Stories from the Inside

"I just closed my eyes. The singers took me out of jail. Thank you."

"Very impressed. Everyone in the group was so passionate about this genre. I definitely think you should continue to reach out to other inmates so they can have some positivity."

"I believe that if this project could continue, it'll be very much helpful. Most of us need this to cheer our hearts and minds. Positive thinking causes a positive life."

"I think it is very special for you guys to take time...Gives us hope and sheds light on the project you have brought to our attention. Special thanks to Tom and Alexa for your insight and beautiful voice. Amazing and very grateful for your gifts."

"I think the class was very good and mind-opening."

"This class is very helpful and is great. I hope to be part of more while I am here. I love the arts and would love to do a play ourselves, and also continue to learn about the arts and opera."

"I'd never done anything like ABB before; I'd never even been inside a correctional facility before. I was struck by the level of respect present in the classroom-each of the inmates shook our hands and greeted us- as well as the willingness to participate and share their hearts with us. When given the opportunity to respond through a writing exercise, the words that came from these men were more genuine and vulnerable than I could have expected, as though their creative centers were bursting at the seams, desperate for an outlet."

"The enormously popular programs we present from Arias Beyond Boundaries succeed by bringing the brilliance of world class vocalists into our jails, dramatically shifting culture through an immersive curriculum featuring the richness of opera repertoire."