Arts Collective Theatre (ACT) is set to debut The Price of Freedom, a powerful courtroom drama that explores Canada’s role in the fight for justice during the 1860s. The play tells the true story of John Anderson, a freedom seeker accused of killing a bounty hunter in self-defense. As Anderson faces extradition to the United States, his case becomes a pivotal moment for Canada’s identity as a sanctuary for those fleeing oppression. “This play serves as a crucial reminder of the resilience and courage of those who sought freedom, as well as the complex legal and moral battles that shaped Canada’s history,” said Chris Rabideau, ACT’s Artistic Director. “The Price of Freedom brings these stories to life in a way that is both educational and deeply moving.”
The play will premiere at Windsor’s Capitol Theatre on Friday, February 28, at 7:30 PM, with additional performances on Saturday, March 1, at 7:30 PM and Sunday, March 2, at 2:00 PM.
Developed in collaboration with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum as part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, The Price of Freedom is more than just a theatrical production—it is an educational journey. “For the past 50 years, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum has educated people about the rich, underrepresented history of Black Canadians,” said Monty Logan, President of the museum. “It has been our pleasure to collaborate with Arts Collective Theatre to bring the important, true story of John Anderson—freedom seeker, former Windsor resident, and nationally significant historical figure—to the stage.”
The idea for The Price of Freedom originated during a February 2024 meeting between ACT board members and Amherstburg Freedom Museum leaders. Barbara Porter, Vice Chair of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum Board of Directors, proposed creating a theatrical piece to commemorate the museum’s anniversary. “Our collaboration with Arts Collective Theatre to produce The Price of Freedom fits well with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum’s focus on Black history and universal inspiration,” Porter explained. “This original play will educate people about the risks assumed by the ancestors who traveled the Underground Railroad to freedom but also promote courageous conversations about racism, intolerance, justice, and equity in the present day.”
Carlos Anthony was brought on board as playwright after being recommended by historian Irene Moore Davis. Although Anthony had never written a play before, he embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. During a visit to the Amherstburg Freedom Museum with ACT team members, Anthony discovered John Anderson’s story and knew it was one that needed to be told.
Historical accuracy was crucial throughout the development process. Historians Irene Moore Davis and Elise Harding-Davis provided guidance during multiple script revisions to ensure authenticity while addressing modern sensitivities around language and representation. Harding-Davis emphasized her philosophy: “Without Black history—history is incomplete.”
In addition to its historical focus, The Price of Freedom features original music composed by Ian Smith, an award-winning Canadian composer with over three decades of experience in theatre and film. His compositions aim to enhance key moments in the narrative while immersing audiences in its historical setting.
Casting for The Price of Freedom began in January 2025, with auditions drawing participants from ACT workshops as well as local talent from Windsor-Essex County. Carlos Anthony himself stepped into the role of John Anderson after being encouraged by Rabideau to take on this central character.
Rehearsals began shortly after casting was finalized and were structured as collaborative workshops where actors could contribute feedback to refine their characters and scenes. According to ACT’s materials: “The play evolved through an ongoing dialogue between cast members, historians, and our creative team,” Rabideau explained.
The production design reflects its dual purpose as both historical drama and educational tool. A multi-level set facilitates seamless transitions between courtroom scenes and flashbacks while period-accurate costumes transport viewers back to 19th-century Canada.
At its heart, The Price of Freedom explores relationships that underscore themes of trust, solidarity, and sacrifice. Moya McAlister described one key relationship: “The relationship between John Anderson and his lawyer Samuel Freeman is vital because it explores themes of racial tension and mistrust that come from systemic oppression… Through this relationship, we wanted to bring forward the complexity of working within systems that don’t have the interests of marginalized groups at heart.”
Another central relationship is between Anderson and Robert Sutherland—the first Black lawyer in Canada—which McAlister described as offering hope but also reflecting systemic limitations: “John has never seen a Black lawyer before… The relationship between John and Robert offers hope… but it’s also bittersweet because of the limitations Robert faces within the legal system at the time.”
Beyond its public performances, ACT will host a special student showing on Thursday, February 27 at 10:15 am, followed by a panel discussion featuring local historians and educators from Windsor-Essex County schools. Dr. Clara Howitt praised this initiative: “The curriculum connections, social justice themes, and historical significance make this a rich learning experience for students.”
To further enhance its educational impact, ACT has collaborated with local school boards to create classroom resources that complement themes from The Price of Freedom. These resources include lesson plans designed to foster critical discussions about Black history in Canada while encouraging students to draw connections between past struggles for justice and contemporary issues.
Don’t miss this powerful production at Windsor’s Capitol Theatre from February 28 to March 2! Tickets are $33 for adults and $30 for students and seniors, and can be purchased online or at the Capitol Theatre box office during operating hours—secure your seat today for an unforgettable journey through history! For more information about The Price of Freedom, visit actwindsor.com or contact Moya McAlister at info@actwindsor.com or (519) 551-7786.
