Set to be staged by the Taieri Dramatic Society at the Fire Station Theatre later next month, the play concerns a high-school dropout and gang leader who breaks into the home of a retired soldier.
The 18-year-old burglar is caught by the soldier, who begins mentoring the young criminal on how to renovate a home, while showing him the "error of his ways" and encouraging him to make an honest living, according to a synopsis on the society's website.
Otago Corrections Facility deputy prison director Lyndal Miles said staff were discussing the possibility of the society performing a dress rehearsal of the play at the facility in March, following an approach from a cast member with a previous connection to the prison through education programmes.
"No decision has been made as yet but staff do believe there are benefits from a performance.
"The prisoners who would attend will be selected by prison staff and will be part of the prison drama group, who have a security classification of low/minimum.
"This is a good opportunity for them to learn more about acting and production skills and there may be the opportunity for the prisoners to ask questions of the cast."
Mrs Miles said helping prisoners understand the nature of their offending was important for their rehabilitation.
"It is important that any material or programme used in prisons has a relevance to the prisoners involved.
"Staff have seen the play and understand that it is a positive story of redemption and hope and how support is an important part of a prisoner's rehabilitation.
"This may strike a chord with some prisoners."
