Kourittenga: The 2026 National Culture Week (SNC) in Bobo-Dioulasso is fast approaching. With less than three weeks until the competition, the various regional groups that have qualified are hard at work, putting the finishing touches on their performances. This is the case for the Songtaaba theater troupe from Andemtenga, which has qualified in the popular choir category. Created in 2006 with the aim of promoting arts and culture among young people, this is its third time participating.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the members of the Songtaaba troupe from Andemtenga are deeply engaged in their rehearsals. The sounds of drums accompany traditional songs, where every gesture counts. Seriousness is palpable on their faces. With the goal of winning first prize at the 2026 National Song Festival (SNC), a rigorous rehearsal schedule has been established.
The troupe's director, Maurice Kabore, explains that a rehearsal program has been set up. "We are preparing based on the observations of the jury in Tenkodogo. We obtained an average score of over 16 there, and to beat the other regions, we will have to do better. We are preparing both technically and logistically. When we talk about culture, especially traditional culture, we are talking about attire," he stated.
According to Mr. Kabore, the troupe uses instruments and various stage props. "We have started acquiring this equipment in order to better showcase our cultural heritage," added the troupe director. For him, the members are giving their all to achieve their goal. "Seeing the team in action makes me proud. I'm satisfied because everyone is giving their all so that we can bring home a prize this year. Last year, the entire region came back almost empty-handed. We intend to do better and raise the bar for the region, especially the province," he noted.
Bere Salome, a popular choir artist and member since 2022, says she's ready for the competition. "I sing soprano, which is a voice that's neither too high nor too low. It's important to be consistent with rehearsals. If you miss a session, it becomes difficult to catch up. You also have to learn your songs so you don't lose your voice. Even if the National Song Festival were held today, we could participate. With rehearsals, God willing, everything will be fine," she added.
As for Mourfou Wendbenedo Patrice Bruce, who joined the troupe in 2023, the preparation must be continuous. He explains that it was his first time participating with a traditional troupe, and they won first prize. "It was a great source of pride for me. Today, we are preparing to face the competition. We rehearse morning, noon, and night to be at the best level. I can't say that I'm completely ready, because you have to constantly improve until the big day," he emphasized.
Among cultural authorities, optimism also prevails. The provincial director of culture for Kourittenga, Loukman Badolo, expressed his conviction that "we will return with at least three prizes, perhaps even seven. The troupe we just coached this evening could already win a prize if the competition were held tomorrow. It's very encouraging."
The Songtaaba theater troupe from Andemtenga, known for its versatility, had already won first prize in the popular choir category at the 2023 National Cultural Days (SNC).