Theatre project convict relapses

A prisoner participating in a special theatre project has been withdrawn from the scheme because he committed another crime.The unidentified man will not take part in the performances of “Leonce und Lena” by late German dramatist Georg Büchner, the federal justice ministry announced today (Tues). The ministry confirmed reports that the man relapsed while rehearsing the play at the Kabelwerk theatre in Vienna-Meidling. It however failed to say what kind of felony he committed.The convict may now have his sentence increased while the performances of the comedy play continue. Director Manfred Michalke may cover his role, according to reports.The play is being rehearsed and performed as part of a project aimed to help criminals serving jail terms to reintegrate into society. All revenues from ticket sales go to the prisoners as sort of a “jump start” to their lives after being released from Wiener Neustadt jail, juridical officials explained.None of the participating convicts are serious criminals, according to the justice ministry. “All of them are close to finishing their jail term,” it said.