The Récréâtrales theatre festival has brought a new vibrancy to a local area of Burkina Faso’s capital Ouagadougou.
The 14th festival is taking place from 24 to 31 October in Bougsemtenga. The local community has been involved in creating the festival since the beginning.
Choreographer Djibril Ouattara has been collaborating with local women and youth in the community to create the first show, Les Mouches, which explores humanity through kindness, caring for others and creating space for beauty. Ouattara had to use the talents of the locals and their traditional dance styles.
“We come across people who don’t know anything about the type of dancing we do. They know their own dance so we have to work with them.”
It was also about learning what they could do with their bodies. Everyone can dance. Agathe Serré, a member of Bougsemtenga Women’s Association has supported the festival for many years. She is an amateur actress who has taken part in the Récréâtrales since 2006.
She said it was very hard work putting together Les Mouches but Ouattara was very enthusiastic and dedicated. At first she was worried about keeping up with the young choreographer but they managed to put the show together.
“It’s been amazing! We’d love to be able to do it again.”
The festival has also helped local talent flourish. Claude Ilboudo (Gohou) grew up taking part in the Récréâtrales shows and is now a professional actor. “The festival gives opportunities to young people. They can volunteer and get involved with dance, theatre and technical aspects.”
For one week the alleyway becomes an urban theatre space of 550 metres. 68 technicians and artists from 12 countries come together to put on a show for people of all ages. By having the shows in the local area it makes the arts more accessible to the public, said Ouattara.
Shows continue everyday until Saturday 31st October. There are readings, youth shows, discussions, music nights and theatre. These are held in family courtyards and outdoor stages throughout the streets. Activities run from early morning until late.
