Summary
The 14th Récréâtrales festival is running in Ouagadougou from October 24 to 31, with residents of the Bougsemtenga neighbourhood hosting performances in their own courtyards. Choreographer Djibril Ouattara created the opening show, Les Mouches, with local women and young people, while a 550-metre alley serves as an open-air urban stage.
Key Highlights
- The festival runs daily through Saturday, October 31, from morning until the early hours.
- Residents have co-produced the Récréâtrales festival since its creation.
- A 550-metre-long alley hosts work by 68 technicians and artists from 12 countries.
- The programme includes readings, shows for young audiences, discussions, musical evenings and theatre.
What Happened?
The Récréâtrales festival opened its 14th edition in Bougsemtenga, where families open their courtyards to performers and audiences. Since February, Ouattara has rehearsed Les Mouches with women and young people from the neighbourhood. The production explores the idea that humanity is defined by the ability to respond, care for others and make room for beauty. Many of the performers had no training in the style he works in, so he built the choreography around the dances they already knew.
Why is it Important?
Unlike most theatre festivals, this one is built into daily life in the neighbourhood rather than set up in a venue. Residents have helped produce it from the start, and the stages sit in family courtyards and open-air spots in the streets. Ouattara said that bringing the festival into the neighbourhood makes art accessible to everyone.
Impact and Implications
For local people, the festival has meant participation, and in some cases a career. Agathe Serré, an amateur actress with the Bougsemtenga Women’s Association, has performed at the festival since 2006. She said the rehearsals were demanding at her age but that the production was wonderful. Claude Ilboudo, known as “Gohou,” took part as a child and is now a professional actor. He said the festival employs many young people, as volunteers or in dance, theatre and technical production.
What Happens Next?
The Récréâtrales festival continues daily until Saturday, October 31. Visitors can attend readings, performances for young audiences, discussions and musical evenings across the neighbourhood. The report does not say what comes after this edition.
