The "Bal Poussière Marionnettique" marionette show, produced by the Collectif Camille au Plafond, kicked off its tour in Porto-Novo on October 9, 2026. The show, made possible with funding from the CITF, is a creative blend of music, dance, and animation that captivated the audience. The event took place at the Gnonnou Kanhoto space, marking the beginning of a journey that will take the show to various locations in Benin and later to Togo and Côte d'Ivoire.

The show's interactive nature and focus on children's participation were major highlights, drawing praise from cultural actors in attendance. Roland TCHONVOÉDOU, a storyteller, expressed his satisfaction with the show, noting the active role children played. He believes the show has the potential to contribute significantly to the development of young people and wishes for its wider dissemination across the African continent.

AOGA SEOU Sannie, an animator specializing in socio-educational and recreational activities, also appreciated the show's engaging animation and the freedom given to the audience to participate. She hopes to see more initiatives like this in Porto-Novo and beyond, both nationally and internationally. The show's socio-educational dimension resonated with her, and she sees its potential for positive impact.

Sokoulo SEGBEGNON Marcel, a Beninese cultural actor and educator, found the show to be a remarkable experience. He praised the artistic proposal for its ability to transcend borders and engage diverse audiences. The combination of musicians with marionettes and the freedom of expression given to children enriched the performance, according to him.

The "Bal Poussière Marionnettique" tour will continue in Benin, with upcoming stops in Grand-Popo, Comè, and Abomey. In December, the Collectif Camille au Plafond will take the show to Lomé, Togo, and then to Côte d'Ivoire. The creation of the show was made possible with the full support of the French Institute of Benin, the French Institute of Paris, and the National Drama Center of Rouen (CDN-Rouen).

The show's creators and participants have expressed their gratitude for the support received and are optimistic about the show's future. The event has sparked interest and enthusiasm among the audience, with many looking forward to more performances. The show's impact extends beyond entertainment, offering a unique experience that combines art, education, and social interaction.

As the "Bal Poussière Marionnettique" continues its journey, it is expected to leave a lasting impression on its audiences. With its innovative approach and engaging storyline, the show has the potential to become a landmark event in the region's cultural scene. The Collectif Camille au Plafond's efforts to bring this creative vision to life have been well-received, and the show's future looks promising.

Key points

  • The "Bal Poussière Marionnettique" marionette show is touring Benin and will later visit Togo and Côte d'Ivoire.
  • The show focuses on children's participation and interactive entertainment.
  • The event was made possible with funding from the CITF and support from several French cultural institutions.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.