In Italy prisons, conditions are poor, but theater is thriving

Though Italian prisons struggle amid overcrowding and underfunding, 110 prison theater groups have formed, including an acclaimed troupe of mobsters and drug traffickers at Rebibbia.

ROME — “For our next play, it’s either Xenophon, Aristophanes or 17th century French comedy — and I would like some opinions,” said the director to his troupe.