By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone – February 2026 – Salone Hidden Gems, one of Sierra Leone’s renowned theatre groups, has hosted a Folklore Storytelling and Cultural Dinner at Stafford Lodge, Hill Station, in a bid to preserve and revive the country’s rich oral traditions.
The event blended storytelling, cultural dances, music, drama, and poetry, offering an immersive experience that celebrated Sierra Leone’s heritage. Guests described the evening as nostalgic and enlightening, with many recalling childhood stories passed down by elders.
Highlights of the Evening
- Traditional Rituals: The programme opened with a libation ceremony to honour ancestors.
- Storytelling Performance: Master storyteller Charlie Halfner captivated audiences with interactive, humorous, and symbolic tales reflecting Sierra Leonean life and values.
- Cultural Showcase: Attendees enjoyed traditional dances, songs, and poetry, alongside a cultural dinner featuring diverse Sierra Leonean dishes.
- Educational Value: Organizers emphasized the importance of folklore as a tool for moral instruction, community bonding, and cultural education.
Amina Conteh, one of the organizers, noted: “Our folklore carries our history, values, and worldview. By creating spaces like this, we are keeping our stories alive and giving them the respect they deserve.”
Roots and Vision
Salone Hidden Gems was founded by Dori Massey Turay, who reconnected with Sierra Leone after tracing her Mende ancestry through a DNA test. The group explores themes of diaspora identity, belonging, and cultural rediscovery, with Turay committed to investing in theatre and talent development in Sierra Leone.
The event underscored the enduring relevance of folklore in a digital age, highlighting its role in shaping identity and strengthening cultural ties across generations.