Testimonials

WHAT ARE THE INMATES SAYING ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH INMATES WITH TALENT? …

Anthony Ross: “You brought a lot of laughter to a lot of people who had heartaches and pains. You guys soothed our wounds with the laughter. And just being real. We really bonded with you. You really knocked it with this film project.”

Aaron Reason: “This was a great opportunity, as it gave me a chance to think about the bad things I’ve done and look forward to the good I’ll do now that I’m out of prison. While I certainly wouldn’t have thanked Putnamville when I went in, I see that it has made me a better person and I can contribute to society in a better way. And I can’t wait to see this movie. I know it’s going to be awesome.”

Michael O’Grady: “The Inmate Got Talent project was cool. It gave some of us an opportunity to chase a dream. You guys really moved us in the right direction. Thanks for coming out.”

Latell Mays: “I appreciate you Johnny, Joel and everyone. It was a good experience. It gave us an opportunity to get a lot of stuff off our chests and feel good for once being locked up.”

Lorenzo Reid: “The prison has been eased, no fights. So this type of situation is needed. I think it’s needed all around the country. And this will inspire them (convicts) to do something other than go out and rob someone.And this show that Johnny and fellas brought here… brought a lot of hope and it inspired me to really put my craft to work.”

Chad Jackson: “I was at Putnamville when Inmates With Talent was filmed. I remember distinctly as though it were yesterday when Johnny Collins arrived. I know that a person needs to be accountable for their actions. However, the effects of modern penology are haunting especially as it relates to re-entry. I no longer knew what it meant to be a social being after my incarceration; in fact, I felt like a dangerous monster (which I must add can have a haunting effect within society). Though I did not participate in the talent show, nor watch it while I was in prison, it had a profound effect upon my perception. Johnny’s visit reminded me of my worth as a creation of God diminishing the despair that I may never be able to overcome my past and live a pro-social life, the desire of most inmates. His humanity is desperately needed in our prison systems. Thanks Johnny for remembering that punishment without restoration is often more dangerous than no punishment at all.”

WHAT IS THE INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION AND THE STAFF AT PUTNAMVILLE CORRECTIONAL SAYING? …

Doug Garrison, Chief Communications Officer of IDOC: “Part of the reason why I thought this was an important project was to bring something inside a prison that they (inmates) don’t see everyday that might help them get along better. If they can laugh together then they might get along better.”

Michael Osburn, Superintendent: “It will give the offenders an opportunity to see hidden talent.”

Captain Harley Crabbe (Correctional Officer): “I thought is was a great show. The professionals and the offenders were amazing.”