23 thursday
Lineup
6-6:45PM - UNFORGETTABLE
"Unforgettable" by Stanley Howard is an autobiographical piece centered on the day he was sentenced to death. Stanley looks back to his twenty-three year old self and the unforgettable moments leading up to the day his life was forever changed.
Writers
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readers include: Alice Kim, Amber Coco Cannella, Angie Varriale, Anna Martine Whitehead, Barbara Curry, Bre Maldonado, Colette Payne, Connie Vantlin, DeAshley Woodard, Eric Watkins, Erika Ray, Iman Snobar, Jeanine Elam, Jimmy Soto, Latrell Miller, Leanne Childs, Margaret DeFrancisco, Maria Garza, Maria Jimenez, Mary Perkins, Miracle Boyd, Michelle Mbekeani, Monica Cosby, Neomi Rao, Patty Ouska, Renaldo Hudson, Rhonda Thompson, Sharonda Miller, Taji Chesimet, Yurou Li. This evening's performances are produced and curated by the Beyond Prisons team.
7-8pm - Untold Truths: Stories from Logan Prison
"Untold Truths: Stories from Logan Prison" features poetry and creative non-fiction by writers incarcerated or formerly incarcerated in Illinois. These stories reveal the intimate experiences, transformative ideas, and beautiful dreams of people facing the stark realities of incarceration in Illinois. Many of the writings in Untold Truths were developed in the Prison + Neighborhood Art/Education Project's Think Tank 2024-2025, facilitated by Alice Kim.
Writers
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readers include: Alice Kim, Amber Coco Cannella, Angie Varriale, Anna Martine Whitehead, Barbara Curry, Bre Maldonado, Colette Payne, Connie Vantlin, DeAshley Woodard, Eric Watkins, Erika Ray, Iman Snobar, Jeanine Elam, Jimmy Soto, Latrell Miller, Leanne Childs, Margaret DeFrancisco, Maria Garza, Maria Jimenez, Mary Perkins, Miracle Boyd, Michelle Mbekeani, Monica Cosby, Neomi Rao, Patty Ouska, Renaldo Hudson, Rhonda Thompson, Sharonda Miller, Taji Chesimet, Yurou Li. This evening's performances are produced and curated by the Beyond Prisons team.
8-9PM - Reception
Meet and mingle with the artists and organizations that are part of the Festival! Refreshments provided. Tonight's reception is hosted by Build Communities Not Prisons.
Performers
Stanley Howard
Stanley Howard (he/him) is a survivor of police torture who spent 39 years in Illinois prison, including 16 on Death Row. He currently works as a paralegal with the Uptown People’s Law Center. He has worked as a jailhouse lawyer, organizer, and social justice advocate for over 30 years. He is an accomplished author who has written about his experience both in a solo performance piece and in his book, Tortured by Blue.
24 friday
Lineup
3-5PM - Art Build and Screen Printing with Walls Turned Sideways
During this session Walls Turned Sideways artists will screen print a few designs, including new designs from the No New Prisons IL campaign. Come make a print and chat with us about the campaign to divert the 900 million dollars of state funding into our communities and stop the construction of another prison in IL. Bring a tee shirt if you'd like to print your own tee; otherwise tees will be offered on a sliding scale donation.
5-6PM - Happy Hour
Meet and mingle with the artists and organizations that are part of the Festival! Refreshments provided.
6-7PM - Rhythmic Wounds by Prince Saleem Alexis
Rhythmic Wounds is a profound musical and poetry journey through one inner-city man's healing. It traces the impact of Traumatic Wounds (influences leading to bad choices), the consequence of Incarcerated Wounds (the tragic outcome), and the ultimate evolution of Healing Wounds (redemption from pain).
7:30-9PM - Fighting For My Life by Anthony Spaulding
An inspirational piece that tells people to fight! It tells people to chase dreams and not settle, to thrive and not just survive. It incorporates entertaining features including, original text, music, dance and superb acting. A must see!
Performers
Our mission is to build bridges that connect people in prison, their families, artists, and other community members using art, exhibitions, and political education with a focus on collective liberation, healing and abolition.
Walls Turned Sideways
Walls Turned Sideways is an art gallery, studio, & community space dedicated to artists and communities impacted by incarceration.
Our mission is to build bridges that connect people in prison, their families, artists, and other community members using art, exhibitions, and political education with a focus on collective liberation, healing and abolition.
As the founder of the Mogul Makers Performing Arts Coalition (MMPAC) and XCon 2 Icon (XC II IC), he empowers individuals to redefine their narratives and pursue their passions in the arts. Marvin is also a co-author of the impactful book Throwing Rocks At the Pen, which delves into the complexities of the prison experience and the power of storytelling. In addition to his work in arts advocacy, Marvin is a talented playwright, screenwriter, poet, and visual artist. His contributions to the creative community are further exemplified through his membership in the Dixon Theatre Workshop and the Mud Theatre Collective. As a motivational speaker, Marvin shares his insights and experiences, encouraging others to overcome adversity and embrace their potential. His story is one of transformation, proving that with determination and creativity, anyone can rise from their circumstances to become a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Marvin Prince Saleem Alexis
Born on November 7, 1977, in Chicago, Marvin Alexis is a multifaceted artist and advocate whose journey is defined by resilience and transformation. After serving 24 years in prison for murder, Marvin emerged with a profound commitment to using his experiences to inspire others.
As the founder of the Mogul Makers Performing Arts Coalition (MMPAC) and XCon 2 Icon (XC II IC), he empowers individuals to redefine their narratives and pursue their passions in the arts. Marvin is also a co-author of the impactful book Throwing Rocks At the Pen, which delves into the complexities of the prison experience and the power of storytelling. In addition to his work in arts advocacy, Marvin is a talented playwright, screenwriter, poet, and visual artist. His contributions to the creative community are further exemplified through his membership in the Dixon Theatre Workshop and the Mud Theatre Collective. As a motivational speaker, Marvin shares his insights and experiences, encouraging others to overcome adversity and embrace their potential. His story is one of transformation, proving that with determination and creativity, anyone can rise from their circumstances to become a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Anthony taught himself to play keyboard, guitar, and compose. He completed various creative writing and performance classes. A consummate artist
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student, Anthony was mentored by the late, great, Dr. Margaret Burroughs. Anthony is a dynamic performer and engulfs himself in every opportunity . He is relentlessly chasing his dream. Anthony has performed at Goodman Theater, Second City, Lifeline Theatre, Churches, Colleges, Community Centers, and stages all over Chicago. His first production (“To Cut A Barber’s Hands!”) was well received, and now Anthony burst back in the scene with his all new production entitled “Fighting For My Life!”
Anthony Spaulding
Anthony Spaulding was a gifted boy who cultivated his skills and talents while incarcerated. While incarcerated, he enhanced the bright light that everyone could clearly see. He wrote in every genre and forum. He has written and continues to write poems, songs, plays (screen,tele,stage) and books.
Anthony taught himself to play keyboard, guitar, and compose. He completed various creative writing and performance classes. A consummate artist
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student, Anthony was mentored by the late, great, Dr. Margaret Burroughs. Anthony is a dynamic performer and engulfs himself in every opportunity . He is relentlessly chasing his dream. Anthony has performed at Goodman Theater, Second City, Lifeline Theatre, Churches, Colleges, Community Centers, and stages all over Chicago. His first production (“To Cut A Barber’s Hands!”) was well received, and now Anthony burst back in the scene with his all new production entitled “Fighting For My Life!”
Onye has been described as the modern-day Joseph from Biblical times. His history of transformation through deliverance, commitment, dedication to self-preservation, and the growth and development of others, has placed him in a position to lead others out of the wilderness into the abundance of God's restoration. His phenomenal coaching on the ability to think, to create, to plan, dream big, and execute wisely are necessary tools in all of our lives. Onye has just begun to scratch the surface of success and is here to give his all through his passion and love for people.
Onye Davenport Sr.
As a Life Coach Author, Speaker, and Minister of the Gospel, Onye M Davenport is taking faith-based life coaching to another level. The Chicago native is no stranger to transformation, having the ability to never give up on his faith, gift, and calling. With his favorite phrase "I can't let go" he encourages others to live life through faith and wisdom. His faith-based coaching style stems from over 20 years of training development and education in the area of addiction and lifestyle redirection. His service and dedication to his community, since 1998, has been astounding. Working with organizations such as Soul Food Ministries, as a newsletter columnist, and facilitating for Inner Circle/Winner's Circle, he has influenced the lives of many in extremely positive ways. Beyond the education, accomplishments, and rewards there is an even greater story to be told.
Onye has been described as the modern-day Joseph from Biblical times. His history of transformation through deliverance, commitment, dedication to self-preservation, and the growth and development of others, has placed him in a position to lead others out of the wilderness into the abundance of God's restoration. His phenomenal coaching on the ability to think, to create, to plan, dream big, and execute wisely are necessary tools in all of our lives. Onye has just begun to scratch the surface of success and is here to give his all through his passion and love for people.
spoken word artist and playwright, Yoel is committed to exploring narratives of growth and resilience, blending creative writing with powerful performance. He earned his Associate’s degree from Oakton College, where his original play In Search of a Better Place was produced and warmly received by local audiences. Through his rehearsal process and live performances, Yoel has discovered a deep passion for theater and is honored to be collaborating with such a talented cast and crew. He is especially grateful to his mentors, the Oakton College faculty, and fellow artists whose encouragement has shaped his journey. Yoel looks forward to sharing this new chapter of his artistry and continuing to grow both as a performer and a storyteller.
Yoel Davis
Joel “Yoel” Davis is a Chicago native, making his theatrical debut by bringing his vibrant storytelling and poetic voice to the stage. A
spoken word artist and playwright, Yoel is committed to exploring narratives of growth and resilience, blending creative writing with powerful performance. He earned his Associate’s degree from Oakton College, where his original play In Search of a Better Place was produced and warmly received by local audiences. Through his rehearsal process and live performances, Yoel has discovered a deep passion for theater and is honored to be collaborating with such a talented cast and crew. He is especially grateful to his mentors, the Oakton College faculty, and fellow artists whose encouragement has shaped his journey. Yoel looks forward to sharing this new chapter of his artistry and continuing to grow both as a performer and a storyteller.
25 saturday
Lineup
This staged reading will feature system impacted artists and shares an emotional look at the impact long-term sentences have on your relationships.
2-3PM - Glow by Jesse Martinez
Still Point Theatre Collective's reading series, Playwrights from the Inside highlights the transformative work of incarcerated playwrights from Dixon Correctional Center. Through informal readings, audiences are given the opportunity to support the writers by giving written feedback after a new play reading. The audience’s written critiques provide feedback to the playwrights to further develop the play and bring attention to these creative works. Our collaboration with The Mud Theatre Project has continued to develop and we are grateful for their trust. GLOW is written by Jesse Martinez and is the 5th play we've done in this series.
This staged reading will feature system impacted artists and shares an emotional look at the impact long-term sentences have on your relationships.
3:30-5PM - Echoes of the Forgotten
Echoes of the Forgotten: The Top 20 Poems of the Toussaint Daniels Fellowship. A live reading and special commemoration honoring women of resilience, featuring a performance by Toussaint Daniels himself. The Toussaint Daniels Fellowship supports individuals in custody who use creativity to strengthen and uplift their communities. Rooted in social advocacy and resilience, it empowers fellows to reclaim and redefine their humanity within the penal system while inspiring change inside and beyond prison walls.
5-7:30pm - Happy Hour
Meet and mingle with the artists and organizations that are part of the Festival! Refreshments provided.
7-9PM - The Complicated Pressure of Gems
The choreo-poem The Complicated Pressure of Gems tells the stories of eight women surviving sexual violence, domestic violence, and domestic abuse. Together, these stories explore the complexity of surviving these forms of violence as a Black Womxn. At the same time, the choreo-poem celebrates the process of gaining bodily autonomy through storytelling and poetry.
Performers
Jesse Martinez
Jesse B Martinez is an incarcerated writer and prison advocate serving a 76 year sentence in Dixon Correction Center. Jesse has always turned to writing as a source of purpose and comfort. Whether working on an article or writing a play like GLOW, Jesse's mission is to bring awareness to systemic injustices. Jesse devotes much of his time as a peer educator, barber, and volunteer in any way he can serve others. From engaging with undergraduate students at Lewis University in Dr. Billup'ss Peace and Justice class to teaching out the curriculum from Chicago Votes on the right to vote upon release. We're excited to share his story and accomplishments.
Reclamation Project Group at Women's Justice Institute
The WJI Reclamation Project is a sisterhood of women leaders whose lives have been impacted by the criminal legal system. We come together to reclaim justice for women, our children and families through mutual support and transformative advocacy.
Erika Ray
Erika Ray, co-author of “The Complicated Pressure of Gems,” is also the author of the poetry collection 42 and Freedom. While incarcerated, Erika earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University’s School of Professional studies through the Northwestern Prison Education Program. She is an activist and co-creator of the domestic violence awareness program “Look at Me,” produced by the Women’s Justice Institute.
produced by the Women’s Justice Institute and aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of domestic violence. Jeanine is a former member of the Acting Out Theater Troupe, and throughout her 20 years behind the wall, she has been a mentor, performer, and choreographer for countless dance routines in “Never No More,” “Look at Me,” and the Praise Dance Troupe for Logan Community Church. Jeanine is currently a student at Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies through the Northwestern Prison Education Program.
Jeanine Elam
Jeanine Elam, co-author of “The Complicated Pressure of Gems,” is also the creator and director of “Never No More” and the online series “Look at Me,”
produced by the Women’s Justice Institute and aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of domestic violence. Jeanine is a former member of the Acting Out Theater Troupe, and throughout her 20 years behind the wall, she has been a mentor, performer, and choreographer for countless dance routines in “Never No More,” “Look at Me,” and the Praise Dance Troupe for Logan Community Church. Jeanine is currently a student at Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies through the Northwestern Prison Education Program.
Stephanie Bonds
Stephanie Bonds is a Chicago native. A mother of three, Stephanie is currently incarcerated at the Logan Correction Center, where she completed a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University’s School of Professional studies through the Northwestern Prison Education Program. Stephanie is co-author of “The Complicated Pressure of Gems,” and her hobbies are dancing, writing, and acting.
NaJei “Jei Jei” Webster
NaJei “Jei Jei” Webster is an advocate, storyteller, and walking proof that transformation is louder than trauma. As a Community Navigator with the Illinois Prison Project, trains people affected by the criminal justice system as well as communities, helping them reclaim their voices and navigate a system that was designed to see them fail. She’s also the creative mind behind the acclaimed short film The Truth Behind the Mask, a raw, witty, and deeply human exploration of what it means to rebuild life after incarceration. With courage and compassion, Jei Jei turns lived experience into liberation work—sparking conversations that challenge perceptions, build bridges, and remind the world that healing isn’t a theory, it’s an action.
26 sunday
Lineup
2:30-3:30PM - Abolition to Abolition
A choreographed poem that connects the abolition movement to end slavery to the modern-day abolition movement to end mass incarceration. The poem will be performed founding members of the Mud Theatre Project Darrion Benson, Queen Cannon, and Toussaint Daniels.
3:30-5:30PM - Crafting your Story with Reparations Media and Feather Bricks
Join Feather Bricks and Reparations Media in a hands-on creative storytelling workshop. System-impacted authors and artists will share their writing process for crafting stories with emotional appeal and impact. Contributors to Feather Bricks magazine–a brave space to celebrate creative, encouraging, and instructive expressions by and about writers serving long-term prison sentences in Illinois– and collaborative storytellers from Reparations Media’s Change Agents podcast and Our Underground Library civics education series will provide ideas and writing prompts for all to participate.
5:30-7PM - Happy Hour
Meet and mingle with the artists and organizations that are part of the Festival! Refreshments provided.
7-9PM - Jabril’s Chains by Brian Beals
Seventeen-year-old Jabril is convicted for a murder he did not commit. Nine years into his bit, Jabril is a man now. He is also a father, poet, activist, and an inspiration to his younger brother. A court date for his appeal has finally been set. Can Jabril use the wisdom his cellie, Old Head Ed has bestowed upon him about the system to beat it?
Performers
Darrion Benson
Recent activities of Darrion Benson, who is a co-founder of Mud Theatre Project, include a reading from his book "325 Miles Away" at Walls Turned Sideways that addressed how poetry got him through his incarceration. He has also performed "The Zoo" at various locations around Chicago. His play "My Problems with the World is Me" was performed at the Athenaeum Theatre. Darrion is self-taught. He gained his skills in the performing arts while incarcerated.
Tekamia "Queen" Cannon
Tekamia "Queen" Canon is the newest member of Mud Theatre Project. She is system-impacted through her older brother's incarceration. Her lived experience as someone who supported an incarcerated person offers Mud Theatre Project a unique perspective on the stories they tell. She has performed in "A Tribute to Dr. Burroughs", and is learning Mud Theatre's approach to the performing arts.
Toussaint Daniels
Toussaint Daniels is a co-founder of Mud Theatre Project. He was the lead writer of "A Tribute to Dr. Burroughs" performed at the Washington Park Conservatory. He acted in a production of "Three Stages of Incarceration" which highlights the culture and conditions of prison. His play "The Story of Violence" won first place in PEN America, a national competition for incarcerated writers. Toussaint is self-taught.
Feather Bricks/Writers From All Sides of the Moon
Feather Bricks magazine is a brave space to celebrate creative, encouraging, and instructive expressions by and about writers serving long-term prison sentences in Illinois. Writers from All Sides of the Moon is a webspace dedicated to celebrating texts by and about writers and artists serving long-term prison sentences in Illinois.
Reparations Media
Reparations Media is a media education and production organization with a mission to provide quality information through multi-media productions regarding issues affecting marginalized and communities of color across the United States and globally.
Brian Beals
Brian Beals is a co-founder of Mud Theatre Project. Brian is an accomplished activist, organizer and award-winning playwright who was exonerated in 2023 after spending 35 years incarcerated for a crime he did not commit. Brian directed "Three Stages of Incarcerations", a theatrical performance that exhibits the culture and conditions of prison. His play "Broken Pieces" won an award from PEN America, a national competition for incarcerated writers. He was appointed Executive Director of Mud Theatre Project by the ensemble.