After 8 years of successful projects at Barlinnie, we've decided to do one about the history of Barlinnie in conjunction with the local Riddrie community.
What is the origin of Barlinnie the largest prison in Scotland?
We are interested in researching the human and social history of this infamous institution.
To go back in time to find out how does the Barlinnie of
today compare with the Barlinnie 130 years ago?
What were the social issues, and what kind of crimes were people locked up for over the years?
What were the conditions in society and in prisons, and what support was available for families of prisoners?
What can we learn, what have we learned from the past to make prisons work better in the future?
Some of the young men in prison have fathers and grandfathers in prison at the same time. therefore, most importantly do we as a society have some lessons to learn?
There are many stories written about the notorious criminals but  this story is about the ordinary citizens. 

If this brick could talk, it would have some stories to tell....



The brick itself is of historical importance within Barlinnie's history. It's from the sombre days of hanging. There were only three bricks remaining after the execution room in D Hall was demolished. HRH Princess Anne has one, Barlinnie itself, and the last one was awarded to Theatre Nemo for its contributions and continued support. It was accepted with great pride and keeps the bond with Barlinnie strong. 
 
This is a year long project culminating in a performance and a documentary or short film. The working process will include visual art, story development using valuable and interesting information from the research gathered, leading to the dramatisation of a final story.

We envisage this project being a successful, memorable and historic time- piece full of fascinating previously unknown accounts of Barlinnie life then and now that can be accessable and shared with the public.

We need your help in gathering information, photographs, news-paper clippings, experience or stories whether from 10 years ago, 50 years ago or even 130 ears ago, we'd love to hear them!

Please contact us on this email we've specifically set up for this project:
barlinniehistory@theatrenemo.org
                                                            Thank you for your help on this!