Given an opportunity, inmates can, and will, step forward on their own and make significant changes in their lives.Brian Fischer, Commissioner, NYS Department of Correctional Services

RTA believes in the profoundly rehabilitative effect that engaging in creative arts has on men and women behind bars. Through creative expression in theatre, dance, voice, writing and visual art, prisoners learn social and cognitive skills that act as a springboard to education, family reconciliation and ultimately, successful re-integration into community life.

 Who are the people incarcerated in New York State’s prisons?*

• 54.4% are convicted of nonviolent offenses
• 52% are first time felony offenders
• 33% read at 8^th grade level or below
• 82.6% have a substance abuse problem

RTA  provides the public with a glimpse of the humanity, talent and intelligence behind prison walls, so they can see for themselves the possibility of meaningful rehabilitation.

Greeting Audience From Stage

Since 1996, thousands of outside community guests have watched riveting theatrical and dance performances.