Cultural expression plays a vital role in passing on knowledge and traditions. In Mali, young people are often valued for their participation in traditional dances and oral traditions, including poetry and other forms of creative expression. These forms of expression already embody a rich body of social knowledge that can be further developed and strengthened. Knowledge and history are highly valued and widely regarded as important foundations of society.
V4T Académie Mali builds on this strong cultural tradition. Theatre, in particular, provides young people with an accessible way to express their views and make their voices heard by older generations and within Mali’s hierarchical social structures. In this sense, theatre offers a safe and accessible entry point for dialogue. The conversations that emerge from these performances can help address conflicts, tensions, and misunderstandings, many of which are rooted in socio-economic issues.
Over the past five years, the Academy has seen that the critical issues raised and the questions posed by young people through their theatre performances are heard and taken seriously. Local authorities and policymakers, who are regularly invited to the tours, have expressed their support for the Academy’s activities and welcomed the programme’s presence in their communities. We are proud that the tours and other performances consistently draw large and engaged audiences.
FOTOS
Performing theatre in public spaces, and, importantly, the local community’s observation of the recordings, has proven to be an effective way of making young people’s concerns visible and giving them a voice, including on sensitive and potentially contentious issues.
Scenes from a theatre performance during the mobile school program in Madina Kourlamini, Bougouni.
