Transformation Through Anonymous Drama

The Anonymous Drama Programme, created by the Creative Change Collective, has been operating across Scotland since 2014 and has reached more than 5,000 participants in recovery and justice settings.  

At its core, the programme creates a safe, imaginative space where people can explore their lives through fictional characters. The unique anonymity protocols mean participants don’t need to share their stories directly. Instead, they are supported by drama professionals, therapy-trained facilitators, and individuals with lived experience to work as a group across 12-16 weeks exploring issues in a less emotionally charged way.  

As the founder, Mark MacNicol explains, 

Anonymous drama is like drama therapy for people who don’t usually have any interest in drama or therapy.

One participant says: 

It was unlike anything I had ever experienced. I had no real drama type interests but the anonymous side and exploring my past using shared group fictional characters was something I immediately felt I was benefitting from.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

For many, the sessions mark a turning point for those attending.  At the end of the facilitated sessions, groups can choose to perform to their peers, friends, family and support – which further boosts their confidence and provides an opportunity for recognition.

I had zero confidence when I started the sessions but it's a very unusual programme — it's serious and fun at the same time. After the live event I felt like a different person from that first session, much more confident."

My relationship with myself has never been great but the focus on this area in the sessions has been a big boost to my self-esteem.

The changes don’t go unnoticed. Another participant reflected:

 My friends and family say I've completely transformed myself … it's definitely a big factor.

A Community Like No Other

Beyond personal growth, participants describe a powerful sense of belonging.

I think the camaraderie and sense of community is the main thing that helps me get more involved as the module progresses — I feel like part of a family unlike any other group.

This family-like atmosphere helps people facing some of life’s hardest challenges to believe in themselves again. 

When I came in, I was all over the place, my life was a mess. I had attempted suicide just a few weeks before my first session, but slowly, with each session, my confidence grew.

Wider Recognition

The impact of the Anonymous Drama Programme has been recognised beyond the prison gates. Academic studies from the University of Glasgow confirm its effectiveness, as described in this article, which you can read here. Anonymous spaces improve mental health and recovery

Lasting Change

What this grant truly delivered was not just a programme, but the chance for people to rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and community. It gave participants a space where they could discover who they are — and who they might become.

Mark MacNicol, Creative Change Collective Founder, sums up the importance of keeping the Anonymous Drama Programme going:

The charity currently has a waiting list across Scotland desperate for support with emotional wellbeing. The anonymous, creative approach reduces emotional triggers while helping participants explore trauma, develop coping strategies, and build self-esteem - outcomes that are particularly vital in the prison environment.  The grant from the CHAMP Fund didn't just fund a programme - it enabled us to provide immediate, life-changing support where it's most urgently needed. 

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