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The story of John Anderson, a freedom seeker accused of killing a bounty hunter in self-defence, will come to life when Arts Collective Theatre presents The Price of Freedom at Capitol Theatre next month.
“I’m really looking forward to exposing more and more people the story,” said Carlos Anthony, a Windsor author and filmmaker who took a break from behind the camera to write and star in his first-ever original play. “I’ve written it as a thriller.
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“It’s a courtroom drama but there’s a lot of action scenes.”
The play traces John Anderson’s courageous escape from slavery in the United States to Canada around the 1860s. His trek took him from Missouri to Michigan before crossing from Detroit into Windsor.
His journey becomes a battleground for justice as he is threatened with extradition to stand trial for murder in the U.S.
“This story provides hope and inspiration to so many people,” Anthony told the Star. “If I knew about this story when I was younger I would have felt better about hearing stories of the Underground Railroad and the transatlantic slave trade.
“It wouldn’t have been such a traumatic experience for me.”
The play explores themes the bonds of brotherhood, the cost of liberty, and the fight for dignity in the face of systemic injustice.
The production, directed by Chris Rabideau, was created in partnership with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum to commemorate its 50th anniversary.
“It’s not everyday that people have an opportunity to see their projects put on at the Capitol Theatre and get to act in it,” Anthony said. “I’ve got to thank the Amherstburg Freedom Museum for trusting me to take on this project.
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“I’m really grateful for the opportunity and I look forward to hearing how everybody feels about it once they’re able to see it.”
Students in Grades 7-12 will have the opportunity to attend a school show performance on Feb. 27. A panel discussion featuring the play’s creators and local historians will follow to give students a deeper insight into the story’s historical context and the play’s relevance in today’s society.
Teachers are encouraged to register by emailing info@actwindsor.com
The play opens to the public Feb. 28 and March 1 at 7:30 p.m. and March 2 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $30, $33 for students and seniors (age 60 and over), at the Capitol Theatre box office.
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