Sing Sing prison theatre group: How acting gave us a future

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Before being incarcerated at the notorious Sing Sing maximum security prison, John ‘Divine G’ Whitfield dreamt of becoming a professional dancer and attended a prestigious performing arts school. However his aspirations were shattered when he was convicted of homicide and sentenced to 25 years to life for the crime he swears he didn’t commit. Clarence ‘Divine Eye’ Maclin had a troubled upbringing, frequently clashing with the law before receiving a 20-year sentence for armed robbery. In prison Divine G and some other inmates decided to put on a play and formed a small theatre group. This marked the beginning of ‘Rehabilitation Through the Arts’ (RTA), a remarkable initiative that offered camaraderie and a sense of escape from daily prison life. Their work became the inspiration for Hollywood film ‘Sing Sing’ which features many former RTA members, including Divine Eye, who returned to prison to portray a younger version of himself, highlighting the transformative impact the group had on his life. Presenter: Jo Fidgen Producer: Eric Mugaju and Thomas Harding Assinder Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707 (Photo: Breakin' the Mummy's Code Cast 2005. Credit: © Brent Buell 2005, All Rights Reserved)