"Even in a place like this, there is still room for beauty and connection"

We met Kaylyn at our Party with a Purpose event on St. Patrick’s day. It was her first time experiencing Renovare, and she quickly decided she didn't want it to be her last. She asked to join us for our upcoming Connected. concert at the Grafton Correctional Institution, along with four other outside guests. She shared the following with us about her experience that evening: 

“As I sat in the crowd of inmates at the prison, I couldn't help but feel a sense of apprehension mixed with curiosity. This was my first time as a guest to a music performance in a correctional facility, and I wasn't sure what to expect. The strict rules of attire, the metal detector you must walk through prior, and the sounds of metal doors slamming shut echoed through the hall. As the performers took place on ‘stage’, the music began to fill the air, it was clear that music meant something to them and for a brief moment, the bars and concrete walls seemed to disappear as we all shared in the joy of the music.  

Attending a performance at a correctional institution featuring a cello and violin was an unforgettable experience. The musicians played with such passion and skill, creating a beautiful harmony that echoed throughout the prison walls, drowning out the slamming doors. The message of bridging divided communities and creating restorative experiences through music was truly inspiring. It was heartwarming to see the inmates connect with the music and find solace in the performance. Witnessing the healing power of music in this setting was a powerful reminder of the positive impact that the arts can have on individuals and communities. Even in a place like this, there is still room for beauty and connection.”

We’re grateful for opportunities like this to create restorative experiences - not just for our marginalized audiences, but for community members like Kaylyn, too.