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Governors call off Armey prison play...about a jailbreak
GOVERNORS at Armley Jail have banned an amateur theatre group from putting on a play for inmates – because it is about a prison break.
Kippax Dramatic Society were set to be the first actors to be allowed to perform for prisoners in the jail.
But the farce Off The Hook, due to go on tonight, was called off early this week after a senior governor sat in on a rehearsal and found out what the play was about.
Some scenes feature fake guns as props.
The actors were told the content was not appropriate to be performed in front of prisoners.
Cast member Bill Waters, who plays the lead role, said: "We were all really looking forward to this. It would have been a bit of a coup for an amateur dramatics society.
"We were really disappointed because I'm sure the prisoners would have thought it was funny.
"They may have broken the law but they are still human beings and I think this would have been a positive thing for all concerned."
Kippax had their opening night of Off The Hook at St Mary's Church last weekend.
They had been given the go-ahead to stage the play in front of inmates because a cast member is a junior governor at the jail.
Written by late Batley-born actor and playwright Derek Benfield, it is a about gangsters who spring the wrong man from his prison cell.
Mr Waters, 50, added: "We knew there would be a few logistical and security problems. When we turned up for a midweek meeting to discuss it we were told 'sorry guys'.
"We haven't given up hope just yet though, we are looking at putting a different production together in November and there is a chance we might be able to perform it then."
Prison governor Rob Kellett said: "This situation has arisen out of confusion and misinterpretation on the part of Mr Waters.
"Because of the content and length of the play and because of complications with the set there was no way it would have taken place.
"Serious dramas are sometimes good in addressing offending behaviour. But this is clearly nowhere near that. I'm not running an entertainment camp!"
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Friday 25 May 2012
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