Contemporary Performance Director
Co-Direction, Choreography, Dramaturgy & Lead Design by Julie Rada
Co-Direction by Ashley Hamilton
Produced by the University of Denver Prison Arts Initiative
Written by Dale Wasserman, adapted from the novel by Ken Kesey
Sterling Correctional Facility, Sterling, Colorado
Limon Correctional Facility, Limon, Colorado
Denver Women’s Correctional Facility, Denver, Colorado
August — September 2019
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"One flew East, one flew West, an' one flew over the cuckoo's nest." This classic play was reimagined for an incarcerated cast and crew at Sterling Correctional Facility and fully produced and performed over several weeks. The rehearsal process was approximately six months and included discussion of mental health, institutionalization, and resilience.
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“How a Prison Play Goes on Tour,” The New York Times
Thirty Colorado inmates staged “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” for nearby prisons. For some, it was the first time in years they were outside 20-foot walls and razor fences.
“Felons Perform One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest at Denver Women’s Correctional Facility,” The Denver Post
“Colorado Inmates Take ‘One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest’ On Tour, And Discover Theater As Rehabilitation,” Colorado Public Radio News
“DU Prison Arts Initiative Takes Play on the Road,” University of Denver Magazine
Sterling Correctional Facility inmates performed "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" across the state
Performed by an incarcerated cast from Sterling Correctional Facility, Grady Hicks, Ashley Hamilton, and Reanna Magruder.
Stage Management and all Design by incarcerated designers and crew members at Sterling Correctional Facility, with leadership and primary facilitation by Julie Rada.
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Photo credit: Trent Davis Bailey, The New York Times; Hyoung Chang, The Denver Post; Hart Van Denburg, CPR News