Founded in 2019 by former Prison Officers, Glasshouse was born from our firsthand experiences with the injustices of the prison system. Through theatre, we support individuals affected by the system, transforming behaviour, fostering positive change, and challenging societal prejudices against criminalised individuals.

The UK prison system is in crisis. Evidence shows that theatre and performance improves mental wellbeing, promotes rehabilitation and increases self-worth. We support people to break generational cycles of reoffending, and to imagine a new future for themselves and the system.

Prisons are currently in emergency measures at 98% capacity

65% of boys with a convicted parent go on to offend themselves

42% of prisoners were permanently excluded or expelled

So we have developed and deliver workshops in prisons, schools and community settings.

Our workshops help participants understand how their behaviours impact themselves and wider society. We use theatre to develop participants:

non-violent communication & teamwork

creativity

wellbeing & emotional regulation

We work with prisoners and at-risk youth to educate and drive positive change and so far we've engaged 1,294 participants.

We also create innovative, radical live theatre productions. Our award-winning productions highlight the injustices of the prison system, drive change in public perception and provide paid opportunities for artists with lived experience of being incarcerated. Glasshouse’s theatre work

toured to 12 venues nationally

commissioned 15 artists

is optioned for TV adaptation

Watch an example of our work here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5CZ1orfI8Q

Our productions have reached 2,027 audience members.

Our impact

From our workshops we've seen:

✅ 100% of educators would recommend Glasshouse to other schools

✅ Workshops participants described sessions as ‘insightful’, ‘engaging’ and ‘liberating’

✅ 100% of prison governors have asked for Glasshouse to return to their prison

“Young students contemplated the wider issues in society and their place within it”

— Teacher

Audiences at our theatre productions have said:

⭐ “an electrifying piece of work” (Daily Info)

⭐ 4 and 5 star reviews for all our theatre productions

⭐ Winner of the ‘Best New Play for Raising Awareness’

“Hilarious, gut wrenching and eye-opening show about the justice system”

— London Pub Theatres review

If we are fully funded then we will expand even further, delivering more of our vital work. This will include designing and delivering a new innovative programme for incarcerated men - focussing on reducing male violence and preventing future victims.

If you can't donate, you can still support us for free: