Summarizes a descriptive study of an educational and therapeutic process-skills through drama-that was originally created for prison inmates and ex-offenders (particularly for transient populations in detention centers). Professional theater techniques are used to teach basic educational skills to adults while providing a safe and therapeutic setting to work on conflicts and problems. Former students are used to assist teachers in conveying techniques to others. Classes in reading, writing, grammar, and communication skills using the skills-through-drama approach have been presented as part of an entire educational offering. Ss are introduced to the concept of the acting objective. The process of self-modulation and critical evaluation is incorporated and reinforced. Pre- and posttest results and an increase in patterns of enrollment indicate the effectiveness of the program. A pilot program over a 3-yr period with prison inmates showed that the approach taught skill mastery and competency in personal and public relationships. (7 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)