Screening of “Sing Sing” at Auburn University sparks intense debate about prison reform

On Tuesday, August 20, Redemption Earned, in partnership with the Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project and the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, hosted an immersive screening of A24 Films’ upcoming film, Singing Singingon the campus of Auburn University. Based on a true story, this gripping film explores the lives of incarcerated men who form a theater company and find solace and meaning amidst the harsh realities of prison life.

Singing Singing delves into the daily struggles these men face as they navigate the inhumane conditions of incarceration while building unbreakable bonds with one another. The film is a poignant portrayal of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art, even in the darkest of circumstances. The screening was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb and Kyes Stevens, founder of the Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project. Panelists addressed the pressing issues of deplorable prison conditions in Alabama and the deficiencies in the state's parole system.

Kyes Stevens, who has worked with inmates for over 20 years, shared her insights, explaining, “While Sing Sing captures the emotional truth of life behind bars, it's important to recognize that the film is a somewhat idealized version of the harsh reality many inmates face. The hopelessness experienced by inmates in Alabama's prisons is profound, yet many continue to strive for redemption even when the obstacles seem insurmountable.”

Judge Cobb highlighted a key difference between the film and real life, noting that while the film's protagonist, played by actor Coleman DiMingo, was able to attend his parole hearing in person, this is rarely the case for inmates in Alabama. “Their greatest fear is dying in prison,” noted Cobb, “closely followed by the fear of losing a loved one while still incarcerated. The dehumanization within prison walls can strip a person of their humanity and often leads to a loss of hope.” Stevens also emphasized the importance of positive inmate engagement, stating, “When people are deprived of meaningful interaction and opportunities for self-expression, it undermines their sense of humanity. Access to the arts and education offers inmates a critical opportunity to reshape their lives and rediscover their sense of self.”

The event highlighted the important role that art and education play in the rehabilitation process and the need for systemic change in the criminal justice system. Redemption Earned will continue its mission of education and advocacy by hosting another screening of Singing Singing on Tuesday, September 17, at 6 p.m. at the MacQueen Alumni Center, 100 Alumni Dr, Mobile, AL 36688, on the campus of the University of South Alabama. Register here.

Redemption Earned is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. Through education, advocacy, and direct services, the organization seeks to empower individuals to get their lives back on track and make a positive contribution to their community. For more information, visit www.redemptionearned.org or call (205) 325-6893.