the transformative power of creativity in the context of incarceration and social justice. The nonprofit We Are All Criminals (WAAC) developed the Seen portrait and poetry project to amplify voices of incarcerated individuals and spark dialogue about the justice system's racial and socioeconomic disparities. Similarly, the documentary Broadway, Bars, and Fortune showcases how theatre serves as a powerful tool for healing and reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals, focusing on the work of The Fortune Society in New York City. Additionally, the Carolina Theatre in Charlotte has been revitalized after decades, embracing its haunted past with cultural events, while a Lincoln Center exhibition celebrates the rich history and significant contributions of Black artists to Broadway, emphasizing artistic resilience and cultural heritage. These projects collectively illuminate how art fosters redemption, awareness, and community connection amid complex social challenges.