By Alhaji Saidu Kamara
One of the leading performance Arts group in Sierra Leone known as Freetong Players, a group that has taken its creative rhythms and artistic expertise in various countries around the world including USA, Demark, UK, Scotland, Canada, Taiwan, Germany and various communities in Africa including Liberia. Ghana. Ivory Coast, South Africa, The Gambia, Senegal and Zambia,
Freeetong players has recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary.
The celebration was held at the national peace museum, New England Ville by the Special Court, a milestone event that honours their rich history, introducing their artistic legacy to the generation.
Freetong Players was founded on the 20th May 1985 by Charlie Heffner and his wife Madam,, Fatie Haffner of blessed memory. Both of them were teachers, the husband at the Sierra Leone Grammar School teaching Arts &Craft, Geography, and the Freetown Secondary School for Girls respectively.
Freetong Players has been very instrumental in using theatre as a medium for education, awareness and community engagement.
According to the founder of Freetong Players, Mr. Charlie Haffner, their goal was not limited to celebrating their past but also to inspire the youths in promoting culture, expressions and social change.
He said he wants them to understand the theatre of performing arts in addressing social issues.
Fatu Sesay, one of the young performers, said being a member of the Freetong Players meant a lot to her, noting that it is amazing to see how theatre can make a difference and bring people together through entertainment, sensitization and performance in the form of drama, songs and cultural dance.
The celebration also included workshop aimed at educating young artistes about the importance of cultural expression and the role of theatre in social change.
