Récréâtrales festival transforms Ouagadougou neighbourhood
68 artists and technicians from 12 countries created a 550-metre urban stage for the 14th edition.
The Récréâtrales theatre festival is animating a neighbourhood in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from October 24 to 31. Residents of Bougsemtenga are hosting performances in their courtyards for the festival's 14th edition, a role they have played since its creation.
Choreographer Djibril Ouattara has been collaborating with local women and youth since February on an opening performance exploring humanity's capacity for response and beauty. Agathe Serré, an amateur actress with the Bougsemtenga Women’s Association, described the demanding but rewarding rehearsals with Ouattara, noting the participants' commitment to giving their all.
The festival transforms an alleyway into a 550-metre urban stage, featuring 68 technicians and artists from 12 countries. Professional actor Claude Ilboudo, who grew up with the festival, stated that Récréâtrales employs many young people as volunteers or through their involvement in dance, theatre, and technical production.
Why it mattersThe festival directly involves residents of Ouagadougou, including women and youth, in artistic co-production and performance.