For this one-month residency at the Alliance Française in Banjul, Amadou Diop is focusing on the development of his creation Mouton Noir”, a choreographic work that explores the notions of stigmatization, otherness, and resilience through movement and bodily expression. This project, particularly emblematic of his artistic approach, delves into the social mechanisms that lead to the exclusion of individuals who do not conform to established norms. Through powerful and evocative gestures, the dancer embodies the figure of the “black sheep”, transforming marginalization into creative strength and self-affirmation.
During his stay in The Gambia, the artist will enrich his choreographic vocabulary by engaging with the local context, integrating the cultural and social dynamics specific to this territory into his research. This dialogue between his personal artistic vision and Gambian realities will nourish his creation, giving it a universal dimension while preserving its authenticity. Beyond the pure creative work, this residency is also an opportunity for Amadou Diop to refine his dissemination strategies and reflect on ways to make his work resonate beyond borders. Moments of exchange with the local public and workshops with young Gambian dancers are also planned, in line with his desire for sharing and transmission.
A dancer, performer, and interpreter from Senegal, Amadou Diop is gradually establishing himself as a key figure in the West African contemporary and urban dance scene. Originally from Saint-Louis, Senegal, he transforms his art into a powerful vehicle for expression and emancipation, transcending the boundaries between tradition and modernity. His artistic approach, enriched by numerous prestigious training programs, notably at the École des Sables with Germaine and Patrick Acogny, is characterized by a gestural language that is both grounded and liberated. Through his creations, he subtly questions the social dynamics and mechanisms of exclusion that shape our relationship with the world.
May was all about dance at the Alliance Française de Banjul, with the residency of Senegalese choreographer Amadou Diop, who came to finalize his solo piece Black Sheep, a powerful and moving performance exploring themes of difference, exclusion, and the body as a space for transformation.
The residency began with an open rehearsal attended by students from the French School of Banjul and several cultural partners, an opportunity to step into the creative process and witness the work in progress.
As part of the FESTHI Festival, two school workshops followed. After a short dance demonstration, Amadou guided students through the co-creation of short choreographic pieces, later performed on the Théâtre de Verdure (the open-air stage of the AFB).
On May 30th, the final performance night took place. The evening opened with an energetic show by the Gambian collective Flex Fuzion, combining rock, acrobatics, and contemporary dance. A burst of raw creativity that perfectly set the tone.
Then came Amadou Diop with Black Sheep, a solo blending contemporary dance, popping, and breakdance. On stage, he embodied the “outsider”, the one who doesn’t fit in, and turned that difference into strength. A raw, poetic performance that moved and inspired the audience.
🙏 Many thanks to Amadou and Sarah Maupin (Ngor Company), to Flex Fuzion, to all the students, schools, and partners who made this artistic journey so meaningful.
🖋️ A creation by @compagnie_ngor_de_saint_louis, co-produced with @villa_sln, @ecoledessables, and @alliancefrancaisedebanjul_