FREEDOM HS NEWS By Amu Illescas
The Freedom HS Theatre Company has long been a beacon of creativity, community, and excellence in the arts. Since its inception, FHSTC has been a cornerstone of Freedom HS and the surrounding community, earning a reputation for its dedication to producing outstanding theater productions. This legacy continues, thanks to the hard work and passion of students, teachers and volunteers who make the magic happen on and off the stage. As we look ahead, FHSTC is poised to deliver another incredible year, full of memorable performances, inspiring moments and innovative storytelling.
The recent success of “The 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is a perfect example of the talent and dedication of everyone involved. This fall production brought laughter, joy and heartfelt moments to audiences, leaving a lasting impression. The fun and quirky characters, paired with a clever and engaging storyline, showcased the students’ versatility and creativity. It quickly became a favorite of the director. The teamwork and effort poured into the show set a high bar for future performances, and the theater company is more than ready to rise to the challenge.
The energy from past productions continues to fuel FHSTC’s momentum as it gears up for what promises to be a remarkable season. One of the most anticipated productions of the year is the spring musical, “Nice Work If You Can Get It.” Rehearsals are already in full swing, and the buzz is building as the cast dives into intricate choreography, stunning musical arrangements, and the joyful energy of classic Gershwin tunes. With its lively tap numbers and dazzling score, the show promises to be a delight. Tap dancing has become something of a success for FHSTC with previous productions like “42nd Street” capturing the hearts of audiences and critics alike. The 2024 spring production of “42nd Street” was particularly noteworthy, earning a remarkable 15 Freddy Award nominations – the most of any school – and solidifying FHSTC’s reputation for excellence in musical theater. That production left unforgettable moments, and “Nice Work If You Can Get It” is well on its way to continuing that tradition.
For everyone involved, theater at FHSTC is about more than just putting on a show. It’s about building lasting memories, fostering friendships and creating a sense of belonging. The dedication of the students and the support of the community are what make these productions truly special. Each rehearsal is filled with laughter, focus, and a shared determination to bring something extraordinary to the stage. The bonds formed during these moments – whether through a perfectly executed dance sequence, a heartfelt scene or a backstage joke – are what make the experience so meaningful. This is truly an extension of Freedom’s main motto “Freedom Family.”
Reflecting on the successes of the past while looking ahead to the future, it’s clear that FHSTC is poised for another banner year. The company’s commitment to creativity and excellence shines through in every aspect of its productions, from set design to costumes, from choreography to vocal performances. The anticipation for what’s to come is electrifying, and the entire school community is eager to see what the talented cast and crew will achieve next. As we celebrate the magic of theater and all it brings to Freedom HS, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of pride and excitement. With every production, FHSTC proves that it’s not just about the performances – it’s about the journey, the memories and the people who make it all possible.
Be sure to stay connected with FHSTC through their social media channels to keep up with the latest news and announcements. This year promises to be one for the books, and you won’t want to miss a single moment of the magic. I can’t wait to be a part of this family once more and I know everyone feels the same way too. But make sure you stay updated by looking out for any new news on the theater company’s social media pages.