Senegal's Germaine Acogny pays tribute to Josephine Baker in Paris
Senegalese dancer and choreographer Germaine Acogny, aged 81, returns to the stage in Paris this week at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Her performance pays tribute to Josephine Baker, an American-born dancer, singer, actress, and activist.
Senegalese dancer and choreographer Germaine Acogny, aged 81, returns to the stage in Paris this week at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Her performance pays tribute to Josephine Baker, an American-born dancer, singer, actress, and activist.
Josephine Baker moved to France in the 1920s and became one of Europe's most popular performers. She was a member of the French Resistance during World War II and actively fought against segregation and racism in the United States.
Germaine Acogny, born in Benin to a Senegalese civil servant, trained in Paris and established her first dance studio in Dakar in 1968. She developed a unique dance style integrating Yoruba heritage and Western influences, earning her the title "Mother of Contemporary African Dance."
Senegalese dancer and choreographer Germaine Acogny, aged 81, returns to the stage in Paris this week at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées.
In her latest show, Acogny uses her body and voice to channel Baker’s energy, highlighting her political struggles and humanitarian efforts. The performance runs until Thu, Sep 28, 2023, offering audiences an immersive experience into Josephine Baker’s world.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
