In its nearly four-decade history, the African Ballet of Guinea has been celebrated with an enthusiastic reception in many of the world’s major cities. Its diverse repertoire is a living demonstration of the most original and rich traditional African culture. Created in 1952 by the Guinean choreographer Keita Fodeba, the ensemble was destined to become – after the declaration of independence in 1958 – the National Company of the Republic of Guinea. From 1958 to the present day, its performances have always been greeted with generous success. Today, with the constant support of the Guinean Ministry of Culture, the company tours the world to present its 90s show. After two years of rehearsals, with a new cast, and a new production, the ballet, composed of 35 elements, offers an event in which traditional dance, music and acting coexist, accompanied by superb acrobatic demonstrations. If on the one hand the choreographic aspect seems to prevail, guided by frenetic rhythms and underlined by violent colors of the costumes, on the other hand it is the theatrical aspect that often takes over. The story flows between comedy and drama and uses ancient popular legends as well as the moral fables of Malissadio. The graceful female dances alternate with the acrobatic solos of the men. The whole thing is seasoned with clownish numbers and accompanied at times by the voice of a fine narrator.
