In Mali, on the banks of the Niger River, traditional festivals are held, known as sogow bò, literally “the animal comes forth”. In village squares or on the river, day and night, these performances combine theatre, dance, music and song. “Animal” masks and puppets come to life to the beat of the drums, illustrating myths and legends, social and everyday life.

Through more than a hundred objects and numerous audiovisuals, the exhibition allows visitors to see and experience this participatory theatre, in which every member of the community has a place, from the elders to the youngest children.

Sogo bò, now inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, is both a vibrant and fragile heritage in the context of the tensions currently affecting Mali.