The Prison Project

<p>As a young, novice dance teacher, Aimee Friel’s first full-time job took an unexpected turn when she was asked to teach regular dance classes for young offenders at a Scottish prison. Many of her students were her own age, but their worlds couldn’t have been more different.<em><br></em></p><p>Thrown into chaotic classes filled with cringeworthy chat-up lines, cheeky Glaswegian banter, and hilarious dad-dancing, Aimee embarked on a journey of growth alongside the young men in her classes. She faced challenges including impromptu drum sessions, a stolen safety alarm and the harsh realities of trauma, toxic masculinity and stigma.</p><p>As trust built, so did transformation. Through comedic tea breaks, some difficult conversations and unexpected choreography, Aimee was drawn to the deeper roots of incarceration – from adverse childhood experiences to homelessness and substance misuse.</p><p>Interwoven with personal reflection, including her own family’s struggle with addiction and trauma, <em>The Prison Project </em>challenges perceptions and asks what it really takes to make a difference in the lives of young people.</p>