Established in 2014, Theatre at Coffee Creek creates original, intimate performances based on a central theme. The group meets twice weekly and produces one to two shows annually, each a collage of songs, theatrical scenes, hip-hop poetry, spoken word, performance art, and movement—all written and performed by women at Coffee Creek. The program includes guest performances from local artists and a ukulele lending library to help add music to performances. Each show’s theme develops out of our dialogue circles. For instance, “Unconditional Love” came out of a letter a participant read to the group from her daughter. “Release” came from a check-in where a woman shared her fear of being released from prison. The group came up with the theme “So You Think You Can Act?” when they asked a facilitator how to prepare for an audition. OHOM has donated a portable stage to CCCF and shares its use with other programs and events, such as graduations. As a measure of the program’s success, its facilitators won the 2019 Department of Corrections Volunteer of the Year award. 

The Coffee Creek performances are especially interactive: set on a bare stage with minimal costumes, they demand audience engagement to make them come to life. Participants are often performing for members of their family, telling them things in poetry and song that they have never revealed. This creates an atmosphere of intimacy and warmth; every performance is met with a standing ovation.