Fri, May 26, 2023
On the first day of class we meet the three different groups of participants: Women, Men, and LGBTQ+. While some warm up to class quicker than others, it is certain that they all have enough personal stories to create comedy with. Host and teacher Sophia Niño de Rivera leads the class with stand-up basics, while setting goals and expectations that will bring change to the inmates lives.
Fri, May 26, 2023
The inmates bring in their first homework assignment: five things they hate. Comedian Coco Celis visits the class and gives feedback. Conjugal visits, love, marriage and breakups are at the core of several stand-up routines. While it may be difficult to maintain a relationship behind prison walls, the inmates will stop at nothing to fulfill their need for love.
Fri, May 26, 2023
Five weeks before the final show, the new comedians begin to fine-tune their routines. Sofia notices elevated nerves, and prepares to help the inmates deal with their stage fright. Meanwhile, the male population is having a hard time understanding the concepts of political correctness and feminism, causing tension between them and their teacher. As the inmates reveal more about their lives and beliefs, it becomes clear how isolation from society has affected them.
Fri, May 26, 2023
The male population reflects on their discussion from the previous class. Some refuse to see the error of their ways. The LGBT+ population discovers the cathartic power of comedy and the female population discusses their experience with maternity behind bars. While the comedians prepare for graduation, Sofia surprises them with big news and gets an unexpected response.