Afuma

"Afuma" is an African fern-like plant that grows clinging to trees without ever falling. It symbolizes the wader, the man who does not fall, the one who stays in the air.

Afuma is a group of stilt-walkers from Togo trained in ancient techniques and traditions, but with an eye toward contemporary circus. These performers, originally from the Plateaux region, the cradle of the stilt tradition, have been practicing horsemanship since childhood. Belonging to stilt-walking families, they were trained by the masters of the Ayena family until they were selected by Simon Laté Lawson, known as Amlima, an artist of international dimension, to complete their training within the "Amlima" troop. Thus began for them the adventure of the stage, as they delved into all the techniques of African performance: traditional dances, percussion and organization of traditional festivals. Noticed by international professionals, they decided to create the troupe "Afuma," focused on the practice and technique of stilts.

The practice of Togolese stilts is a specialty of the Atakpamé region, the main city of the Ifé people. A special wood grows here that is both flexible and durable, allowing traditional stilts to be made that can reach up to five meters in height. Stilt walkers, also called "big homons," or even "wooden legs," must, to comply with custom, be able to perform precise figures, the symbolism of which accompanies the ritual ceremonies associated with this practice.

Enriched by the various influences of their later practices and their sojourns abroad, the "Afuma" artists are proud to present a troupe capable of both discovering the centuries-old traditions of stilt-walking and offering wholly original performances, both in the field of circus and in creations that link their art to contemporary dance, street performance or theater.

Interprets: Arouka Kodjo Lucra, Ayena Adébayo Orara, Arouka Kossivi Blaizo, Tchalla Kossi You '' Griot'', Apedo Kossi Marcellin Makinzo, Kinglo Tchoagnimoan Honoré Honokssi, Ayena Kassegne Kossi Kass.

SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE. RECOMMENDED AGE: +3.