October 1, 2024:
The group gathered with excitement, anticipating new members from the recent callout. As chairs were arranged and greetings exchanged, the ensemble quickly fell into their familiar rhythms. Members teased each other playfully, one even joking about some big life events. Laughter echoed as the group discussed the past weekend.
As check-ins began, each person took a moment to share their latest news, personal triumphs, and challenges. Some were navigating parole reviews, others were on waiting lists for educational programs,. There was a shared joy when another member recounted working with Staying in Closer Touch, another volunteer group on Tuesday nights, where she was able to record messages for her grandchildren, highlighting how even small moments of connection are cherished.
In true ensemble spirit, discussions turned to how the group could celebrate members who are leaving. Ideas swirled around creating special send-offs, complete with performances and well-wishing "whooshes."
The group then moved into the work at hand, diving into Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. As they read through scenes, the lively dynamic between characters sparked comparisons to modern TV shows, and the gossip within the play reminded the group of similar situations in their daily lives. They related the humor and misunderstandings in the play to their own experiences, bringing Shakespeare's words into their world in a way that felt fresh and relatable.
The evening wrapped up with a light-hearted game, but not before one member expressed how the program and the process of journaling had helped her grow, moving her away from seeking instant gratification. The support and pride the group showed each other was unmistakable, with one member quipping about future plans to return home in top physical shape, adding a humorous twist to the session.
October 3, 2024:
Two days later, the ensemble welcomed even more new faces. The group was excited to see their numbers grow, reaching the largest attendance yet for the season. As new members trickled in, they introduced themselves to the group and began to learn the ropes, including the group's unique rituals, such as "the ring."
Once settled, check-ins revealed stories of weddings, family health, and personal achievements. One member had just become a grandmother, while another celebrated getting into a final class required for parole eligibility. The joy and pride were contagious as stories of progress and celebration flowed around the circle.
The session focused on orientation for the new members, giving them an introduction to the group’s goals and values. As the veterans of the group shared their experiences, the importance of participation and support became clear. Members talked about how the language of Shakespeare, while initially intimidating, had become a source of empowerment. Some had even improved their reading skills significantly through their work with the ensemble. One member proudly announced that she could now read Shakespeare lines after struggling with literacy when she first joined.
The seasoned members were quick to offer support, reminding newcomers that participation, not perfection, was the key. They reflected on the power of theatre to build trust and camaraderie, making the group feel more like a family. One member noted how the ensemble felt more like home than the outside world, a sentiment echoed by several others.
As the evening continued, laughter filled the room as the group played games, bringing out a competitive spirit and plenty of animal impressions. Amid the fun, the group also remained sensitive to individual needs, adjusting their usual loud celebrations to accommodate a member’s anxiety around noise, showing the group’s ability to adapt and support one another.